News flash: You’re getting older. I hate to break it to you and it’s not your fault, but there’s nothing to do to prevent it. The train is in motion. You know you’re sensitive about aging when you start describing the process as “getting older” as opposed to getting old. But you’re not fooling anyone.
The question is, what kind of old do you want to be? The balding, virile type who pounds down cans of Pabst and writes under a naked lightbulb with a typewriter and an ashtray? The scholarly, distinguished gray? Or the frazzled, mustard-yellow suit clad disheveled type who wanders the food courts at the mall wondering why their kids don’t call.
We put a lot more stock in age than it does us. And believe it or not, the key to your shaky self-confidence may well be on the top of your head. Literally. The hair can make the person, creating a sense of assertiveness and affirmation that you fear you lack. Here are just some youthful hairstyles for those over 50.
1. The Eye-Catching Bob
For women, it’s all about volume when it comes to youthful hairstyles over 50. And this classic chin-length, asymmetrical cut gives the sense of density. This is one of the most in-demand hairstyles that you can find at any salon.
2. Gray Feathered Layers
Feathered hair essentially defined women’s hair throughout the 80s, and it’s time to bring it back. You should never be afraid of having a few grays – think of them as tree rings and years of knowledge and maturity you’ve acquired over time. Grow it past the chin and add some side-swept bangs. It’s an attractive look for women of any age, the gray just adds character.
3. Romantic Loose Updo
This cut represents majesty, perfect for special occasions such as weddings and banquets. Too often, updos and tightly wound hair can look constrictive; it can make one seem uptight. But this serves to lift the hair up while still allowing it to flow and appear volumnous. For bonus points, at the appropriate time, unfurl it on the dance floor and astonish those around you.
4. Shoulder-Lenghth Hairstyles
Let’s christen this the Laura Dern. A layered medium cut down to the shoulders will give off a perfect sense of balance to those with oval faces. Baby bangs will help sell the whole package.
5. Cute Short Crop
These youthful hairstyles over 50 are popular because they should be so easy to style – almost like intentional bedhead – while still having a bit of an edge to it. The tousled look means you don’t even need a brush while styling. Perfect for those with medium-density hair and works with any shape of face, the short crop is sexy, defiant and character defining.
6. The Pompadour
For those blessed to still have a full head of hair when they’re on the North side of 50, this classic never goes out of style and often looks great with a lot of gray. Clip the sides short and allow the top to flow out. It’s sophisticated, as are you, and now people will know it.
7. Hairstyles with Textured Layers
Once again perfect for men with a full head of hair, the layers are cut short, but they give the impression of length – as though what is seen is not all you have to offer. It adds an air of mystery. Style it with a matte finish paste to give off the impression you’re just naturally free and easy.
8. The Short Ceasar
Who doesn’t love George Clooney? The short ceasar cut is perfect for those that are thinning on the top, cut in short layers with a long clipper guard. Worn forward with a little bit of product, you may as well be testifying in front of the U.N.
9. The Buzzcut
You’re all business, you don’t have time to worry about your hair. That’s the impression a nice buzzcut will give, if you don’t mind allowing others to see your widow’s peak. This style projects nothing but confidence.
10. The Short Crop
Like the last two on the list, this is perfect for men who want a low-maintenance cut. This is also a good time to include a light beard, projecting a no-nonsense appeal. The more confident you are, the less attention you want to pay to your hair.
11. A Loose Shag
Think Peter Fonda. Easy Rider is a classic and the recently deceased actor kept his hair flowing in wavy shag until his dying day. And like Easy Rider, you are laid back, letting long, loose layers flow from the centre of your head. It works best for men who have lightly curled hair.
12. The Classic Taper
No matter your age, it’s hard to go wrong with what has always worked. John Slattery in Mad Men could pull it off and so can you. Tapered short on the sides and in back, the hair on top is a little longer, blending into the rest naturally. For extra versatility, parting it to one side or the other will add character.
