Can women over 50 still rock long hair?

Absolutely. Just be sure to invest in a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. As hair ages, it tends to get more dry.

Should I use a special type of shampoo if I have graying hair?

The best shampoos for gray hair are blue- or violet-based toning shampoos , which work by neutralizing brassiness so that your silver shade stays crisp.

Should I also use purple conditioner on my gray hair?

Using a complementary purple conditioner will ensure your hair is well-maintained in between visits to the salon. Be sure to look for a purple or blue tint, along with a mix of hydrating and nourishing ingredients.

19 Gorgeous Long Hairstyles for Women Over 50

nicole kidman wearing effortless beachy waves — @CHRISAPPLETON / INSTAGRAM

There's no such thing as being "age-appropriate", especially when it comes to hair. Experimenting with different hairstyles is something we should all feel empowered to do, no matter our age. That's why we're totally here for women over 50 who wear their hair in long styles, defying societal "rules" that suggest shorter looks are a better choice for mature women.

If you're over 50 and looking for a new style, then we've got you covered with a selection of long hairstyle ideas to inspire you. From loose low buns to sculpted waves, there is something for everyone.

01 of 19

Effortless Waves

nicole kidman wearing middle part hairstyle with waves — @CHRISAPPLETON / INSTAGRAM

You can’t go wrong with a middle part hairstyle. If you prefer a softer look, opt for tousled, effortless waves, like those worn by Nicole Kidman.

02 of 19

Jennifer Lopez

This look is all about the glamour. If you have ombré coloring and are looking for a style that will accentuate its various tones, then big and bold curls are the perfect choice. Jennifer Lopez's layers give her curls major volume.

03 of 19

'60s Beehive

salma hayek wearing beehive hairstyle — @SALMAHAYEK / INSTAGRAM

'60s-inspired styles will always be timeless, especially a beehive. This one is complete with a face-framing middle part, which adds to the style's elegance.

04 of 19

Eva Longoria-Baston

half up half down hairstyle with brown hair — @EVALONGORIA / INSTAGRAM

A half-up, half-down look is one of the most versatile hairstyles. Leaving out some face-framing pieces adds a modern, delicate flair to the look.

05 of 19

Sculpted Updo

When you want all your hair off your neck, this elaborate updo is worth copying. This sculpted, twisted bun is a showstopping choice for formal occasions.

06 of 19

Braided Ponytail

Your styling options for knotless braids are endless, and this side-swoop ponytail is a fun example. The faux side bang adds a cool element to the updo.

07 of 19

Cornrows and Beads

gabrielle union wearing braided cornrows with beads — Amy Sussman / Getty Images

Cornrows always make a powerful statement. Here’s a different take on the style where most of the cornrows have been plaited downwards to frame the face, and the rest have been braided to the nape of the neck to emulate a faux shaved side. Swooped edges and matching beads are the perfect way to finish the look.

08 of 19

Textured Ponytail

tracee ellis ross wearing ponytail with curly hair — Kwaku Alston / Getty Images

Tracee Ellis Ross is always a great source for natural hair inspiration. Her textured ponytail is a stunning, sophisticated style for any occasion.

09 of 19

Glam Updo

jennifer coolidge wearing updo hairstyle — Frazer Harrison / Getty Images

This updo is super stylish and perfect for a night out. It has just the right amount of volume to make a statement, while the loosely curled face-framing pieces add an element of softness to the look.

10 of 19

Kerry Washington

What's not to love about Kerry Washington's chic hairstyle? The '70s-inspired look starts with a slicked-back front and transitions into a voluminous curly ponytail.

11 of 19

Sleek and Straight

demi moore wearing middle part, bone-straight long hair — Dimitrios Kambouris / Getty Images

Bone-straight hairstyles are a classic, so it's no wonder that it has been one of Demi Moore's signature looks. The super sleek style requires minimal styling, making it perfect for women in their 50s who want a simple yet eye-catching look.

12 of 19

Slick Bun

sarah jessica parker wearing sleek bun hairstyle — Jamie McCarthy / WireImage

If you’re looking for a style that you can wear from day to night, consider giving a sleek bun a try. Brush back your hair using your favorite strong-hold product (such as a gel or hairspray) and secure it in a mid-height ponytail. Wrap the loose hair around the base of the ponytail as neatly as you can and use pins to keep it in place.

13 of 19

Chic High Ponytail

kerry washington wearing high ponytail with wavy hair — Rodin Eckenroth / FilmMagic

Go for a unique take on a traditional ponytail. Here, the hair has been parted into three sections before being tied up into a ponytail. The leather hair tie draws attention to the parting while the loose waves add some drama to the look.

14 of 19

Braided Bantu Knots

sheryl lee ralph wearing bantu knots with knotless braids — Steve Granitz / FilmMagic

Bantu knots are a great style to showcase your braids, especially if you've added boho curls to them. Leaving a few braids out on either side frames the face perfectly and adds a stylish twist to the look.

15 of 19

Loose High Bun

vanessa williams wearing high bun — Alan Chapman / Dave Benett / Getty Images

Looking for a hairstyle for an upcoming formal event? Try an elevated messy bun. It's easy to recreate but still maintains a level of sophistication and glamour.

16 of 19

Blunt Bangs

Bangs instantly transform your look. Here, a blunt bang beautifully enhances the bone structure of Angela Bassett's face. Not to mention, bold bangs are incredibly trendy and add a bit of personality to your style.

17 of 19

Pulled-Back Glamour

Helen Mirren wearing half up, half down hairstyle — Samir Hussein / WireImage

A half-up, half-down hairstyle is fitting for any event, and Helen Mirren agrees. Keep some of your hair away from your face with a sleek ponytail and let the rest of your hair down to provide the ultimate blend of elegance and practicality.

18 of 19

Everyday Bun

pamela anderson wearing low bun hairstyle — @pamelaanderson / instagram

Pamela Anderson's low bun is practical, pretty, and relatively easy to recreate. You can achieve the effortless look in under 10 minutes, making it a prime go-to for everyday wear.

19 of 19

Pinned-Back Waves

updo hairstyle with long wavy hair — Max Cisotti / Dave Benett / Getty Images

Naomi Campbell's red carpet style offers a nice alternative for anyone who doesn't want to commit to a full half-up, half-down look. Take a section of hair in the middle and pin it back—let the rest of your cascading waves frame your face.

FAQ

Can women over 50 still rock long hair?

Absolutely. Just be sure to invest in a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. As hair ages, it tends to get more dry.
Should I use a special type of shampoo if I have graying hair?

The best shampoos for gray hair are blue- or violet-based toning shampoos, which work by neutralizing brassiness so that your silver shade stays crisp.
Should I also use purple conditioner on my gray hair?

Using a complementary purple conditioner will ensure your hair is well-maintained in between visits to the salon. Be sure to look for a purple or blue tint, along with a mix of hydrating and nourishing ingredients.