5 Classic Haircuts That Will Flatter Any Woman Over 50

By the time you reach your fifties, you might have already played with lengths, textures, and shapes. Now, it’s less about making an impression or following fashion trends. It’s more about being true to yourself and choosing a hairstyle that suits you. Ultimately, you’ll always look good with a cut and colour you’re comfortable with.

Whether you want something that’s super low maintenance or a haircut that can be styled a million different ways, always consider your face shape, hair texture and of course, lifestyle before updating your look. A short one, for instance, is perfect for women always in a rush and also great for highlighting high cheekbones, while a mid-length layered haircut with a part in the middle is perfect for sophisticated women who want a no-fuss hairdo.

Above all, avoid trendy haircuts that require effort: once you leave the hair salon, it will be difficult to manage the same style.

Best haircuts that will make you stand out

Typically, the safest hairstyles for women over fifty are medium-length haircuts. However, if you want to rock your look and stand out from the crowd, there are more options to consider. 

As a rule of thumb, embracing textures such as waves and layers can make your hair look fuller and more youthful: pixie cuts and bobs can take years off your face as they’re not too heavy, so they don’t drag your look down. That doesn’t mean long hair has lost its glamour at this age, but if it starts to thin or become less healthy and more brittle giving that style a regular trim is crucial. 

Want somewhere to start? Here are our favourite hairstyles and haircuts for women 50 and up.

1. The asymmetrical pixie cut
   Sassy, bold and elegant, the pixie cut is the most requested short haircut by women over 50, and there is no wonder why. Practical and easy to maintain, it’s about getting a temple undercut on the back and sides, with an elongated side-swept bang. It does a great job of helping women with thin hair and it’s not too complicated to style, plus allowing for a little extra length on top means you can play with volume and change your look.
2. Blunt ended short bob
   If you want more of a shorter bob, then this style for your hair may be just what you are looking for. Great for women with oval, square, or heart-shaped faces, this is a hairstyle that’s cut into a straight line at the ends. The bluntness of the ends gorgeously emphasizes the jaw area and brings a strong and flattering look, while the bang is shaped to look like a curtain on the forehead (which helps to soften the overall look). Just remember to be careful if you have thick hair: too short and it could end up looking puffy rather than sleek.
3. The long-layered wavy bob
   The long bob (also called a Lob), is when the hair length is below the chin and above the collarbone and is cut like a bob. Layers are still hot this season, so if you have long hair and you’re considering a chop, a Lob just might be the right cut for you. By adding in some nice layering and soft highlights you will not only frame but also brighten your face.
4. The shag cut
   Messy, carefree, and easy to style, it’s the perfect way to play up your youthful side. Created by the barber Paul McGregor during the fabulous 70s, the shag cut is a hairstyle that has been layered to various lengths (often feathered at the top and sides). The typical features that make up a shag hairstyle include choppy ends, layers around the crown, and lots of texture.

5. U-shape haircut
   It’s still among the most preferred medium length haircuts for a simple and casual look. The differentiating lengths of the layers (shorter at the front) give the hair a sense of dimension and movement while limiting the bulkiness. That means not losing the overall length of the hairstyle: the ends will simply look as though they form a “U” shape.

A word about bangs

Bangs can be a fun, youthful way to switch up your hairstyle. They instantly frame your face and can give your look more personality, making your face appear smaller as well as hiding fine lines. However, bangs aren’t one size fits all. It’s better to avoid a thick one if you have a small forehead: instead, opt for an asymmetrical fringe that lightly grazes your cheekbones. Add some highlights for a touch of sophistication and personality.