Best Hairstyles for Women Over 40: Trendy & Flattering Cuts

Finding the perfect hairstyle after 40 is about embracing your unique beauty while adapting to your changing features. Evidently, that doesn’t mean you have to go for ‘the big cut’ as we call it if you don’t want to, but some alterations to your appearance might be in order once you hit the big 40 and you know it. And what a treat it will be. Women over 40 are confident, sexy, strong, and beautiful. Here are 50 ravishing hairstyles for women over 40 that will prove just that.

1. The Demi Moore Pixie Cut

What we love about Demi is that she seems to have gone in reverse as far as hairstyles for women over 40 are concerned. She used to sport a short and boyish pixie cut when she was young, whereas she has long hair now, in her 40s.

2. Simple Hairstyle

There’s no fuss involved in this haircut. It’s a very simple shoulder-length bob with choppy ends and a very loose parting. You can wear it around the office and easily transform it into an evening hairdo with a hair accessory. A hairstyle that will emphasize your facial features.

3. Michelle Pfeiffer Hairstyle

Here’s another famous Hollywood beauty to school us on hairstyles for women over 40 and what you can do with thin hair. One solution is a raggedy cut that will add the illusion of volume and depth to your locks.

4. Kate Winslet’s Blonde Look

Although she became famous as a beautiful redhead in ‘Titanic’, Kate Winslet prefers a sandy blonde. She also likes to wear her hair just over the shoulders, in light curls or beach waves. Stunning!

5. Heather Locklear’s Hairstyle

Actress Heather Locklear has always stayed true to her honey-blonde hair color, but she has changed her haircut. She is a proud supporter of hairstyles for women over 40, sporting a gorgeous shaggy, medium-length bob with messy parting. A classic haircut trend that will never expire.

6. Naomi Watts Layered Bob Style

The Aussie actress has always been one of the most beautiful women in Hollywood. She too has stayed true to her blonde tresses. As far as hairstyles for women over 40 go, she wears a layered bob for thin hair.

7. Sandra Bullock’s Brunette Tresses

Sandie B is one lady who absolutely loves her hair. So much so that she has never been much of a fan of the scissors. That’s why, for her, hairstyles for women over 40 still mean long and luscious brunette tresses.

8. Judi Dench Hairstyle

Dame Judi Dench is a treasure of the silver screen. Her idea of hairstyles for women over 40 is a very short and feathery pixie cut, dyed in a platinum blonde that highlights her blue eyes and fair skin.

Check out more Hairstyles for Women over 60.

9. Jennifer Aniston’s Medium Haircut

Let’s talk now about the woman who spurred one of the most famous haircuts ever – Rachel. It’s only natural that we should turn to her for hairstyles for women over 40 inspiration. These days, she wears a medium cut with her hair very straight. A perfect display for your hair that will surely suit you.

10. Meryl Streep’s Short Hairstyle

Here is Meryl Streep’s iconic look in ‘The Devil Wears Prada.’ We included her on our list of hairstyles for women over 40 because she became such a sensation and source of inspiration for everyone. The haircut was inspired by Anna Wintour, who also made our list.

11. Oprah’s Wavy Hairstyle

Once one of the most influential women in the world, Oprah had to make the cut in haircuts as well. Who doesn’t know her signature look and what woman over 40 hasn’t dreamed of copying it? This hairstyle for women over 40 is done right. With your natural curls and waves, have a go with this style.

12. Elizabeth Hurley’s Chocolate Brown Hair

What we loved most and found inspirational about Elizabeth Hurley’s idea of hairstyles for women over 40 was her hair color. It’s a deep and rich chocolate brown streaked here and there with some honey strands to lighten it up a bit.

13. Melora Hardin Hairstyle

You might remember Melora Hardin as the beautiful yet wacky boss turned girlfriend of manager Michael Scott from the hit TV series ‘The Office.’ Her amazing dark and dirty blonde hairstyles for women over 40 are simply stunning! Look fabulous even in your 40s!

14. Madeleine Stowe’s Raven Locks

We could simply swear that Madeleine Stowe has not changed one bit since her early years, even though she is now an advocate for hairstyles for women over 40. She still retains that eerie, ballerina beauty and her long raven locks.

15. Denise Richards Hairstyle

Actress Denise Richards in this amber headband with that teased back and long honey tresses is simply soccer mom goals. We also love how her roots are darker and closer to her natural color, making everything seem more organic.

16. Catherine Zeta Jones’s Comb Over Style

Few ladies can compare in beauty with this Welsh actress. That’s why, when it comes to hairstyles for women over 40, we better take notes. Here she is in a low chignon with a side parting and a slick comb over.

17. Meryl Streep’s Blonde Shade Look

We took a look at Meryl Streep in one of her iconic roles, now let’s see what she looks like in real life. Here she is at a red carpet event sporting a high and matronly bun in her favorite butterscotch blonde shade.

18.  Cristina Applegate’s Wavy Bob

Back when she was in her twenties and starring in ‘Married with Children,’ beauty Christina Applegate sported long, blonde hair. Nowadays, as part of her hairstyle for women over 40 routines, she likes to wear a short and wavy bob.

19. Jennifer Lopez’s Long Hair

Here’s another beauty who refused to say goodbye to her youthful long hair. Even though she turned 40 corners, she still wears her tresses very long. And we are extremely glad she does because she is an inspiration to us all.

20. Monica Belluci Hairstyle

Considered to be one of the most beautiful women to ever grace the silver screen, Italian actress Monica Belluci has a very distinct look. For her, hairstyles for women over 40 mean long and luxurious brunette locks and theatrical makeup. La dolce vita!

21. Brooke Shields’ Medium-sized Cut

Also refusing to go for the cut is actress Brooke Shields. Her hair isn’t very long anymore. Instead, however, she sports a medium-sized cut, with simple waves in a dark chestnut brown. You can also spot some reddish hues in there.

22. Julie Bowen Hairstyle

The manic Claire from ‘Modern Family’ is one gorgeous “hairstyles for women over 40” source of inspiration we need to start following right now. Here she is with a bottle blonde shade in her beach waves bob.

23. Courtney Cox’s Long Bob

First, she was the adorable clean freak, Monica. Then she was a cougar. No matter the part, Courtney Cox looked ravishing with her raven feathery long bobs that perfectly accentuated her shockingly blue eyes and sun-kissed skin.

24. Rachel Weisz’s Shoulder-length Bob

Hairstyles for women over 40 can also mean a blown out shoulder length bob, just like actress Rachel Weisz wears. You can wear it with a slightly messy side part. Don’t forget to use some hair wax or hairspray to keep it all in place.

25. Jennifer Connely’s Hairstyle

Here is one signature look that we’re proud to see actress Jennifer Connely has never shed. This is what brought her to our list of hairstyles for women over 40. It’s her famous curtain of glossy and straight black hair that falls simply around her face.

26. The Reese Witherspoon Hairstyle

Although she is now part of the over-40 club, Reese Witherspoon might well be in possession of some magical potion we don’t know about. She doesn’t look a day over 30. Her hair hasn’t changed all that much either!

27. The Penelope Cruz Haircut

The first hot Latina in our hairstyles for women over 40 selection is Penelope Cruz. She wears her hair in a signature way as well. Long, with bangs on each side, a strong part halfway down the middle, and a little bit of tease in the back.

28. The Cynthia Nixon Cut

Even though her choppy and blunt bob is out of this world, what we really want to worship as far as hairstyles for women over 40 go is Cynthia Nixon’s hair color. That fiery red is mixed with just the right amount of orange and coral tint to make us want to swoon.

29. Kate Beckinsale’s Pompadour

Turning the corner over to 40 street has done nothing to dim Kate’s beauty whatsoever. We are huge fans of her girly ponytail combined with that matronly pompadour on top of her head. That’s hairstyles for women over 40 done right!

30. Gwyneth Paltrow’s Haircut

Speaking of hair that doesn’t seem to have moved an inch since well, forever, here is another set-in-the-stone entry on our hairstyles for women over 40 list. Gwyneth Paltrow has had the same haircut since we were kids. Maybe it’s that Goop line of hers!

31. Melania Trump’s Ash-blonde Hair

Now that she’s the First Lady, Melania Trump had to be given a position on the hairstyles for women over 40 lists as well. Her medium-length ash-blonde hair which she wears in beach waves most of the time highlights her blue eyes.

32. The Carla Gugino Hairstyle

Here is a very textured haircut with a lot of volume and body to it. The soft curls sweeten the facial features and the burnt caramel color is just what is needed to bring out her amazing auburn eyes.

33. Helen Mirren’s Pixie Cut

Dame Helen Mirren has opted to pair her icy blown-out long pixie cut with a pair of side-swept bangs. Notice how she has also kept her eyebrows in an all-natural brown color and tied it all up with a striking red lip.

34. Bob Hairstyle for Woman over 40

Here is a long layered, chunky, piecy, chin-length bob that will do wonders for your face when you are transitioning from long to short hair in your forties. We are in awe of this milk cocoa color with darker lowlights.

35. Meg Ryan’s Shaggy Hair

Remember when Meg Ryan was the queen of romantic comedies alongside loveable partner Tom Hanks? She will forever hold a place in our girly hearts, especially with this fly-away shaggy and overgrown pixie cut in her signature sandy blonde.

36. The Jane Fonda Style

If Jane Fonda is not an inspiration when it comes to hairstyles for women over 40, then we don’t know who is. She is a model of style, grace, astonishing beauty, and, of course, aging with grace.

37. The Katie Holmes Hairstyle

Actress Katie Holmes looks like she’s auditioning for the role of Velma Kelly from the musical ‘Chicago’ with this hairstyle and we simply adore her. She has that sultry, sexy, femme fatale look every woman should try at least once.

38. The Diane Keaton Cut

Diane Keaton has been sporting this playful hairstyle ever since we can remember. It’s a good thing that she has, too, because she could not look better! The beige blonde with very long bangs that seem to almost cover her eyes does her justice in every way.

39. The Melissa McCarthy Hairstyle

We fell in love with her as Suki in the ‘Gilmore Girls’ but now she is a fully-fledged queen of the silver screen. She wears her hair long and slick, with just a little bit of an elegant curl, enough to highlight her jade-green eyes.

40. Kristen Wiig’s Caramel Pixie Cut

When she’s not busy pulling all sorts of funny faces and donning wigs to make us laugh, Kristen Wiig is one hot lady. Here she is in a long and feathery blonde and caramel pixie cut, with natural makeup and stud earrings to die for.

41. Anna Wintour Style

We have arrived at the queen of fashion herself. Our hairstyles for women over 40 lists could not have even existed without Vogue editor Anna Wintour. Her haircut is iconic and legendary by now, as is the way she dresses and accessories.

42. Diane Lane’s Messy Hair

Should 40 be a scare? If you look at pictures of Diane Lane the answer is clearly no. We don’t really know how she does it but she looks more and more beautiful as time passes. Just look at that mane of messy, bedhead hair…

43. The Julia Roberts Hairstyle

When she was younger, America’s sweetheart Julia Roberts used to wear her hair naturally curly. You might have seen it in ‘Pretty Woman,’ for example. However, for her, hairstyles for women over 40 meant straightening out their locks altogether.

44. The Sofia Vergara Look

The other hot Latina in our hairstyles for women over 40 selection is none other than Sofia herself. Recently turned 45, it’s hard to believe this woman is a day over 25, actually. Her long and perfect locks are her pride and joy.

45. Queen Latifah’s Stacked Bob

After you turn 40, you can take a turn down the bitter lane or you can become the most beautiful and elegant self you’ve ever been in your life. That’s what Queen Latifah did. Here she is in an asymmetrical chin-length bob. Need some more stacked bob ideas?

46. The Ellen Signature Hairstyle

Is Ellen’s messy and blond pixie cut famous? We believe so. In fact, we believe it deserves to be inducted into the hairstyles for women over 40 halls of fame. We also award bonus points to Ellen for sticking with her signature hairstyle.

47. Gabrielle Union Curly Hairstyle

Another round of bonus points goes to the unbelievably beautiful actress Gabrielle Union for keeping her naturally curly hair well into her 40s. This is what being proud of who you are and how you look is all about.

48. The Heather Graham Style

Here we have yet another celebrity who appears to have drunk from the fountain of youth. Heather Graham is seemingly unchanged as she moves into her 40s. She wears her hair in the same way as well.

49. The Heidi Klum Hairstyle

Model Heidi Klum has always been an international standard of beauty. Here she is with a very long haircut and a set of deep-cut bangs that highlight her eyes and adorably frame her face. Why don’t you try it as well if you’re already considering hairstyles for women over 40?

50. Pamela Anderson’s Side-swept Hairstyle

Remember the iconic Pamela Anderson? Once the beach-babe lifeguard, she’s now gracefully evolved into a more refined version of herself. Those bottle-blonde locks and the side-swept bangs that once turned heads are still part of her signature style. But guess what? Pamela Anderson now rocks hairstyles for women over 40 with the same confidence and allure.

Whether it’s a chic bob, a sophisticated updo, or those beachy waves, she’s got it covered. And you can too! So, if you’re ready to channel your inner Pamela, head to your stylist and embrace that ageless elegance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hairstyles make you look younger after 40?

Hairstyles that typically make women look younger after 40 include layered cuts that add movement and volume, soft face-framing highlights, and shoulder-length styles with texture. Avoid overly severe styles like tight pulled-back looks or blunt, one-length cuts. Adding layers and texture creates the appearance of fuller, more youthful hair, while strategic highlights can brighten your complexion.

Should I go shorter with my hair after 40?

While many women do opt for shorter styles after 40, there’s no rule that says you must cut your hair short. The best approach is to choose a length that flatters your face shape and complements your lifestyle. That said, a well-executed shorter cut can add sophistication and can be easier to style. Medium-length cuts like lobs (long bobs) offer versatility while still being manageable.

How can I add volume to thinning hair after 40?

To add volume to thinning hair, opt for layered cuts that remove weight without sacrificing fullness. Use volumizing products like mousses and root sprays before blow-drying. Consider highlights or lowlights to create dimension, which gives the illusion of fuller hair. Avoid heavy conditioners on your roots and try texturizing sprays for instant body. Many women find that shoulder-length cuts with layers offer the best balance of length and volume for thinning hair.

What hair colors are most flattering for women over 40?

The most flattering hair colors for women over 40 typically include warmer tones that complement your skin tone. As we age, our skin loses some color, so hair shades that add warmth like caramel, honey blonde, golden brown, or rich auburn can be particularly flattering. If you’re going grey, consider blending with highlights rather than fighting it completely. A professional colorist can create a customized blend that works with your natural coloring and minimizes maintenance.

How do I care for gray hair after 40?

To care for gray hair, use purple shampoos and conditioners once or twice a week to prevent yellowing. Gray hair tends to be coarser and drier, so incorporate hydrating masks weekly and use heat protectants before styling. Consider a gloss treatment every 4-6 weeks to add shine, as gray hair can look dull. For styling, embrace your natural texture but add definition with lightweight styling products that won’t weigh hair down. Regular trims every 6-8 weeks will keep your silver strands looking polished.

Conclusion

What’s your take on our handpicked Hairstyles for Women over 40?

Whether you’re a trendsetter or a classic beauty, we want to hear from you! Did any of these styles ignite your inner stylist? Perhaps you’re already reaching for your purse, ready to book that salon appointment. Share your thoughts in the comments below! Let’s celebrate ageless elegance together.

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