Your hair does not need to flow way past your shoulders or be a specific shade of shocking blonde to appear youthful and pretty. In fact, some of the most youthful-looking haircuts and hairstyles rely on shorter hair or hair that’s cut on an angle to bring out specific facial features that you want to highlight, like your eyes, cheekbones, or a strong jawline. If you’ve been on the fence about changing up your hair and aren’t sure where to start, Khamis Maiouf, CEO and founder of the Book of Barbering, has a few suggestions: these five hairstyles can create a more youthful look for women over 40. They’re also seriously on-trend.
Bob Cut
A bob cut like this sleek style on Rose Byrne is tailored by cutting the hair to about chin-length all around the head, Maiouf explains — not that there’s any chance you haven’t seen this cut on numerous chic and sophisticated women time and time again.
“It's a timeless choice that flatters many face shapes, particularly round and heart-shaped ones,” Maiouf says. “Women over 40 can pull off this style perfectly, thanks to its elegance and simplicity. It suits straight to slightly wavy hair types the best. I would advise against this style if you have very curly hair, as it may require extensive styling to maintain.”
Shaggy Layers
Feel more fierce than a bob? The shaggy haircut modeled here on Natasha Lyonne involves a lot of layers and texture, Maiouf notes. “The varying lengths add volume and softness, which is great for women with fine or thin hair,” he says. “It's most flattering on oval and long face shapes, as the layers break up the length. However, this haircut might not be the best choice for those with curly hair as it can lead to too much volume and possible frizz.”
Keep in mind that Natasha’s gorgeous hair is curly — so don’t rule out a shaggy cut if it’s your preference. Speak to your stylist about products you can use that will keep frizz at bay and enhance your curls.
Lob (Long Bob)
The Lob shown on Jessica Alba is cut similarly to the bob, but is left longer, usually shoulder-length. “This cut looks good on virtually all face shapes, particularly square faces,” Maiouf says. “It works for all hair types and is ideal for women who want a low-maintenance but stylish cut. However, if you have extremely thin hair, you might want to consider a different style, as the lob might make your hair look flat.”
Soft Pixie Cut
“This is a short hairstyle where the hair is cropped in layers, typically tapered around the neck and sides with more volume at the top,” Maiouf says. “The soft pixie cut is perfect for women over 40 with round, heart, or oval face shapes. It works best on straight-to-wavy hair types and gives a chic, youthful vibe. If you have a long face shape or very curly hair, this cut might not be ideal.”
Need inspo for this look? Look no further than the always playful and sophisticated Kate Hudson.
Medium Layers with Side-Swept Bangs
Attention women over 40: you do NOT have to cut your hair the minute you welcome a new decade of life. The key to having longer hair is to ensure that it’s healthy and features volume-boosting touches — that means regular trims, using quality products, and maybe adding some sophisticated side-swept bangs like these that adorn Reese Witherspoon.
“This haircut involves medium-length layers throughout and a side-swept bang,” Maiouf says. “It adds movement and softness, making it flattering for most face shapes, but especially so for heart-shaped and round faces. It suits all hair types. I would avoid this style only if you're not into maintaining bangs, as they require regular trims."
With inspiration in mind, book your salon appointment and get ready to try a fresh hairstyle on for size.
