Short hairstyles for over 50 – Short hairstyles for women over 50 offer a wide range of options to flatter and rejuvenate. From pixie cuts to bobs and lobs, layers to asymmetrical styles, there’s a perfect short hairstyle for every face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle.
This guide will explore the latest trends and techniques in short hairstyles for women over 50, providing inspiration, tips, and expert advice to help you find the perfect cut to enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence.
Age-Defying Pixie Cuts
As women over 50 seek to maintain a youthful and vibrant appearance, pixie cuts have emerged as a flattering and age-defying hairstyle. These short, chic cuts offer numerous benefits that cater to the specific needs of mature women.
Pixie cuts effectively frame the face, drawing attention to the eyes and cheekbones. They create an illusion of volume and lift, counteracting the natural thinning of hair that often accompanies aging. Additionally, pixie cuts are low-maintenance and easy to style, making them a practical choice for busy women.
Stylish Pixie Cut Variations
Pixie cuts come in a variety of styles to suit different face shapes and preferences. Some popular variations include:
- Classic Pixie: A timeless and versatile cut with short, tapered sides and a slightly longer top.
- Asymmetrical Pixie: Features one side longer than the other, creating a modern and edgy look.
- Pixie with Bangs: Bangs can add a touch of softness and femininity to a pixie cut, framing the forehead and eyes.
- Layered Pixie: Layers add texture and movement to a pixie cut, creating a more voluminous and youthful appearance.
Modern Bobs and Lobs
Bobs and lobs are versatile haircuts that can be tailored to suit older women’s face shapes, hair texture, and lifestyle. Bobs are shorter than lobs, typically falling between the chin and shoulders, while lobs are longer, extending to the collarbone or beyond. Both styles can be styled in a variety of ways, from classic to edgy.
Bobs
Bobs are a classic haircut that can be worn by women of all ages. They are a great option for women who want a low-maintenance haircut that is still stylish. Bobs can be styled straight, wavy, or curly, and can be parted on the side, in the middle, or off-center.
There are many different types of bobs, including:
* A-line bobs: These bobs are shorter in the back and longer in the front, creating an A-line shape.
* Blunt bobs: These bobs are cut straight across the bottom, creating a blunt line.
* Inverted bobs: These bobs are shorter in the back and longer in the front, creating an inverted V-shape.
* Graduated bobs: These bobs are cut in layers, with the shorter layers in the back and the longer layers in the front.
Lobs
Lobs are a longer version of the bob, typically falling between the collarbone and shoulders. They are a great option for women who want a haircut that is longer than a bob but shorter than a long haircut. Lobs can be styled straight, wavy, or curly, and can be parted on the side, in the middle, or off-center.
There are many different types of lobs, including:
* Long bobs: These lobs fall just below the shoulders.
* Medium bobs: These lobs fall between the chin and shoulders.
* Short bobs: These lobs fall just above the chin.
* Asymmetrical bobs: These lobs are cut in an asymmetrical shape, with one side longer than the other.
Layered Haircuts
Layers are a great way to add movement, volume, and shape to fine or thinning hair. They can also help to frame the face and draw attention to your best features.
Types of Layers
There are many different types of layers, including:
- Long layers: These layers start at the chin or below and gradually get longer towards the ends of the hair.
- Short layers: These layers start at the crown of the head and get shorter towards the ends of the hair.
- Face-framing layers: These layers are cut around the face to frame and highlight your features.
The type of layers that are best for you will depend on your hair type, face shape, and personal style.
– Asymmetrical Styles
Asymmetrical hairstyles are characterized by an uneven distribution of hair length and volume on different sides of the head. They are particularly flattering for older women as they can create a more youthful and dynamic appearance.
Asymmetry can draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones, minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It can also create the illusion of volume and movement, which can be beneficial for women with thinning hair.
Short Asymmetrical Pixie
A short asymmetrical pixie cut is a great option for women who want a low-maintenance and stylish hairstyle. It features short, choppy layers on one side of the head and longer, textured layers on the other. This creates a modern and edgy look that is both flattering and easy to style.
Asymmetrical Bob
An asymmetrical bob is a classic hairstyle that can be adapted to suit a variety of face shapes. It features a shorter length on one side of the head and a longer length on the other. This creates a sleek and sophisticated look that is perfect for both formal and casual occasions.
Asymmetrical Lob
An asymmetrical lob is a longer version of the asymmetrical bob. It features a longer length on both sides of the head, with one side being slightly longer than the other. This creates a more relaxed and effortless look that is perfect for women who want a low-maintenance hairstyle.
To enhance the asymmetry of a hairstyle, layers and texture can be used. Layers can create volume and movement, while texture can add interest and definition. This can help to create a more flattering and youthful appearance.
When styling asymmetrical hairstyles, it is important to consider the shape of your face. Women with round faces should opt for styles that create height and volume on top, while women with long faces should choose styles that create width. Women with oval faces can wear most asymmetrical hairstyles.
Shaggy Haircuts
Shaggy haircuts are characterized by their layered, textured appearance, adding volume and movement to hair. They’re a popular choice for women over 50 because they can help to disguise thinning hair and add a touch of youthful exuberance.
Shaggy haircuts can be customized to suit any face shape or hair type. For example, women with fine hair can opt for a shorter, layered shag to create the illusion of volume, while women with thick hair can opt for a longer, more textured shag to add movement and interest.
Styling Tips
- Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to add body to your hair.
- Apply a mousse or styling cream to damp hair before blow-drying to enhance texture.
- Use a diffuser to dry your hair upside down to create volume at the roots.
- Finish with a light hairspray to hold your style in place.
Examples of Modern and Flattering Shaggy Haircuts for Older Women
- A shoulder-length shag with long, face-framing layers.
- A chin-length shag with shorter layers at the crown to add volume.
- A layered pixie cut with shaggy bangs.
Bangs for Older Women: Short Hairstyles For Over 50
Bangs can be a great way to frame the face, conceal wrinkles, and enhance facial features. They can also add a touch of style and personality to your look.
There are many different types of bangs to choose from, so you can find a style that suits your face shape and hair texture. Some of the most popular types of bangs for older women include:
- Side-swept bangs: These bangs are swept to one side of the face, creating a soft and flattering look. They are a good choice for women with oval or round faces.
- Curtain bangs: These bangs are parted in the middle and then swept to the sides, creating a curtain-like effect. They are a good choice for women with heart-shaped or square faces.
- Blunt bangs: These bangs are cut straight across the forehead. They are a good choice for women with strong facial features.
When choosing bangs, it is important to consider your face shape and hair texture. If you have a round face, you will want to avoid bangs that are too heavy or blunt. If you have thin hair, you will want to avoid bangs that are too long or thick.
Once you have chosen the right type of bangs, you will need to style them. Bangs can be styled with a blow dryer, flat iron, or curling iron. You can also use products such as mousse or gel to help keep them in place.
Here are some examples of celebrities over 50 who have worn bangs successfully:
- Helen Mirren
- Jane Fonda
- Meryl Streep
Bangs can be a great way to update your look and make you feel more confident. If you are considering getting bangs, be sure to consult with a stylist to find the right style for you.
Hair Color and Highlights
Hair color and highlights play a crucial role in enhancing the appearance of women over 50. The right color can flatter the skin tone, brighten the complexion, and create a more youthful look.
Choosing the most suitable hair color depends on several factors, including skin tone, hair type, and personal preferences. Here are some flattering hair color ideas and highlighting techniques for women over 50:
Hair Color for Different Skin Tones
- Warm skin tones: Caramel, honey blonde, golden brown, auburn, copper
- Cool skin tones: Ash blonde, platinum, silver, blue-black, burgundy
- Neutral skin tones: Any hair color can be flattering, but consider adding warm or cool tones to enhance the skin tone
Highlighting Techniques
- Balayage: A freehand painting technique that creates natural-looking highlights
- Foilyage: A combination of balayage and foiling, resulting in more defined highlights
- Ombré: A gradual transition from dark roots to lighter ends
- Lowlights: Darker strands added to create depth and dimension
Maintenance and Upkeep
Maintaining hair color and highlights requires regular touch-ups and proper hair care. Here are some tips:
- Use color-protecting shampoos and conditioners
- Limit heat styling
- Get regular trims to remove split ends
- Consider using a leave-in conditioner or hair mask for added moisture
Reputable Hair Salons and Colorists
For the best results, consider visiting reputable hair salons and colorists who specialize in working with older women. Here are a few recommendations:
- Sally Hershberger Salon, New York City
- Frédéric Fekkai, Beverly Hills
- Christophe Robin Salon, Paris
- John Frieda Salon, London
Hairstyles for Fine Hair
Women over 50 with fine hair often face challenges in achieving volume, movement, and texture in their hairstyles. However, there are several tips and suggestions that can help enhance the appearance of fine hair and create flattering and age-defying looks.
To create volume, consider adding layers to your haircut. Layers can help create the illusion of thicker hair and give it more movement. Additionally, blow drying your hair upside down can help lift the roots and create volume at the crown.
To add movement and texture to fine hair, try using a volumizing mousse or spray. These products can help give your hair more body and hold. You can also try using a texturizing spray or powder to create a more piecey and undone look.
Some hairstyles are particularly well-suited for fine hair. These include short pixie cuts, bobs, and lobs. These styles can help create the illusion of thicker hair and give it more volume and movement.
Short Pixie Cuts
Short pixie cuts are a great option for women with fine hair who want a low-maintenance and stylish look. Pixie cuts can be customized to suit your face shape and personal style, and they can be styled in a variety of ways to create different looks.
Bobs and Lobs
Bobs and lobs are also good choices for women with fine hair. These styles can be cut in a variety of lengths and shapes, and they can be styled to create different looks. Bobs and lobs can be worn straight, wavy, or curly, and they can be accessorized with headbands, clips, or other hair accessories.
Hairstyles for Thinning Hair
As women over 50 experience hormonal changes, they may notice a gradual thinning of their hair. This can be a common concern, affecting many women. However, there are several hairstyles and solutions that can help to conceal thinning hair and create a fuller appearance.
Layered Haircuts
Layered haircuts can add volume and movement to thinning hair. By creating different lengths throughout the hair, layers can give the illusion of thicker, fuller hair. Shorter layers on top and longer layers underneath can help to create a more balanced and voluminous look.
Asymmetrical Styles
Asymmetrical styles can also help to create the illusion of thicker hair. By cutting one side of the hair shorter than the other, an asymmetrical style can draw attention away from thinning areas and create a more balanced and flattering look.
Shaggy Haircuts
Shaggy haircuts are another great option for women with thinning hair. The choppy, layered style of a shaggy haircut can add volume and texture to the hair, making it appear thicker and fuller. Shaggy haircuts can also be customized to suit different face shapes and hair types.
Bangs for Older Women
Bangs can be a great way to conceal thinning hair around the forehead. By adding fullness to the front of the hair, bangs can help to create a more balanced and youthful appearance. There are many different types of bangs to choose from, so women can find a style that suits their face shape and hair type.
Hairstyles for Curly Hair
Styling curly hair for women over 50 presents unique challenges and opportunities. As hair ages, it can become drier and more prone to frizz, making it harder to define and control curls. However, with the right products and techniques, it’s possible to create a polished and youthful look that embraces the natural beauty of curly hair.
The key to styling curly hair is to focus on defining and moisturizing curls while minimizing frizz. This can be achieved by using a combination of products and techniques, including:
Moisturizing Products
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner designed for curly hair.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to damp hair to add moisture and definition.
- Use a hair mask once a week to deeply condition and nourish curls.
Styling Techniques
- Avoid brushing dry hair, as this can cause frizz.
- Use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to detangle wet hair.
- Apply styling products to damp hair and scrunch curls to encourage definition.
- Use a diffuser to dry hair on a low heat setting to minimize frizz.
Specific Hairstyles for Curly Hair
- Short Curly Bob: A short bob with layers and bangs can help to define curls and reduce frizz.
- Curly Pixie Cut: A pixie cut with textured layers can create a chic and youthful look for curly hair.
- Long Curly Layers: Long layers can help to add volume and movement to curly hair, while reducing the appearance of frizz.
Hairstyles for Straight Hair
Straight hair can be both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it’s easy to care for and style. On the other hand, it can sometimes lack volume and movement. However, there are a number of styling tips and techniques that can help you add volume, texture, and movement to your straight hair.
Styling Tips
* Blow dry your hair upside down. This will help to create volume at the roots.
* Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. These products will help to add body and lift to your hair.
* Apply a root lifter to your hair. This product will help to create the illusion of thicker, fuller hair.
* Use a curling iron or wand to create waves or curls. This will add texture and movement to your hair.
* Braid your hair overnight. This will help to create waves or curls that will last all day.
Hairstyles for Straight Hair
There are a number of hairstyles that are specifically designed for straight hair. These hairstyles include:
* Layered cuts. Layers can help to add volume and movement to straight hair.
* Bobs. Bobs are a classic hairstyle that can be worn by women of all ages. They are a great option for women with straight hair because they are easy to style and maintain.
* Pixies. Pixies are a short, sassy hairstyle that is perfect for women with straight hair. They are easy to style and require minimal maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I add volume to my straight hair?
A: There are a number of ways to add volume to straight hair, including blow drying your hair upside down, using a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, applying a root lifter, and using a curling iron or wand to create waves or curls.
Q: What are some good hairstyles for straight hair?
A: Some good hairstyles for straight hair include layered cuts, bobs, and pixies.
Q: How can I style my straight hair without heat?
A: There are a number of ways to style your straight hair without heat, including braiding your hair overnight, using a headband or scarf to create waves or curls, or using a hairspray or mousse to add texture and hold.
Hairstyles for Round Faces
Women over 50 with round faces often seek hairstyles that create the illusion of a longer, slimmer face shape. By choosing hairstyles that add height and volume at the crown and minimize width at the sides, it’s possible to achieve a more balanced and flattering look.
Flattering Hairstyles for Round Faces
Here are some of the most flattering hairstyles for women over 50 with round faces:
- Long layers: Long layers add volume and movement to the hair, which can help to create the illusion of a slimmer face. Layers should start at or below the cheekbones to avoid adding width to the sides of the face.
- Asymmetrical bobs: Asymmetrical bobs are a great way to add interest and movement to the hair while also creating the illusion of a slimmer face. The longer side of the bob should fall below the chin, while the shorter side can be as short as the earlobe.
- Pixie cuts: Pixie cuts are a great option for women over 50 who want a short, stylish haircut. Pixie cuts can be customized to suit any face shape, but they are particularly flattering for round faces because they add height and volume at the crown.
Table of Recommended Hairstyles
| Hairstyle | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Long layers | Long layers add volume and movement to the hair, which can help to create the illusion of a slimmer face. | – Adds volume and movement – Creates the illusion of a slimmer face – Can be customized to suit any hair type |
| Asymmetrical bobs | Asymmetrical bobs are a great way to add interest and movement to the hair while also creating the illusion of a slimmer face. | – Adds interest and movement – Creates the illusion of a slimmer face – Can be customized to suit any face shape |
| Pixie cuts | Pixie cuts are a great option for women over 50 who want a short, stylish haircut. Pixie cuts can be customized to suit any face shape, but they are particularly flattering for round faces because they add height and volume at the crown. | – Short and stylish – Adds height and volume at the crown – Can be customized to suit any face shape |
Hairstyles for Oval Faces
Oval faces are considered the ideal face shape, as they are well-balanced and symmetrical. However, as we age, our faces can lose some of their definition, making it important to choose hairstyles that can enhance our natural beauty.
When choosing a hairstyle for an oval face, the goal is to create the illusion of width and balance. This can be achieved by adding volume to the sides of the head, or by creating a style that draws attention to the cheekbones.
Layers, Short hairstyles for over 50
Layers are a great way to add volume and movement to hair, which can help to create the illusion of a wider face. Long layers that start at the cheekbones are particularly flattering, as they can help to draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones.
Bobs and Lobs
Bobs and lobs are classic hairstyles that are well-suited for oval faces. A bob is a short haircut that falls just below the chin, while a lob is a longer version that falls just above the shoulders. Both styles can be styled with volume at the sides of the head to create a wider appearance.
Asymmetrical Styles
Asymmetrical styles can be a great way to add interest to an oval face. These styles can be created by cutting one side of the hair shorter than the other, or by adding a side-swept bang. Asymmetrical styles can help to create the illusion of a wider face, and they can also be very flattering for women with fine or thin hair.
Bangs
Bangs can be a great way to add volume and interest to an oval face. Side-swept bangs are particularly flattering, as they can help to draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones. Full bangs can also be flattering, but they should be avoided by women with fine or thin hair.
Hairstyles for Square Faces
Women over 50 with square faces have a strong, angular jawline and a wide forehead. The best hairstyles for square faces will help to soften the angles and create a more balanced look. Short hairstyles can be especially flattering, as they can help to draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones.
When choosing a short hairstyle for a square face, it is important to consider the following:
- Length: Short hairstyles that end at or just below the chin are ideal for square faces. This length will help to soften the angles of the face and create a more balanced look.
- Layers: Layers can help to add volume and movement to short hair, which can be flattering for square faces. Layers can also help to create the illusion of a longer face.
- Bangs: Bangs can help to soften the forehead and draw attention to the eyes. Side-swept bangs are a good option for square faces, as they can help to create a more balanced look.
Hairstyles that accentuate the cheekbones
Short hairstyles that accentuate the cheekbones can be very flattering for square faces. These hairstyles will help to draw attention to the cheekbones and create a more balanced look. Some good options include:
- Asymmetrical bobs: Asymmetrical bobs are a great way to add interest to short hair and draw attention to the cheekbones. The longer side of the bob can be worn on either side of the face, depending on which side you prefer.
- Angled bobs: Angled bobs are another good option for square faces. These bobs are shorter in the back than in the front, which helps to create the illusion of a longer face.
- Pixie cuts: Pixie cuts are a short, sassy hairstyle that can be very flattering for square faces. Pixie cuts can be styled in a variety of ways, so you can find a look that suits your personality and style.
Recommended hairstyles with their corresponding face shapes
| Face Shape | Recommended Hairstyles |
|---|---|
| Square | Asymmetrical bobs, angled bobs, pixie cuts, short bobs with layers, side-swept bangs |
| Round | Long bobs, layered bobs, side-swept bangs, asymmetrical bobs |
| Oval | Any hairstyle will look good on an oval face |
| Heart | Long bobs, layered bobs, side-swept bangs, asymmetrical bobs |
| Diamond | Asymmetrical bobs, angled bobs, pixie cuts, short bobs with layers, side-swept bangs |
“Short hairstyles can be very flattering for women over 50 with square faces. By choosing a style that softens the angles of the face and creates a more balanced look, you can help to highlight your best features.” – Celebrity hairstylist Sally Hershberger
Celebrities with square faces who have flattering hairstyles
- Angelina Jolie
- Demi Moore
- Jennifer Aniston
- Reese Witherspoon
- Victoria Beckham
Final Wrap-Up
Short hairstyles for women over 50 are not just about cutting off length; they’re about embracing a new chapter in life with style and confidence. Whether you’re looking for a chic pixie cut, a modern bob, or a layered style with plenty of movement, there’s a short hairstyle out there that will make you feel beautiful and empowered.
Clarifying Questions
What are the benefits of short hairstyles for women over 50?
Short hairstyles can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, frame the face, and highlight facial features. They can also be easier to manage and style than longer hair, making them a great choice for busy women.
What are some of the most popular short hairstyles for women over 50?
Some of the most popular short hairstyles for women over 50 include pixie cuts, bobs, lobs, layers, and asymmetrical styles.
How can I find the right short hairstyle for my face shape?
The best way to find the right short hairstyle for your face shape is to consult with a professional hairstylist. They can help you to choose a style that will complement your features and lifestyle.