From ponytails to pixie cuts, our hair evolves with us. While some styles are synonymous with childhood, others carry us confidently from adolescence into adulthood. Whether it’s blunt bangs or a sleek, look-at-me bob, our hairstyle can speak volumes.
To uncover the hairstyles that transcend age, we spoke to celebrity hairstylist Suzette Boozer, with more than two decades of experience and a glitzy clientele that includes the likes of Gwen Stefani and Mariah Carey.
No matter if you’re in your 40s, 50s, 60s or beyond, we've rounded up some of the best cuts, colours, and styles that are universally flattering, and prove that great hair knows no age limit.
Bold Bangs
There isn’t a hairstyle that Halle Berry can’t pull off with ease, and bangs are no exception. Thankfully, it’s a look that works just as beautifully for the rest of us. 'When done correctly, they can be incredibly flattering at any age,' says Suzette. 'They can be used to camouflage greys, soften eyebrows, or balance the size of the forehead.'
Though, with great bangs come great responsibility. 'If you can’t or won’t maintain them, then they won’t work', so a little dedication is essential.
Wavy Bob
Sharon Stone is proof of just how ageless a wavy bob can be. Suzette says it's a style that's timeless, and for good reason: 'It never goes out of fashion because of its versatility,' she says. It's a universally flattering cut at any age.
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Classic Bob
Julianne Moore’s chic, shoulder-skimming bob is endlessly chic, and better yet, can be styled in a multitude of ways. 'There are countless variations,' says Suzette, 'think straight, wavy, curled, layered, flipped, worn with a side or middle part, brushed back, textured or asymmetrical'
Textured Lob
If you’re tempted to veer into bob territory but feel nervous at the thought of a dramatic chop, the lob is your answer. Turn to Andrea McClean for inspiration.
'Anything passing the jaw becomes more of a lob, but it still lives in the bob family,' says Suzette, 'it’s a familiar cut for clients, which makes it feel safe, yet it can be customised endlessly to feel modern or classic.'
Cropped Pixie Cut
Here at GH, we’ll always champion the pixie as one of the most flattering cuts around. Olivia Colman's chic, textured pixie is proof. Her choppy, lightly ruffled layers create a perfectly undone, tousled effect.
Facelift Ponytail
There isn’t a strand out of place in Demi Moore's ultra-sleek ponytail. The pulled-back style creates the effect of an instant, non-surgical facelift — visually lifting the skin, brows and forehead for a more refreshed, youthful look.
Long Layers
While 'The Rachel' earned its place in the beauty history books, at 57, Jennifer Aniston is embracing long, glossy lengths instead.
'There’s an outdated idea that the older you get, the shorter your hair should be—but that’s simply not true,' says Suzette. '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.'
Polished Bun
A good updo will always be chic, regardless of age. Helen Mirren's sleek, low chignon feels effortlessly polished and lends her a ballerina-like elegance — refined, graceful and effortlessly poised.
Blonde Tresses
The verdict’s still out on whether blondes have more fun, but Pamela Anderson's blonde locks brings out a softness that instantly brightens her complexion. This tried-and-true colour works on women of all ages thanks to the instant glow effects.
Centre Part
It’s rare to see Catherine, Princess of Wales, wear her hair parted down the middle — yet it looks undeniably elegant when she does. It's a style that's 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.
