Our collection of hairstyles for women over 40 is the best way to get inspired and create your unique look. 40 is a huge milestone in the life of every woman. There is no doubt that your hairstyle should be upgraded around this time. Bring some changes into your life starting with a new hairstyle!
Short hairstyles for women over 40 offer a youthful edge, blending sass with chic elegance. At 40, it's about expressing yourself, prioritizing natural, sophisticated looks over bold colors. Embrace simplicity, a current trend, ensuring your hairstyle radiates confidence with a hint of sexiness, perfectly aligning with the grace of maturity.
Pixie Hairstyles For Women Over 40
Starting with the shortest options, we’d like to introduce to you the crowd-pleasers that have already made thousands of women’s morning routines easier. A pixie is a pure combination of stylishness and practicality, so make sure to see the hottest picks!
Pink Highlights
by @chrisjones_hair
As for short haircuts for older women, there is a great tip. Lighter hair colors, especially with bright highlights, make them look better. As our skin loses its natural glow, even women with dark hair go for a shade brighter or add highlights.
Platinum Pixie Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @shorthairexclusive
This platinum pixie cut exudes rock star vibes, ideal for those seeking a vibrant, short hairstyle. Grungy textures complement this shade, dispelling fears of aging. Gray hair is a major trend today, recommended by stylists to refresh short haircuts for women over 60.
Pixie With Long Bang
by @theplatinumgiraffe
This pixie with slightly longer bangs, created by the internationally known hair coach and mentor, Sarai Speer, would be a life saver for thin hair. This kind of a haircut will nicely add volume in the back of your head, blending short pieces and longer sassy bangs in the front.
Dark Brown Pixie Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @shorthairexclusive
This dark brown pixie has pretty much the same length all over the head. But you need to be very careful with it because this kind of pixie is really revealing. So, you shouldn’t go for it unless you have an oval face shape.
Pink Ombre With Undercut
by @isaac4mayor
As for this pink hairstyle with undercut, skillfully created by San Diego-based "hair traffic controller" and salon owner, Isaac Roberts, isn't simple if we look closely. This mind-blowing color is what makes it stand out. An undercut with tattoo and vivid color combo make this hairstyle not overly exaggerated, brave, and cute.
Pixie With Blonde Bang Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @mila_kryshchykhina
Another pixie masterpiece that is kind of more rock star or brave option. This layered cut features dimensional blonde hues with darker roots that seamlessly blend, creating a natural effect. The long, side-swept bangs add a youthful flair to the hair. Perfect for women over 40 seeking a fresh, modern look.
Styling Tip: As for styling the bangs, you can blow dry them with a large round brush to add volume or curl with a curling iron.
Cute Pixie
by @stylemargaret
This pixie has volume on the top and side bangs that make your face look slimmer. It's also a good option for those looking for short hairstyles for women over 50 with fine hair, as it has great volumizing potential. Margaret, with over 15 years of experience as a hairdresser and colorist, offers advice:
"Gone are the days of covering gray hair; now it's about embracing it with highlights. It's not about hiding it or avoiding makeup—it's your choice. Gray hair deserves care too. The trend of embracing natural gray hair is growing among fashion-forward women worldwide. Many are proud to flaunt their natural beauty without dyeing it."
Pixie Undercut Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @olga.lebedinskaya
If you think that wearing a pixie is too common for your creative soul, try to combine it with the popular undercut to make it unique, then! The neat body and the eye-catching top is the best duo ever. Moreover, it is not as high maintenance as you guess.
Shaggy Pixie Hairstyles For Women Over 40
Ladies who rock short hair and want to add some volume to their styles should never underestimate the power of layers. Once you ask for soft texturizing all over the ends, you won’t be able to resist the beauty of your brand-new shaggy silhouette.
Bob Hairstyles For Women Over 40
When a woman thinks of a hair change, a bob haircut comes in. From classic rounded silhouettes to sharp and angled options — this iconic haircut has a rich collection of ideas for every kind of lady and every type of texture.
Short Curly Bob
by @nubiarezo
A short curly bob may look super flirty! A secret about this bob, created and polished by the award-winning hair artist and salon owner, Nubia Suarez, is that it makes your jaw line look slimmer because of its length. And, as you see, layers are a necessary thing here to add movement to the hair.
Blonde Bob Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @styled_by_carolynn
If done correctly, a blunt bob can also look very amazing. This hairstyle is really versatile. You may wear it straight or curly, with a middle or a side part. Blunt hair ends and platinum blonde are what makes you look younger.
Ash Grey Highlights
by @mila_kryshchykhina
Not ready for a total grey look? Ash grey highlights will save you! This hairstyle with darker roots and perfectly blended ash grey highlights would be terrific for women over 40. Plus, it will accentuate blue or green eyes nicely.
Natural Color For Bob Cut
by @ro.hsiqueira
As we have mentioned previously, a natural hair color is in. Passing 40 doesn’t necessarily presuppose that you should go for a short dyed cut, but if add a blonde tones to your hair it will make hair look natural and gorgeous!
Layered Hairstyle
by @chrisjones_hair
Layers are always the answer when it comes to styling not very thick and a bit age-touched hair. This bob with flirty layers is one of the most universal haircuts for women over 40. Its longer side bangs will add some sassiness to the look.
Styling Tip: Style this layered bob by blow drying with a large round brush, directing the ends to different sides.
Bob With Bang
by @salsalhair
This bob with bangs will give your locks some rocker vibes. The key to slaying this haircut is a lot of layers. And, adding a long curtain-styled fringe will make this cut look more demansional.
Styling Tip: Create some messiness with a texturizing spray. This will make the hairstyle look more voluminous and youthful.
Bob With Highlights
by @joeltorresstyle
When we talk about short haircuts for women over 40, one of the best choices to make would be a cropped bob. Slight highlights give some necessary dimension to this cut, performed by Joel Torres - the US-based hair artist and educator, who knows everything about haircutting & content creation.
Straight Blonde Bob
by @stylemargaret
Another piece of hairart brought to life by Margaret - the above mentioned hairdresser and colorist. This straight blonde bob is the perfect frame for your facial features. Moreover, this haircut is very classy. Go for side-swept bangs with this haircut. And this platinum blonde color will perfectly accentuate blue eyes.
Caramel Bob
by @shades.of.blonde
This stylishly stacked bob is on fleek. And its amazing caramel color is impossible to miss. This color is your key to a unique and stylish look in case your skin tone is medium warm.
A-line Haircut
by @ro.hsiqueira
An A-line haircut is a life saver for women with thin hair. Experiment with the length of a cut, and you will get a splendid look. If you need more fullness in your cut, choose highlights or layers.
Brunette Short Bob With Pink Highlights
by @headrushdesigns
A brunette short bob with pink highlights totally reminds us of Rihanna back in the day. This is another great option for those who are not into something mellow and want to stand out.
Side Swept Layered Long Bang
Credit photo: Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock
Cameron Diaz masters the challenge of thin hair, never falling flat with her expertly layered cuts and bangs that ensure radiance. Doubtful about getting limp locks? Consider a volumetric bob with sharp layers for a transformative boost, proving even fine hair can achieve standout style!
Chin Length Bob
Credit photo: Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock
Sarah Paulson tried lots of lengths and styles until she realized that nothing flattered her better than short haircuts. With short hair, the actress looks more mature and sophisticated. Sarah herself tells how much she loves her image today, as the can style her bob variously according to different occasions, events, and even moods.
Layered Curly Bob Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @jeanclaudeelmoughayar
Curly bob with layers is a perfect choice for women who are more on a creative side. No matter whether you do or don’t have a creative job, all that matters is who you are as a person. If you feel like showing your creativity, then surely go for this type of hairstyle.
Classic Bob With Balayage Hair
by @ro.hsiqueira
Short haircuts for women over 40 can be so different! As an example, classic bob haircut will look quite differently when you apply balayage technique to it. And here you go, - now you look classy and so fashionable!
Grey And Lavender Balayage
by @adlydesign
Is your hair getting grey? Don’t rush to dye it into a solid color, - you could simply add some lavender tint to it, and you’ll achieve the incredibly distinctive look!
Textured Platinum Bob Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @chrisjones_hair
Platinum hair color is very trendy these days, so you can have such a color if you opt for a modern look. Ad some texture to your bob haircut, and everyone will wonder if you are a model from some fashionable magazine.
Jagged Bob Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @styled_by_carolynn
A jagged bob, where the edges of your hair are cut in the way they standout can also add some modernity to your casual style. Angled and textured, this hairstyle created by Carolynn Judd - expert in coloring and cutting techniques, brings out the interest in every layer, creating a signature look.
A-Line Bob Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @headrushdesigns
The perfect, well-groomed silhouette of the A-line bob is the style sophistication that will never go out of fashion. Ladies who want their styles to be elegant and simple at once will love it, that’s for sure.
Short To Medium Hairstyles For Women Over 40
Not too long, and not too short but beyond perfect: that’s how we call these short to medium length hairstyles! If you’re in search of an ideal length with low maintenance and styling flexibility, these ideas will be your guide.
Shoulder Length Hairstyle
by @chrisjones_hair
This kind of hairstyle is exactly what you need in case you want to make your hairstyle lighter and look younger. Adding subtle highlighting to your dark hair will make your look easy and relaxed.
Colorful Bob
by @headrushdesigns
A colorful bob is not for everyone, of course. In case you wish to do something crazy and go gaga over your hair, go for this one. By the way, you may choose a gradient of one color family to soften the look.
Short Hairstyle With Accessories
by @chrisjones_hair
Who said that hairstyles for women over 40 can’t include hair accessories? Just have a look at this flower together with a long layered bob. A nice blow out with a round brush is a key to great looking hair.
Curls With Bang
by @shades.of.blonde
Hairstyles with straight bangs seem to be not versatile. Curls make this one more airy and light. If you want to update your plain hairdo with bangs, blonde highlights are the answer.
Blonde Lob With Bang
by @chrisjones_hair
Shoulder length haircuts, especially long bobs, tend to be more flattering for women over 40 than the longer ones. Play with a number of layers, length of bangs, and highlights to reach your perfect cut.
Stylish Blonde Curls
by @shades.of.blonde
Catching some inspo from the Internet to get the new haircut in your forties is not a crime! This hairstyle has been popular among younger generation for quite a time. But it is also a nice way for older women to add some volume and sense of style.
Layered Blonde
by @salsalhair
Shoulder length layered hair is probably the most versatile and universally flattering option for this age. It is very elegant and thus office appropriate. But you can also transform it easily into an evening hairstyle for a night out.
Red Curly Hairstyle
by @meucabelocurto
Such red curly hairstyles for women over 40 are very cute. A tousled look has some anti-aging effect. This cut doesn’t require a nice blow out. You can just curl the ends in different directions to get this tousled sexy look.
Pink Balayage
by @shades.of.blonde
Combination of ash grey hair and pink balayage is to die for. But it seems that this kind of look is everywhere. We know why and we will share this wisdom. This ‘do flatters almost every skin tone and is not just plain vanilla grey.
Beautiful Updo
by @heidimariegarrett
There is a myth that short hair is not for an updo. It is truly a myth. Look at this gorgeous one. Tight curls laid in different directions will be a great solution for your short hair and will give you some 20s vibes.
Wavy Bob Haircuts
by @styled_by_carolynn
Add some waves to a short bob haircut, and you will have this carefree youthful look. At the same time, this hairstyle can look perfect when you have an office job or simply enjoy an evening out with your friends.
Short Haircuts For Women Over 50
by @shrunknheads
If you are over 50 and love a classy lady look, then a lob haircut will suit you well. Adding some layers will beautifully emphasize your face shape. Basically, layers are the musts for short hairstyles for women over 50. Jewelry would also go well with your haircut.
Side Swept Bangs Lob Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @richardatkuthaus
If you have beautiful forehead, leave it open and wear side swept bangs. In such a way, all the emphasis will be on your beautiful deep eyes and eyebrows. Such hairstyle will look beautiful with or without some highlights added.
Chic Blonde Curls Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @jeanclaudeelmoughayar
Do you have natural blonde hair? How lucky you are! Add some curls to your hairstyle and enjoy getting lots of compliments.
Graduated A-line Bob With Natural Highlights
by @shades.of.blonde
A-line bob will suit all the women who are striving to combine chic classy look with a present-day interesting style. With some natural highlights added, you will surely look very contemporary and beautiful at the same time.
Multi-Layered Short Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @mila_kryshchykhina
Not only adding multiple layers to your haircut will help your hair get more volume, it will also make your hairstyle look unique! This technique is also used in short haircuts for women over 60 with fine hair, as, if done right, it can literally take years off, not to mention the volumetric finish!
Chopped Long Bob Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @salsalhair
Who would’ve thought that a bit of a choppy charm can turn your simple long bob into a lovely, youthful hairstyle? Going for layers or soft feathers at the ends has always been a good refreshing idea.
Bob With Layered Thin Bang Hairstyles For Women Over 40
by @chrisjones_hair
When dealing with thin hair troubles, layers are the number one salvation. But keep in mind that not all of your hair must be layered! It can be a volumetric hint on your bangs that will work on the whole body.
French Bob
by @salsalhair
This pretty woman sports a chic French bob with edgy layers, performed by the internationally known hair artist and educator, Salvador Salcedo. The thick, straight-across fringe accentuates her eyes, while the rich chocolate hue adds warmth and depth. This versatile cut is an elegant choice for women over 40, seeking a blend of classic and modern.
Blonde Bob with Asymmetrical Baby Bang
by @salsalhair
Salvador Salcedo received his degree from the Toni & Guy Hairdressing Academy. Co-owner of Nova Arts Salon, he has collaborated with numerous musicians and celebrities. This playful wavy bob he has created is complemented by an asymmetrical baby bang for a modern twist. Its sun-kissed blonde tone brightens the complexion, making it a flattering choice for women over 40.
Wolf Cut for Women Over 40
by @salsalhair
Another charming masterpiece of Salvador Salcedo, this tousled layered wolf cut exudes effortless cool with volumetric cascading layers. These crooked bangs lend an edgy, carefree vibe, while the icy blonde shade enlivens the overall look. It's a spirited option for the ladies over 40 who love making bold, age-defying statements.
Shaggy Mullet Hairstyles for Women Over 40
by @coiffeurstory
This shaggy mullet cut can empower women over 40 looking for a bold and unconventional style. With its unkempt layers, it creates a rebellious yet textured look. And its messy fringe frames the face with a daring touch, while the vibrant copper-red hue injects a fiery personality.
Colored Mohawk Haircut for Women Over 40
by @shrunknheads
This mohawk hairstyle is made by LA-based hairdresser who specializes in mullets, shags and fades, Charli Boell. It stands out with short, straight layers that soar in a vibrant array of orange and green, embodying fearless self-expression. Its dragon-tattooed shaved side adds an extra edge. 40 years is not at all a hindrance to looking bright, and even a little provocative!
Styling Tip: Style this mohawk with strong-hold gel and flaunt the colors with bold attire.
Layered Blue Bob with Blonde and Purple Highlights
by @headrushdesigns
This model's long bob cascades in carefree waves with choppy layers that create a voluminous effect. The blend of teal and purple highlights infuses a playful yet sophisticated dimension. This hairstyle is a charming choice for women over 40 wishing to merge elegance with a touch of whimsy.
Face Framing Layers On a Natural Silver Hair
by @salsalhair
See how this medium-length hair made by Salvador Salcedo flows in graceful waves, with layers that tenderly contour the model's visage. The natural silver tone exudes sophistication, making it a refined choice for ladies over 40.
Styling Tips:
- Use a round brush when blow-drying to enhance the waves.
- Apply a light serum to highlight the silver sheen.
Messy Center Parted Wavy Bob
Credit photo: s_bukley/Shutterstock
There are short haircuts for women over 40 that even celebrities can’t resist! And here, you can see Jennifer Love Hewitt with her beautifying center-parted bob finished with slight waves. The actress knows that her facial features may appear too sharp so she styles her hair to the middle and gives it a slight framing touch with the help of waves.
Side Parted Straight Long Bob
Credit photo: s_bukley/Shutterstock
Although Eva Longoria’s hair has always been thick enough, she seems to be the very first fan of layers (after Jennifer Aniston, of course). For her dense mane, the actress asks her stylist for a slight layering at the ends to make her bob curvy and well-shaped.
We hope one of these popular short hair styles for women over 40 will become your go-to once you get it.
FAQ: Hairstyles For Women Over 40
Is it OK to have long hair in your 40’s?
Experts say that women in their 40s should avoid going too long.
Long hair after 40 doesn’t necessarily make you appear older, however, because hair thins with age, you can try to add layers and some movement around the face to add volume and thickness. The harshness of poker-straight haircuts is just a bit excessive for older women.
Which hair part makes you look younger?
Sweeping your hair from right to left makes your eyes look bigger, which, in its turn, gives your face a youthful look. So, dividing your hair this way will make you look fresh and young.
What color makes you look younger?
Start with shades of purple, red or pink if you want to experiment with looking more “girlish”. They all exude a youthful vitality that is acknowledged and appreciated everywhere.
What hair colors make you look older?
NY hairstylists recommend to choose warm tones that give light reflection to your skin and lower the strong contrast that dark hues may cause. Alternatively, you can experiment with some soft highlights to get more volume to an all-over dark color.
- These haircuts are the chicest way to go short. We`re breaking it down, from Victoria Beckham to Tia and Tamera Mowry. Source
- Still sporting the same cut you wore in your 20s. Your face changes over time and so should your hair! Source
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