If you have thick hair and you’re over 40, you’re in the perfect position to create some beautiful hairstyles for women over 40 that showcase both volume and texture in hair.
Thick hair can be a challenge to manage, but with the right haircuts for women over 40, you can achieve a look that is stylish, flattering, and easy to maintain.
From bold pixie cuts to long hairstyles with feathered layers, this article explores 35 fabulous hairstyles for thick hair that will make your thick locks look their best.
1. Tousled Short Cut
A tousled short cut is a fun, modern hairstyle that can help control the bulk of thick hair while keeping it voluminous. The messy, textured look is easy to style and maintain, offering a relaxed yet polished appearance. It’s perfect for women who want a low-maintenance hairstyle that requires little effort.
Whether paired with feathered layers or soft curls, the tousled effect adds movement and keeps thick hair looking light and bouncy. Plus, it’s ideal for highlighting the natural texture of your hair.
2. Textured Waves
Textured waves are a perfect way to bring out the natural beauty of thick hair. Whether you go for loose waves or more defined curls, this style offers volume and movement. Textured waves are easy to achieve with a curling iron or a salt spray.
The key is to keep the waves soft and natural, so your thick hair doesn’t look weighed down. This look works great with shoulder-length styles and is perfect for everyday wear or special occasions, providing a chic and effortless finish.
3. Layered Waves with Side Swept Bangs
For a youthful and stylish look, layered waves with side-swept bangs are a great choice. The layers add volume, making your thick hair feel lighter and less bulky. Side-swept bangs frame the face, giving you a more polished, elegant look.
This hairstyle works well with a variety of textures and is an excellent choice for those who want to keep their hair longer but still want it easy to manage. The layers bring out movement and natural volume, while the bangs soften the features.
4. Textured Bob with Soft Waves
The textured bob with soft waves is a timeless and elegant hairstyle. This cut is versatile and can be styled in various ways to suit different occasions. The key to this look is to ensure the waves are loose and subtle, giving the bob a relaxed yet sophisticated appearance.
This is one of the best bob hairstyles for thick hair, as it keeps the volume in check while still allowing for plenty of movement. Whether paired with balayage highlights or a simple centre part style, this look will always be in fashion.
5. Face Framing Lob (Long Bob)
The face-framing lob, or long bob, is one of the most flattering hairstyles for thick hair. It offers the right balance between length and volume, and the face-framing layers give it an added touch of elegance.
This long hairstyle works wonders for women over 40 as it can help reduce the weight of thick hair without compromising on volume. It’s also an easy-to-manage style, with the ability to add waves or keep it straight for a sleek, polished look.
6. Mid Length Cut with Feathered Layers
A mid-length cut with feathered layers is perfect for thick hair that needs structure without losing its volume. The feathered layers add texture and movement, making the hair look lighter and more voluminous.
This style is great for women who prefer a more sophisticated yet playful look. The mid-length offers versatility, allowing you to style it straight, wavy, or curly. With the right layers, this cut can give you the perfect balance of volume and texture in hair.
7. Tapered Bob
The tapered bob is a sleek, chic hairstyle that tapers at the back, creating a more defined silhouette for thick hair. The style focuses on volume at the crown, making it perfect for adding height.
For women with thick hair, the tapered bob can help control the volume in the back while leaving enough volume in the front. It’s a great choice for those who want a stylish, easy-to-maintain hairstyle that doesn’t require much effort to style every day.
8. Blunt Wavy Bob with Bangs
A blunt wavy bob with bangs is an edgy and bold hairstyle that gives thick hair a structured yet playful look. The blunt cut creates a sharp contrast with the soft waves, making this one of the most fashionable bob hairstyles.
Paired with bangs, this look becomes even more striking, framing the face beautifully. The wavy texture keeps the hair voluminous without weighing it down, and the bangs add a youthful, trendy touch.
9. Shoulder Length Waves with Center Part
For a more symmetrical look, try shoulder-length waves with a center part. This style offers a soft, natural texture that works perfectly with thick hair. The center part gives the hair balance, while the waves add volume and movement.
This is a great style for women who want a fresh, easy-to-style look that requires minimal maintenance. Whether you’re dressing it up for an evening out or keeping it casual, this style is versatile and works for any occasion.
10. Layered Haircut for Thick Hair
A layered haircut for thick hair is one of the best ways to manage your thick locks while enhancing volume. Layers break up the bulk of thick hair, making it easier to style and maintain.
Whether you go for short or long layers, this cut adds texture and lightness. It’s especially ideal for women over 40 who want to keep their hair youthful without sacrificing the fullness of thick hair. This style can be worn straight or with waves for a more relaxed look.
11. Loose Layered Curls
Loose layered curls are the perfect way to embrace your natural texture while keeping things light and manageable. The layers add movement, while the curls give the hair extra volume.
This style works especially well with long layers and is perfect for women who love their curls but want a more controlled, polished look. The beauty of this style is that it’s easy to maintain with the right products, making it a great option for low-maintenance hairstyles.
12. Feathered Layers
Feathered layers are a fantastic way to add texture to thick hair without overwhelming it. The soft, layered cut reduces bulk, creating a more natural flow. This cut works great for those who want to add volume and texture in hair without going too short.
The feathered layers can be styled to frame the face or give the hair a more voluminous shape, making it a versatile choice for women over 40 who want an effortlessly chic look.
13. Textured Layers
Textured layers are an excellent option for women with thick hair who want to keep the volume without the weight. The layers provide structure while still allowing the hair to maintain its natural texture.
This cut works well with both straight and curly hair, making it a great option for any hair type. Whether paired with a pixie cut or a long hairstyle, the textured layers ensure that your thick hair looks voluminous and styled without being overly bulky.
14. Long Layers
Long layers are a classic option for thick hair, offering a flattering and elegant look. The key to long layers is ensuring that they are cut in a way that adds movement and reduces weight. This style is perfect for women who want to keep their hair long but still want a manageable look.
Long layers give you the freedom to wear your hair in various styles, whether it’s straight, wavy, or curled. It’s a timeless choice that will never go out of style.
15. Curly Shag with Bangs
The curly shag with bangs is a fun, trendy look that works well with thick hair. The shaggy layers give the hair texture, while the curls provide volume. The addition of bangs softens the face and adds an extra layer of style.
This cut is great for women who want a more vintage-inspired haircut with a modern twist. It’s also a low-maintenance style, as the curls add texture without the need for constant styling.
Comparison of Popular Hairstyles for Women Over 40 with Thick Hair
| Hairstyle | Features | Ideal For |
| Tousled Short Cut | Choppy, textured, easy to style | Low-maintenance, modern look |
| Textured Waves | Loose waves, natural volume | Casual, beachy vibe |
| Layered Waves with Bangs | Soft waves, face-framing bangs | Elegant, youthful appearance |
| Textured Bob with Waves | Defined waves, structured bob | Chic, versatile style |
| Shoulder-Length Waves | Symmetrical, natural waves | Everyday wear, polished look |
16. Layered Waves with Bangs
Layered waves with bangs combine the best of both worlds: soft waves for volume and bangs for a youthful appearance. The layers help break up the thickness, making the style more manageable.
Whether you opt for side-swept bangs or a more blunt cut, this hairstyle works well with both long layers and short layers. It’s a versatile option for women over 40, giving you a fresh, sophisticated look that requires minimal styling.
17. Long Highlighted Layers
If you want to add dimension to your thick hair, long highlighted layers are a great choice. The highlights add depth and texture, while the layers ensure that the hair doesn’t feel too heavy.
This look works especially well with natural waves, giving your hair that sun-kissed, beachy vibe. It’s an excellent style for women who want to keep their hair long and vibrant while adding volume and texture in hair.
18. Short Layers with Balayage Highlights
For a modern twist, short layers with balayage highlights can create a sleek, chic look. The short layers make thick hair more manageable, while the balayage highlights add depth and movement.
This style works particularly well for women who want to lighten their hair and reduce the bulk. The balayage highlights give the hair a natural, sun-kissed look that’s perfect for any occasion.
Layered Haircuts vs. Short Hairstyles for Thick Hair
| Style | Benefits | Best For |
| Layered Haircuts | Reduces bulk, adds texture | Adding movement to thick hair |
| Short Hairstyles | Low-maintenance, chic | Women who prefer a modern look |
| Short Layered Cuts | Combines volume and control | Those looking for volume control |
19. Wispy Feathered Layers
Wispy feathered layers are another option to reduce the weight of thick hair. The feathered layers create texture without making the hair too bulky. This style is especially great for women who want a soft, airy look. It’s perfect for any age, especially if you want a hairstyle that’s easy to manage and still looks stylish.
20. Blunt Asymmetrical Bob
The blunt asymmetrical bob adds an edgy twist to the classic bob hairstyle. The uneven length creates a dynamic shape that highlights volume and texture in hair.
This hairstyle is particularly flattering for women over 40 who want a modern, stylish look without too much maintenance. The blunt cut keeps the hair structured, while the asymmetry adds a fun, youthful element.
21. Long Layered Bob
A long layered bob is a great option for those who want to keep their hair long without the heaviness of thick hair. The layers break up the bulk, while the longer length gives you plenty of styling options.
This hairstyle can be styled straight, wavy, or with loose curls, making it a versatile and easy-to-manage option for any woman over 40.
22. Long Loose Waves
For a relaxed yet sophisticated look, long loose waves are a perfect choice. This style offers plenty of volume and texture in hair without feeling too heavy. The waves add movement and lightness to thick hair, while the long length gives the hair a more flowing, feminine look. It’s easy to maintain and works for any occasion.
Best Haircuts for Women Over 40 with Thick Hair
| Hairstyle | Volume Level | Maintenance Level |
| Tousled Short Cut | High | Low |
| Textured Bob with Waves | Medium | Medium |
| Layered Shaggy Bob | High | Medium |
| Pixie Cut with Side-Swept Bangs | Low | Low |
| Long Layered Bob | Medium | Medium |
23. Layered Shaggy Bob
The layered shaggy bob combines layers with a messy, carefree vibe. This hairstyle gives thick hair plenty of volume without looking too polished. It’s an ideal choice for women who want a low-maintenance hairstyle that still looks chic and stylish. The layers help reduce the weight of thick hair, making it easier to style and maintain.
24. Rounded Bob
The rounded bob is perfect for women who want a sleek, polished style. This cut adds a touch of sophistication, creating a smooth, rounded shape around the face. It’s great for those with thick hair who want a manageable yet stylish look. The rounded bob works well with a side part or center part, depending on your personal preference.
25. Voluminous Messy Updo
For special occasions or everyday elegance, the voluminous messy updo is a great option for thick hair. The volume adds a sophisticated, full look, while the messy finish keeps the hairstyle casual and relaxed.
This updo is ideal for women who want an easy, stylish way to manage thick hair without spending too much time on styling. It’s a great choice for easy styling for thick hair.
26. Inverted Bob
The inverted bob is a sleek, modern look that is ideal for thick hair. This hairstyle gradually shortens at the back and lengthens towards the front, creating a sharp, angled look. The inverted bob is perfect for women who want a bold style that still highlights volume and texture in their hair.
With the right layers, this cut can create the illusion of a more refined silhouette while still keeping your hair full and voluminous. It’s a great style for anyone seeking a sophisticated haircut that can easily transition from day to night.
27. Long Layers with Full Bangs
If you want to add drama to your look, long layers with full bangs are a perfect option. The long layers create a flowing, voluminous effect, while the full bangs add a bold, striking element to the hairstyle.
This combination works well with thick hair, as it balances the volume at the front with layers that soften the overall look. The full bangs frame the face beautifully, making it a flattering style for women over 40 who want to embrace their natural texture while making a fashion statement.
28. Shaggy Lob with Curtain Bangs
A shaggy lob with curtain bangs brings a bit of retro flair to modern hairstyles. This look combines the classic long bob with loose, shaggy layers that add movement and texture to thick hair. The curtain bangs frame the face and offer a soft, sophisticated finish.
This style works well for women who want a fun, casual look that still feels chic and trendy. It’s a low-maintenance hairstyle that can be styled effortlessly, giving you the perfect balance of volume and texture with minimal effort.
29. Voluminous Half Up Half Down Style for Thick Hair
The voluminous half-up half-down style is an elegant yet simple way to manage thick hair. By pulling half of your hair up into a simple bun or ponytail and leaving the rest flowing, you can create a voluminous look without overwhelming your face with hair.
This style works well for long hairstyles and adds natural texture, which is great for showcasing the volume in your thick hair. The half-up half-down style is versatile enough for both casual and formal occasions, giving you a sophisticated look with minimal effort.
30. Retro Wavy Bob
If you’re after a vintage-inspired haircut, a retro wavy bob might be the perfect choice for you. This hairstyle is full of charm and class, with soft, structured waves that add texture and volume.
The retro wavy bob can be styled to look like an old Hollywood glam moment or kept more relaxed for a modern twist. This cut works well with bob hairstyles, as the waves naturally create body and lift. It’s a fun, playful option for those who want a little nostalgia with their thick hair.
Comparison of Wavy and Layered Bob Styles for Thick Hair
| Style | Volume Level | Maintenance Level | Best for |
| Retro Wavy Bob | High | Medium | Vintage-inspired, elegant |
| Layered Bob | Medium | Medium | Everyday chic |
| Shaggy Bob | High | Medium | Casual, textured look |
| Blunt Wavy Bob | Medium | Low | Edgy and structured |
31. Pixie with Side Swept Bangs
The pixie with side-swept bangs is an edgy yet feminine haircut that works well with thick hair. This pixie cut is perfect for women who want a bold, low-maintenance hairstyle. The side-swept bangs soften the sharpness of the pixie and frame the face, giving it a more flattering and youthful appearance.
With this cut, you can add extra volume at the crown, enhancing the natural texture of your hair. It’s a stylish, easy-to-manage style that doesn’t require too much upkeep but still looks chic and fashionable.
32. Layered Curls
Layered curls are an excellent option for thick, curly hair. This cut allows your curls to have structure and volume without becoming too heavy or unmanageable. By adding layers, you can reduce the weight of thick curls while still keeping the volume and bounce intact.
Layered curls create a fun, voluminous look that adds texture and movement to your thick hair. It’s a great option for women over 40 who want a hairstyle that enhances their natural curls without making them feel bulky or weighed down.
33. Pixie Bob
The pixie bob is a great way to merge the edgy appeal of a pixie cut with the classic look of a bob. This hairstyle works well for thick hair as it provides structure without feeling too heavy.
The pixie bob offers lots of styling flexibility, as you can wear it sleek and straight or with some soft waves for added texture. The bob’s length ensures that your hair is still long enough to work with, but the pixie cut gives it a playful, youthful edge.
34. Long Waves with Center Part
If you prefer longer hair, long waves with a center part are an excellent way to style thick hair. This style allows the hair to flow naturally while adding volume and texture. The center part creates symmetry and a balanced look, while the waves soften the overall appearance. Whether you opt for loose beachy waves or more defined curls, this style will highlight the natural beauty of your thick hair. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a classic, timeless look that never goes out of style.
35. Bob with Tapered Back
The bob with tapered back is a stylish and versatile option for thick hair. This cut features a shorter back with longer lengths in the front, creating a flattering shape for women with thick hair. The tapered back reduces bulk and helps manage the volume in the hair.
It’s a fantastic option for those who want a sophisticated haircut with a modern twist. The bob with tapered back works well with a variety of textures and can be styled sleek or with natural waves.
FAQ’S
What is the best haircut for thick hair over 40?
A layered bob or a textured wavy bob works wonders for thick hair, providing volume and movement.
How do I manage thick hair after 40?
Opt for layered haircuts or a pixie bob to reduce bulk and maintain volume without too much maintenance.
Are bangs a good choice for thick hair?
Yes! Side-swept bangs or full bangs can frame your face beautifully and add a youthful touch to any hairstyle.
How can I add volume to my thick hair?
Try a voluminous half-up half-down style, layered cuts, or feathered layers to enhance volume without adding weight.
What are low-maintenance styles for thick hair?
Tousled short cuts and shaggy bob hairstyles are easy to manage while still giving your hair texture and volume.
Conclusion
Incorporating the right hairstyles for women over 40 with thick hair can make a huge difference in how you style and manage your locks. From a tousled short cut to layered curls or retro wavy bobs, each of these 35 styles enhances volume and texture while keeping thick hair manageable. Choose a style that works with your personality, lifestyle, and face shape, and embrace the beauty of your thick hair in a fresh, stylish way.
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Discover 35 stunning hairstyles for women over 40 with thick hair. Showcase volume and texture with these chic and manageable cuts.
