Whether it’s your 40th birthday or you simply feel like shakin’ things up a bit at 40+ years old, a new hairstyle is a great way to reinvent and upgrade your appearance.
But what hairstyles are best for women over 40? Which looks will elevate your appearance, making you appear younger, more vibrant, and trendy?
If you’re in the market for a new ‘do in your 40s, you’ve come to the right spot. Ladies, today, it’s all about discussing the hottest hairstyles for women over 40 – all of which are uniquely designed to upgrade your look.
You’re going to love your new look – trust us.
Let’s dive in!
#1. Layered Lob with Soft Waves
The best thing about a lob is that it allows you to keep some extra length – not too short, but not too long, either. With a little bit more length, you can style gorgeous soft waves into your tresses, creating a gentle and feminine vibe that’s bursting with sultry volume.
#2. Asymmetrical Short Cut
Do you prefer short and sassy styles instead? Don’t worry, girlfriend—we’ve got you covered. This short haircut features an edgy asymmetrical design that adds just the right amount of drama to your aesthetic, yet it’s surprisingly low-maintenance.
#3. Voluminous Shoulder-Length Waves
Sometimes, your hairstyle just needs some head-turning volume. Maybe it’s date night, or you have a wedding to attend. Whatever the case may be, these gorgeous, ultra-voluminous shoulder-length waves will do the trick every time.
#4. Textured Pixie with Undercut
Pixie cuts don’t have to be simple and sweet. This look proves pixies can be thrilling, adventurous, and unbelievably posh. All you need to do is ask for a cool undercut and use gel to create an undeniably fashion-forward sky-high style.
#5. Sleek Mid-Length Cut with Side Bangs
The hairstyling community called to let you know that side bangs are back in style—and they’re an excellent way to add a dash of softness to your face. This sleek mid-length cut is best suited for naturally straight tresses.
#6. Classic Shoulder-Length Layered Cut
When in doubt, stick to the classics, mama! After all, these styles are classics for one main reason: they’ve stood the test of time and continue to be fashionable and cute options for women over 40. All those layers are a great way to add depth to otherwise thin locks.
#7. Soft Feathered Bob
Is your bob turning more into a bore? Don’t “snooze” on your fave length. Instead, add playfulness and pizazz to your aesthetic by opting for soft feathering throughout. The delicate layers immediately create movement and liveliness!
#8. Wavy Bob with Side Parting
Waves and a side part? It doesn’t get more stylish than that, does it? The best thing about this stunning hairstyle is it can easily be dressed up or down, depending on the setting. Plus, the impossibly voluminous waves are an easy way to zhuzh up even the dullest, finest locks.
#9. Mid-Length Cut with Graduated Layers
A mid-length cut can look worn down and dull if you have thin or fine hair. Don’t succumb to lifeless locks, though. There’s a simple solution: graduated layers. These layers create a contemporary twist on the classic mid-length cut, all while introducing tons of depth.
#10. Choppy Pixie with Long Bangs
If you want your pixie haircut to appear effortless and chic, a choppy pixie with long bangs is the ultimate way to go. You’ll love the laid-back nature of this hairstyle, but what you’ll love more is the fact that every piece will highlight your best facial features with ease.
#11. Elegant Updo for Medium Hair
Let me tell you something, gal pals – the next time you want all eyes on you at a sophisticated event, you need to wear this hairstyle. This updo is undeniably one of the most elegant and refined looks you could possibly achieve. Be prepared for envious eyes when you flaunt this updo!
#12. Short Layered Cut with Volume at Crown
Hair lookin’ a little flat these days? It’s time to perk things up! All you need to do is backcomb the crown of your head to add immediate drama and height. But why stop there? Enhance the dramatic, volumized nature of this ‘do with loose waves from root to tip.
#13. Mid-Length Shag with Bangs
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Going with an effortless hairstyle doesn’t mean you have to ditch trendiness. A mid-length shag with bangs is one of the most popular looks for 2024, which means you can have the best of both worlds. Add some waves to add to the laid-back vibe.
#14. Slicked Back Short Hairstyle
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Are you looking for a polished and professional look? Want to keep those pesky hairs out of your face? Then it’s time to chop your tresses and slick things back, babe! As a bonus, the extra height on top will elongate the face for a more youthful appearance.
#15. Layered Bob with Soft Fringe
Plenty of ladies—especially those over 40—crave a feminine and soft hairstyle, and this is exactly what this hairstyle accomplishes. A short bob haircut is fabulously styled with dainty waves and a soft, face-framing fringe.
#16. Textured Medium Cut with Side Swept Bangs
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Fresh, modern, and oh-so-girly, you honestly can’t go wrong with this fab hairstyle. If you’re over 40 and have finer strands that lack texture, you’ll love the volume you can create with this look. The side-swept bangs are also an easy way to add a youthful appeal to your appearance.
#17. Long Layers with Gentle Waves
This look can easily be described in a single word—stunning. By leaving the hair slightly longer past the shoulders, waves are given enough room to produce a flowy and romantic aesthetic that’s destined to turn heads.
#18. Short Edgy Pixie Cut
Women over 40 with spicy personalities, look no further – this is the style for you! This short and edgy pixie cut is the ultimate way to show off your fun yet feisty personality. It’s easy to recreate, too – just use your fave texturizing product and tousle things up!
#19. Wavy Lob with Middle Parting
It doesn’t get much flirty than this hairstyle, does it!? Start with a shoulder-length bob haircut. Then, utilize a modern middle part. Finish off with luscious waves that are bouncy and cute. This style is especially admirable for those with oval, round, diamond, or heart-shaped faces.
#20. Side-Parted Bob with Soft Curls
Do you need a classy and graceful look that can go from day to night with ease? Consider throwing your shorter tresses into an alluring side part and liven your look with soft yet tremendous curls.
#21. Angled Bob with Sharp Lines
Some women love long and flowy locks, while others prefer structure. If you’re the latter, you should consider this angled bob with sharp lines. The duo ensures a sleek and contemporary vibe that never goes out of fashion.
#22. Shoulder-Length Cut with Soft End Curls
Adding a bit of curl to the ends of your mane is an easy way to add some playfulness, which will, in turn, create a more youthful appearance. So, if you have a shoulder-length cut and want to add whimsy, grab your curling iron and get to work.
#23. Classic Bun for Long Hair
The great thing about a classic bun for long hair like this is that you can wear it to run errands or a refined event. It’s all about how you wear it! That said, pay extra close attention to your outfit and accessories when styling head to toe.
#24. Messy Pixie with Volume
If you want a hairstyle that’s low-maintenance but appears anything but, this messy pixie with volume is the go-to. However, you will probably go through a good amount of gel to design this sky-high and playful aesthetic!
#25. Straight Bob with Blunt Ends
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Minimalist and chic are two words that can be used to define this sensational hairstyle. We love the blunt ends, which are not only easy to take care of but add some bounciness to your look. Ensure your hair is slick-straight with a straightening iron.
#26. Casual Updo for Short to Medium Hair
When you’re on your third day without washing your hair and want an effortless, easygoing style, this casual updo is a perfect choice. It’s really a matter of tossing your tresses into a loose bun or ponytail and calling it a day.
#27. Layered Cut with Side-Swept Fringe
Talk about dimensions! If your hair needs movement and flare, consider adding layers and a side-swept fringe into the mix. All of the different lengths will create glorious dimension that’s especially suitable for thicker strands.
#28. Beach Waves on Medium Length
When in doubt, go with beach waves. No, seriously. This is one of thee most classic looks in the hairstyling biz, and it’s easy to see why it’s a hit. Beach waves have a delightfully laid-back approach, yet they make you look like you’ve just stepped off the yacht.
#29. Short Cut with Textured Top
Women over 40 who simply don’t have time to fuss with their hair but still want a flattering and trendy look will love this hair! This ultra-short haircut is easy to manage and style. You can texture it with your fingers and some spray in a matter of seconds.
#30. Mid-Length Bob with Defined Waves
Loose waves are great for casual settings, but when you need more definition for a refined appearance, you’ll need to tighten up your texture. The result? A style that’s riddled with classiness and chicness.
#31. Sleek Ponytail for Long Hair
A sleek ponytail is an excellent choice if you have longer tresses but don’t want to deal with loose strands or styling. Not only will it show off your beautiful long locks, but it’ll be incredibly convenient for your daily activities. Oh, and it just so happens to show off your best facial features, too.
#32. Choppy Layered Mid-Length Style
If you’re over 40 and have been living with thin or fine tresses, it’s time to choose a hairstyle that will upgrade your look and create plenty of body – and this hairstyle is a great option! Tons of choppy layers will ensure you have a lot of body, especially when tousled with loose curls.
#33. Elegant Low Bun
When invited to an upscale party, don’t attend without adorning your head with this stunning and elegant low bun. This look is surprisingly easy to create but exudes a level of unmatched sophistication that will wow at any refined event.
#34. Razor Cut Bob with Fringe
Do you consider yourself a woman over 40 who is full of zest? Then you need an equally impactful hairstyle, don’t you? This look is your answer. This razor-cut bob with fringe is loaded with fun personality and lots of flare.
#35. Shoulder-Length Cut with Flipped Ends
If you’re getting tired of your same old shoulder-length cut, it’s time to zhuzh things up. The best way to do it is with your curling iron. There’s no need to go crazy, though, ladies. You can add movement by simply flipping the ends of your locks. So lovely!
#36. Soft Pixie with Side Parting
For women over 40 who believe low maintenance is the only way to go, we highly recommend indulging in this classic yet feminine look. This soft pixie with side parting is a breeze to style and will show off your features pleasantly.
#37. Long Layers with Slight Curl
Longer locks can appear worn down, especially on ladies 40+. Combat this disaster by designing a slight curl into your luscious long layers. This way, you can enjoy some liveliness that appears natural, effortless, and womanly.
#38. Half-Up, Half-Down Style for Mid-Length Hair
If your hair is long enough, we encourage you to sport a half-up, half-down hairstyle every now and then! There is something unbelievably fun and trendy about this look, which gives off “high school vibes.” Yet, you can easily dress it up for a more mature aesthetic, too.
#39. Tousled Bob with Bangs
A lovely bob tousled in this manner has a carefree vibe that many women of any age will appreciate. Yet, if you’re still craving a pinch of structure in your aesthetic, don’t worry – a set of eye-skimming bangs is all it takes.
#40. Long Straight Cut with Layered Ends
Want to reinvent your appearance without sacrificing length? I’ll tell you how, ladies: Ask your hairstyling to add layered ends. This way, you can create some depth and liveliness without sacrificing the length you know and love.
#41. Curly Shoulder-Length Bob
If you have naturally curly locks, don’t be afraid to go with a shorter style. A shoulder-length curly bob will do two things. For one, it will enhance each and every ringlet in the best way. Second, it will add a bouncy, youthful frame around your face you’ll adore.
#42. High Volume Short Cut
Went with a long pixie haircut, but need to infuse some boldness to your aesthetic? Infuse drama and intensity to your look by adding lots of volume, especially around the face. Tease your tresses and include just a *bit* of texture for a jaw-dropping finish.
#43. Mid-Length Cut with Razor Ends
If you have straight hair and your mid-length cut has left you feeling “ugh,” there’s a simple solution: razor ends. This simple trick will bring your dull tresses to new heights with lots of body and flare—especially when tousled with lovely waves like these!
#44. Classic French Twist for Long Hair
If you have some extra time on your hands and want to design a hairstyle that exudes elegance, the classic French twist is a must. It’s a classic for a reason, offering a hint of old-school refinement that commands your finest attire and accessories.
#45. Pixie with Sweeping Bangs
Relaxed yet unmistakably contemporary, this pixie with sweeping bangs is a gorgeous pick for any woman over 40. You’ll love how sexy and effortless the ‘do is, not to mention how easy it is to manage long-term.
#46. Layered Long Bob (Lob)
Is your long bob starting to lack? Then it’s time for an upgrade, darlin’! You don’t need to do anything drastic, though, so don’t feel the need to chop your tresses into some bangs you might regret. Instead, add interest with lengthy layers from front to back.
#47. Straight Mid-Length Cut with Side Bangs
Some women over 40 don’t want to take risks and would rather choose a simple yet cool hairstyle. Does that sound like you? Then, go with a straight mid-length cut with side bangs. It’s one of the most classic looks for this age group and never disappoints.
#48. Short Wavy Pixie
Leaving your pixie a bit longer is always a good idea. Why? Because then you have the opportunity to style it in fun ways, just like this! Doused in waves from root to tip, this short, wavy pixie is impossibly energetic – the perfect situation for any woman over 40.
#49. Medium Layered Cut with Curtain Bangs
This medium-layered cut with curtain bangs definitely has retro vibes, but who’s complaining? Unleash your inner 70s babe and opt for this lovely hairstyle – which is suitable for any face shape.
#50. Braided Updo for Medium to Long Hair
Are you desiring to look like you’ve stepped right out of a fairytale book? Well, princess, let me tell you how: Craft your medium-to-long tresses into this beautiful braided updo, pair it with your most dainty dress, and call it a day.
#51. Chin-Length Bob with Rounded Back
Adding a rounded back to a chin-length bob might not be groundbreaking, but it’s one of the simplest ways to add that extra amount of “oomph” you’re looking for. This is a definite must for ladies over 40 wanting a chic, easy-to-maintain look.
#52. Sleek Straight Long Hair with Layers
Calling all women over long, straight hair! Do you need to liven up your locks but don’t want to go overboard? By simply tossing layers into your mane, you can add an element of surprise that’s both compelling and mature.
#53. Soft Curly Bob with Bangs
When you want the ultimate youthful hairstyle as a woman over 40, look no further than this ‘do. This soft curly bob with bangs is an ageless hairstyle that works for any lady regardless of age, but there’s no denying its incredibly youthful demeanor.
#54. Short Asymmetrical Cut
Taking your lengthy pixie from “cute” to “sexy and slick” isn’t complicated. Just ask your stylist to go with an asymmetrical cut and choose a dramatic side part that’s overly tossed to one side. Use a straightener and some glossy product to finish this look.
#55. Long Layers with Face-Framing Bangs
If you’ve been toying with the idea of bangs, this is your sign to do it. Face-framing bangs are great for drawing more attention to your sultry eyes. Not only that, but they’ll give longer hair a break from the monotony, which is always appreciated.
#56. Elegant Chignon for Special Occasions
The chignon has existed since the 1800s, and it’s evident why it remains a popular choice in 2024. It expresses unparalleled refinement that you simply can’t capture with other hairdos, making it a must for refined occasions.
#57. Mid-Length Cut with Voluminous Curls
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You’re 40 – it’s time to choose a hairstyle that will make your natural curls the center of attention! A mid-length cut is an easy way to add volume to your ringlets while displaying them in the most incredible way.
#58. Layered Pixie with Textured Finish
Want a hairstyle that sparks interest? All you need are two elements: layers and texture. By tossing both of these musts into your pixie, you can achieve a hairstyle that’s notably fun and flirty.
#59. Simple Ponytail with Soft Waves
Who said ponytails had to be laid-back and casual? Immediately transform your ponytail from “carefree” to “sensational and sweet” by introducing soft waves. Although it’s a simple swap, the soft waves will instantly create a more sophisticated appearance.
#60. Angled Lob with Soft Layers
An angled bob with soft layers dolled up with loose curls is a grand choice for any woman over 40. It’s cute, stylish, and loaded with movement in every direction, so you don’t have to worry about your locks falling flat.