Short Hair Ideas That Will Make You Love Being Over 50

Short hairstyles for women over 50 are about combining sophistication with low maintenance. Think chic pixies, elegant crops, and layered bobs that are easy to manage and style.

Short Hair for Women Over 50 Advice

Short haircuts are popular with women of all ages, but they’re especially trendy with women over 50 because they’re so low-maintenance.

However, while this is a pretty easy style, there are still a few things you can do to make this particular cut look pristine and healthy.

• Short hair is naturally a little bouncier than longer looks since there’s less length to weigh it down. However, that can easily cross the line into frizzy territory. At least every other time you wash your hair, swap out your shampoo with a product that volumizes and gives shape and body to short hair, like this one from Paul Mitchell.
• Make sure to use a conditioner that suits your hair texture. For example, you might need something for dry or brittle locks, like this one from Redken. Something generally hydrating, like this one from Biolage, is also a good option.
• Don’t overwash your hair. Talk to a stylist to determine an ideal shampoo schedule, but, in general, most people can wait 2-4 days between washes.
• Be aware that your hair might change as you get older. Not only might you notice more gray or white hairs, but the overall texture of your tresses could change. Talk to a stylist about what your particular hair and scalp needs are so you can use the right products.
• Reduce excess frizz and flyaways that are common with some shorter cuts by applying a little anti-frizz cream in the morning while styling. This one from Bain de Terre even has some reparative properties.
• For an extra boost of healthy shine, instead, you can opt for a hair gloss like this one from COLOR WOW.
• Avoiding heat is extra important if you have shorter hair, especially if you’re also dying your hair. Air dry your hair whenever possible and rinse it with lukewarm or cool water if you can tolerate it.
• When you do use a hairdryer or hot tools, always use a heat protectant, like this one from Chi, to help prevent breakage that will force you to cut even more length from your hair.
• To avoid putting heat on your hair, try to style it in ways that can last a few days. Just apply a little styling cream, like this one from Biolage, and simple waves or curls should look good for 2-3 days without minimal upkeep.
• Hair tends to thin as you age. While shorter cuts can help hide that, consider using products targeted toward promoting growth. These vials from Kerastase can be massaged into your scalp 1-3 times a week and work on all hair and scalp types.
• Avoid unnecessary stress by keeping your hair down whenever possible. If you do have to tie your hair back, use silk or satin elastics, like these from Kitsch, to prevent breakage.
• The sun can do a lot of damage to your hair, especially as you get older. Protect your shorter locks from damaging UV rays by wearing hats or hair and scalp sunscreen, like this one from COOLA.

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Short Hairstyle Ideas for Women Over 50

Feathered Bob with Bangs

This look is such a soft, flattering option. The feathered texture gives the bob movement while the fringe gently frames the eyes.

I love how the platinum blonde brightens the face and makes the style feel modern and light.

Tapered Silver Pixie

This tapered pixie is all about clean lines and confidence. The salt-and-pepper color adds a ton of dimension, and that volume at the crown lifts the whole face.

I always recommend this kind of cut for anyone who wants low-maintenance with high impact.

Sleek Rounded Bob

There’s something so elegant about a classic, chin-length bob with this level of polish. The icy silver tone is stunning and works beautifully with the sleek, straight finish.

I’d use a shine spray to really make the color pop like this.

Wispy Textured Crop

This short crop has gorgeous movement thanks to the layering. The warm beige blonde softens the whole look and keeps it feeling fresh.

I like how the back is slightly stacked for shape without feeling too structured.

Voluminous Side-Parted Bob

This voluminous bob has that perfectly undone finish I always try to create. The waves are soft and lifted at the root, and the side part gives it that youthful, swept-back vibe.

It’s one of those styles that feels both playful and polished.

Defined Curly Pixie

If you’ve got natural texture, this short curly pixie is such a great option. I love how the salt-and-pepper curls are shaped close to the head but still feel full and defined.

A curl cream is a must here to keep it looking touchable and hydrated.

Soft Silver Pixie with Long Bangs

This pixie is longer in the front, which gives it that elegant, feminine twist. The silver tone blends beautifully and really enhances the airy, light feel of the cut.

I always say longer fringe like this is a great way to keep short hair versatile.

Tousled Chocolate Crop

This tousled crop is so fun and full of movement. The deep brunette color adds richness, and those layers give it a slightly edgy, carefree finish.

I usually style this kind of cut with a light texture cream to play up the volume.

Wispy Ash Blonde Pixie

Here’s a pixie with a bit of drama. That long, swooping fringe really elevates the style and works well with the ash blonde base and soft highlights.

It’s great for adding softness around the face while still keeping the cut bold and short.

Classic Chin-Length Bob with Fringe

This bob is timeless and so flattering for almost any face shape. The length hits right at the jawline, and the fringe blends perfectly into the side layers.

That cool silver shade makes it feel extra sleek and polished.

Textured Pixie with Feathered Volume

This short pixie cut is all about soft texture and feathered layers that give the look a nice lift. I love how the wispy fringe opens up the face without being too blunt or severe.

It’s easy to style and looks super fresh with this silver-gray color that adds brightness without feeling too cool.

Sleek Tapered Bob with Side Part

This sleek bob is so polished and flattering. The angled cut hugs the jawline beautifully, and that deep side part gives it a soft elegance.

I always recommend this style for women who want something low-maintenance but still modern and put together. The salt and pepper blend is especially chic here.

Soft Blonde Pixie with Tapered Nape

This short pixie features soft layers on top with a clean tapered finish at the nape, giving it a neat shape from every angle.

I really like how the blonde color adds warmth and dimension, making it feel youthful without trying too hard. It’s a great option for easy day-to-day styling.

Icy Silver Crop with Volume

This cropped cut is giving all the elegance. The top has subtle volume for lift, while the sides and back stay close for a clean silhouette.

That icy silver tone looks gorgeous on mature skin and gives the whole style a crisp, sophisticated feel. I love working with this kind of shape.

Bouncy Curls with Natural Lift

This short curly style brings out so much personality. The volume and texture work together to create a playful, effortless vibe.

It’s especially great for women embracing their natural texture. I’d recommend a curl cream or light mousse to keep the shape defined without feeling stiff.

Layered Bob with Light Brown Tones

This softly layered bob is a classic for a reason. It frames the face beautifully and has just the right amount of movement.

The warm brown tone is flattering and easy to maintain, especially if you’re looking to blend a bit of gray. I’ve done this look so many times and it never goes out of style.