Trendy regardless of the era, many women over 40 have chosen short hairstyles over the decades for the simple fact that shorter hair is easier to style. However, short hair is also extraordinarily pretty and cool, especially for women over the age of 40 who are probably very busy on a day-to-day basis.
So, if you are one of them and you are looking to chop off your locks in favor of a low-maintenance yet stylish hairstyle, take a look at these chic and sassy short hairstyles for women over 40 and choose your favorite.
I. Straight Short Hairstyles for Women Over 40
1. Straight Side-Parted Bob Cut
For ladies over 40 who have naturally straight hair, the most obvious choice when it comes to a short hairstyle is a bob cut. This is a classic side-parted one that’s very easy to style and maintain and which can be adapted and worn on multiple occasions.
2. Short & Straight Updo Hairstyles with Middle-Parted Bangs for Women Over 40
Updos are also good alternatives for when you want your hair out of your face and you’re still waiting for that hairdresser appointment. This straight and short one keeps your long bangs very much visible and flatters any kind of makeup.
3. Straight Messy Bun
A messy bun is a go-to look for any woman out there, especially a busy one who doesn’t really have the time for styling the hair too much. Use an elastic band and wrap your hair on top of your head. Leave some rebel strand out for the carefree, laid back vibe.
4. Straight Hairstyle with Asymmetrical Blunt Bangs
In case your hair is straight and thick, this kind of hairstyle with asymmetrical blunt bangs can be your best friend because it looks good even when it’s not styled. Just brush it, maybe use some hairspray for extra hold and enjoy your gorgeous and simple hairstyle.
5. Straight Layered Pixie Cut
Inevitably, pixie cuts are going to be part of this list whether you’re a fan or not. In this case, it’s a layered pixie cut that is slightly side-parted and which looks amazing with any makeup and outfit. Again, hairspray is your best friend if you want a more “spiky” look.
6. Straight Layered Pixie Cut with Long Bangs
Halle Berry is probably one of the celebrities that you can always use as hair inspiration, especially for a pixie cut. She simply rocks them so well this short hair for! This is another layered pixie but it has very long bangs that almost cover your eyes in a mysterious and seductive manner. Sexy!
7. Straight Dark Side-Parted Bob Cut
For dark-haired ladies over 40, this glossy and sleek side-parted bob cut is amazing, especially if you want a hairstyle that looks good no matter the time and occasion. You can style it using a round brush and a blow dryer and then apply some hairspray to keep everything in place.
8. Straight Hairstyle with Sleek Side-Parted Bangs
This kind of straight hairstyle is elegant, feminine, and definitely perfect for a woman over 40. The sleek side-parted bangs add a hint of mystery to your look while the rest of the hair remains natural, classy, and gorgeous.
9. Straight & Glossy Short Hairstyle with Blunt Bangs
For a glossy and stylish appearance, you can try this straight hairstyle with blunt bangs that work in any combination and with a lot of accessories and makeup looks. You can even skip certain products because your hair will draw all the looks by itself.
10. Super Short Straight Pixie Cut with Layered Bangs
Are you into super short pixie cuts? Well, take inspiration from Charlize Theron and go bold. This straight pixie has layered bangs which makes the hairstyle super cool, edgy, and elegant at the same time. You will look amazing at the gym and at a wedding too. This is how versatile this look is!
11. Straight Short Hairstyle with Messy Blunt Bangs
This type of short and straight hairstyle is pretty basic but it looks so good regardless of what you’re wearing or your hair color. Those messy blunt bangs add even more charm to your look and are the perfect recipe for a natural yet sophisticated hairstyle.
12. Middle-Parted Straight Long Bob Cut
If long bob cuts are your thing, you can try middle-parting your hair and letting it fall naturally and graciously on your shoulders. You won’t have to do much to make this hairstyle look good because it already does. Definitely worth considering!
13. Elegant Straight Pixie Cut with Side-Parted Sleek Bangs
A more elegant approach when it comes to pixie cuts is this straight one with side-parted sleek bangs that cover half of your forehead in a seductive and sexy manner. The rest of the hair remains natural and you can add any kind of accessories to your entire look depending on the event that you need to attend.
14. Super Short Side-Parted Pixie Cut for Thick Hair
Again, this is yet another extremely short pixie cut that is definitely not for everyone but it can be an amazing solution if you want short hair and you’re over 40. It is side-parted and easy to style no matter what. Tip: this pixie looks even more amazing if your hair is on the thick side.
15. Super Short French-Style Bob Cut with Feathered Bangs
A French-style short bob cut is, without a doubt, the most elegant hairstyle that you can choose, especially if you are a rather classy lady who likes dressing up every day. The feathered bangs are mysterious and cool while the slightly curled ends of the hair add those Anna Wintour vibes to your look.
16. Super Short French-Style Bob Cut with Blunt Bangs
On the same note, this is another French-style short bob cut that will look incredible no matter what you’re wearing. This time, the blunt bangs add even more personality to the look and make you appear confident and strong with just a glance.
17. Rounded Out Straight Bob Cut with Sleek Side-Parted Bangs
This type of straight bob cut has that round shape that flatters almost all types of features and which looks good no matter what. The sleek side-parted bangs are there to add extra elegance to the look and make you feel fabulous.
18. Layered & Spiky Straight Hairstyle with Long Bangs
If layers are your thing, then this type of hairstyle might be perfect for you. You can make them spiky with some hairspray and make sure to also get those long thin bangs to make the hairstyle even more stylish and elegant.
19. Straight Asymmetrical Bob Cut with Thin Bangs
A straight and asymmetrical bob cut is what you need if you are the type of woman who doesn’t really have the time to style her hair for an hour every morning. It’s versatile, beautiful, wearable, and those thin bangs will compliment your features nicely.
20. Layered & Messy Short Hairstyle with Side-Parted Bangs
The final straight short hairstyle for women over 40 is this layered and messy one with sleek side-parted bangs that form a beautiful and cohesive appearance. As a tip, use some hairspray or hair mousse to fluff your locks a bit if you lack volume.
II. Wavy Short Hairstyles for Women Over 40
21. Wavy Red Side-Parted Short Hairstyle
In case you are more into having wavy short locks, then this classic hairstyle can be your perfect choice. It always looks nice with minimal styling and you can even go bright red if you are bold enough. However, any hair color works!
22. Wavy Short Hairstyle with Blunt Bangs
This short and wavy hairstyle is special because it’s a contrasting one, especially when you look at the sleek blunt bangs and the loose waves. It’s a simple yet sophisticated and special hairstyle that women over 40 will definitely love.
23.Wavy Middle-Parted Hairstyle
This is yet another super simple and basic wavy hairstyle that goes with everything and looks very well without being styled too much. Just create a middle part and allow your natural waves to fall on your shoulders.
24. Retro Wavy Side-Parted Hairstyle
Retro hairstyles are extremely popular right now and for good reason! This wavy side-parted hairstyle is to die for, especially with those loose waves and those red lips. It definitely reminds us of the golden era of Hollywood and the beauties who became its icons.
25. Wavy Rounded-Out Short Hairstyle
In case you like a rounded out hairstyle that can soften your features and make you look younger, this wavy short hairstyle is for you. You can use a round brush and a blow dryer to create some volume and then hairspray for extra hold.
26. Wavy Side-Parted Bob Cut
Another wavy version of the classic bob cut is this one that has side-parted long bangs and can be styled quickly and without much effort at all. You can simply put some hair mousse on your fingers and then run them through your locks for that messy effect.
27. Wavy Short Hairstyle with No Bangs
Besides the fact that Charlize Theron seems to be the most versatile celebrity ever, her wavy hairstyle here is definitely worth considering for a woman over 40! The bangs are not separated but instead, they mix up with the rest of the hair in a slicked-back way.
28. Wavy Slicked-Back Pixie Cut
This wavy hairstyle is much shorter and can definitely represent a good option if you want short hair that can still be elegant and classy. Slick back your locks and use some hairspray to keep them where you want for longer.
29. Wavy Side-Parted Short Hairstyle
Yet another example of classy and beautiful wavy short hair, this side-parted look proves just how amazing a short hairstyle can be and how it doesn’t take away from your femininity. Pair it with subtle yet precious accessories and voila!
30. Elegant Side-Parted Wavy Short Hair
This elegant side-parted wavy hairstyle is so versatile that you can wear it at a fancy event and at the office or at home without any problems. It will still look good and appropriate with minimal effort.
31. Wavy Voluminous Short Hairstyle with Curtain Bangs
Like Charlize Theron, Halle Berry proves once more that short hair can be absolutely phenomenal is worn with the right attitude. This is a voluminous wavy hairstyle that comes with mysterious curtain bangs which you can wear anywhere you want.
32. Wavy Bob Cut with Side-Parted Short Bangs
Another example of a pretty wavy bob cut is this one that also has short side-parted bangs that are equally wavy and cute. It’s a funky yet youthful and romantic hairstyle that all women over 40 can wear.
33. Wavy Shag-Like Hairstyle with Long Curtain Bangs
The shag is still going strong despite it being a rather retro look. However, the modern iterations of this look are very cool and can be definitely worn by women who are over 40. This one is slightly wavy and has those amazing curtain bangs to flatter your features.
34. Wavy Pixie Cut with Short Sides
A wavy pixie is a completely unique and trendy hairstyle that is extremely versatile and can be adapted to fit any occasion. You can dress this look up or down with the right accessories and makeup.
35. Wavy Side-Parted Pixie Cut
The final wavy short hair look for women over 40 is this side-parted pixie that is slicked-back and certainly special and elegant. This is a perfect look for when you’re going to the office or any other event.
III. Curly Short Hairstyles for Women Over 40
36. Curly Short Hairstyle with Bangs
Curly-haired ladies over 40 shouldn’t worry about not having options to choose from when it comes to short hairstyles. This one is messy, fluffy, and can definitely be worn on multiple occasions as it’s a versatile yet simple look.
37. Short Messy Curly Hairstyles with Side-Parted Bangs for Women Over 40
Another version of the messy and curly short hairstyle is this one that has side-parted bangs and which looks incredible with a pair of big hoop earrings and natural makeup. Just use some hair mousse to define your curls even more.
38. Short Curly Bob Cut Hairstyles with Bangs for Women Over 40
Jennifer Lopez proves just how sexy yet professional a curly bob cut with bangs can look. Again, the trick with the hair mousse works brilliantly because it keeps your bouncy ringlets where they should be.
39. Messy Curly Side-Parted Short Bob Cut Hairstyles for Women Over 40
In case you are more into side-parted bangs, you can definitely alter the previous look and do just that. It will still look incredibly chic and stylish, even during a normal workday or even if you’re usually staying at home.
40. Curly Middle-Parted Short Hairstyles for Women Over 40
In case you want to make this curly short hairstyle even more wearable and simple, you can create a middle part and play with certain accessories like big sunglasses or necklaces to bring some extra charm to your look.
41. Shag-Like Curly Hairstyle with Blunt Bangs
Again, the famous shag returns only this time it’s the curly and very funky version that you can wear even if you are over 40. The blunt bangs have a special charm while the rest of the hair really goes well with a rock chick attitude.
42. Curly Side-Parted Wedge Short Hairstyles for Women Over 40
The wedge hairstyle can look extremely good even if your hair is curly and short. This is proof that a side-parted hairstyle like this can be versatile and pretty at the same time without being too dramatic.
43. Curly Voluminous Short Hairstyles with Sleek Bangs for Women Over 40
In case you like voluminous and curly short hairstyles that still maintain that little bit of slickness, this one is for you. As you can see, the bangs are rather straight while the rest of the hair is big and adds height.
44. Short Curly Hairstyle with Layered Bangs for Women Over 40
Who says that you cannot get a layered short haircut if your hair is curly? In fact, it can look amazing with just a little bit of hair mousse to hold the ringlets in place as well as the layered bangs.
45. 80s Curly & Fluffy Short Hairstyles for Women Over 40
The ‘80s were indeed wild and some of that flavor still remains nowadays through some hairstyles that have become timeless. This curly and fluffy one stands proof that you can still wear a retro hairstyle and look cool and modern.
46. Retro Short & Curly Hairstyles for Women Over 40
This is another retro iteration of a curly pixie cut with a longer nape area and a lot of volume. It’s perfect for someone with thick hair and tight natural curls because it will always maintain its shape.
47. Curly Pixie Cut with Sleek Sides Short Hairstyles for Women Over 40
Speaking of curly pixie cuts, this one is as modern as it can get with those sleek side areas and the defined curls up top. Add in some subtle but precious accessories and that iconic red lipstick and you’re good to go!
48. Afro High Rise Short Pixie Cut Hairstyles for Women Over 40
For ladies over 40 with natural afro-textured hair, this high rise pixie cut is an amazing choice. It’s a versatile, wearable, and modern look that you will find extremely easy to maintain and style. Definitely, one to try!
49. Big Afro Short Hairstyles for Women Over 40
Another afro-inspired short and curly hairstyle consists of allowing your natural hair volume to speak for you. Don’t tame your curls and, on the contrary, try to highlight them in the best way possible, with the help of this hairstyle.
50. Short Curly Fake Mohawk Hairstyles for Women Over 40
The final look consists of creating a fake mohawk-like hairstyle with your curly and voluminous short hair. Secure the sides with some bobby pins and focus all that fluffiness on top of your head for a rock n’ roll look that you will be admired for.
Conclusion
To conclude, these chic and sassy short hairstyles for women over 40 are certainly some of the most wearable, modern, and youthful ones that you can choose from. Regardless if your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, there is an option for everyone out there. The trick is to go for the hairstyle that best reflects your personality and not be afraid to experiment.