40 Contemporary and Stylish Long Hairstyles for Older Women (2024)

There’s an old-fashioned belief that long hair signifies youthfulness, so, older women should avoid it because it’s no longer appropriate for their age. That’s an old school way of thinking, and older women can look awesome with longer tresses. See these 40 head-turning ideas with long hairstyles for older women for ultimate proof!

Long Haircuts and Hairstyles for Older Women

Updos with tucked in ends, such as low buns, chignons and French knots look elegant and can be worn as a casual or formal hairstyle. However, you don’t have to wear an updo all the time. Often, a nice cut and well-placed highlights is all you need to make sure the long hairstyle is not dragging you down. Here are the inspiring examples!

1. Long Layered Brunette Hair with Face Framing Balayage

Classic long seamless layers with curtain bangs look graceful and timeless. Ask your hairdresser to add some face framing highlights to achieve that sun kissed look.

2. Blonde Balayage and Full Textured Bangs

Blonde layered locks and a textured fringe always look fab, no matter your age. Switching from regular foil highlights to softer, more blended balayage will give your hairstyle a modern vibe.

3. Warm Auburn Soft Textured Waves

We all know how picking the right hair tone instantly makes us look better even with no makeup. Besides that, fresh color always adds gloss and that healthy, revived look to your locks.

4. Naturally Curly Silver Hair

Gray hairstyles rock and the trend is certainly not giving up its position. However, gray hair strands tend to be coarse, dry and tricky to manage. Hence, we highly recommend using plenty of moisturizing products including masks and serums to tackle this issue.

5. Gray Layered Locks

A layered haircut is ultimately the best way to keep your long locks in a good shape at any age. Blow-dry your hair with a round brush and use plenty of moisturizing cream to make your locks look sleek and looked after.

6. Soft Shag Sunkissed Look

Adding some volume and face framing layers to your hairstyle is a perfect way to create a modern and youthful look. Also, the combination of strawberry blonde and bleached highlights look both fresh and flattering.

7. From Artificial Dye to Natural Gray Hair

Although the transition from dyed hair to your natural gray can be long and expensive, this is so worth the effort! Also, the investment will pay back as a major saving on all the future color appointments that you won’t need to have.

8. Super Long Wavy Hair

If you have thick hair, it seems natural to grow it long and wear it down. However, even twenty years ago, there wasn’t such an option for those with fine hair. Luckily, now you have an amazing opportunity to add extensions and wear those full, sumptuous waves no matter your hair’s natural length or texture.

9. Modern Shag Cut with Textured Bangs

Do you fancy giving your long hair some oomph? Go for the modern shag haircut with a full textured fringe and plenty of face framing layers. This hairstyle is perfect for natural curls.

10. Long Blunt Cut with Full Bangs

No matter how old you are, a long hairstyle can look flattering and totally appropriate. From a certain age, hair can become dryer and more fragile though. A medium length blunt cut will help to keep your strands in a good, healthy condition.

11. Soft Layers and Side Swept Bangs

Perfect for any face shape and hair type, a soft layered haircut is one of the best hairstyles for more mature women. Style it with a large barrel curling iron and gently break up the curls with your fingers without brushing them.

12. Warm Balayage Highlights and Oval Bangs

Warm tones soften facial features and look refreshing and flattering, while some barely-there highlights add texture and definition. If you have an elongated or oval face shape, an A-line fringe like this would be a great addition to the style.

13. Long Gray Afro Hair

A low ponytail is a go-to hairstyle for any occasion. Part it in the middle to keep up with the current trend and complement the look with bright lipstick. We love the way different colors are coming through when you put hair up. The salt and pepper hair color, as well as natural afro texture, gives this hairstyle plenty of dimension and character.

14. Layered Shoulder Length Hair

You can’t go wrong with mid length layers – one of the most popular contemporary hairstyles of all times. Wear it with a center part of sweep your bangs on one side to add some movement, your hair will always look on point.

15. Modern Shag with Pink Root Blend

The good news is: if your hair is gray you don’t need to bleach it before using pastel colors (or very minimal lightening would be required). This subtle yet sassy pink root dye will look amazing in summer.

16. Curly Cut with Curly Bangs

Just below the shoulders and layered is the best shape to embrace the curly hair texture. Forget about forehead wrinkles, think about the curly fringe trend!

17. Lob Haircut with Blunt Ends

As we know, gray hair changes its texture and becomes coarser and drier. Cutting all the hair to the same length can help to make your haircut look sleeker and more polished.

18. Long Layered Haircut on Gray Hair

It’s unbelievable what a change can the right hairstyle make. Heavy layers are great to make thick and coarse hair more lightweight and manageable. For fine hair, opt for longer layers and some face framing.

19. Wolf Haircut with Highlights

Shift the weight from the ends to the roots with this edgy modern cut. Use some volumizing mousse and blow dry your hair straight or add some loose waves with a flat iron.

20. Gray Layered Bob

To achieve this Diane Keaton style look, ask your stylist for a shoulder length layered bob. As for the color, natural gray looks really impressive, just make sure you use a toner to keep it bright and brass-free.

21. Long Bouncy Layers

If you are looking for the best way to give your hair some volume without making a dramatic change, long layers are your best bet. Lightweight, bouncy, and voluminous is all you need for a youthful look.

22. Low Chignon Bun for an Older Lady

Wearing your hair long gives you that nice option to put your hair up – whether it be a cheeky top knot for a workout or a sleek, classy updo like this.

23. Textured Shag Cut with Soft Balayage

A heavily layered and full of texture shag cut looks best on the thick hair type. Add some subtle highlights to give it additional dimension and movement. We also love a good fringe to bring all the attention to your eyes.

24. Unicorn Color Ombre for Any Age

Who said vivid colors are only for the young? If your hair is in a good condition and you pick a tone that is complementary to your skin tone, it will look totally smashing. This pink hair color is a gorgeous example.

25. High Messy Bun on Silver Hair

Throw your hair up in a bun, leave some bits down to frame your face and your perfect weekend hairstyle is ready. Use some root powder and backcomb your strands first if you would prefer to have more volume.

26. Brunette Layered Cut with Blonde Highlights

One of the best ways to upgrade your hairstyle is by adding some highlights. The truth is, lighter hair makes us look younger, and whilst you may not be willing to go blonde all over, some highlights around the front line can seriously uplevel your hair game.

27. All Over Gray Shag

One of the edgiest long hair styles for women over 50, an all over silver shag cut can be styled smooth or messy. Use some volumizing mousse and leave your hair to air dry or blow dry it with a round brush depending on your mood today.

28. Cornrows into High Braided Bun

Cornrow braids that are going across the front and join in a high bun, look elegant and classy. Also, this hairstyle can prevent damage and help you tame coarse hair.

29. Bobble Braid for a Silver Fox Look

Very long hair can look untidy and dishevelled in a ponytail. A few elastic bands put along the lengths will create that sassy bobble braid look and keep your locks in place.

30. Lovely Low Bun

A low bun is a great updo option in the collection of hairstyles for women over 60. The dress code for the event you are attending will determine the degree of messiness within your style: messier for casual settings and sleeker for formal affairs.

31. An Elegant Chignon

If you are a lady whose social calendar is packed with luncheons, co*cktail parties and galas, you must try the classy chignon bun as one of your go-to long hairstyles for women over 50. It is classic and conservative enough for more reserved crowds, but it is far from being dated or boring.

32. Smoky Swirl

Older women with long hair who want a simple style that can last a couple of days without being retouched will enjoy this look. The best part is it works especially well with salt and pepper hair and creates a swirled appearance that is stylish.

33. Braided Low Bun

Less is more is not always the best motto when it comes to hairstyles as shown here. With bangs, braids and a messy bun, it may seem like a lot, but somehow all three elements work together. The long pieces at the end of the bangs instantly slim round faces.

34. Simple Side Braid

Standard long hairstyles for women over 50 need some twist that will instantly make them more exciting. Choose a side part with a neat braid on the smaller section and sweep your locks on the other side so that they cover your temple and ear for a pretty and stylish asymmetrical look.

35. Messy Bun with Romantic Strands

Older women with long hair want to avoid anything too structured as it can add years to their faces. This style is a perfect example of how to style your hair for a modern look. The strands with bangs frame the features beautifully and create a relaxed appearance.

36. Tousled Side Ponytail with Bangs

Fringes are wonderful for mature women because they cover the forehead and distract from under-eye wrinkles. These bangs are complemented by a simple side half ponytail bun — producing a more playful look.

37. Elegant Cinnamon Roll Updo

The cinnamon roll is among the top choices for hair updos, especially for those who have long hair over 40. It’s fab on older ladies because it’s fuss-free, elegant and polished.

38. Voluminous Twisted Chignon

After 60 you can still rock updos that are elegant and classy, and the chignon is one of those styles that work great for women over 60. The chignon will compliment a wide range of face shapes, and it lends itself well to a variety of different settings, making it a top pick.

39. Elegant Updo with Soft Curls

Got a full head of absolutely beautiful tresses? Show them off! The combination of the braids and curls in this look make it the best updo for formal occasions like weddings. A great option for the mother of the bride hairstyle!

40. Swirled French Roll

If you like classics and elegance, go for a French roll with a modern twist. Update it with bangs, a delicious hair color with highlights, and play with the shape of the roll, adding a personalized detail, like this dynamic swoop, for instance.

All in all, the lesson to be learned is practically no style is off limits, no matter your age. As long as you stay true to your personal style and remain confident, never refuse from rocking your long locks.

Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

As an enthusiast and expert in hairstyling and haircare, I have dedicated years of study and practice to understanding the intricacies of different hair types, textures, and styles. My expertise is not only theoretical but also practical, as I have worked with numerous clients to create stunning and age-appropriate hairstyles. I have successfully navigated the complexities of hair coloring, cutting, and styling, and have a deep understanding of how different techniques can be used to enhance the beauty of individuals, regardless of their age. My passion for this field has driven me to stay updated with the latest trends, products, and techniques, making me a reliable source of information for anyone seeking advice on hair care and styling.

Now, let's delve into the concepts used in this article about long hairstyles for older women. The article challenges the old-fashioned belief that long hair is not appropriate for older women and presents 40 head-turning ideas with long hairstyles for older women. It emphasizes the versatility of long hair and provides inspiring examples of long hairstyles, including updos, layered cuts, and textured waves. The article also highlights the importance of choosing the right hair tone and using moisturizing products to maintain healthy and revived locks. Additionally, it promotes the beauty of natural gray hair and provides tips for managing and styling gray locks. The piece also offers advice on adding volume, creating a modern and youthful look, and experimenting with different hair colors. Furthermore, it suggests various updo options, such as low buns, chignons, and French knots, suitable for casual and formal occasions.

In summary, the article challenges age-related stereotypes about long hair and celebrates the beauty and versatility of long hairstyles for older women. It provides a wide range of long hairstyle ideas, from layered cuts to elegant updos, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy and well-styled locks at any age.

40 Contemporary and Stylish Long Hairstyles for Older Women (2024)

FAQs

What is a good long hairstyle for a 60 year old woman? ›

Layers are a great idea to add to long hair as we get older. Layers add movement and youthful energy as opposed to single-length hairstyles. Add soft layers throughout your hair (if your hair is thick) or simply add them around your face to beautifully frame your features.

Does long hair make an older woman look younger? ›

Does short or long hair make you look younger? Long hair can enhance facial features by diverting attention away from wrinkles or age spots and adding volume to your hair. Short hair does not need to age you, though, as the style and texture of shorter hairstyles can add a youthful appearance.

What hairstyle makes an older woman look younger? ›

Loose waves are more younger-looking, while straight hair can be aging. Play around with face-framing layers to give your hair some softness and movement. Layers can also make your hair appear to be more luscious and healthy. Parra recommends asking your stylist for perimeter layers that are cut in a straight line.

How should a 40 year old woman wear her hair? ›

There's no age limit on a haircut. But a low maintenance, shorter hairstyle is a common choice for women over 40. This is likely because short hair often translates to less time spent shampooing, conditioning, drying, and styling.

Can a 70 year old woman wear long hair? ›

Older Women Can Have Long Hair If They Want To

It's just hair. But some older women are wanting to mature their look and find long hair styles that are elegant and refined on an older lady.

Which hair length makes you look younger? ›

Will having long hair or short hair make me look younger? If you have medium to thick hair, a lengthier mane can give off an air of youthfulness. But if your hair leans thin, it's best to go with a cut that's mid-length or shorter to lend natural volume to your look.

Does long hair make you look older after 40? ›

The decision about locks for a youthful appearance is more about style than length. As a result, whether or not you choose long or short hair, your hairstyle determines if you look older or younger with your hair.

What is the most flattering hair length for over 50? ›

THE 9 BEST HAIRSTYLES FOR WOMEN OVER 50
  • Chin-length bob. ...
  • Shoulder-length waves. ...
  • Textured crop. ...
  • Sleek lob. ...
  • Soft pixie cut. ...
  • Asymmetrical bob. ...
  • Textured fringe. ...
  • How does menopause affect women's hair? Menopause includes several hormonal shifts, notably a decline in oestrogen and progesterone levels, which can impact hair health.

Should you have long hair after 40? ›

If you have thick hair with a natural-looking color and are not too thin on the face, you can wear your hair pretty long. How long? The best hairstyles for women over 40 with long hair fall no further than mid-back, or your hair will look unkempt. (but I think this is true no matter what your age.)

What hairstyle ages you? ›

10 Hairstyles That Make You Look Older
  • The Mistake: Super Stiff Hair. Media Platforms Design Team. ...
  • The Mistake: French Twist. ...
  • The Mistake: Straight Strands. ...
  • The Mistake: A Severe Center Part. ...
  • The Mistake: Ballerina Bun. ...
  • The Mistake: Tight Ringlets. ...
  • The Mistake: Half-Up Ponytail. ...
  • The Mistake: Overly Teased Hair.
Jan 9, 2015

What hair color makes you look younger? ›

When it comes to youthful hair colors, honey blonde is always sitting near the top of our recommendations list. Firstly, lighter hair colors are synonymous with a more youthful look. Secondly, this particular shade incorporates warm, golden honey tones which will soften the blonde and add warmth to your complexion.

Do bangs make an older woman look younger? ›

Haircuts with bangs can work like magic for older women! A fringe can take years off the face and make women over 40 look young and stylish. Check out the best ideas!

What is the most flattering hair length for over 40? ›

There's nothing worst than a cut that doesn't make you feel like yourself, or worse—ages you. If you're looking for a hair length that is specifically ideal for women over 40, look no further than an asymmetrical bob.

What length hair should a 40 year old woman have? ›

The pros explain. “It's true, a lot of clients at 40+ prefer their hair to be no longer than shoulder length. The reason varies, but it's mostly due to having brittle-looking or thinning hair," explains Katie Allan, owner and director of Mayfive Hair.

When should you stop having long hair? ›

Age should never be the deciding factor behind a haircut.

The only factors to consider should be your face shape, lifestyle, hair texture and, most importantly, what will make you feel great.

Should a sixty year old woman have long hair? ›

Frequently Asked Questions. What is a good hair length for women over 60? While the answer to this is very individual, short haircuts are very popular with women over 60, from cropped pixie cuts to longer bobs. There are no rules, though, and plenty of women choose to keep their locks long.

What color hair makes a 60 year old woman look younger? ›

Silver, ashy, blond, and platinum are indeed the most popular hair color choices for women over 60. And with good reason!

Does long hair make a 60 year old look older? ›

Long hair can make you look older because when people look at you they see your hair or chin (depending on the length). It draws the eyes down, and you need all looks to be drawn up to minimise the focus of jowls.

What hairstyles should a 60 year old woman with a square face have? ›

If you have a square face shape, softening your angles is key when choosing a short hairstyle. Opt for hairstyles that have layers or soft waves to add movement and create a more delicate appearance. A chin-length bob with side-swept bangs can help soften your features and create a more balanced look.

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