As women age, their hairstyle needs can change, and finding the perfect haircut can be challenging. But being over 40 doesn’t mean sacrificing style for practicality. Plenty of hairstyles can make you look and feel your best. From chic bobs to effortless waves, a hairstyle can suit your personality, lifestyle, and face shape. A well-chosen hairstyle can make a woman feel rejuvenated, stylish, and self-assured.
Whether you’re looking to switch things up or just want to refresh your current look, there are endless options to choose from that can flatter your features and enhance your natural beauty. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best hairstyles for women over 40 to help you find the perfect one for you.
How to choose the best hairstyles for Women Over 40
Here are some tips to help you choose the best hairstyles for women over 40:
- Determine your face shape: Your shape is important when choosing a hairstyle. Determine whether you have a round, square, oval, or heart-shaped face, and look for hairstyles that complement your face shape.
- Consider your hair texture: Your hair texture also plays a crucial role in determining your best hairstyle. If you have thin hair, look for hairstyles that add volume and thickness. If you have thick hair, look for hairstyles that manage your hair’s thickness and weight.
- Think about your lifestyle: Consider your daily routine and lifestyle when choosing a hairstyle. If you lead an active lifestyle, opt for a low-maintenance style that requires minimal styling. If you work in a professional environment, choose a polished and sophisticated hairstyle.
- Take inspiration from celebrities and fashion icons: Look for inspiration from celebrities and fashion icons who have a similar face shape and hair type to yours. This can give you an idea of what styles look best on you.
- Choose a style that reflects your personality: Ultimately, the best hairstyle for women over 40 reflects your personality and sense of style. Choose a style that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
25 Best Hairstyles for Women Over 40
1. The Classic Bob
The classic bob is a timeless and versatile hairstyle that suits women of all ages, including those over 40. This chic, sophisticated cut features a straight, sleek line below the chin. The beauty of the classic bob lies in its simplicity, making it easy to maintain while still looking elegant and polished.
For women with fine hair, a classic bob can add the illusion of volume and fullness, especially with subtle layers that create movement. On the other hand, women with thick hair can opt for a blunt bob for a more dramatic and bold look.
2. Layered Pixie Cut
The layered pixie cut is a bold, edgy hairstyle that radiates confidence and style. This short and chic cut features layers of varying lengths, creating texture and volume that beautifully frame the face.
For women with straight hair, the layered pixie cut adds dimension and movement to the hair, making it look effortlessly stylish. If you have wavy or curly hair, this cut can enhance your natural texture and give you a playful and trendy look.
3. Shoulder-Length Waves
Shoulder-length waves are a fantastic choice for women over 40 who want a hairstyle that exudes effortless glamour. This versatile length lets you wear your hair down for a casual look or style it in an updo for more formal occasions.
For women with naturally wavy or curly hair, shoulder-length waves enhance the texture and create a romantic and bohemian vibe. You can use a curling iron or hot rollers to achieve the desired waves if you have straight hair.
4. Side-Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs are a versatile addition to various hairstyles and work wonders for women over 40. Whether you have short or long hair, side-swept bangs can beautifully complement your features and add a touch of softness to your overall look.
For women with high foreheads, side-swept bangs are especially flattering as they help balance the proportions of the face. Additionally, they can conceal fine lines on the forehead, making them a popular choice for women looking to freshen up their appearance.
5. The Elegant Updo
For formal events or special occasions, the elegant updo is the epitome of timeless glamour. This sophisticated hairstyle elevates your overall look and exudes elegance and grace.
There are various types of updos to choose from, such as the classic chignon, the French twist, or a more modern and textured updo. The key to a successful updo is to ensure that it complements your face shape and enhances your features.
6. Long Layers with Face-Framing Highlights
Long layers with face-framing highlights are an excellent choice for women over 40 who want to maintain longer hair while adding a touch of radiance and youthfulness. The layers add movement and dimension to the hair, while the highlights brighten the face and create a sun-kissed effect.
This hairstyle works well for women with straight, wavy, or curly hair, as the layers enhance the natural texture and create a soft and flattering look. Additionally, the face-framing highlights can draw attention to your best features and give you a fresh and vibrant appearance.
7. The Modern Shag
The modern shag is a contemporary and edgy hairstyle that has returned in recent years. This chic and textured cut features layers of different lengths, creating a tousled and carefree look. The modern shag is perfect for women who want to embrace their adventurous and playful side without sacrificing elegance.
To style the modern shag, you can use a texturizing spray or mousse to enhance the layers and add volume to your hair. You can wear it straight and messy for a casual day out or add soft waves for a more polished appearance.
8. Sleek Straight Hair
Sleek straight hair is a timeless and sophisticated choice that works well for various occasions. This polished and sleek look is achieved by using a straightening iron to create smooth and glossy strands.
For women with naturally straight hair, maintaining this look is relatively simple. You can use a heat protectant spray before straightening your hair and finish with a shine serum to add luster and reduce frizz.
For those with wavy or curly hair, achieving a sleek straight hairstyle might require more effort. You can use a flat iron to straighten your hair section by section, ensuring a smooth and sleek finish.
9. The Timeless French Twist
The French twist is a classic and graceful updo that never goes out of style. This elegant hairstyle is perfect for formal events, weddings, or even a night out on the town.
To achieve the French twist, gather your hair into a ponytail at the nape of your neck. Twist the ponytail upward, tucking the ends under to create a rolled shape. Secure the twist with bobby pins, and you’ll have a chic, sophisticated updo that oozes timeless charm.
For a more modern twist on the French twist, you can leave a few face-framing tendrils loose to soften the look. The French twist is excellent for women over 40 who want to exude grace and elegance on special occasions.
10. Layered Shoulder-Length Bob
The layered shoulder-length bob is the perfect balance between a bob and longer hair. This chic and versatile hairstyle features layers that add texture and movement to your hair while maintaining an easy-to-manage length.
The layers in the shoulder-length bob can be customized to suit your face shape and hair type. For example, women with fine hair can benefit from layers that add volume and fullness, while those with thick hair can opt for layers that reduce weight and add dimension.
11. The Playful Ponytail
The ponytail is a classic and practical hairstyle that’s been a favorite for women of all ages. The playful ponytail is a go-to choice for casual outings, workouts, or days when you want your hair out of your face.
For a high ponytail, gather your hair at the crown of your head and secure it with an elastic band. You can add volume by teasing the crown slightly before tying the ponytail. For a low ponytail, gather your hair at the nape of your neck, ensuring it’s smooth and sleek.
12. Wispy Bangs
Wispy bangs are a delicate and feminine addition to any hairstyle. These soft and feathered bangs beautifully frame the face and add a touch of playfulness to your look.
Wispy bangs work well with various hair lengths and textures, making them a versatile choice for women over 40. Whether you have short, medium, or long hair, wispy bangs can add a fresh and youthful update to your style.
To style wispy bangs, you can blow-dry them with a round brush for a smooth and sleek look or use a texturizing product for a more tousled and relaxed vibe.
13. Beachy Waves
Beachy waves are a popular and relaxed hairstyle perfect for casual outings or beach vacations. This effortless and carefree look adds volume and texture to your hair, creating a natural, laid-back appearance.
You can use a curling wand or beach wave spray on dry hair to achieve beachy waves. Simply wrap sections of your hair around the curling wand and hold for a few seconds before releasing. Once all sections are curled, use your fingers to tousle the waves for a relaxed and messy finish.
Beachy waves are ideal for women with all hair lengths and textures, making them a versatile and trendy choice for women over 40.
14. The Glamorous Hollywood Curls
For a touch of old Hollywood glamour, consider the glamorous Hollywood curls. This elegant hairstyle is perfect for formal events and special occasions, giving you a red-carpet-ready appearance that will turn heads.
Hollywood curls are achieved by using a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers on medium to long hair. After curling each section, you can brush out the curls gently with a paddle brush to create soft and glamorous waves.
The glamorous Hollywood curls exude elegance and sophistication, making them an excellent choice for women over 40 who want to look and feel like a star.
15. The Power Bob
The power bob is a bold and confident statement hairstyle. With its sharp angles and strong lines, it exudes strength and style. This chic and polished look is perfect for women who want to showcase their personality with their hairstyle.
The power bob works well with various face shapes and hair textures. It’s a versatile and empowering choice for women over 40 who want a bold, stylish cut.
16. Half-Up Half-Down
The half-up half-down hairstyle strikes the perfect balance between casual and formal. It’s an elegant and easy way to style your hair, providing a polished appearance without too much effort.
To create the half-up half-down look, gather the top half of your hair and secure it with a clip or tie. You can leave it sleek and smooth or add soft curls for a romantic and refined finish.
17. The Effortless Chignon
The effortless chignon is a classic updo that exudes timeless grace and sophistication. This hairstyle is perfect for formal events or when you want to look effortlessly put together.
To achieve the chignon, gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and twist it upward, creating a rolled shape. Secure the chignon with bobby pins, and you’ll have a chic and sophisticated updo that never goes out of style.
18. The Textured Lob
The textured lob (long bob) is a contemporary and chic hairstyle that has taken the hair world by storm. This edgy yet sophisticated look is perfect for women over 40 who want to embrace a modern and trendy hairstyle.
The textured lob features layers and choppy ends, creating a playful and effortless appearance. It’s a versatile and low-maintenance cut that requires minimal effort to style. You can also use a texturizing or sea salt spray on damp hair to add texture and enhance the look.
19. Braided Crown
For a whimsical and charming look, try the braided crown hairstyle. This bohemian-inspired updo adds an element of romance and elegance to your overall appearance.
To create the braided crown, start by parting your hair in the middle and then braid a section on each side. Wrap each braid around the top of your head, securing them with bobby pins to create a crown-like effect.
The braided crown is perfect for outdoor events, garden parties, or weddings, giving you a dreamy and enchanting look.
20. The Sleek High Ponytail
The sleek high ponytail is a stylish hairstyle that instantly elevates your look. It’s a great choice for a professional and modern appearance.
To achieve the sleek high ponytail, gather your hair at the crown of your head and secure it with an elastic band. Smooth out any bumps or flyaways with a brush or comb, and you’ll have a sleek and sophisticated ponytail perfect for the office or a night out.
21. Side Part with Cascading Curls
A side part with cascading curls is a classic, refined hairstyle that suits various occasions. This elegant look adds volume and sophistication to your overall appearance.
To achieve the side part with cascading curls, create a deep side part and then curl sections of your hair with a curling wand or hot rollers. After curling, gently brush the curls to create soft and cascading waves.
The side part with cascading curls is perfect for women who want to exude a timeless and polished look.
22. The Effortless Messy Bun
The effortless messy bun is a casual and chic hairstyle perfect for casual outings and formal events. This versatile updo can be styled in various ways to suit your preferences.
To create an effortless messy bun, gather your hair into a high or low ponytail and twist it into a bun. Pull out a few strands of hair to create a messy and relaxed effect.
23. The Sassy Pixie
The sassy pixie cut is a playful and trendy hairstyle that adds an element of fun to your overall look. This short and spunky hairstyle is perfect for women who want to make a statement with their hair.
The sassy pixie cut features layers and texture, creating a youthful and vibrant appearance. It’s a low-maintenance cut that requires minimal effort to style. To add an extra edge to the sassy pixie, you can use a texturizing product or hair wax to define the layers and create a modern finish.
24. Classic Straight with Side Bangs
The classic straight with side bangs is a timeless and sophisticated choice. The side bangs add a touch of softness to your face, while the straight hair gives you a polished and sleek appearance.
The classic straight with side bangs is a versatile and flattering choice for women with different face shapes and hair types.
25. The Romantic Half-Up Braid
The romantic half-up braid is a dreamy, enchanting hairstyle perfect for special occasions or date nights. This ethereal look adds a touch of romance and elegance to your overall appearance.
To create the romantic half-up braid, start by parting your hair in the middle and then taking a section of hair from each side. Braid each section and secure them together with bobby pins at the back of your head.
The romantic half-up braid is a whimsical and charming choice for women over 40 who want to look and feel enchanting.
FAQs
1. Can women have over 40 rock-long hairstyles?
Answer: Absolutely! Long hairstyles can be stunning for women over 40. Keeping the hair healthy and well-maintained with regular trims and nourishing treatments is essential.
2. What hairstyles are best for fine hair over 40?
Women with fine hair can try layered bobs, textured pixie cuts, or shoulder-length hair with waves to add volume and dimension to their hair.
3. How can I style my short hair for a formal event?
For short hair, consider sleeking it back with a styling gel for a polished look or adding subtle curls for a touch of elegance.
4. Are bangs suitable for women with a high forehead?
Bangs can be a great choice for women with a high forehead, as they can help balance the face’s proportions and soften the forehead area.
5. How can I add volume to my thinning hair?
To add volume to thinning hair, consider using volumizing products, getting a layered haircut, or trying hairstyles that create the illusion of fullness, such as textured bobs.
6. Can I pull off a bold hair color in my 40s?
Absolutely! Bold hair colors can add a youthful and vibrant touch to your look. Consult a professional hairstylist to find the right shade to complement your skin tone.
