The best hairstyles for women in their 50s

Hair inspiration that proves confidence is the best accessory

Your 50s aren’t about “reinventing” yourself; you’ve done enough of that. They’re about editing. Streamlining. Wearing your hair in a way that works with your life instead of adding to the to-do list.

Maybe you’ve noticed your texture has changed, your hair feels lighter than it used to, or your go-to cut suddenly feels… off. That’s normal. Hormones, greys, and the simple passage of time can shift what your hair needs. The good news? A great cut can bring back shape, shine, and movement without demanding 45 minutes in front of the mirror every morning.

The best hairstyles for women in their 50s work with your hair. Frame your face, lift where you want height, soften where you want flow, and make you feel put together on the busiest days. Let’s take a look at them.

 

A dose of inspo from celebs in the 50 club

Alright, if you still need convincing that hair after 50 is anything but boring, just look at Halle Berry flipping between tousled pixies and shoulder-grazing waves, or Jennifer Aniston keeping her layers so sharp they might as well be trademarked. Michelle Pfeiffer’s effortless blonde, Victoria Beckham’s precision bob. They’re all proof that you can stay modern without chasing every micro-trend that shows up on your feed.

What’s working right now? Sleek, textured bobs that hit at the jaw or collarbone. Shoulder-length lobs with soft movement. Feathered layers that make fine hair look fuller. Curtain bangs that blend gracefully as they grow. And yes, waves—the loose, polished kind that say “I woke up like this” even though you actually spent hours coaxing them into place with a curling wand and praying to the humidity gods.

 

17 of the best hairstyles for women in their 50s

Whether you’re working with natural waves, fine and straight strands, or thick curls, there’s a cut here that balances modern style with real-life practicality.

Soft, layered lob

A shoulder-grazing lob with soft, face-framing layers is endlessly flattering and easy to style. The length keeps your hair long enough for a ponytail while avoiding the drag that can make fine hair look limp. Layers add movement without losing density, especially important if your hair has thinned over time. Use a round brush when blow-drying to curl the ends slightly inward for a polished finish that works for both office days and evenings out.

Sleek, chin-length bob

Sharp, straight-across bobs that skim the jawline can create an instant lifting effect, particularly flattering for strong cheekbones. This style works well for both thick and fine hair, but shine and precision are key. Invest in regular trims every 4–6 weeks to maintain the crisp edge, and pair with a deep side part to add a touch of asymmetry. It’s one of those hairstyles for women in their 50s that can look fashion-editor chic with minimal effort.

Long layers with face framing

If you’re attached to your length, this is your go-to. Long, blended layers keep hair from hanging heavy and shapeless while adding softness around the face. Ask your stylist to keep the layers subtle to avoid removing too much bulk from the ends. This style works especially well for straight or slightly wavy textures and can be dressed up with loose curls or worn smooth for a more sophisticated finish—proof that long hairstyles for women in their 50s can still feel modern.

Shoulder-length cut with curtain bangs

Curtain bangs bring softness to the face while blending seamlessly into longer lengths as they grow. They’re also a low-maintenance way to try fringe without committing to blunt bangs. Pairing curtain bangs with a shoulder-length cut gives movement and versatility—you can blow them out for volume or let them air-dry for a relaxed feel. Ideal for medium-length hairstyles for women in their 50s who want to freshen their look without going overly short.

Textured shag

A modern shag cut has choppy layers, feathered ends, and a tousled finish that adds instant body to fine hair. It’s perfect if you want a little rock ’n’ roll edge without daily high-maintenance styling. The layers remove bulk from the top while keeping movement throughout the length, and it works beautifully with a natural wave. If your hair is straight, a texturizing spray and a quick scrunch will help you nail that effortless, “I didn’t try too hard” vibe.

Side-swept pixie

This short, sculpted style uses a sweeping fringe to create height and draw attention to your eyes. Perfect for anyone ready for a dramatic change, it’s a cut that radiates confidence. A side-swept pixie is also ideal for adding volume to fine hair, as shorter layers on top give lift without the need for heavy styling products. Finish with a pea-sized amount of pomade for texture, and you’ve got a style that’s equal parts sharp and feminine.

Collarbone-length blunt cut

One of the most versatile medium-length hairstyles for women in their 50s, a blunt cut at the collarbone delivers sleek sophistication while leaving enough length for updos or braids. The clean, even ends create the illusion of thicker hair, especially for straight textures. Wear it tucked behind one ear for a modern twist or part in the middle for a minimalist look. This length also pairs beautifully with subtle balayage to add depth and shine.

Soft waves with long layers

Soft, cascading waves never go out of style. Long layers break up the length and help the waves hold, giving movement and volume that flatter almost every face shape. Use a large-barrel curling iron to create gentle bends, alternating directions for a natural look. A light mist of texture spray keeps everything in place without weighing it down. This style is proof that long hairstyles for women in their 50s can still feel youthful and romantic.

Feathered layers

Feathered layers add softness and an airy quality to your hair, creating volume and lift without looking overly styled. They’re especially flattering for women with fine hair, as the texture helps strands appear fuller. Ask your stylist for layers that start at cheekbone level and blend down for a seamless effect. A quick blow-dry with a round brush will give the ends that signature flip, perfect for adding a touch of glam to your everyday look.

Angled bob

Slightly longer in the front and shorter in the back, an angled bob frames the face while elongating the neck. This shape naturally creates volume at the crown and looks equally striking worn sleek or with waves. It’s a great choice if you want a modern cut that still feels classic. Maintenance is easy—just book trims every six to eight weeks to keep the shape crisp and the angle defined.

Polished low ponytail

Proof that simple can be sophisticated, a polished low ponytail works for both casual days and formal events. Smooth the crown with a paddle brush, secure with a hair tie at the nape, and wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it. This style keeps hair off your face while showcasing healthy length and shine. It’s also a great quick fix for those in-between wash days when your hair needs a little refresh.

Long, sleek hair with a side part

Long, sleek hair instantly reads as elegant, especially with a deep side part for drama. While this style works beautifully for naturally straight hair, you can achieve the same effect with a flat iron and a shine serum. To avoid it looking flat, add a little lift at the roots and keep ends freshly trimmed. This is a timeless option for hairstyles for women in their 50s who love a polished, pulled-together look.

Wavy mid-length bob

This mid-length bob has enough weight to feel substantial but is short enough to avoid dragging your features down. Loose waves add bounce and movement, creating a flattering balance between volume and shape. The beauty of this cut is that it works for every occasion—professional enough for work, soft enough for weekends. A sea salt spray is your best friend for achieving an undone yet deliberate texture.

Chin-length cut with soft layers

For those who like shorter styles but still want softness, a chin-length cut with gentle layers is a great choice. The layers keep the ends from looking heavy, while the length draws focus to the jawline and neck. It’s a style that’s both feminine and easy to maintain. You can tuck one side behind your ear or style it with a bit of volume for a more playful finish.

Grown-out pixie

A grown-out pixie bridges the gap between short hair and a bob, offering more styling flexibility while keeping the back cropped. The extra length on top allows you to experiment with texture, parts, and accessories. It’s ideal for those transitioning from a shorter cut or wanting to ease into longer styles. A lightweight mousse adds body, while a texturizing spray can give it a cool, tousled edge.

Layered shoulder-length hair with balayage

Balayage highlights are the secret weapon for adding depth and movement to medium-length cuts. Shoulder-length hair with subtle layers and sun-kissed color can make hair look fuller and healthier. This style grows out beautifully, meaning fewer salon visits. It’s versatile enough for both straight and wavy textures and works well whether you’re going for casual everyday hair or something a bit more polished.

Tousled updo

The tousled updo is proof that formal styles don’t have to be stiff. This soft, slightly undone look frames the face with loose tendrils while keeping hair swept back. Perfect for weddings, dinner parties, or even just days when you want your hair up without looking too “done.” Use a few bobby pins, some texturizing spray, and don’t overthink it—the charm is in the imperfection.

 

Hair confidence looks good on you

By the time you hit your 50s, you know what makes you feel good and what’s not worth the effort. The right cut can lift your mood as much as it lifts your face shape—adding polish on days when life feels anything but. For more information on styles that are ultra-flattering and wearable, find a wealth of salon-approved tips in The Lauren Ashtyn Collection blog.