Seasoned hairdresser and expert Justin Hickox has been styling hair for decades and his clientele includes women of all ages, including mature women. For this reason, he explains in one of his most popular YouTube videos why certain low-maintenance hairstyles stand out from the rest and are among the most requested for women over 40. You may be surprised to learn that this list isn’t merely filled with short, chic ‘dos (but don’t worry if you are a fan of short hair — you won’t be disappointed either). This list represents hairstyles for a variety of women and their distinctive hair types and hair goals:
Here’s Hickox’s pick for three of the most popular hairstyles for women over 40 — and one additional pick from Caleb Backe, hair expert for Maple Holistics.
The Long Layered Cut
A long, layered haircut allows for movement, texture, and takes the bulk out of the bottom, preventing a triangle shape on long hair that can drag the eye down. Another magic trick this hairstyle pulls off is to make even thinner hair look thicker and more voluminous, thanks to these layers and movement. If you think your hair is too thin or fine for layers, Hickox urges you to reconsider — it’s all about the way your stylist cuts into your hair — no two long, layered haircuts have to be the same and an expert can tailor layers to suit your facial features and hair type.
Layered Bob
One of the first things Hickox points out is that there has never been a decade in which bob shapes have not been popular, which just goes to show this is a true classic. But he also is mindful to repeat — layered bobs, not just any old bob, is the key to more flattering hair over 40. This is because those layers provide movement and prevent the bob from looking like one flat layer of hair that drags the face down. A classic layered bob sits between your chin and collarbone and removes bulk from the bottom of your hair, while creating body at the roots and crown, as well. Hickox also mentioned how versatile this cut is — you can style it to look edgier for nights out or more polished for work.
Pixie Bob
When you think “pixie” you are, understandably, thinking: super short. But Hickox reminds us not to go solely by the name of a hairstyle and to remember that each can be customized. Instead, consider the pixie bob a hybrid between the pixie and bob — you’ll get tapered sides and more length at the top. This makes a difference in where volume sits, Hickox say, providing more volume at the temples, which gives the illusion of a more lifted face. This cut looks amazing styled, but Hickox says it’s a wash-and-wear look, as well.
Adding Bangs
So you don’t want to commit to a brand new style just yet — that’s understandable, change can be difficult. But one simple way to upgrade your look and give your face a more youthful appearance is by adding bangs, and this works whether your hair is long, short, or falls somewhere in between. And don’t forget the power of playing with your texture, while you’re at it.
“Bangs can be a flattering way to frame the face and add dimension to your hairstyle,” Backe says. “Wavy or beachy hair can also be a flattering look, as it adds volume and texture to the hair making your hair appear more youthful.”
So, grab that curling iron, add a few scattered waves or curls by your face, and talk to your stylist about the bangs that will work with your facial features and haircut — whether that means wispy, shorter bangs or long, curtain bangs.
If you’re looking to make a hair change, there are plenty of options out there that are low maintenance and look amazing, especially on women over 40. Whether you prefer long or short hair, bangs or curtain bangs swept to the side, consider one of these looks and talk to your stylist about which will look amazing on you.
