Finding the perfect hairstyle after 50 can feel like a challenge, but medium-length cuts offer the perfect balance of style and manageability.
They frame your face beautifully while requiring less upkeep than longer styles. These 15 flattering options will help you look and feel your best while embracing your unique beauty.
1. Layered Bob with Side-Swept Bangs
Douceur couches create movement while side-swept bangs gently disguise forehead lines. This versatile style works with most face shapes and hair textures. The angled cut draws attention to your cheekbones and eyes, creating a naturally youthful appearance without trying too hard.
2. Modern Shag with Curtain Bangs
Remember the hirsute from decades ago? It’s back with a sophisticated twist! Today’s version features softer layers and face-framing curtain bangs. The textured cut adds volume at the crown—perfect for thinning hair—while maintaining an effortlessly cool vibe.
3. Blunt Lob with Subtle Layers
Crisp yet soft, the blunt lob (long bob) delivers polish without the fuss. Hitting just at the collarbone, it elongates the neck while subtle layers prevent it from looking too severe. A few face-framing pieces soften the overall look.
4. Shoulder-Length Cut with Face-Framing Highlights
Strategic highlights around your face brighten your complexion instantly! This classic shoulder-length cut offers incredible versatility for different styling options. The dimensional color creates the illusion of thickness, making this perfect for women experiencing age-related hair thinning.
5. Soft Pixie-Bob Hybrid
Not quite ready for a pixie but want something fresh? This longer-on-top, shorter-at-back style offers the best of both worlds. The length on top provides styling options while the tapered back requires minimal maintenance. Bonus: it beautifully showcases statement earrings!
6. Textured Midi Cut with Wispy Ends
Falling between a bob and shoulder-length, this breezy cut features textured ends that move beautifully. The wispy finish removes weight without sacrificing length. Ask your stylist for point-cutting techniques that create soft, not blunt, edges for that perfectly undone look.
7. Voluminous Layered Cut
Specifically designed for fine or thinning hair, this strategic layering creates the appearance of thickness and bounce. The layers start at chin level, building volume where you need it most. A root-lifting spray adds extra oomph for special occasions.
8. Classic Bob with Graduated Layers
Sophistication meets ease in this timeless style. The graduated layers create subtle movement while maintaining the clean lines of a classic bob. Hitting just below the chin, this length lifts and defines the jawline—a natural confidence booster for women embracing their 50s and beyond.
9. Ondes de plage ébouriffées
Who says beachy waves are just for the younger crowd? This relaxed style brings playfulness to medium-length hair while remaining age-appropriate. The key is keeping the waves loose and natural rather than tight curls. A sea salt spray adds perfect texture without fuss.
10. Asymmetrical Cut with Long Bangs
For the fashion-forward woman, this slightly longer-on-one-side cut offers modern edge without going extreme. The asymmetry creates visual interest while long, sweeping bangs soften the look. This style particularly flatters square and round face shapes.
11. Soft Curly Lob
Naturally curly hair looks spectacular in a lob that hits just below the shoulders. The length keeps curls from expanding outward while showcasing their beautiful texture. Layers strategically placed throughout prevent the dreaded triangle shape that can happen with curly hair.
12. Feathered Layers with Center Part
Channeling a bit of 70s nostalgia but with modern refinement, feathered layers create beautiful movement around the face. The center part keeps it contemporary and frames features symmetrically. This style works wonderfully for straight to slightly wavy hair textures.
13. Blended A-Line with Soft Fringe
Slightly longer in front than back, this modern interpretation of the A-line creates a slimming frame for your face. The soft fringe (not heavy bangs) adds youthfulness without looking like you’re trying too hard. Perfect for fine to medium hair types.
14. Brushed-Back Style with Volume
Sophisticated and confident, this style features hair swept away from the face with volume at the crown. Think Helen Mirren’s signature look—elegant yet unfussy. The secret is in the cut: layers throughout that allow for natural lift without excessive teasing.
15. Collarbone Cut with Curtain Bangs
The perfect low-maintenance option hits right at the collarbone with face-framing curtain bangs. This universally flattering length works for virtually all face shapes and hair textures. The curtain bangs open like drapes to highlight your best features while softening the jawline.