Finding the perfect hairstyle can be a daunting task for mature women, especially when aiming for a chic and effortless look. This winter, we’ve got you covered with three stunning and voluminous short haircuts that are both easy to manage and recommended by celebrity and professional hairstylists.
Read on for tips, insight and suggestions from Gina Rivera, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Phenix Salon Suites, Lauren Udoh, professional hairstylist and Hair Creative Director of WigReports and Jean Will, hair expert and co-founder of NiaWigs Inc.
3 Chic, Timeless and Ageless Bob Haircuts For Women Over 40
1 Asymmetrical Bob
A textured asymmetrical bob (or longer bob as seen here on Rose Byrne) is a "terrific choice" for "mature beauties," Rivera explains, since it’s a perfect blend of classic yet still modern and trendy. "This style is so hip that it’s perfect for making our ladies in their prime look super chic," she says. "Removing a bit of length from the hair, [adds] movement and creates a youthful appeal."
When it comes to styling, Rivera notes that "texturing the hair" creates an "opportunity to remove some of the damaged ends and weight which bring more life to the hair as well."
Additionally, Rivera advises that it’s best to always "consult with your stylist on a maintenance schedule but for those trying to regain hair health, make sure to trim every 4-6 weeks."
2. Shaggy Bob with Sideswept Fringe
A shag is an "amazing cut that is well-recognized for being versatile," Rivera says. A quintessential shaggy cut, as seen here on Halle Berry, offers "nice variations for both longer and shorter hair," Rivera points out. She notes that the choice to "add a bang," and especially a voluminous, side-swept fringe can "add a fresh surprise to this look," Rivera suggests.
For gals with longer hair, she says that "an added choice is to shorten the hair up a bit to the collarbone or above" to create some texture, and adding subtle layers to soften. Will recommends adding wispy fringe to this ‘do for not only a more youthful look overall, but also to hide any thinning or hair loss at the crown.
3. Layered Wavy 'Mob' Cut
You're probably already familiar with the classic 'bob' and its longer cousin the 'lob,' so the 'mob' refers to a 'medium bob,' Udoh explains. She deems it to be a "sleek and stylish choice for many occasions." It's a versatile cut, she adds, that looks "great on almost any face shape and hair type." (See here on Cate Blanchett).
While traditional bobs often end at the chin and lobs fall at the collarbone, the 'mob' ends in the middle of the neck. "The mob cut can be adjusted to complement your features and create an attractive silhouette," Udoh adds. This not-too-long and also not-too-short cut provides "volume at the crown, with textured layers that frame the face nicely while still maintaining an easy-to-manage style," she points out!
The Bottom Line
"This hairstyle is perfect for women over 40," she says, stressing that it will help "hide their forehead [and any signs of wrinkling or natural aging] to look younger." It is suitable for women who have "thick hair, as well as thin," she concludes.
Overall, while these are just three classic and timeless hairstyles, there are plenty more that can work for you, Rivera says. What matters most is figuring out your face shape and asking your stylist what looks best and most flattering for it!
