It’s not easy to pin down one haircut as the most flattering for all women. But it would be difficult to argue that the bob haircut isn’t right up there, especially when hairstylists recommend cuts that make the most of mature hair for women over the age of 50.
As we age, our hair changes. It can become thinner and more delicate as a result of genetics, hormonal shifts that occur before and during menopause, and other issues that can include illnesses and certain medications. There may be steps you can take to curb hair loss, like supplements, dietary and lifestyle changes, and even hormone replacement therapy. But those options don’t negate your desire to find a haircut right here and now that makes you look and feel your best.
Which brings us back to the bob. It’s a great length for thinning hair, can be styled in a number of different ways, and is versatile — with the power to look great for work and play. If you’re interested in trying out a bob haircut, here are nine different versions of the classic hairstyle — all of which are flattering for women over 50.
Blunt Bob
A blunt bob works amazingly well on mature hair that may be thinning because it creates the illusion of more hair at its baseline. Lots of layers at the end of your hair break up your strands and make them appear choppy and thinner at the ends. One caveat though: to keep your hair from falling flat at the roots, consider adding shorter layers at top for movement.
French Bob
How short are you open to going? If your answer is “shorter!” the French bob is for you. This cut ends shorter than chin-length — sometimes as short as right below the cheekbones. It’s ideal for highlighting your jawline and looks its best when it’s slightly mussed-up and features strategic layering.
Italian Bob
One country over, we go from the French to the Italian bob. This bob type is characterized by a chin-length cut that has blunt ends and minimal, but impactful layering. It’s sexy, sweet, and chic.
Bob With Bangs
Maybe you’re already rocking a bob, but want to make yours more sophisticated, or help conceal shedding and sparseness on the scalp. There are few things a great bang can’t make better, and the bob is one such style. Ask your stylist to tailor your bangs to suit your face — you may look better with thicker, more blunt bangs, or something lighter and wispier.
Bob With Side-Swept Bangs
So you like bangs, but you’re not sure you want to commit to a full fringe — have you considered millennial side-swept bangs, which are making a comeback? This style gives you an element of interest in the front, but you can push them aside so that they create emphasis without concealing your forehead.
Bob With Curtain Bangs
One more bangs style for good measure: adding curtain bangs to a bob gives it serious retro flair. These bangs are shorter in the front and then gradually increase in length until they meet with the ends of your hair. They’re the perfect bang for anyone who isn’t quite set on bangs — and they can make your hair look thicker.
Curly Bob
What’s the number one way you can add oomph and the appearance of thickness to thin hair? Curls, waves, and texture. If you have naturally curly hair, set your curls free and ask your stylist to cut layers into your bob that will bring out your curl pattern. If you have straight answer, consider heatless curling options that boost volume without damaging strands with excessive heat.
Asymmetrical Bob
An asymmetrical bob is shorter on one side and longer on the other — and it’s a unique style that looks funky and fun. This is a great cut to get if you’re interested in playing with color, as well. A few well-placed highlights can bring out your skin tone and eye color and give this cut extra appeal.
Shaggy Bob
The modern shag took hold a few years ago and is going strong. A shaggy bob features shorter layers all around — think about photos of seventies goddesses and their wispy, cool haircuts — with a length that stops at around the chin. If you’re worried about your hair looking too thin, ask your stylist to maintain as blunt a baseline as possible.
