As you age, it feels like the media gives so many rules and guidelines for hairstyles that you can and can’t do, what will and won’t age you. But at the end of the day, the best hairstyle is one that you feel good in and one that you can maintain. We’ve all made the mistake of choosing a hairstyle that we love on our favorite celebrity, but then we realize it takes hours of styling and lots of product to look the way we want. One great option for a versatile hairstyle you can have fun with is anything with lots of layers. It is also great for thinner or finer hair, which we often experience as we age. “Adding layers to build some weight to the hair would be the move for fine hair of different density, texture and condition.” Says Stacy Wells, owner of L’Esprit Academy. We asked beauty experts what layered styles they recommend you ask for the next time you visit the hair salon.
Pixie
Pulling off a layered haircut doesn’t require lots of length! There are lots of variations of a pixie, and if you go for more length on the top you can play with layering to get extra texture. “The textured pixie is all about getting a bit of height and having fun with it,” says Jennifer Mendoza, owner of Flourish Hair & Beauty, Chicago IL. The only tricky part of a style this short is that it requires more haircuts because it will reach that awkward “grow out” phase quicker.
The Lob
Lots of celebrities have rocked the lob over the years, proving that this is a timeless style that many people can pull off. This is also a great choice if you don’t want too much length but are afraid to go super short. “The lob is a short layered cut that can also be low maintenance.” Mendoza adds. If you want something easy without having too much to work with, this may be the choice for you.
Layered with Bangs
Bangs are all the rage right now! But, they can be tricky. However, if you’re looking for something that will make you look younger, they may be the choice for you, especially with layers worked into the length of your hair. “A straight bang will take off 10 or more years off the face because a bang frames your face and gives a youthful vibe,” Jane Harris, long-time hairstylist, wigmaker, and owner of The Virgin Hair Fantasy, told SheFinds. “Just make sure your bangs are not too thick--wispy bangs are flirty and youthful, while thick bangs may age you depending on the shape of your face.”
Layers make your hair easier to style and can boost your amount of volume and body. Depending on your comfort level, you can explore what layers look like at different lengths. If you want something low maintenance, try a pixie with length on top. If you want something you can throw up into a ponytail, try a lob, or a longer layered cut with bangs for that youthful look.
