Youthful hairstyle ideas for women over 50

Prepare to feel amazing

Julia Roberts

by Aimee Jakes |
Updated on

You've been styling the same hairdo for over 10 years and now you feel it's time for a change. Perhaps you need to find the best hair tools to revamp your look, or you've been thinking of heading straight to the hairdresser.

While it's tempting to feel like it's all too much bother, a good flattering hairstyle will make you look and feel your very best.

From adding a sweeping fringe to subtle highlights or ombre hair, you can cheat your age and pass as your daughter's sister...

...hey, it's the little things in life!

These celebrities prove there are plenty of flattering hairstyles for women over 50 years old and that you can still dazzle, no matter what age your passport says.

Short hairstyles for over 50s

It's an urban myth that women of a certain age should be cutting their hair short. But it's true that shorter hair is easier to manage, and shorter styles don't have to be frumpy or all alike. Opt for texture and experiment with colour for a stylish look.

Long hairstyles for over 50s

If you choose to keep your hair long, condition is key for keeping tresses looking glossy and healthy. Whether you have fine hair, colour damaged hair or hair that's prone to frizz, do your research on the correct products for you, and make sure to schedule regular trims.

CHECK OUT: Hairstyle ideas for women over 50

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The best hairstyles for women over 50

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CREDIT: Getty

Perfectly curled... as seen on Julia Roberts

Fresh and bouncy, we love Julia's glamorous, curly hairstyle.To replicate at home, change your hair part to the side. Use medium barrel curlers and curl hair away from the face.

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Voluminous curls... as seen on Oprah Winfrey

Bouncy, full curls never go out of fashion. Oprah has opted for mid-length here, but natural curls looks fab on short or long hair. If you don't have natural curls but would love some, what about a modern perm hairstyle?

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A sweeping side fringe... as seen on Helen Mirren

A sweeping fringe frames the face beautifully and draws attention to your eyes. Show this to your hairdresser and you won't be disappointed.

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CREDIT: Getty

Long and straight... as seen on Jennifer Anniston

If you prefer a laid-back look, then Jennifer Anniston is your go-to inspiration. Tip: Like Jen Ann, ask for a few 'natural' highlights around your face to brighten your complexion. A lot cheaper than a full-head, too.

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CREDIT: Getty

A pixie cut... as seen on Judy Dench

A short hairstyle is perfect for thinning hair and looks chic. Just look at Judy Dench for the proof!

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CREDIT: Getty

A classic bob... as seen on Lucy Liu

Charlies Angel Lucy Liu has kept her jaw length bob in immaculate condition and the result is a classy, elegant look that works for all ages.

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CREDIT: Getty

A messy bob... as seen on Gillian Anderson

We love actress Gillian Anderson's disheveled bob. Low maintenance and easy, simply tousle with texturising hair mousse.

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CREDIT: Getty

A high bun... as seen on Sarah Jessica Parker

If you're lucky enough to have luscious long hair, sweep it back into a glamorous up-do. A hair 'doughnut' is your best friend, with this style.

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CREDIT: Getty

Natural highlights... as seen on Eva Longoria

Natural highlights around the face frame your features beautifully. Choose a shade not too different from the rest of your hair and wait for the compliments to roll in.

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CREDIT: Getty

A crimped bob... as seen on Viola Davies

Shorter, coarser hair can hold fun styles á la Viola Davies easily, so why not experiment with heated appliances on your next night out?

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CREDIT: Getty

A curtain fringe... as seen on Goldie Hawn

You need a round brush and a hairdryer to create dishevelled bangs like Goldie Hawn. It's a flattering hairstyle that will draw attention to your eyes.

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CREDIT: Getty

Embrace your natural grey... as seen on Meryl Streep

We love a box dye, but there's something so freeing about embracing nature and cutting out the hassle of home treatments. Doesn't Meryl look radiant?

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Try ginger... as seen on Tilda Swinton

If there's one hue women are often apprehensive to try, it's ginger, but we LOVE this look. Lighter shades look great with fair skin, while more auburn tones work with a tan.

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CREDIT: Getty

Auburn waves.... as seen on Julianne Moore

Just look at Julianne Moore for proof.

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CREDIT: Getty

A relaxed low pony... as seen on Halle Berry

You don't need Halle Berry's effortless beauty to pull off this effortless low pony-tail. Keep your fringe or a few tendrils loose around the face for a relaxed look.

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CREDIT: Getty

A BOLD colour... as seen on Taraji P. Henson

If you're not ready to give up your edge just yet, be bold and choose a daring colour like red or a fun dip-dye at your next salon trip.

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A sleek lob... as seen on Jennifer Lopez

Not quite long, not quite short, a 'lob' is a halfway between version of the classic bob. We all know J.Lo ages backwards, but this style is surprisingly wearable for everyone.

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A textured crop... as seen on Emma Thompson

Will you just LOOK at Emma Thompson's killer grin? That must be how it feels to have a stylish, low maintenance hair cut that looks great with a statement earring.

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CREDIT: Getty

Relaxed waves... as seen on Michelle Obama

The former First Lady's relaxed waves are the ultimate in versatile styling - easy to achieve and wearable for work, socialising, or relaxing on weekends.

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Hair accessories... as seen on Helena Bonham Carter

For a quirky, glamorous look, copy Helena Bonham Carter's look with a fun hair accessory or two (or three, or four...) to liven up a classic updo.

All the products that will give you brilliant hair when you're over 50...

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Products for brilliant hair in your 50's

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CREDIT: Amazon

Hair Curling Iron 25mm

Perfect for: medium-sized curls.

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CREDIT: Amazon

Hair fashion doughnuts

Perfect for: the glamorous bun.

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CREDIT: Amazon

TIGI Bed Head Thickening Spray

Perfect for: thin hair that needs a boost.

Hair mask4 of 4
CREDIT: Amazon

Garnier Ultimate Blends Hair Mask

Perfect for: hair that needs some TLC.

Now read on Yours:

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Stylish short hairstyles for women over 50

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