Shoulder-Length After 50: The Hairstyle That Makes You Look Younger (Or Older)

12 Oct 2024
us
Emil

Let’s be real, you hit a certain age and suddenly everyone’s chopping their hair off. And they’re all doing that “I’m 50 but I’m still *fun*” shoulder-length thing. You know the one. It’s supposed to make you look like a TV news anchor – you know, the hot one, not the one who does the weather. But does it really work? Or are we all just kidding ourselves?

Here’s the thing, the whole “shoulder-length after 50” thing has been around since, well, probably Jane Fonda in the 80s. It’s the haircut equivalent of a midlife crisis convertible – we think it screams youthfulness, but really, it just screams, “I read a magazine article that told me to do this.”

But fine, let’s say you’re determined to go for the chop. Maybe you’re sick of dealing with long hair, or maybe you just saw a picture of yourself from ten years ago and thought, “Damn, I need a change.” Whatever the reason, before you grab the scissors (or better yet, book an appointment with a stylist who actually knows what they’re doing), there are a few things you need to know about the treacherous waters of the mid-length haircut.

First of all, let’s define “mid-length.” We’re talking about anything that falls between your chin and your shoulders. This can be a minefield, my friend. Too short, and you’ll look like you’re trying to relive your high school glory days. Too long, and you might as well have kept your old haircut. The key is to find that sweet spot that grazes your shoulders just so, framing your face without dragging it down.

And then there’s the issue of hair texture. Let’s be honest, our hair isn’t what it used to be. Those bouncy curls we had in our twenties might have morphed into something more akin to… well, let’s just say they’ve lost some of their youthful enthusiasm. The right mid-length cut can actually work wonders to bring back some life into your locks. Layers, my friend, layers are your best friend. They add volume, movement, and a touch of je ne sais quoi that says, “I may be over 50, but I’ve still got it.”

Advantages and Disadvantages of Mid-Length Haircuts for Over 50

Advantages	Disadvantages
Can be more manageable than long hair	Can be difficult to style if not cut correctly
Can be styled in a variety of ways	May require more frequent trims to maintain the shape
Can help to soften facial features	Can emphasize a receding hairline if not styled correctly

5 Best Practices for Rocking a Mid-Length Cut After 50

1. Find a stylist who gets you. Seriously, this is not the time to be cheap or loyal to someone who gave you a bad perm in the 90s. Find a stylist who specializes in cuts for, ahem, *mature* women. You want someone who understands how to work with your hair texture and face shape to create a look that’s flattering, not frumpy.

2. Consider your hair type. If you’ve got fine hair, a blunt cut can actually make it look fuller. If your hair is thicker, layers are your best friend. And if you’re dealing with frizz? Talk to your stylist about a keratin treatment or a good anti-humectant product.

3. Don’t be afraid to experiment with styling. A mid-length cut gives you plenty of options. You can wear it straight and sleek, wavy and tousled, or pulled back in a chic chignon. Play around with different looks to find what works best for you.

4. Invest in good hair products. As we age, our hair needs a little extra TLC. A good shampoo and conditioner are essential, and a volumizing mousse or spray can work wonders. And don’t forget about heat protectant if you use hot tools!

5. Own it. Confidence is the best accessory, darling. Rock that mid-length cut with pride!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mid-Length Haircuts

1. Will a mid-length cut make me look older? Not necessarily! The right cut can actually make you look younger by framing your face and adding volume to your hair.

2. What are the best mid-length haircuts for fine hair? Blunt cuts, bobs, and lobs (long bobs) can all work well for fine hair. Layers can also add volume, but be careful not to go too short.

3. How often should I get my hair cut? Most stylists recommend getting a trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain the shape of your cut.

4. What are some good hairstyles for mid-length hair? You can wear mid-length hair straight, wavy, curly, up, or down. The possibilities are endless!

5. What are some tips for styling mid-length hair? Use a good heat protectant if you use hot tools. Experiment with different products to find what works best for your hair type. And don't be afraid to ask your stylist for tips!

So, there you have it. The unvarnished truth about the mid-length haircut. It can be a minefield, sure, but with the right stylist, the right products, and a healthy dose of confidence, it can also be the key to unlocking your most fabulous self, wrinkles and all.