85 Short Hairstyles For Women Over 50 to Try In 2024

Do you need some inspiration for short hairstyles over 50? Women often tend to switch up their hairstyle and length as they age. This can be due to a changing hair type (such as greying hair, thinning hair, and hair loss) or just because as women mature they often feel more confident and youthful, and are ready to ditch long locks in favor of something versatile and lower maintenance.

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So, we’ve gathered up some stylish short haircut looks that are sure to turn some heads. No matter your facial type or hair type, any of these modern takes are age-appropriate and yet remain playful and youthful. Is it time for some change as you age? Scroll on.

Short Blonde Pixie

by @cut_and_color

Short pixie haircuts for women over 50 never go out of style. In fact, the more you age, the better this bold cut can look. Short blonde pixie looks flattering on many different hair types and skin colors.

Brushed Back Long Pixie

by @mila_kryshchykhina

A modern take on the classic look, this upswept pixie can be styled easily by growing out bangs and using a bit of a volumizing product such as a mousse, to build up the lift at the crown.

Here's a tip: Blow-dry the top backward and tuck the ends under with a round brush and you’ll be left with an upswept hairstyle that never falls short on sassiness.

Spiky Pixie Short Hairstyles

by @cut_and_color

At first sight, it’s just a short pixie haircut. The difference is there’s lots of spikes that make this crop effortlessly bold and stylish.

Cool Violet Accents On Pixie

by @olga.lebedinskaya

Purple hair is very trendy, and this pretty violet spiky hair pixie is no exception! Ask your stylist to keep it longer in the front and shorter in the back for a youthful vibe!

Sleek Pixie With Side Part

by @michele_torres

Perfect for formal events or for strolling on the beach, a side parted slicked back pixie is minimal in styling requirements, but still entirely feminine.

Here's a tip: You should add a styling gel or product to this style to ensure all-day hold to a pixie that’s classic and bold.

Pixie With Brushed Up Bangs

by @silverstylestudio

Take your pixie to new heights with brushed up bangs. Simply work a firm gel throughout the hair and use a vent brush while directing your blow dryer straight at the root.

A tip: combine short hairstyles for women over 50 with trendy hair color to make it stand out.

Slicked Back Short Pixie Hair

by @michele_torres

If you wondering how pure elegance and refinement look like, look at this idea to get the answer. Obviously, there’s nothing easier than taming your hair with a smooth pomade or hair gel and sweep it backward.

Pixie With Long Side Bang

by @mariechristinegiordano

A long fringe that seamlessly blends with your pixie, thus making it appear fuller - it’s just too good to be true! As a matter of fact, women of any age can’t go wrong with such a contemporary hair idea.

Shaggy Pixie

by @michele_torres

Shaggy pixies can be different; as different as you want them to be. This idea, for example, is the sassiest, the shortest shaggy pixie ever. Nevertheless, the movement created by lively layers is enough to add a chic modern twist to the style.

Dark Blonde Pixie Short Hairstyles

by @Ro.hsiqueira

Whether you have thin hair or thick hair, this haircut is one of the short hairstyles for women over 50 that would suit any hair texture. You can prefer to keep the hair at the nape of the neck short in order to accentuate your slender neck.

Brown Pixie-Bob With Bangs

by @mila_kryshchykhina

In the over 50 age group, women often consider getting their hair colored to look younger. Well, at your next appointment with the hairstylist, ask him/her for a short hairstyle with the longest layer ending just before your chin. Keep the bangs neat and crisp to avoid looking shoddy.

Grey Pixie With Undercut

by @Deborah__darling

Pixie haircut with an undercut is a great hairstyle for older women with fine hair. This edgy haircut can easily be styled to look feminine by using the right tools to get those luscious waves on the top.

Bold Icy Blonde Faux Hawk

by @deborah__darling

In a faux hawk hairstyle, the hair near the forehead is kept longer than the rest. The sides of the head can have hair that is really short in length or you can also trim it to minimum length based on your preference.

Grey Pixie

by @silverstylestudio

The addition of uneven and choppy layers have added dimension to the rather flat hair. Dark gray pixie hair like this can be easily embraced once you are over 50 with sassiness.

Cool Rose Pixie Short Hairstyles

by @cut_and_color

A long pixie haircut can be made interesting by adding subtle color like the rose-pink in the picture. Ask your hairstylist to add plenty of layers so that you can tease the ones at the top to add some volume to your fine hair.

Muted Mauve Edge Pixie With Long Bang

Pixie haircuts with long bangs are a great way to make your face appear younger and longer. It can also add softness to your features.

Platinum Punky Pixie

This stylish faux hawk pixie is so hip and youthful that it's hard to take eyes off! This platinum and silver faux hawk is a great way to add fullness to your hair while keeping it short and sassy!

Grey Messy Pixie With Long Bang

This longer pixie is ideal for those who want a “get up and go” style. By the way, short pixie hairstyles for women work great for those with naturally wavy hair. The tousled waves will show that you have a playful and carefree side.

Choppy Pixie For A Cool Lady

by @tanya.borisovskaya

Apparently, this adorable pixie is one of the best looks for choppy layered hairstyles for women over 50.  All you need is some gel and a lot of attitude, and you’re good to go!

Punky Pixie Short Hairstyle

by @deborah__darling

Being punky is never too late, believe us. Just look at this daring pixie cut spiced up with a pop of color. Who is the trendiest? You are the trendiest, of course. This look is totally jaw-dropping, no doubts.

Brown Pixie for Short Hair

by @mila_kryshchykhinaa

This deep-brown color along with a short bold pixie is quite refreshing. Chop off some years with your hair!

Silver, Feathered Pixie Cut

This idea is the perfect example of how a short pixie looks great on older women. The salt-and-pepper color with its feathered texture also looks quite sophisticated with a bit of a daring edge.

Longer Pixie

While most pixie cuts are shorter, this fun pixie cut keeps the same basic look but adds length and volume with its long bangs that frame your face for a peek-a-boo effect.

Sassy Pixie Short Hairstyles

by @olga.lebedinskaya

This chic and stylish do is the perfect example of a bold and daring haircut for older women.

Cool Black Pixie With Very Short Bangs

 This trendy pixie is super chic with its side swept, short bangs and slightly razored edges.

Blunt Bob With Thin Fringe Short Hairstyles

by @tanya.borisovskaya

We will never stop showing our mature readers the latest trends in bangs for two reasons. Firstly, bangs are huge in 2024; they’re popular with women of all ages, regardless of image and style. Secondly, it’s no secret that bangs take years off better than any cosmetology appointments.

Straight Side Swept Bob

by @cut_and_color

We are almost certain that you will be pleased to find out that shoulder length hairstyles are exceptionally flattering for women over 50. Moreso, if it’s a side swept bob. It allows you to camouflage all the fine lines you want to remain unseen while accentuating your most attractive facial features.

A-line Layered Brown Bob Haircut

by @styled_by_carolynn

Wedge bob haircuts are versatile short hairstyles for women over 50. If you have straight and moderately thick hair, then you can opt for this hairstyle. This short haircut for older women involves shorter layers on the top and these layers become longer towards the face to get the A-line layered look.

Soft Layers On Medium Bob Short Hairstyles

by @tanya.borisovskaya

To achieve such a soft, gentle effect, you will need to ask your hairstylist to lighten up the ends, working with thick strands. In this way, you will only have some organic movement on the bottom, which is enough to enhance your look.

Bob With Wavy Layers

by @tanya.borisovskaya

To reveal the secret magic of layered short hair, you need to take a magic wand. Well, a curling wand or flat iron will do just fine as well. Then, wave the layers and enjoy the way they add dynamics to your bob. That’s it!

Brushed Back Lob

by @silverstylestudio

This idea, first of all, diversifies the common image of the style, making it more mature. Secondly, it gives a very pleasant, airy finish, which is always a win for ladies!

Messy Side-Swept Bob Short Haircut

by @ro.hsiqueira

Messy hairstyles, whatever they are, bring a youthful look and a carefree mood at the same time.

Here's a tip: Having a good quality salt spray in your styling arsenal is enough to rock this look from time to time.

Bob With Elegant Headband

by @lizwparks

Adding some embellishments to your natural accessory won’t hurt. Moreover, creating a combo with a hairdo and a hair accessory is a unique way to add more character to your look.

Grey Bob Short Hairstyle

by @judith_petz

If you prefer slightly longer hair, then bob hairstyles are you go-to. A classy bob cut with almost even layers suits thick hair the most, as thin hair can look unflattering in this hairstyle. As a youthful hairstyle over 50, this haircut can be sported by women with grey hair, blonde hair or any hair color.

A-line Layered Golden Bob

by @headrushdesigns

For women over 50 with blonde hair, a bob haircut is one of those easy care short hairstyles for women over 50 for your fine hair that will keep you stress-free for everyday work. Additionally, use a texturizing spray to add some grain and a shine spray to keep your hair looking polished.

Chic Silver Bowl Cut

Credit photo: Shutterstock

Embrace the elegance of silver hair with this chic bowl cut that frames the face beautifully, highlighting a youthful spirit regardless of age. This low-maintenance style is perfect for women over 50, offering a modern twist on a classic look.

Styling Tip: For added texture, use a light pomade or wax to separate the strands slightly. This will give the cut a more contemporary feel and move away from the traditional bowl cut look, ensuring it flatters and modernizes.

Icy Blonde Very Short Bob

by @mariechristinegiordano

The length of your hair is kept a bit longer than a short pixie cut and is almost the length of a bob haircut. Opting for lighter colors like the platinum blonde on the model in the picture as such colors can make you look younger.

Muted Brown Short Layered Bob With Straight Bang

by @ro.hsiqueira

Ask for a classic bob with face-framing layers and blunt bangs such as this short layered bob hairstyle. Then throw some muted brown streaks in the mix to add a subtle burst of color to show off your carefree nature!

Stylish Bob With Color Mix

by @xostylistxo

Looking for short hairstyles for fine hair? A short layered bob is a great way to add some volume to thinner tresses. Pink hair is very in right now so why not go for a bold burst of color?

Grey Short Bob Hairstyle

by @Lizwparks

If you love blunt bob haircuts, this silver gray hair cut might be just what you’re looking for! Ask for face-framing layers to soften the look. The silvery and white hues make this look sophisticated yet sexy.

Soft Shaggy Curls

Credit photo: Shutterstock

This portrait showcases a graceful woman donning shaggy curls with natural gray tones, exuding confidence and sophistication. The haircut enhances the curls' texture, offering volume and movement, ideal for over 50s looking to maintain a sense of freshness in their style.

Styling Tip: For curly hair, it's important to keep hydration in check to prevent frizz. A curl-defining cream or a light mousse can help maintain the shape and bounce of the curls without weighing them down, ensuring the hair looks lively and well-defined throughout the day.

Chesnut Straight A-line Bob

by @headrushdesigns

An A-line bob is timeless. Furthermore, it is a good choice for those who are looking for short to medium layered bobs.

Dark Brown Chin-Length Bob

by @styled_by_carolynn

For those who prefer a short layered bob hairstyle, this short A-line bob is striking! Blow it dry straight with a round brush and finish with a flat iron if needed in order to get a sleek finish that is polished and refined!

Auburn Layered Bob Short Hair

@styled_by_carolynn

A sleek layered bob is indeed very chic and sophisticated! Ask for layered bangs to softly frame your face and layers throughout to add volume and movement.

Icy Blonde A-line Straight Bob

by @styled_by_carolynn

A sleek short hairstyle and fair color that brings volume like this icy-blonde A-line bob can do wonders making you appear much younger.

Cropped Pixie for Thick Hair

Credit photo: Shutterstock

The image captures a sophisticated woman with a neatly cropped pixie cut, complemented by natural silver hues. The cut is practical yet stylish, perfect for women over 50 seeking a low-maintenance yet fashionable look that accentuates their features and exudes elegance.

Editor's Advice: A cropped pixie works wonders for thick hair, giving a lightweight feel and a sleek look. Use a texturizing paste to add definition to the layers and achieve a modern edge. For silver hair, consider a purple-toned shampoo to maintain the color's vibrancy and reduce brassiness.

Tapered Sleek Short Bob

by @ro.hsiqueira

This sleek style with longer side bangs will give round cheeks a slimmer look without adding extra volume. Since shorter layers add more texture to your fine hair, we recommend this look to women with thin hair who want a sophisticated look with a slightly daring edge.

Cropped Cut Bob With Side-Swept Bangs

by @headrushdesigns

This trendy haircut with layers around the crown adds plenty of volume. Side-swept bangs add a playful and fun look for a short and sassy style.

Modern Salt and Pepper Pixie

Credit photo: Shutterstock

The photo shows a confident woman sporting a modern salt and pepper pixie cut that gracefully embraces her natural gray. The textured layers add volume and a contemporary flair, reflecting a statement of confidence and ease.

Editor's Advice: Embrace the natural texture of your gray hair with this edgy pixie. Use a volumizing mousse to lift roots and add body. For added definition, work a small amount of matte-finish styling clay through the ends.

Soft Blonde Chin-Length Bob Hairstyle

by @styled_by_carolynn

This adorable and fun cut with its layers and nonchalant bangs add a sweet and sophisticated edge and will show off your gorgeous facial features.

Lovely Blonde Locks

by @chrisjones_hair

Once you get this elegant style, you can rock your natural blonde hair color. Even though the hair is pretty thin, this fun and funky cut add fullness with its wispy and feathered layers.

Feathered Shag Cut

Credit photo: Shutterstock

When it comes to fine hair, volume and movement are at stake. Well, there’s nothing like a spiky shaggy pixie when you’re dealing with thin, lifeless locks. Once you get your hair layered and apply some texturizer to it, you will see the whole look amp up, gaining tons of volume.

A-Line Shag

by @chrisjones_hair

With such a breathtaking, wavy A-ling shag, you can look years younger, as this look is both chic and contemporary at the same time.

Classic Shoulder-Length Cut With Bangs

by @chrisjones_hair

Women of any age can rock this classic look. Besides being extremely easy to manage, it also works great for any hair texture. You can curl your hair or wear it higher according to your mood.

Messy, Bright And Short Hairstyles For Women Over 50

by @mila_kryshchykhina

This dazzling, messy layered look is timeless. With its messy crown and neatly styled sides, it can accentuate your eyes and bring out your more daring side at once. Add some highlights for a bolder edge.

Fluffy, Short Curls

by @olga.lebedinskaya

These distinctive silvery curls can make your face look elegant with a soft, romantic flair. If you sweep your curls back, you can totally rock this simple short hairstyle.

Nicoletta Braschi: Short Messy Pixie

Credit photo: Andrea Raffin/Shutterstock

It seems like there are no better hairstyle role models than celebrities. For example, Italian actress Nicoletta Braschi decided to show up at Cannes with a youthful and carefree pixie to accentuate her effortless look. Why not copy it?

Emma Thompson: Long Shaggy Pixie

Credit photo: Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock

Emma Thompson always knows how to be on point with her hair. Her long shaggy pixie that gives a lot of lift to the crown while keeping the overall look very well-groomed simply slays cameras with the amazingly lively appearance.

Tilda Swinton: Slicked Back Straight Pixie

Credit photo: Andrea Raffin/Shutterstock

Needless to say, Tilda Swinton is one of those inspiring ladies who sport the looks to steal. To open up the best features of her face, she opts for a slicked back straight pixie that keeps the top voluminous and her silhouette sleek.

Meg Ryan: Middle Parted Wavy Bob

Credit photo: Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock

Just like any wise woman, Meg Ryan knows her best sides and flaws. She looks wonderful with this middle-parted bob, finished with slight waves because they give a soft framing effect at the sides, thus making her face appear more attractive.

Faith Hill: Layered Side-Parted Pixie

Credit photo: DFree/Shutterstock

Since layers can not only deal with thin hair but also give a very modern look, Faith Hill made a layered pixie a part of her fashion look. Though the cut is pretty short, the play of side-parted layered tresses gives a well-balanced body to her style.

Holly Berry: Punky Pixie

Credit photo: s_bukley/Shutterstock

Punky but feminine. This is how Holly Berry chose to meet the world premiere of her movie, showing off her restless, yet girly character. Some of the front locks are left to frame her forehead, and that’s what makes the whole look so sophisticated.

Catherine Bell: Wavy Chin-Length Bob

Credit photo: Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock

Catherine Bell with her wavy bob is here to make all women get the most out of their wavy and curly textures. Here she keeps her natural texture as effortless as never before, letting a chin-length bob whip it into shape.

Felicity Huffman: Straight Stacked Short Bob

Credit photo: Tinseltown/Shutterstock

We’ve seen Felicity Huffman with so many different hairstyles, but this one seems to be the most flattering one. The stacked straight bob, where the front is slightly longer than the back portion, really takes years off, especially if the front pieces slightly frame the face.

Cate Blanchett: Bob With Hollywood Waves

Credit photo: Andrea Raffin/Shutterstock

Short bob with waves for a red carpet look. Why not? Cate Blanchett combines everything a modern look needs: classic, minimalism, and pure femininity. Her side-swept waves create a gentle framing silhouette while keeping her face absolutely open. Isn’t that magic?

Robin Wright: Side Parted Bob With Flipped Ends

Credit photo: Denis Makarenko/Shutterstock

Robin Wright proves that a simple bob with flipped ends can nicely finish a Cannes look. The point is that the style should perfectly match one’s facial features, just like this bob does: the airy ends visually give a rounder shape to her pointed features, and front tresses partly overlap her broad forehead, building the ideal balance.

Dorothy Hamill: Chin Length Bob With Layered Bangs

Credit photo: Debby Wong/Shutterstock

Dorothy Hamill once cultivated a trendy haircut that had gone viral all around the globe. And here’s a pic showing that this lady hasn’t stopped updating her look throughout her life, making it even more flattering to fit her age and status. Here, she rocks a lightweight bob with sharp front layers and layered bangs that curve to form a pleasant silhouette and bring out the beauty of her eyes.

Cate Blanchett: Side Swept Long Bangs

Credit photo: Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock

We bet Cate Blanchett is a secret ambassador of bob haircuts: she seems to have pulled off all its versions, from classic to elongated and framing. Today, she’s found her happy medium in a shoulder-length haircut with long bangs swept to one side.

Jennifer Lopez: Messy Shaggy Lob

Credit photo: Tinseltown/Shutterstock

Every time J-Lo appears on the red carpet, jaws drop and minds go crazy about her fresh and lively looks. Of course, she does a great job in gyms, but the way she gets her hair cut and styled also plays a crucial role in her bombshell look. Here, her slightly shaggy lob adds tons of movement to the hair and thus creates a very dynamic silhouette that accentuates her well-defined jawline and chin.

Naomi Campbell: Sleek Blunt Bob With Thick Bangs

Credit photo: Debby Wong/Shutterstock

Back to short! We’ve seen Naomi Campbell with bobs, lobs, and even pixies, and now we’re glad to behold her unique take at the classic bob. This girl is no stranger to bangs, so she knows what a great beautifying power they have. On her perfectly straight and shine-reflective hair, the iconic look reaches a brand new level, putting her best features in the spotlight.

Brushed Up Faux Hawk Short Style For Women Over 50

@headrushdesigns

It’s never too late for color experiments, as well as to give the green light to spiky hawks! As for styling, all you need is to brush the top up with your well-gelled fingers.

Messy Wind Swept Short Hairstyles For Women Over 50

by @judith_petz

To emphasize your romantic and dreamy personality, it’s hard to think of a better style than messy wind swept hair. It doesn’t require much effort to achieve while looking elegant and at ease at the same time.

Brushed Up Bangs

by @michele_torres

If you are used to wearing your bangs straight, it is high time to try out something new. How about brushing them up for a playful and a stylish look? Yet, with the rest of the hair chopped short and neat, you will not cross the border that makes your hairstyle look unkempt or inappropriate.

Tousled, Carefree Look

by @chrisjones_hair

This natural look with its messy waves can not only add some movement to your hair but also soften up your face.

Stylish Messy Spiked Short Hair

by @olga.lebedinskaya

In case you really want to rock a bold and daring 'do, this messy, spiky cut will add major volume to fine hair. Also, don't forget to opt for putty rather than gel to keep your hair looking soft and smooth to the touch!

Swept Back Updo

by @silverstylestudio

Here is one of the best ways to style short hair when you are in your most beautiful 50s. Just sweep all of the hair back toward the nape, which will create the appearance of a carefree and relaxed updo.

Cold Toned Center Parted Waves

by @tanya.borisovskaya

In case you don’t want to experiment with the style of your hair but still want to upgrade the way it looks, you can play around with its color instead. Dyeing your locks in cool tones will help you not only disguise gray hairs but also keep your thatch in pace with current fashion trends.

Voluminous Swept Back Hairstyle

by @tanya.borisovskaya

While for most women such a hairstyle is rather a big-day option, older women with refined, exquisite taste can wear it as a casual hairdo. If you still think that you miss many styling options with the time, think again. This voluminous, elegant hairstyle is easy to achieve.

Wavy, Short Hairstyle To Add Volume

@catherinerobertsmodel

This simple cropped haircut is one of the most popular short hairstyles for women over 50, as it does not require a lot of styling time. Not only does this adorable cut embrace volume for naturally wavy hair but it also adds lift to the top. On top of that, it is easy to manage and works for any occasion.

Youthful Pixie Haircut

by @tanya.borisovskaya

If you’re on the hunt for short hairstyles for women over 50, the pixie cut is effortlessly chic and gives you an air of confidence. Women interested in low-maintenance styles should also consider this short haircut as it requires minimal upkeep, making it a practical and stylish option for ladies with a busy lifestyle.

Platinum Bob with Delicate Layers

by @tanya.borisovskaya

When it comes to choosing a style that speaks modern elegance, the platinum bob with delicate layers creates a fresh and youthful appearance. The platinum color adds a trendy flair, while the delicate layers provide styling versatility, allowing for sleek and textured looks. The platinum hue brightens the overall look, bringing attention to the face and imparting a radiant, youthful glow.

Stylish Silver Ombre

by @lizwparks

The stylish silver ombre is a fashion-forward choice that seamlessly blends silver tones with darker roots, creating a striking and contemporary look. This edgy hairstyle defies age norms, proving that silver tones can be as fashionable and empowering as any other color.

Country Hairstyle with Hat

by @lizwparks

What about a country hairstyle paired with a hat that exudes a laid-back and charming vibe? The hat adds a playful and trendy element to the hairstyle, to produce a touch of country chic with urban flair, that is both down-to-earth and stylish.

Curly Salt and Pepper Long Bob

by @pat.tracey

Women who don’t wish to change their hair tone but rather embrace the hair color that comes with ageing can opt for this stylish and impressive style. The curly salt-and-pepper long bob celebrates natural textures, allowing curls to shine and embracing the beauty of black and grey tones.

Layered Bob with Side Bangs

by @lizwparks

If you’re a hair enthusiast, then you’ll know one of the most popular ways to add movement and dimension to your hair is through layers. So women with fine or thin hair searching for short hairstyles for women over 50 should check out this layered bob with side bangs. LH editors recommend this flattering choice as the layers frame the face beautifully and give you a soft, and elegant silhouette.

Recommendations on Short Hairstyles for Women Over 50

When women hit a certain age, they want their hairstyle to look respectable while keeping up with trends. Follow these simple yet effective rules to make your hair look its best without any age tags.

• Go for slicked-back hairstyles to take the hair away from your face, thus opening it up.
• Steer clear of shags, opting for elegant and clean short hairstyles for women instead.
• Incorporate light and neat bangs to disguise forehead wrinkles.
• Dye your gray locks in lighter shades or add highlights to them.
• Match your haircut to the shape of your face and the texture of your hair.

As a rule, older women seem to follow an unwritten set of rules for short hair styles once they are older than 50. If you prefer a look that is elegant and sophisticated, you can brush your locks back so you can open your face. Shaggy haircuts look awkward and sloppy on older women. Bangs are acceptable, especially if they make your face look younger. However, you should keep them trimmed and perhaps style them to one side not to completely cover your forehead. If you dye your hair, you should opt for lighter hues which can also help you seem years younger. A lot of women can pull off silver hair if it is styled properly. However, if you are not one of these lucky few, you should opt for soft blonde highlights.

Hairstyles for Women over 50: FAQ

REFERENCES:

• Explore 20 chic and gorgeous styles for women over 50. Byrdie
• When it comes to short hair, women over 50 have many options. Womansworld