As we age, our hair naturally undergoes changes—thinning, loss of elasticity, and reduced shine are common occurrences. However, these changes don’t mean you have to compromise on style. In fact, the right hairstyle can not only enhance your natural beauty but also compensate for any textural shifts in your hair. According to Carrie Butterworth, a freelance hairstylist based in New York City, “For women over 50, shorter styles often make the hair appear thicker, while layers add physical and visual movement, giving the face a lifted look.”
Michelle Cleveland, a celebrity stylist, extension artist, and brand ambassador for Nume Hair, emphasizes that the perfect hairstyle is not one-size-fits-all. “As we age, our face shapes change, which can affect how certain hairstyles flatter us,” she explains. For instance, as faces tend to elongate with age, long, straight hair might emphasize this feature. Instead, Cleveland suggests opting for cuts that frame the face, such as soft layers or bangs, to counterbalance these changes.
Below, experts share their insights on the best hairstyles for women over 50, complete with celebrity examples to inspire your next salon visit.
1. Textured Pixie Cut
A textured pixie cut is ideal for women with fine or thinning hair. “The shortness adds volume and creates the illusion of thickness,” says Butterworth. Susie Elelman’s textured pixie is a prime example. The key to avoiding a masculine look lies in adding softness through texture. “Make sure your stylist tailors the texture to your hair type, ensuring the cut remains feminine and lively,” Butterworth advises.
2. Soft Chin-Length Cut with Texture
Halle Berry’s chin-length cut, featuring added texture and soft layers, offers a youthful and fun vibe, according to Cleveland. This style is particularly flattering for those who find blunt bobs unflattering for their face shape. Highlights, subtle curls, and a side part further enhance the softness of the look.
3. Classic Bob with Bangs
If you’re hesitant about cutting your hair too short but still want a timeless style, consider Anna Wintour’s classic bob with bangs. “This cut provides the illusion of thickness and covers forehead lines or wrinkles,” says Butterworth. However, she cautions against this style for round faces, as it may accentuate the shape.
4. Layered Bob with Flicked-Out Ends
For those who prefer a bob but want to avoid the traditional under-tucked ends, take inspiration from Rita Moreno. “Flicking the ends out adds animation to the haircut and directs attention away from areas you’d rather not emphasize,” Butterworth suggests.
5. Wavy Shoulder-Length Cut with Soft Layers
Women with longer faces, like Iman, can opt for a mid-length cut with flicky, soft layers. These layers add width to balance facial features and create upward movement, drawing attention to the eyes and cheekbones.
6. Bangs with Long Hair
Goldie Hawn demonstrates how bangs can soften the face and mask a receding hairline. Combined with layers, bangs help frame the face beautifully, making them an excellent choice for women over 50.
7. Medium-Length Hair with Layers
Not all great hairstyles require going short. Michelle Pfeiffer’s medium-length layered cut proves that maintaining length can still be stylish and youthful. “Layers frame the face and uplift features by directing the eye upward,” Butterworth notes.
8. Chin-Length Curls with Added Width
Shonda Rhimes’ curly cut balances her narrow face shape with added width and bouncy layers. A subtle side bang and asymmetry further enhance the look, creating a youthful and dynamic appearance.
9. Classic Bob with Side Part
Naomi Watts elevates the classic bob with a deep side part and flicked-out ends. “This style adds drama while maintaining a lifting effect,” says Cleveland, making it a versatile option for women over 50.
10. Long Face-Framing Layers
Jennifer Aniston’s iconic layered cut brings life to flat, straight hair. “Layers create movement and softness, resulting in a more youthful overall effect,” Cleveland explains. Experimenting with highlights and lowlights can add even more dimension.
11. Cropped Cut
Viola Davis’s chic cropped cut is both low-maintenance and youthful. This wash-and-wear style eliminates the need for extensive upkeep and chemical treatments, making it an excellent choice for embracing your natural hair.
12. Firefly Cut
Emma Thompson’s “firefly” cut—a long-short style with layers and movement—is perfect for those intimidated by ultra-short cuts. “This style draws features upward, creating a fresh and youthful look,” Butterworth says.
13. Half Bang with Layers
Sigourney Weaver’s half bang and layered cut offer a practical yet flattering solution for keeping hair out of your face. This style also balances a high forehead, which can be beneficial for those experiencing hormonal hair loss.
14. Long Hair with Beachy Waves
Salma Hayek proves that long hair can remain age-appropriate with the right styling. Her beachy waves and face-framing layers keep the look effortless and modern while preventing heaviness.
15. Mid-Length Hair with Bangs
Mary Steenburgen’s bangs not only hide wrinkles but also complement her heart-shaped face by balancing a wider forehead and smaller chin.
16. Straight Hair with Added Volume
Lisa Kudrow’s mid-length cut with added volume is ideal for those who enjoy long hair but feel overwhelmed by excessive bulk. “Her small face isn’t swallowed up by her hair, thanks to strategic layering,” Butterworth notes.
17. Ringlet Curls with Layers
Ego Nwodim’s ringlet curls, enhanced by layers and a wispy bang, highlight her natural texture while framing her face beautifully. Layers reduce weight and add volume, making this style both practical and stylish.
18. Long Waves with Bangs
Stevie Nicks’ combination of long waves and bangs draws attention back to the face. Adding highlights, lowlights, or silvery streaks can further enhance dimension and ease the transition to gray or white hair.
19. Asymmetrical Pixie Cut
Ariana DeBose’s asymmetrical pixie cut offers versatility and volume, creating the illusion of thickness. Experimenting with color can add another layer of dimension to this bold style.
20. Deep Side Part with Side-Swept Bangs
Penelope Cruz’s square-shaped face is softened by her deep side part and side-swept bangs. Caramel highlights add warmth, completing the look with elegance and balance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right hairstyle after 50 involves considering factors like face shape, hair texture, and personal preferences. Whether you opt for a short, textured cut or maintain longer locks with strategic layers, the goal is to embrace change while highlighting your unique features. Use these expert-recommended styles and celebrity examples to guide your next salon appointment and step into a new era of confidence and style.
