Short haircuts have long been a symbol of confidence, elegance, and versatility. For women over 50, embracing a short hairstyle can be an empowering way to step into a new chapter of life with flair, individuality, and sophistication. Whether you’re searching for a low-maintenance option that fits your busy lifestyle or a bold, edgy look that turns heads, short hairstyles offer endless opportunities for self-expression. From classic bobs and pixie cuts to modern layered styles and textured waves, there’s something for everyone.
To help you find the perfect style, we’ve curated a list of timeless and chic short haircuts inspired by celebrities who rock these looks effortlessly. With insights from professional hairstylists Sanda Petrut and Savannah St. Jean, we’ll guide you through the best options tailored for different hair types, textures, and face shapes. Let’s dive into the first half of our collection:
1. Pixie with Long Bangs
Viola Davis’s sleek take on the pixie cut features long, side-swept bangs that add softness and dimension. This style is particularly flattering for those with finer hair, as it draws attention to the density in the front while maintaining an air of effortless elegance. The key to pulling off this look lies in its simplicity—use a lightweight pomade to define the bangs and keep them smooth.
Pro Tip: For added volume, gently backcomb the crown area before styling.
2. Classic Pixie
Holland Taylor’s classic pixie cut is a timeless choice that frames the face beautifully, highlighting your best features. This low-maintenance style requires minimal effort—simply wash, dry, and go, or add a touch of pomade for a polished finish. Its versatility makes it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
Why It Works: The clean lines and structured shape of the classic pixie make it ideal for women seeking a no-fuss yet sophisticated look.
3. Spiked Pixie
Angela Bassett’s spiked pixie is a fun and daring twist on the traditional pixie cut. This style allows you to experiment with texture and volume, making it perfect for those who want to stand out. To achieve the look, use a wax-based spray for hold and control. Simply spritz it onto your hands, then scrunch and spike your hair for a dynamic effect.
Styling Tip: For a softer appearance, skip the spikes and let the hair fall naturally for a tousled, carefree vibe.
4. Textured Pixie
Halle Berry’s textured pixie is the epitome of cool and effortless style. The shorter layers at the back contrast beautifully with longer pieces in the front, creating a balanced and modern silhouette. Use a small amount of pomade to separate the strands and enhance the texture.
Expert Advice: “This cut works wonders on all hair types,” says Savannah St. Jean. “It’s especially great for adding movement and dimension.”
5. Mussed-Up Pixie
Ellen DeGeneres’s mussed-up, dirty blonde pixie exudes an effortlessly cool aesthetic. Whether styled sleek with a flat iron or tousled with your fingers for a more relaxed look, this hairstyle radiates confidence and charm. To maintain the tousled effect, apply a texturizing spray and scrunch the hair with your hands.
Bonus Tip: Embrace your natural texture for a lived-in feel that’s both chic and easy to maintain.
6. Wavy Pixie
Toni Braxton’s wavy pixie is perfect for those with naturally curly or wavy hair. By removing excess weight, this cut reduces drying time while enhancing your natural curl pattern. Style baby hairs around the hairline for a touch of glamor.
Care Tip: Use a leave-in conditioner to keep curls hydrated and frizz-free.
7. Short, Subtle Layered Curls
Emma Thompson’s subtle layered curls add depth and dimension to her short haircut. This style is particularly flattering for mature women, as it softens facial features and creates a youthful appearance. A light, wax-based texturizing spray helps achieve the piece-y, textured look.
How to Style: Spray the product onto damp hair, then tousle with your fingers for a natural finish.
8. Cropped Curls
Vanessa Bell Calloway’s cropped afro is a celebration of natural texture. This timeless style showcases the beauty of coiled hair and pairs beautifully with bold makeup choices. Use a curl mousse or cream to define the coils and maintain hydration.
Makeup Pairing: Accentuate your features with radiant makeup or opt for a dramatic eye look to elevate the overall style.
9. Long Pixie
Nia Long’s long pixie combines the practicality of a short cut with the versatility of longer layers. The wispy bangs and voluminous top create a soft, feminine look that’s perfect for fine hair. This style allows you to play with different partings and textures.
Versatility Factor: Tuck one side behind your ear for a playful twist or slick it back for a sleeker appearance.
10. Voluminous Pixie
Kris Jenner’s iconic voluminous pixie is a masterclass in texture and movement. This tousled style works on all hair types, from straight to thick, and can be customized with the right products. Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair, then blow-dry with a round brush for lift and body.
Hairstylist Insight: “The key to nailing this look is using products that add volume without weighing the hair down,” says Sanda Petrut.
11. Brushed-Back Pixie
Jamie Lee Curtis’s brushed-back pixie offers a modern and sophisticated take on the classic style. The slight volume at the front adds edge without being overpowering. For staying power, mist a strong-hold hairspray to lock the style in place.
Perfect For: Women who prefer a sleek, polished look with a hint of attitude.
12. Pompadour
Janet Jackson’s short pompadour is a blend of retro glamour and contemporary chic. This versatile cut can be styled slicked back or blown forward with sweeping bangs, depending on your mood. It’s particularly suited for straight hair but can be adapted for other textures.
Low-Maintenance Appeal: “This style requires minimal effort once you’ve mastered the technique,” notes Petrut.
13. Undercut Pompadour
Tilda Swinton’s undercut-pompadour combo brings a modern twist to the classic pompadour. This edgy yet understated look gives off an “I woke up like this” vibe. A root powder can add texture and volume where needed, ensuring the style stays fresh throughout the day.
Product Recommendation: Tap the powder into the roots and tousle with your fingers for instant lift.
14. Short Cut with Soft Bangs
Helen Mirren’s short hairstyle with soft, face-framing bangs is a refreshing update for anyone looking to lighten their look. The bangs draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones, creating a youthful and radiant appearance.
Styling Suggestion: Sweep the bangs downward for a polished finish or tousle them slightly for a more relaxed vibe.
15. Tousled Layers
Jennifer Lopez’s piecey, tousled layers are the epitome of effortless chic. This shoulder-length style works beautifully for various ages and face shapes, offering endless versatility. A middle part keeps the look polished, while loose waves add movement and dimension.
Day-to-Night Transition: Smooth the hair for a sleek daytime look, then tousle it for a playful evening vibe.
17. Piecey Shag
Lisa Rinna’s tousled, piecey shag haircut is a modern and effortlessly chic style that works wonders for those with thick hair and natural waves. The key to this look lies in its textured layers, which add movement and dimension, making it perfect for women who want a low-maintenance yet stylish cut. If you’re someone who loves highlights, this hairstyle provides the perfect canvas to experiment with color. Opt for subtle balayage or sun-kissed highlights to enhance the natural texture and depth of your hair. For an added touch of glamour, use a texturizing spray or sea salt spray to enhance the piece-y effect and give your locks that coveted “lived-in” vibe.
Pro Tip: To maintain the tousled look, scrunch your hair with a diffuser while blow-drying, and finish with a light-hold hairspray for lasting texture.
18. Classic Bob
Alina Cho’s classic bob is the epitome of sophistication and elegance, proving that timeless styles never go out of fashion. This sleek and polished cut is versatile enough to suit women of all ages, offering a refined and professional appearance. To switch up the feel of this hairstyle, you can curl the ends inward for a softer, more feminine look, or keep them straight and sharp for a modern edge. Pair this bob with thick-rimmed glasses, as Alina does, to elevate your overall aesthetic and add a touch of intellectual charm.
Styling Tip: Use a flat iron to create smooth, inward curls at the ends, or apply a shine serum for a glossy, high-end finish.
19. Short Bob
Cicely Tyson’s short bob is a stunning example of how simplicity can make a powerful statement. This hairstyle is particularly well-suited for women with straight, fine hair, as the shorter length naturally adds volume and body. The versatility of this cut allows you to style it in multiple ways: a middle part keeps the look sleek and polished, while a side part adds instant volume and transforms the style from day to night. Cicely’s natural gray strands add an extra layer of sophistication, embracing the beauty of aging gracefully.
Hairstylist Insight: “This cut is ideal for women who want a low-maintenance yet chic look,” says Sanda Petrut. “It’s easy to style and can be adapted to suit any occasion.”
20. Side-Swept Lob
Ellen Barkin’s side-swept long bob (lob) is a versatile and flattering choice for women with different hair textures and densities. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, this cut offers endless styling possibilities. From a conservative, sleek look to a more undone, messy finish, the side-swept lob can be tailored to match your personal style. For a polished appearance, flat-iron your hair to accentuate the piecey-ness and texture at the ends, creating a modern and edgy vibe.
Expert Advice: “This haircut works beautifully on all hair types and can be styled in various ways to suit your mood,” notes hairstylist Savannah St. Jean.
21. Layered Side-Part Bob
Vivica A. Fox’s layered, wavy bob with a side part is a masterclass in volume and bounce. The layers in this chin-length bob add incredible movement and dimension, making it an excellent choice for women with thick or wavy hair. Vivica’s golden blonde color further enhances the glamorous effect, giving her locks a radiant and youthful appearance. To take this style to the next level, consider adding subtle highlights for extra depth and shine.
How to Style: Use a curling wand to create soft waves, then spritz a lightweight hairspray to hold the curls in place without weighing them down.
22. Curly Bob
Elaine Hendrix’s old Hollywood-inspired curly bob proves that curls can look absolutely stunning at any length. This vintage-style bob combines retro glamour with modern flair, making it a standout option for special occasions or everyday wear. To keep your curls hydrated and defined throughout the week, mix a leave-in conditioner with water and spritz it onto your hair as needed. This will refresh your curls and prevent frizz, ensuring your hairstyle remains flawless.
Care Tip: Avoid excessive heat styling to preserve the health and integrity of your curls. Instead, embrace your natural texture and enhance it with curl-defining products.
23. Stick-Straight Bob
Maya Rudolph’s stick-straight bob is the ultimate embodiment of chic minimalism. This timeless style exudes confidence and sophistication, making it a favorite among women who prefer clean lines and sleek finishes. To achieve this look, start by applying a volumizing mousse to damp hair, then blow-dry using a round brush to create smooth, straight strands. The key to maintaining this style is controlling humidity and frizz, so invest in an anti-humidity spray or serum to keep your hair looking polished and frizz-free.
Product Recommendation: Use a lightweight smoothing serum to tame flyaways and add shine.
24. Voluminous Wavy Bob with Bangs
Alfre Woodard’s voluminous wavy bob with bangs is a sophisticated and elegant choice for women with thick, wavy hair. The chin-length cut, combined with face-framing waves and bangs, creates a balanced and harmonious look that flatters mature features. The addition of short layers adds even more interest, enhancing the overall texture and movement of the style. This hairstyle is both practical and stylish, making it a great option for women over 50.
Finishing Touch: Apply a shine spray to give your waves a glossy, red-carpet-ready finish.
25. Side-Part Bob
Monica Bellucci’s bob with a deep side part is a striking and attention-grabbing style that perfectly complements her facial features. The deep side part adds drama and intrigue, while a slight bend in the bangs or front pieces introduces an element of surprise. This hairstyle is ideal for women who want to make a bold statement without sacrificing elegance. Monica’s look demonstrates how a simple adjustment, like a side part, can completely transform the vibe of a classic bob.
Styling Tip: Use a flat iron to create a gentle bend in the front pieces, and secure the deep side part with a lightweight pomade for staying power.
26. Long Bob (Lob)
Sandra Bullock’s long bob, often referred to as a “lob,” is a versatile and enduring trend that has become a staple for women seeking longer hair with flexible styling options. This cut strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and ease, allowing you to experiment with various looks. Wear it straight and sleek for a polished appearance, or add volume and retro curls for a playful twist. Sandra’s caramel highlights add warmth and dimension, making this style suitable for all seasons.
Versatility Factor: Tuck one side behind your ear for a casual, laid-back vibe, or slick it back for a more formal look.
27. Tousled Lob
Holly Hunter’s tousled long bob is the epitome of effortless chic. This shoulder-grazing lob can be styled in multiple ways: keep it all one length for a sleeker, more refined appearance, or tuck one side behind your ear to introduce a playful and flirty element. The tousled texture gives the style a relaxed and carefree vibe, making it perfect for both casual outings and evening events.
How to Achieve: Scrunch your hair with a texturizing spray and let it air-dry for a natural, lived-in look.
28. Bouncy Lob
Lisa Kudrow’s voluminous lob is a head-turning style that showcases the beauty of bouncy, full-bodied hair. To recreate this look, let your hair air-dry slightly before blow-drying with a round brush to add volume and lift. The result is a bouncy, lively hairstyle that radiates energy and confidence. This style is particularly flattering for women with fine or thin hair, as the added volume creates the illusion of thicker locks.
Styling Hack: For extra bounce, use a large-barrel curling iron to create loose curls, then brush them out for a smooth, voluminous finish.
29. Beachy Lob
Robin Wright’s beachy lob is the perfect blend of casual and sophisticated. Adding loose, natural waves to your lob instantly transforms it into a fun and relaxed style that’s perfect for summer days or laid-back evenings. Use a smaller-barrel curling wand to create tighter ringlets, or alternate the direction of the waves for a more organic, lived-in effect. Finish with a light mist of sea salt spray to enhance the beachy texture.
Pro Tip: Alternate the direction of each curl to mimic the natural variation of beach waves.
30. Wavy Bob with Bangs
Thandiwe Newton’s wavy bob with bangs is a polished and refined style that exudes elegance. Unlike a traditional beachy lob, this hairstyle features more pronounced waves created with larger sections of hair. The addition of bangs adds a touch of sophistication, framing the face beautifully. Finish the look with a shine spray to give your hair a glossy, red-carpet-worthy finish.
Makeup Pairing: Pair this hairstyle with radiant makeup for a cohesive and glamorous appearance.
31. Shoulder-Length Natural Curls
Oprah’s shoulder-length natural curls celebrate the beauty of embracing your natural texture. This middle-parted style is not only sophisticated but also incredibly low-maintenance, requiring no heat styling. Simply follow your favorite wash-and-go routine or try a braid-out or twist-out to enhance your curls. This hairstyle is a testament to the power of self-expression and confidence.
Care Tip: Refresh your curls throughout the week with a leave-in conditioner and water mixture to maintain hydration and definition.
32. Voluminous Shoulder-Length Waves
Diane Lane’s voluminous shoulder-length waves are a stunning example of how to add drama and dimension to a classic cut. This hairstyle can be achieved with a simple at-home blowout or by using a curling iron to create soft, bouncy waves. The best part about this cut is its versatility—change up the part for endless styling options. A middle part creates symmetry, while a side part accentuates angular or square-shaped faces.
Hairstylist Insight: “This cut is perfect for women who want a style that’s both voluminous and adaptable,” says Savannah St. Jean.
33. Defined Shoulder-Length Waves
Salma Hayek’s shoulder-length haircut with defined waves is a timeless and elegant style that exudes sophistication. This look is perfect for women who want to add structure and polish to their hair while maintaining a soft, feminine vibe. If you don’t have naturally wavy hair, you can easily recreate this style by setting your hair in braids overnight or using a three-barrel curling iron to achieve those signature bouncy waves.
Styling Tip: For long-lasting waves, apply a heat protectant before using the curling iron, and finish with a light-hold hairspray to lock in the curls without weighing them down.
34. Middle-Parted, Shoulder-Length Cut
Mariska Hargitay’s middle-parted, shoulder-length hairstyle is a masterclass in understated elegance. The soft waves cascading from the ears down create a dimensional effect that adds depth and movement to the cut. A middle part not only frames the face beautifully but also enhances symmetry, making it a universally flattering choice. To elevate the look, consider adding lowlights for added dimension and richness.
How to Achieve: Use a medium-sized curling iron to create subtle waves, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Finish with a lightweight serum for shine and smoothness.
35. Rounded Blowout Bob
Sharon Osbourne’s short, rounded blowout bob is the epitome of sleek sophistication. Paired with her fiery red hair color, this hairstyle makes a bold and striking statement. The rounded silhouette of the bob adds a touch of retro glamour, while the short length ensures it remains easy to maintain and style.
Pro Tip: To achieve the rounded blowout effect, use a round brush while blow-drying, rolling the ends under slightly. Finish with a smoothing serum to tame flyaways and add shine.
36. Face-Framing Curls
Gabrielle Union’s shoulder-length curly hairstyle with face-framing bangs is effortlessly chic and radiates a carefree “I woke up like this” vibe. The loose curls frame her face beautifully, drawing attention to her features while maintaining a relaxed and natural appearance. If you’re using heat tools to enhance your texture, be sure to apply a protective serum to shield your strands from damage and keep frizz at bay.
Care Advice: To maintain the health of your curls, use a leave-in conditioner and avoid excessive heat styling. Embrace your natural texture whenever possible.
37. Mid-Length Springy Curls
Jane Fonda’s springy curls bring a youthful and energetic vibe to her mid-length bob. This style proves that curls can look fresh and modern at any age. The key to achieving this look lies in enhancing the natural bounce and definition of your curls. A quick spritz of shine spray will not only enhance the curls but also add a glossy, polished finish.
Product Recommendation: Use a curl-defining cream or mousse to enhance your natural curl pattern and reduce frizz.
38. Old Hollywood Glamour
Julianna Margulies’ shoulder-length Old Hollywood curls are the ultimate in timeless elegance. This classic hairstyle combines a deep side part with inwardly curled bangs and soft, cascading curls throughout the length of the hair. The result is a chic and sophisticated look that never goes out of style.
Styling Tip: To create the iconic Old Hollywood curls, use a large-barrel curling iron and roll the hair away from the face. Pin the curls in place as they cool, then gently brush them out for a smooth, glamorous finish.
39. Messy, Tousled Layers
Susan Sarandon’s wavy, tousled hairstyle proves that messy doesn’t have to mean unkempt. With the right styling products and techniques, a tousled look can appear effortlessly chic and beautifully put together. Layers add volume and movement, while a defining cream helps accentuate waves or curls. A light spritz of hairspray ensures flyaways stay in check without compromising the natural texture.
Hairstylist Insight: “A tousled style works best when paired with layered cuts,” says Sanda Petrut. “It creates a lived-in look that’s both stylish and low-maintenance.”
40. One-Length Blowout
Michelle Pfeiffer’s shoulder-length blowout with subtle layers is a testament to the power of simplicity. This classic hairstyle is versatile, fresh, and polished, making it suitable for any occasion. The slight wave and movement give the look a modern twist, while the minimal layers ensure it remains easy to maintain.
How to Style: Blow-dry your hair with a round brush for smoothness and volume, then use a flat iron to create soft waves. Finish with a shine spray for a glossy finish.
41. Natural Afro
Jenifer Lewis’ voluminous afro is a celebration of natural texture and versatility. This style showcases the beauty of afro-textured hair, which can be fluffed up and enhanced with a volume mist for added height and fullness.
Care Tip: To maintain the health of your afro, regularly moisturize your hair with leave-in conditioners and seal in moisture with natural oils.
42. Shoulder-Length Cornrows
Tracee Ellis Ross’ shoulder-length cornrows are a protective and stylish option that requires minimal effort. This versatile style works well on various hair lengths and textures, offering a sleek and polished appearance. Cornrows are not only practical but also allow for endless creativity and customization.
Styling Suggestion: Add decorative beads or accessories to personalize your cornrows and make them uniquely yours.
43. Sassy Shag
Sandra Oh’s curly shag haircut is the perfect blend of messy and chic. This low-maintenance style works on all hair types, from straight to curly, and can be tailored to suit different lengths. For straight hair, roughly blow-dry and use a curling iron to create shaggy, textured curls.
Expert Advice: “The shag haircut is incredibly versatile and can be styled in multiple ways depending on your mood,” notes Savannah St. Jean.
44. Shoulder-Length, High-Volume Waves
Cheryl Ladd’s voluminous wavy hairstyle is a glamorous and eye-catching look that exudes confidence. The key to achieving this style lies in using a dry texturizing spray to set the curls created with a large-barrel curling iron. This product adds volume and texture, giving the hair a fluffy, bouncy finish.
Byrdie Tip: Blow-dry your hair with a round brush to create lift at the roots, then go over the ends with a large-barrel curling iron for added volume.
45. Split-Bang Lob
Bo Derek’s long bob with split face-framing bangs offers a fresh and modern take on traditional bangs. The split bang, which parts down the center, adds a playful and unique element to the hairstyle. To achieve this look, simply part your bangs in the middle and use a lightweight mousse to keep them in place.
Makeup Pairing: Pair this hairstyle with radiant makeup for a cohesive and polished appearance.
46. Short Bowl Cut
Mary J. Blige’s chic bowl-like mushroom cut is a bold and statement-making style. The sleek lines and structured shape of this cut make it a standout choice for those who want to embrace a retro-inspired look. To keep the style polished, apply a dime-sized amount of smoothing serum to lay down flyaways.
Hairstylist Insight: “The bowl cut is making a comeback, and it’s perfect for women who want a low-maintenance yet edgy style,” says Petrut.
47. Side-Parted Bob
Regina King’s bob with a deep side part is a versatile and low-maintenance option that offers endless styling possibilities. The cropped length is long enough to pull back for special occasions, while the deep side part adds instant volume and drama.
Versatility Factor: Tuck one side behind your ear for a casual vibe, or slick it back for a more formal look.
48. Curly Pixie
Jada Pinkett Smith’s bright blonde curly pixie cut is a carefree and playful style that radiates confidence. The cropped length and vibrant color make it a bold choice for those who want to stand out. A dollop of curl cream or gel will enhance the curls and keep them hydrated throughout the day.
Care Tip: Refresh your curls with a water and leave-in conditioner mixture to maintain moisture and definition.
49. Shoulder-Length Curly Bob
Michelle Obama’s shoulder-length curly bob is a low-maintenance and versatile style that works for any occasion. The curls add volume and texture, making it a great option for women with natural hair. To maximize your wash day, consider pulling your curls into a low bun or loose ponytail for a quick and effortless look.
Styling Hack: Use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to enhance your natural curls and reduce frizz.
50. The Mermaid Bob
Taraji P. Henson’s voluminous wavy bob is a show-stopping style that proves mermaid-inspired looks aren’t just for long hair. The bouncy waves and volume through the ends give this bob a glamorous and event-ready finish.
Finishing Touch: Apply a shine spray to enhance the waves and add a glossy, red-carpet-worthy sheen.
