Everyday Hairstyles for Women Over 40

If you’re tired of your look but don’t want a drastic change, take a look at these everyday hairstyles for women over 40.

As summer approaches, graduations, weddings, and family travel are peeking just around the corner.  Being seen in social settings by people I haven’t touched base with in awhile is giving me the incentive I’ve needed to cast off the winter doldrums and refresh my look.

Nothing brings more bang for the buck when it comes to your personal style than a current and well-done hairstyle.  Whatever your texture, color, or length, invest in a quality cut and style.  Not only will a new look make you feel amazing, it will also shorten your preparation time.

My husband and I have been binge-watching the Masterpiece Theater series “Victoria”, depicting the life and times of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert of England.

During one of my favorite scenes, the queen’s personal assistant, Scarrett, gives her resignation and explains that she is newly married and wishes to start a life of her own.  I had to chuckle when I heard the queen’s response, “Who will manage my hair?”  Even royals have trouble finding and keeping a great hairdresser.

Everyday Hairstyles For Women Over 40

There’s been quite a bit of recent drama at the hairstyling chain I’ve been going to for years.  New management and employee turnover had me feeling a bit like Queen Victoria, until I found a new stylist who “gets me”. 

Since I donate my hair every 2-3 years, I’m either in the process of growing it out or looking forward to getting it all cut.  That can be a dizzying experience for many stylists, but I’ve found a new friend who is equal to the task.

Chances are you have a similar challenge; whether it’s lots of curl, thinning hair, or getting rid of grays (or all of the above!).  Everyday hairstyles for women over 40 have different requirements than our younger coif.  It’s time to accept the hair we have and stop wishing it away. 

Your face changes over time and so should your hair.

Randy Stodghill, L.A. Stylist

If you’re having trouble getting started with a fresh hairstyle, here are some simple pointers:

Look for inspiration

Check out my Pinterest board Hair and Nails Over 40 for some great looks for all colors and styles.  Don’t be afraid to ask a friend whose look you admire where she gets her hair done.  Above all, remember to look for styles that work with your hair texture.  Let’s not waste time trying to make our curly hair straight or vice versa.  An attitude of acceptance is the most youthful thing you can wear.

Consider bangs

I’m not terribly bothered by facial wrinkles, but my “11s” sometimes bother me.  My “11s” are those two lines that fall between my eyebrows.  Some people call them worry lines.  I’m not so sure about that, since I’ve noticed plenty of worriers don’t have them!  My husband says there is one line for each of our kids.  Ahem…

Someday I will make peace with my “11s”, but until then, I’ve chosen to wear side swept bangs.  Stylists encourage this look for women over 40 because, while they require less maintenance than a shorter bang, they serve to soften our look and provide some versatility to our style.

Layers versus a blunt cut

When I think of the blunt cut, actress Angelica Huston comes to mind.  But even she sported this do when she was considerably younger.  I’m noticing some of our favorite stars have traded blunt cuts for softer layers.  Who has time to maintain and style a blunt cut, anyway?

The current term for this look is the “shattered bob”.

Don’t compromise your panache.

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Subtle color

This tip has single-handedly extended the time between my color appointments by at least a month.  High and low lights, applied with either foil or a balleage effect, grow your color out very subtly and without that nasty half inch “skunk stripe” at the scalp that leaves you cringing in the mirror.

Helpful products

I must confess, this is where I have trouble parting with my money.  The last time I asked my stylist to recommend a mainstream hair product brand, she replied, “None of them”.  Hmmm.  Not helpful. 

Instead of investing in a pricey shampoo and conditioner, I generally upgrade on products that last longer.  Here are some of my favorites.

Of course, these are completely individual, based on your texture and style.  My hair is plentiful but very fine.  Unless it’s a day like today where I’m cloistered in my office writing, I always have some kind of styling product in place, just to keep my hair from flyaways.

Whatever you decide, just remember; hair grows back!  The point of this exercise is to give yourself permission to invest in you.  Who knows, a new hairstyle just might be the beginning  of many great changes.