“Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue through these links. There are numerous ways to rejuvenate your appearance, from using skincare to reduce forehead wrinkles to trying new workouts to stay active. One of the most effective and enjoyable methods to look and feel younger is by opting for one of the best hairstyles for women over 60.
Hair loss is common as we age, and the best hairstyles for women over 60 are designed with this in mind. Options such as long bobs, pixie cuts, and half-up, half-down styles not only complement your facial features but also help boost volume that may have diminished over time. While using the best shampoos for thinning hair and techniques for achieving thicker hair can be beneficial in the long term, certain hairstyles can give the illusion of longer, fuller, and healthier hair.
Meet the experts: Carrie Butterworth, a freelance hairstylist in New York City; Rodney Cutler, founder and lead stylist of Cutler Salons in New York City; Edgar Parra, celebrity hairstylist; Helen Reavey, a renowned hairstylist and founder of Act+Acre; Jay Vosper, master stylist at Dop Dop Salon in New York City; Dominick Pucciarello, celebrity stylist and hairstylist at Mizu Salon in New York City.
Below, stylists share the top hairstyles for women over 60, along with celebrity examples to inspire your next salon visit, helping you achieve a fresh and youthful look.
1. Long Layers:
Carrie Butterworth recommends adding layers to the bottom of long, thick hair instead of around the face. This technique helps to reduce the weight of the hair visually and physically, creating movement and style.
2. Asymmetrical Bangs:
For those with high foreheads, asymmetrical bangs can be a flattering choice. Butterworth suggests a long bang that can be swept to the side to soften facial features, as seen on Rashida Jones.
3. Slightly Cropped Haircut:
Consider a cropped cut like Viola Davis’s to minimize heat damage and chemical processing. This low-maintenance style keeps hair looking healthy and youthful, with tighter sides and a length that suits your individual style.
4. Shoulder-Length Hair (or Longer) with Layers:
Contrary to previous beliefs, longer hair past 40 can actually appear more youthful and polished, especially for thick hair. Shoulder-length or longer hair prevents the triangular effect often seen with shorter styles, creating a sleek and elegant look.”
Renowned hairstylist Edgar Parra suggests asking for subtle, face-framing layers. He recommends keeping the length no shorter than your shoulders and adjusting the maximum length based on your face shape—consult with your stylist for personalized advice. For a youthful look, consider opting for a curly bob like Jane Fonda’s, which can provide a non-surgical facelift effect by accentuating your features. If you have wavy hair, embrace its natural texture by experimenting with different styles, such as wearing it straight or enhancing the waves with face-framing layers. To add dimension and movement to your hair, Parra suggests requesting perimeter layers cut in a straight line and parting your hair down the middle for a framing effect. For curly hair, incorporating layers can help showcase the natural beauty of your curls, as seen on Beyonce. Experiment with different products and techniques to define your curls and avoid frizz. Side-swept bangs and shoulder-grazing length hair can add volume and soften angular features, while sharp bob cuts like Charlize Theron’s can create the illusion of fullness and a modern edge. Consider these expert tips for a fresh and flattering hairstyle that complements your features.
Pucciarello recommends a blunt bob for a stylish look. To avoid oily roots looking dull, opt for an asymmetrical bob like Helen Mirren’s, which adds lift and fullness. This cut also enhances bone structure and cheekbones. For gray hair, consider choppy layers like Diane Keaton’s to modernize your look without adding unnecessary texture. A shoulder-length cut with a deep side part, like Eve Mendes’, helps manage frizz and static as we age. To keep strands strong and healthy, use frizz-reducing products and get regular trims. For a youthful appearance, opt for loose waves like Julia Louis Dreyfus’ medium-length hair, adding layers for extra shape. Highlights, like Laura Dern’s, can add dimension and richness to your hair color. Bob hairstyles can be versatile, such as Katie Couric’s feathered layers that add volume and movement to thinning hair. Kristen Wiig’s choppy bob with dual tones offers a modern and edgy look, perfect for masking grays. Kris Jenner’s asymmetrical pixie haircut with side-swept bangs is ideal for a chic and low-maintenance style.
The versatility of an androgynous appearance simplifies the morning styling routine. Michael Kovac of Getty Images captures the essence of effortlessly chic straight hair with added volume. Straight hair, although sleek, may lack dimension without volume. Gillian Anderson’s pushed-back style breathes life and movement into her straight locks, enhancing the contours of her cheekbones and facial structure. Gilbert Flores of Golden Globes 2024 – Getty Images showcases the elegance of incorporating silver streaks into a bob hairstyle. Jodie Foster demonstrates how strategically placed silver pieces can illuminate the face and bring depth to a sleek bob, further accentuated by a dramatic deep side part.
Transitioning gracefully to fully gray hair can be achieved with style, as evidenced by Allison Janney’s sophisticated bob with side-swept bangs. The length of the bangs draws attention to her eyes, while the cropped bob frames her face, emphasizing her angular jawline and high cheekbones. The inclusion of darker lowlights in her blonde hair adds dimension and complements her complexion, creating a youthful aura. John Nacion of GG2025 – Getty Images captures the elegance of long gray hair styled in curls, as seen on the timeless beauty Andie MacDowell. The voluminous curls add texture and vitality to her natural gray locks, keeping her hair lively and voluminous without overshadowing her face.
For those seeking a balance between length and facial features, shoulder-length waves with face-framing layers offer a solution. Kate Winslet exemplifies this style with beachy waves and a middle part that complements her oval face shape. The face-framing layers maintain the length while enhancing the facial structure, with honey-blonde highlights adding warmth to her tresses and complexion. Hanna Lassen of Getty Images highlights the transformative power of Apple Cider Vinegar and the expert advice of makeup artist Bobbi Brown for women over 50.
In an industry where style is a form of self-expression, these hair transformations serve as inspiration for those looking to embrace their natural beauty while exploring new possibilities. Each individual’s unique features are accentuated through carefully crafted hairstyles, showcasing the artistry and versatility of hair as a canvas for personal style evolution. Whether it’s a subtle change in color or a bold new cut, the journey towards self-discovery and confidence is beautifully reflected in the transformative power of hairstyling.
