From pigtails to pixie cuts, the average woman goes through countless hairstyles during her lifetime. While some styles are often reserved for childhood, others carry us from adolescence into adulthood. Whether it’s blunt bangs or a sleek, look-at-me bob, a hairstyle can speak volumes without a woman uttering a single word.
We spoke with Suzette Boozer, a celebrity hairstylist and curly hair expert who’s been in the business for more than two decades, to get her take on the classic hairstyles that still flatter every age.
For the Brooklyn native, there are a few things women should always consider when choosing a cut, color or style. “Face shape, maintenance level, profession, hair color, texture and density all matter,” Boozer says. “A great cut should work with a person’s lifestyle and natural hair, not against it.”
No matter if you’re in your 30s, 40s, 50s or beyond, here’s a look at some of the cuts, colors, and styles that are universally flattering.
Bold Bangs
There isn’t a hairstyle that Halle Berry can’t rock with ease and bangs are no exception. However, maintenance is key. “If you can’t or won’t maintain them, then they won’t work,” says Boozer. “Sometimes bangs are used to camouflage grays, soften eyebrows, or balance the size of the forehead. When done correctly, they can be incredibly flattering at any age.”
Wavy Bob
Actress Sharon Stone stuns in this wavy bob style. Boozer says this hairstyle is timeless and for good reason. “It’s a style that never goes out of fashion because of its versatility,” she says.
Straight Bob
Kris Jenner’s chic, chin-skimming bob exudes class and sophistication. Again, the style can be worn in myriad ways. “There are countless variations: straight, wavy, curled, layered, flipped, worn with a side or middle part, brushed back, short, long, sharp, textured or asymmetrical,” Boozer says.
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Textured Lob
Filmmaker Constance Tsang goes for a slightly wavy lob, which is a bit longer than a traditional bob. Boozer says, “Anything passing the jaw becomes more of a lob, but it still lives in the bob family. It’s a familiar cut for clients, which makes it feel safe, yet it can be customized endlessly to feel modern or classic.”
Cropped Pixie Cut
Keke Palmer is a star who shines in just about every hairstyle. Here she’s rocking a cute pixie cut. Although the multi-hyphenate is only in her early 30s, this cropped, eye-catching style can easily take her through the decades.
Sleek Ponytail
There isn’t a strand out of place with Kim Kardashian's ultra-sleek ponytail. Though the mogul is only in her mid-40s, this style creates the effect of an instant, non-surgical facelift—visually lifting the skin, brows and forehead for a more refreshed, youthful look.
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Long Layers
Jennifer Aniston has always been known for her flowing locks. And at 57, she’s still embracing long, lovely tresses. “There’s an outdated idea that the older you get, the shorter your hair should be—but that’s simply not true,” says Boozer. “Hair should be about what suits the individual, not their age. How a style is worn, styled and carried shows far more personality than the number attached to someone’s birthday.”
Topknot Bun
From preschoolers to principals, topknot buns are adorably chic regardless of age. This timeless style creates an effortlessly polished look no matter the occasion. Here, actress and model, Susan Chardy’s bun lends her a polished, ballerina-like elegance—refined, graceful and effortlessly poised.
Blond Tresses
The verdict’s still out on whether blondes have more fun. Actress Sarah Pidgeon’s blond locks bring out a softness that brightens her complexion. This tried-and-true color works on women of all ages thanks to the instant glow effects.
Center Part
While side parts can be fun and playful, center parts steal the show every time. Angela Bassett looks regal with her hair parted down the middle. This popular style is universally flattering because it creates balance and symmetry, naturally elongating the face and drawing attention to defining features like the cheekbones and nose. The result is a clean, timeless look that enhances facial structure and works beautifully at any age.
Karla Pope is a longtime writer, editor and blogger with more than two decades of editorial experience. She’s written for a variety of outlets including Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Travel + Leisure, Tripadvisor, People, Parade and more. Her coverage includes travel, lifestyle, entertainment and wellness content. When she's not exploring the world with her family, you can find her curled up on the couch watching a documentary and eating gummy bears.
