Hair expert names ‘best’ hairstyle for women over 50 – it’s not a bob

Hollywood’s silver-stranded leading ladies, including Meryl Streep, Andie MacDowell, and Diane Keaton, are embracing long locks, challenging the traditional notion that short hair is best for older women. Celebrity hairstylist Jason Collier, a hair expert and brand educator for Jerome Russell Bblonde, has dispelled the myth, offering advice for flaunting long hair at any age.

Jason asserted: “There is a misconception that long hair in middle age can be ageing, and sadly, many women feel pressure to chop their tresses. However, this is just not necessary. Flowing locks can look chic, elegant and youthful at any age. It’s all down to the cut.”

Jason added: “Long hair looks great on a wide range of ages — and works particularly well on those with medium or thick locks.”

Many people will notice significant changes to their hair in their 30s and 40s, when hair begins to age.

Once predictable curls may be more difficult to work with, while some strands become thin and straight. Jason suggests that people with the latter avoid one-length cuts, which can emphasise signs of ageing.

He said: “Absolutely keep your long hair into your 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond, but do keep in mind that it will need a little extra TLC.

“You will need extra products to care for your tresses and may need to take an extra 10 minutes for styling.”

Jason recommends a few styles, including mermaid waves, for mature women looking to create the illusion of thick, voluptuous hair.

He elaborates: “Mermaid waves have a uniform movement in an S-shape, and add beautiful movement to long hair.”

Another fabulous option is a bouncy blow-dry, which offers a soft, smooth, shiny silhouette that “exudes youthfulness”.

If you’re partial to pulling your hair back, Jason advises ditching the sleek look for something more laid-back.

He details: “For an easy, everyday look, try a messy updo. Add texture to your hair with a flat iron, pop it up in a loose ponytail in the middle of your head, and make sure to leave face-framing pieces as these create the illusion of lifted cheekbones.”

For fringe enthusiasts, Jason suggests going bold with a “statement” cut. A block or curtain fringe can highlight the cheekbones and mask forehead lines.

The stylist concludes: “Opt for wispy bangs reaching your eyebrows or soft side waves.”