If you’re in need of a new ‘do in time for summer, layers are the perfect addition to any haircut for instant volume and movement. With that said, we checked in with professional hair stylists and hair experts for 4 ageless and classic hairstyle suggestions that won’t weigh you down as the weather gets warmer. Read on for tips and styling advice from Jean Will, hair expert and Co-Founder of NiaWigs and Cindy Marcus, longtime professional hair stylist and Editor-In-Chief of Latest Hairstyles.
View this post on Instagram
1. Shaggy Bob
One popular and classic look for summer is a shaggy bob with ample layers, Marcus says. “The bob is certainly making a comeback, however many are changing this look to a more modernized style,” she explains, “The layered bob is an example of this as the layers will provide movement and create a stylish, flirty yet age-appropriate look.” This style works well on women with thicker hair, Marcus adds, although anyone with any hair texture can rock it. Will notes that “adding side bangs” to this cut is one effective way to not only “look younger,” but also have volume. While Marcus agrees, she suggests not “over-layering fine hair” as this could “actually provide the opposite outcome.” Ultimately, this look “is for someone looking for movement and texture at a shorter length, which is a length most women over 40 are going for,” Marcus says.
View this post on Instagram
2. Layered Bob with Wispy Bangs
This bob, like the previous, is different from a one-length as it is cut with face-framing layers with a shaggy element. As a shag typically contains bangs or wispy fringe, Will suggests adding them for a more youthful look overall. “This hairstyle is perfect for women over 40,” she says. “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.” As this cut features bangs that can be worn down or part in the center, it naturally has an effect to make your face look even more symmetrical and emphasize your eyes and cheekbones.
View this post on Instagram
3. Long Wavy Bob (or ‘Lob’)
This bob heads into ‘lob’ [long bob] territory, Marcus says, as it may not exactly be chin-length or past the collarbone either. If you’re used to having longer hair and wish to try out a shorter length, she notes, this might be the perfect transitional and experimental cut for you. “This longer styled layered bob is still a popular look for women over 40 and over,” she says. “This style creates texture and can be worn smooth and sleek or curled to provide a beachy style perfect for summer.” Marcus adds that this style is also great for all hair types. “Women can embrace their natural texture or use a curling iron to achieve the beach wave style,” she suggests. Women with fine, textured hair, she continues, can “wear this look as a more smooth and polished style to enhance volume.”
View this post on Instagram
4. Layered Pixie Cut
If you’re ready for a full-on change and a cut that never goes out of style, Will recommends heading to your salon for a layered pixie cut. Whether you have “thick hair and want to make it look thin” or more fine hair and want tresses that won’t look weighed down or flat and lifeless, “this is a perfect cut” for either of these goals, Will says. This hairstyle has the power to “make over 40-year-old women look like they are in their 20s,” Will says, as its trendy, bold and easy-to-style appeal can bring more attention to your best features and “make your face look young.” Will concludes that pixies are always a go-to for summer as they don’t require too much style or attention, which can instantly give you more energy for your other beauty goals and spend less time styling every day. Sounds like a win-win!
