Stylish Over-50 Hairstyle Inspiration

From Nicole Kidman’s piece-y bang debut to Halle Berry‘s pithy bixie transformation, women over 50 are proving it’s never too late to switch up your style, even if it’s a subtle cut or soft color enhancement. Ahead, WWD breaks down five stylist-approved hairdos for those in the 50-plus pool, plus sun protection tips to follow throughout the warm weather season.

‘The (Modern) Rachel’

A matured rendition of the viral cut crafted by Chris McMillian for Jennifer Aniston on “Friends,” “The Modern Rachel” features lightweight layers that flatter the face without fumbling fullness. According to Kimberly Michelle, founder of Mint Well Head Spa, the blended layers help to add “movement, body and dimension” and “prevent the hair from appearing heavy or flat while creating a soft, face-framing effect that enhances the cheekbones and jawline.” This is a versatile aesthetic, meaning it’s suitable for all hair types — curly, wavy or straight.

Lobs

While bobs may be the buzziest cut in beauty currently, stylists are encouraging their over-50 clients to adopt longer versions. “A collarbone-length lob is one of my favorite summer cuts because you still have enough length to pull it back when you want to, but it feels lighter and easier to manage during the hotter months,” said celebrity hair architect Adam Campbell, whose client roster includes Isla Fisher and Penélope Cruz.

“A soft, lived in lob or layered style grows out gracefully and doesn’t demand daily styling in the heat, whereas precision cuts show every bit of regrowth,” added Sami Knight, artist to Shania Twain and Adele. “I’ll often add a soft curtain bang or face-framing layer, which lifts, adds shape and softens without the upkeep of a full bang in humidity.”

Stylist Nick Stenson suggests using a smoothing créme or root lifter spray to style the shoulder-length hairdo how you want. “The result is a polished, youthful look that feels effortless and modern,” added Michelle.

Babylights

“Healthy hair is always the foundation of a great haircut,” said Campbell. That said, product use and sun protection should be top of mind, especially when the summer season preys on weaker bonds. “Sun, chlorine and salt water all strip the internal bonds in hair that are already more fragile with age,” explained Knight. “I always have clients use Epres Bond Repair Treatment when heat styling or swimming, since it rebuilds those bonds so hair holds its shape and shine instead of going frizzy and limp by midday. Pairing that with a lightweight texturizing spray on day two hair gives you that beachy, undone look without reaching for heat at all.”

For clients who crave additional color, Knight recommends going the “sun-kissed tonal work” route — aka asking for “babylights.” He said: “Babylights over full foil because it grows out seamlessly and skips the harsh root line that demands constant salon visits.”

Paltrow’s Ponytail

Similar to “The Olsen Tuck,” Gwyneth Paltrow’s loose ponytail could never be passe. First styled by Adir Abergel for her 2012 Academy Awards appearance and later by Owen Gould for the “Marty Supreme” premiere in New York, the aesthetic is effortless, and yet, it exudes elegance. And when layered pieces are left completely out of the ponytail, the face is further accentuated, achieving a more youthful look.

Textured Bixie

Popularized by Rama Duwaji, “bixies” (hybrid bob-pixies) are burgeoning in the beauty mecca, and Anderson believes women over 50 should join the entrants.

“A textured pixie bob is a chic, confidence-boosting option for women who prefer shorter hair,” she noted. “This style features a strong baseline with layered texture throughout the crown and sides to create softness, volume and movement. It beautifully highlights the eyes and cheekbones while offering easy maintenance and versatile styling. The look is sophisticated, modern and ideal for women seeking a fresh, fashion-forward cut. It is also an excellent choice for wavy and curly hair, as the layering enhances natural texture, encourages movement and helps create a beautifully shaped silhouette.” Just look at Halle Berry.