Stylists Share 5 Effortlessly Chic Haircuts For Women Over 50 To Try This Summer
1. Long, Feathery Layers
"Longer side bangs" and "face framing pieces" a la Jennifer Aniston can "also result in a more youthful appearance by drawing the eye to the appealing facial features," Rivera explains.
"In general, this provides for a fresher and more youthful look." If you want to keep your hair longer over 50, Rivera says it is imperative to add layers and/or or face-framing pieces to avoid looking "weighed down" and dull.
She points out that "an added choice is to shorten the hair up a bit to the collarbone or above" to create some texture by "adding subtle layers to soften."
2. Textured Asymmetrical Lob
A textured asymmetrical lob or bob 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."
A deep side part (as seen above on Charlize Theron) is added "to create more volume on the top of the head by literally pushing more hair to one side of your head," Abdullah says, and this hairstyle is great for hiding thinning on top if you have any.
3. Voluminous Italian Bob
If you're looking for a haircut that can make your best features pop while giving your mane an extra boost of volume and bounce, look no further than the Italian bob cut. This style is inspired by Old Hollywood and is a 'do that stylish stars like Salma Hayek opt for.
The Italian bob takes the traditional bob cut to new heights with chunky blunt ends that create an airy, voluminous look that's never heavy or bulky. It also has just the right amount of length to allow for easy styling options as it's long enough to tie up, but short enough to be worn as is.
Udoh says that a medium bob like this is "a sleek and stylish choice for many occasions." She adds that "it's a versatile cut that looks great on almost any face shape and hair type." The length can be "adjusted to complement your features and create an attractive silhouette," she notes.
"This ever-popular bob provides volume at the crown, with textured layers that frame the face nicely while still maintaining an easy-to-manage style," Udoh explains.
4. Wispy Shag
A shag is an "amazing cut that is well-recognized for being versatile," Rivera says. A quintessential shag, as seen on Halle Berry, offers "nice variations for both longer and shorter hair." Like the bob, "adding a bang can add a fresh surprise to this look," Rivera suggests.
Abdullah adds that bangs like these are "often used to frame the face and specifically, to give it a youthful appearance." She notes that they also "make your hair appear thicker and are a great way to add volume to thinning hair." The style also "works well for women who want to hide thinning hair in the front."
5. Layered Lob with Curtain Bangs
Jarman points out that layers can instantly enhance your facial features and provide volume, and adding bangs to a textured lob (as seen here on Alexa Chung), can also conceal forehead wrinkles and draw more attention to your eyes. "Pair your lob with fringe to cover any wrinkles or receding hairlines and highlight those gorgeous eyes of yours," Jarman says.
She adds that "many of us have hair that gets thinner with age," so adding "texture will help give your look lift and life." After all, wispy, flirty and eyebrow-grazing bangs were all the rage throughout the winter and this spring, so we don't expect them to disappear as we inch closer to summer 2024.
The Bottom Line
Rivera suggests that although these five hairstyles are failsafe options, there are numerous classic, transformative and timeless hairstyles to consider beyond those mentioned.
The key to finding your perfect look is understanding your facial structure and seeking guidance from a professional stylist.
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."