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Choosing a hairstyle is never a one-size-fits-all thing, but at 50 it’s a complicated maneuver. It’s not just about finding a “look” with eye appeal — though great hair does make a lasting impression. We’re dealing with age-related issues like receding hairlines, thinning and texture that’s drier, coarser and more damaged than ever before. And, of course, when you find the right style, a “You look great!” reaction never hurts. Here are 10 cool solutions.
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1. The very short pixie
Going this minimalist can be an edgy move for women age 50-plus. There are three things that make it work: feathery, well-cut layers for texture and flattery (no barbershop buzzes or fades), a budget and time commitment for frequent trims, and most of all, the confidence to totally expose your neck and jawline. Here’s an easy trick to determine the latter: Right after a shower, when hair is wet and clinging to your scalp, check your profile and head from all angles (back, too!) in a double mirror. If it’s a go, bring photos like these to your stylist and stock up on neck-lengthening tops like boatnecks, squares and ballet scoops to highlight your new do.
2. The super-short guy cut
Men can do a modern scalp-hugging crop, too. Going ultra-short minimizes the contrast between still-dense areas and newly sparse ones. It requires zero self-maintenance aside from frequent trips to the barber or, if you’re handy, a DIY clip job at home. It looks contemporary on any hair color, from silver to dark brown, but really rocks if you’re gray on the sides, darker on top. This two-tone effect (like a two-tone sports car) has a head-turning, classy effect. The best cut just follows the natural hairline all around, though some men opt for a variation known as the Caesar cut — which is snipped and groomed forward for a straight edge at the front hairline.
3. The pixie-bob with bangs
This short cut that's midway between a pixie and bob has longer layers and feathery bangs. It’s a good option for women with long, thin faces and anyone who likes the benefits of eye-emphasizing bangs, including those who currently have longer hair and bangs but tend to wear it pulled back or up. Long layers at ears and longer hair at the nape give this short cut a long-hair feel; emphasize cheekbones and expose earlobes with show-off earrings if you’re a daily hoops or dangles fan. With more hair to play with, the pixie-bob adds the option of adding some wave or styling hair and bangs off the face for an elegant, dressy look.
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