The Haircuts Women Over 50 Are Loving This Summer

Soft Lob

One of the most universally flattering cuts for women of any age, the collarbone-length lob—seen here on Mary Steenburgen—remains a top pick for women over 50. “This version features soft, invisible layers that create movement without sacrificing fullness,” says Los Angeles celebrity hairstylist and Nexxus brand partner Clariss Rubenstein. “It offers the sophistication of a shorter cut while maintaining enough length to pull back or style in multiple ways,” adds Rubenstein. “It also helps create the appearance of thicker, healthier hair.”

To style, Rubenstein recommends applying Nexxus Prep & Protect Heat Defense Spray ($20) to damp hair before blow-drying, using a large round brush to create soft bends through the mid-lengths. Finish with a light mist of Nexxus Comb Thru Finish Flexible Hold Hairspray ($20).

Bouncy Mid-Length Cut

If you like to keep some length without the heaviness, Estrada recommends a bouncy mid-length cut, as seen on Eva Mendes. Sitting right around the collarbone, the style incorporates soft layers that add movement and volume. “This cut features soft layers for movement and volume,” he explains. “Style with a round brush or large-barrel hot tool to create a bouncy, polished finish.”

Layered Bob

Bobs aren’t going anywhere this summer—they’re just getting softer. This season’s layered bob trades blunt, rigid lines for texture and layers that create fullness around the face. “A chin- to shoulder-length bob with internal layers adds texture and softness,” says Estrada. Wear it sleek and polished or styled with loose bends for a more relaxed feel. Because it creates the illusion of density, it’s especially appealing for women experiencing thinning or hair fall.

Modern French Bob

Rubenstein predicts the French bob will remain one of summer’s chicest options for those who want short hair. This summer’s French bob feels softer and less structured than past options. “It instantly lifts facial features, draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones and delivers a youthful, effortless elegance,” she says. You can pair it with longer fringe or subtle texture, as seen here on Cate Blanchett.

To style, she says to “work a small amount of Nexxus Styling Mousse ($17) through damp hair and either air-dry or diffuse for natural texture.”

The Butterfly Cut

The always-popular, always-flattering butterfly cut is staying put this summer. Butterfly cuts feature face-framing layers (think curtain bangs) and airy, light volume, allowing you to maintain length and also creating lift around the face, as seen on Sofia Vergara.

“The layers create natural lift around the face and crown, making hair appear fuller and more youthful,” says Rubenstein. It works particularly well on medium and long hair and offers plenty of styling versatility. “I would love to see more waves and curtain bangs on women over 50,” adds Bentson. “A face-framing hairstyle can enhance natural waves and look beautiful.”

Long, Face-Framing Layers

For women who want to keep their length, strategic face-framing layers are a standout option—as seen here on Margot Robbie. “Long hair paired with layers around the face creates softness and movement without sacrificing length,” says Estrada. The result is naturally flattering and keeps longer hair from looking heavy or flat.

The Soft Shag

The retro-inspired shag, which Halle Berry has worn, continues to play on its nostalgia while delivering a soft, wearable, low-maintenance cut. Rather than dramatic, choppy layers, it offers airy texture and subtle face-framing. “This refined version of the classic shag is perfect for enhancing natural texture,” says Estrada. Simply use a texturizing spray as the last step of styling to get that lived-in look the cut is well-known for.

Textured Pixie

Pixies have always been a favorite among women over 50. One new way they’re popping up this summer is with longer and softer layers. “Today’s pixie is softer, longer and more feminine,” says Rubenstein. “It often features longer pieces around the crown and fringe for styling versatility.” Like this choppy pixie on Taraji P. Henson, today’s pixies offer more movement and dimension, which helps make fine hair appear fuller.

The Bixie

The bixie is a short cut that blends the bob and pixie, as seen on Pamela Anderson. It “combines the softness and length of a bob with the shape and texture of a pixie,” says Estrada. Typically shorter around the back and sides, it includes longer pieces around the face for an easy, low-maintenance haircut that doesn’t feel too daunting.