As autumn approaches, many women over 40 are looking for ways to refresh their style, particularly if they struggle with flat or thinning hair. To help you achieve a fuller, more voluminous look, we’ve gathered insights from top hairstylists who have shared nine trendy haircuts that are not only flattering but also ideal for adding volume and enhancing facial features. These styles, inspired by celebrities, cater to various hair textures and are perfect for combating common concerns like hair loss and fine strands.
Here’s what the experts—Dr. Roshan Vara, co-founder of The Treatment Rooms; Ghanima Abdullah, a cosmetologist at The Right Hairstyles; Gina Rivera, founder of Phenix Salon Suites; Janine Jarman, founder of Curl Cult; Lauren Udoh, creative director of WigReports; and Krysta Guerrero, owner of Base Salon Chicago—recommend for achieving noticeable volume this fall.
1. Long, Feathery, Face-Framing Layers
For those who prefer longer hair, Gina Rivera suggests incorporating face-framing layers and side bangs, similar to Jennifer Aniston’s iconic look. These elements can draw attention to your best facial features and create a fresher, more youthful appearance. Rivera emphasizes that adding layers is essential to prevent long hair from appearing weighed down and lifeless. If you’re open to a shorter length, consider cutting your hair to the collarbone or above to enhance texture with subtle layers.
2. Asymmetrical Bob
The asymmetrical bob, as seen on Rose Byrne, is a stylish choice that balances classic elegance with modern flair. Rivera notes that this cut is particularly flattering for mature women, as it removes excess length, adds movement, and creates a chic, youthful look. Texturizing the hair can also help eliminate damaged ends and weight, breathing new life into your style.
3. Wispy, Wavy Shag
A shag haircut, popularized by Halle Berry, offers versatility and volume, making it a great option for women over 40. Rivera highlights that adding bangs to a shag can frame the face and lend a youthful appearance. Abdullah adds that bangs are also effective at making hair appear thicker, providing a solution for thinning hair, especially at the front.
4. Italian Bob
Inspired by Old Hollywood glamour, the Italian bob is a sophisticated cut that adds volume and bounce without feeling heavy. This style, favored by stars like Salma Hayek, features chunky blunt ends that create an airy look. Lauren Udoh describes this medium bob as a versatile choice that can be adjusted to complement various face shapes and hair types, offering a polished yet manageable style.
5. Pixie with a Deep Side Part
A deep side part can instantly add volume to a pixie cut, evoking the timeless glamor of Old Hollywood. Abdullah explains that shifting the part to one side can increase volume in areas prone to thinning, particularly if your hair is accustomed to a center part. By making a short center part or brushing the center hair back, you can create significant volume and a striking difference in your hairstyle.
6. Pixie with Sideswept Bangs
For a short, attention-grabbing style, consider a pixie cut with side-swept bangs, as seen on Robin Wright. Abdullah advises that the bangs should be long and sweeping, while the rest of the hair remains piece-y and angled to hide hair loss. This cut maintains volume and is easy to manage, offering a bold, elegant look.
7. Bixie
If you’re torn between a bob and a pixie, the “bixie”—a hybrid of both—might be your perfect match. Krysta Guerrero explains that this customizable cut, exemplified by Kristen Stewart, combines the best elements of both styles, allowing for versatility in length and styling. The bixie is an ideal choice for those looking to experiment with their look this fall.
8. Sleek-Straight ‘Mob’ Cut with Deep Side Part
The ‘mob,’ or medium bob, is a sleek and stylish option that falls between the chin-length bob and the collarbone-grazing lob. Udoh points out that this cut, which ends at the middle of the neck, offers volume at the crown and textured layers that frame the face. It’s a versatile style that works well for almost any face shape and hair type, as seen on Angela Bassett.
9. Wavy Lob with Sideswept Bangs
Emma Stone’s wavy lob with side-swept bangs is a timeless, elegant style that’s perfect for women over 40. Dr. Roshan Vara notes that a longer bob is flattering and an excellent way to grow out gray hair. Abdullah adds that the side-swept bangs add length and volume, reducing the time spent on styling.
The Bottom Line
These nine celebrity-favorite haircuts offer a range of solutions for women over 40 looking to add volume and vitality to their hair this fall. For best results, Gina Rivera recommends consulting with your stylist on a maintenance schedule and trimming every 4-6 weeks to promote hair health.
By choosing one of these expertly suggested styles, you can achieve a look that not only conceals thinning hair but also enhances your overall appearance with grace and sophistication.