In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 37 chic medium-length hairstyles for women over 40 that will help you feel youthful, confident, and stylish.
When it comes to choosing a hairstyle, women over 40 often look for something versatile, chic, and easy to maintain. Chic Medium-length hairstyles provide the perfect balance between manageable Medium length hairstyles and sophisticated style.
They can work with various hair textures, from fine hair to thick hair, and offer plenty of room for creativity through layers, waves, bangs, and color.
1. Shoulder-Medium-length hairstyles Waves
Shoulder-length waves are the ideal combination of casual elegance and effortless beauty. This style adds both volume and movement to your hair, making it perfect for those who want to avoid flat, lifeless locks.
- Why it works: Shoulder-length waves are suitable for all hair types—whether you have fine or thick hair. The waves add natural body and texture without requiring too much effort.
- Best for Women with naturally wavy or straight hair who want a quick, chic style that works for both professional settings and casual outings.
Tips for Styling Shoulder-Medium-length hairstyles Waves
| Tools | Tips |
| Curling Iron | Use a 1-inch barrel to create loose waves. |
| Sea Salt Spray | Adds texture and enhances the wavy look. |
| Heat Protectant | Always use a heat protectant before styling. |
This style is low-maintenance but can be dressed up with accessories or bold colors for special occasions.
2. Piecey Layers with Curtain Bangs
Combining piecey layers with curtain bangs is a great way to add texture and dimension to medium-length hair. The layers keep the hairstyle light and playful, while the curtain bangs offer a youthful frame for the face.
- Why it works: Layers add movement and structure, making your hair look fuller and more dynamic.
- Best for Women with round or oval face shapes, as the curtain bangs help elongate the face.
Styling Tips for Piecey Layers and Curtain Bangs
| Face Shape | Why Curtain Bangs Work |
| Round | Elongates the face and softens the jawline. |
| Oval | Adds dimension without overpowering facial features. |
By keeping the bangs soft and layers piecey, you can achieve a look that is both modern and timeless.
3. Pastel Pink with Medium-length hairstyles Waves
Pastel pink waves are the perfect way to experiment with color while maintaining a chic, understated look. This light, soft color complements a wide range of skin tones and adds a youthful, playful vibe to medium-length hair.
- Why it works: The pastel color isn’t overwhelming and blends seamlessly into a wavy style. It gives your look a fresh, trendy edge without feeling too bold.
- Best for: Women who are looking for a fun change without committing to a drastic color.
Maintaining Pastel Pink with Medium-length hairstyles Waves
| Challenge | Solution |
| Fading Color | Use color-protecting shampoos and conditioners. |
| Dryness After Bleaching | Incorporate hydrating masks and treatments into your routine. |
Pastel pink is perfect for women who want a vibrant, youthful touch while keeping the style sophisticated.
4. Medium-length hairstyles with Layered Wavy Bob
The layered wavy bob is a classic yet modern haircut that adds both texture and volume to medium-length hair. The layers make the waves stand out, giving your hair a soft, romantic look.
- Why it works: The layers enhance the waves, making your hair look fuller and more voluminous.
- Best for Women with naturally wavy hair or those who want to add body to straight hair.
Layering for Volume
| Layer Type | Effect |
| Subtle Layers | Adds a little bit of texture for fine hair. |
| Deep Layers | Creates significant volume for thick hair. |
A layered wavy bob is ideal for those looking for a low-maintenance hairstyle with a chic, fashionable edge.
5. Medium-length hairstyles with Soft Balayage Waves
Balayage waves offer a beautiful, sun-kissed look that’s perfect for those who want a natural hair color enhancement. Balayage blends highlights into your hair without harsh lines, creating a soft, natural-looking dimension.
- Why it works: The technique is less damaging than traditional highlights and grows out naturally, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.
- Best for: Women who want low-maintenance highlights that still add brightness and dimension to their hair.
Key Benefits of Balayage Waves
| Benefits | Description |
| Low Maintenance | Grows out naturally, so you can go longer between touch-ups. |
| Versatility | Works with almost any hair color and type. |
Balayage waves add brightness and movement to medium-length hairstyles, making it an excellent choice for women over 40.
6. Wavy Bob with Medium-length hairstyles Highlights
The wavy bob with highlights is an effortlessly chic style that combines natural texture with a pop of brightness from strategically placed highlights.
- Why it works: Highlights add depth to the waves, making them stand out more. It’s a fantastic option for women who want a bit of flair without a dramatic change.
- Best for Women with wavy or curly hair who want to enhance their natural texture.
Highlighting Tips
| Highlight Placement | Effect |
| Around the Face | Brightens and frames the face, drawing attention to your features. |
| Throughout the Hair | Adds an overall sun-kissed look. |
This hairstyle is particularly flattering for fine hair, as the highlights create the illusion of more volume.
7. Medium-length hairstyles with Voluminous Copper Curls
Copper curls are both bold and glamorous. The vibrant copper color combined with voluminous curls creates a statement hairstyle that’s perfect for women who want to stand out.
- Why it works: The rich, warm tones of copper enhance the curls, making them look fuller and more luxurious.
- Best for: Women with naturally curly or wavy hair.
Tips for Maintaining Copper Curls
| Issue | Solution |
| Color Fading | Use sulfate-free, color-safe shampoos and conditioners. |
| Dryness in Curls | Use curl creams and hydrating masks regularly. |
Voluminous copper curls are ideal for women who love bold colors and want a youthful, vibrant hairstyle.
8. Medium-length hairstyles with Bouncy Curly Bob
The bouncy curly bob is a playful, youthful hairstyle that’s perfect for women with naturally curly hair. The curls give the bob a lively, fun look while keeping it short and easy to manage.
- Why it works: The bob shape keeps the curls contained, preventing them from overwhelming the face.
- Best for Women with curly or oily hair who want a stylish, manageable haircut.
Styling a Bouncy Curly Bob
| Tool | Tip |
| Diffuser Attachment | Helps to enhance natural curl patterns without frizz. |
| Curl Defining Cream | Keeps the curls bouncy and defined all day long. |
A bouncy curly bob is perfect for women who want to embrace their natural curls while maintaining a chic, modern look.
9. Tousled Layered Waves with Highlights
For a more casual and laid-back look, tousled layered waves with highlights offer the perfect combination of texture and dimension. The layers help to add movement to the hair, while the highlights bring out the natural waves.
- Why it works: Tousled waves create a relaxed, “beachy” vibe that’s easy to style.
- Best for Women with naturally wavy or textured hair.
Tips for Tousled Waves
| Styling Product | Benefit |
| Texturizing Spray | Adds grit and hold to create that tousled, undone look. |
| Lightweight Mousse | Keeps the waves defined without weighing them down. |
This style is low-maintenance and can easily transition from day to night.
10. Silver Waves with Curtain Bangs
Silver waves paired with curtain bangs create a chic, modern look that embraces natural aging while keeping it stylish. The waves add movement, while the bangs frame the face in a soft, flattering way.
- Why it works: Silver hair has become a trend, and combining it with waves and bangs makes for a striking yet age-appropriate hairstyle.
- Best for Women with natural silver or gray hair who want to enhance their look.
Tips for Maintaining Silver Hair
| Challenge | Solution |
| Yellowing of Silver Hair | Use a purple shampoo to neutralize brassy tones. |
This style is perfect for women looking to embrace their natural gray hair with a modern twist.
11. Piecey Medium-length hairstyles with Silver Layers
If you’re transitioning to silver hair, piecey layers are a great way to add texture and dimension to your look. The layers help break up the hair, making the color transition look more seamless.
- Why it works: The layers keep the hair looking fresh and voluminous while embracing natural grays.
- Best for Women transitioning to gray or silver hair.
Layering Tips for Silver Hair
| Type of Layer | Effect |
| Short, Choppy Layers | Adds volume and movement, making the gray hair appear more dynamic. |
Piecey layers give a youthful appearance and prevent the hair from looking flat or dull.
12. Auburn Waves with Wispy Fringe
Auburn waves paired with a wispy fringe create a warm, inviting look that’s perfect for fall or winter. The auburn color enhances the waves, while the fringe adds a playful element.
- Why it works: The rich auburn color brings warmth to the face, and the fringe adds a youthful touch.
- Best for Women with wavy or straight hair who want to experiment with color.
Styling Auburn Waves
| Hair Type | Why It Works |
| Wavy Hair | Enhances natural movement and adds warmth. |
| Straight Hair | Gives a natural, effortless look with added texture. |
Auburn waves with a wispy fringe are ideal for women seeking a warm, autumnal hairstyle.
13. Sleek Chic Bob
A sleek chic bob is a timeless hairstyle that exudes elegance and sophistication. The bob is styled straight and polished, giving it a clean, modern look.
- Why it works: It’s easy to style and maintain, making it perfect for professional women or those with busy lifestyles.
- Best for: Women with straight or slightly wavy hair who want a polished, professional look.
Tips for a Sleek Bob
| Tool | Tip |
| Flat Iron | Use a flat iron to achieve a sleek, straight look. |
| Shine Serum | Adds gloss and smoothness for that polished finish. |
A sleek bob is both classic and modern, making it a great choice for women over 40 who want a sophisticated chic style.
14. Layered Silver Lob
A layered silver lob (long bob) is a trendy yet practical style for women who want to embrace their silver hair while keeping it modern. The layers add texture and dimension, preventing the hair from looking flat.
- Why it works: The layers give the lob more body and movement, making it a dynamic and youthful style.
- Best for Women with naturally gray or silver hair who want a stylish, low-maintenance look.
Lob Styling Tips
| Layer Type | Effect |
| Face-Framing Layers | Softens the features and adds dimension. |
The layered silver lob is perfect for women who want a timeless hairstyle that’s easy to maintain but still looks polished.
15. Straight Textured Shag with Side-Swept Bangs
For women who want an edgy, modern look, the straight textured shag with side-swept bangs offers the perfect solution. The shag cut is layered and choppy, while the side-swept bangs add a softer, feminine touch.
- Why it works: The textured layers give the hair body and movement, while the side-swept bangs frame the face in a flattering way.
- Best for: Women with straight or wavy hair who want an edgy, low-maintenance style.
Tips for Styling a Shag Cut
| Layer Type | Effect |
| Choppy Layers | Adds texture and volume, perfect for fine hair. |
The shag cut is a modern, trendy style that gives medium-length hair a youthful, dynamic appearance.
16. Bouncy Silver Layers
If you’re looking to embrace your gray hair while keeping it youthful, bouncy silver layers are a great option. The layers add volume and movement, making the hair look fuller and more lively.
- Why it works: The layers prevent the hair from looking flat or dull, while the bounce adds a playful touch.
- Best for Women with naturally silver or gray hair who want a voluminous style.
Tips for Maintaining Bouncy Layers
| Product | Benefit |
| Volumizing Mousse | Adds lift and keeps the layers bouncy all day long. |
Bouncy silver layers give your hair a youthful, energetic look while embracing your natural color.
17. Blunt Platinum Layered Cut
For a bold, modern look, the blunt platinum layered cut offers the perfect combination of style and edge. The blunt ends give the hair a clean, sharp look, while the platinum color adds a bold, eye-catching element.
- Why it works: The blunt cut gives the hair a sleek, modern appearance, while the platinum color adds a high-fashion touch.
- Best for: Women who want a bold, statement-making hairstyle.
Platinum Hair Maintenance
| Issue | Solution |
| Color Fading | Use purple shampoo to maintain the platinum tone. |
| Hair Damage | Incorporate weekly deep-conditioning treatments. |
The blunt platinum layered cut is perfect for women who want a fashion-forward hairstyle that’s both bold and sophisticated.
18. Chic Brunette Shag
A chic brunette shag combines the edgy, modern elements of a shag cut with the classic, rich color of brunette hair. The layers give the shag its signature texture, while the brunette color adds warmth and depth.
- Why it works: The shag cut gives the hair texture and volume, while the brunette color keeps the look grounded and timeless.
- Best for Women with fine or medium hair who want to add volume and texture.
Styling a Brunette Shag
| Hair Type | Why It Works |
| Fine Hair | Adds volume and texture to otherwise flat hair. |
| Medium Hair | Enhances natural movement and body. |
The chic brunette shag is a great choice for women who want an edgy, yet sophisticated hairstyle.
19. Natural Curls
For women with naturally curly hair, natural curls are a great option for medium-length hairstyles. Embracing your natural curls not only saves time but also enhances your hair’s natural beauty.
- Why it works: Curls add volume, movement, and texture, making them a low-maintenance yet chic option.
- Best for: Women with naturally curly or wavy hair.
Tips for Maintaining Natural Curls
| Product | Benefit |
| Leave-in Conditioner | Keeps curls hydrated and frizz-free. |
Natural curls are perfect for women who want to embrace their natural beauty while keeping their hair low-maintenance.
20. Textured Bob
A textured bob adds volume and movement to medium-length hair, making it a great option for women with fine or straight hair. The texture prevents the bob from looking flat, giving it a more dynamic, youthful appearance.
- Why it works: The added texture gives the bob volume, making it look fuller and more lively.
- Best for Women with fine or straight hair who want to add volume and movement.
Tips for Texturizing a Bob
| Technique | Effect |
| Point Cutting | Adds texture without removing too much length. |
A textured bob is a great option for women who want a low-maintenance hairstyle that still has plenty of body and movement.
21. Wavy Brunette Bob with Highlights
The wavy brunette bob with highlights combines the rich, warm tones of brunette hair with soft, subtle highlights that add dimension and depth.
- Why it works: The highlights brighten the brunette base, while the waves add movement and texture.
- Best for Women with naturally wavy or straight hair.
Highlighting Tips
| Highlight Placement | Effect |
| Around the Face | Brightens and frames the face, drawing attention to your features. |
A wavy brunette bob with highlights is a chic, modern hairstyle that’s perfect for women who want to enhance their natural hair color.
22. Vivid Pink Waves
For women who want to make a bold statement, vivid pink waves offer the perfect opportunity to experiment with color while keeping the style playful and chic.
- Why it works: The vivid pink color is bold and eye-catching, while the waves add texture and movement.
- Best for: Women who want to experiment with bold colors without committing to a permanent change.
Maintaining Vivid Pink Hair
| Challenge | Solution |
| Color Fading | Use a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner to maintain vibrancy. |
Vivid pink waves are perfect for women who want to have fun with their hair while keeping it chic and modern.
23. Voluminous Feathered Layers
Voluminous feathered layers are perfect for women who want to add height and body to their medium-length hair. The feathered layers create lift and movement, making the hair look fuller and more voluminous.
- Why it works: The feathered layers give the hair texture and volume, making it ideal for women with fine or thinning hair.
- Best for Women with fine or medium hair who want to add volume and movement.
Styling Feathered Layers
| Product | Benefit |
| Volumizing Mousse | Adds lift and keeps the layers voluminous all day long. |
Feathered layers are perfect for women who want to add volume and movement to their hair while keeping it light and playful.
24. Glossy Brunette Lob
A glossy brunette lob (long bob) is a sleek, polished hairstyle that exudes sophistication. The brunette color adds depth, while the lob length keeps it modern and chic.
- Why it works: The glossy finish gives the hair a polished, professional look, while the lob length is versatile and easy to style.
- Best for: Women with straight or slightly wavy hair who want a polished, professional look.
Tips for a Glossy Lob
| Product | Benefit |
| Shine Serum | Adds gloss and smoothness for that polished finish. |
A glossy brunette lob is perfect for women who want a sophisticated chic hairstyle that’s both modern and timeless.
25. Sun-kissed waves with Face-Framing Layers
For a more casual and relaxed look, sun-kissed waves with face-framing layers offer the perfect combination of texture and softness. The sun-kissed highlights add brightness, while the face-framing layers soften the features.
- Why it works: The highlights give the hair a natural, sun-kissed look, while the layers add movement and texture.
- Best for Women with naturally wavy or textured hair.
Tips for Sun-Kissed Waves
| Product | Benefit |
| Texturizing Spray | Adds grit and hold to create that tousled, undone look. |
Sun-kissed waves with face-framing layers are perfect for women who want a natural, effortless look.
26. Sleek Angled Bob with Highlights
The sleek angled bob with highlights is a modern, edgy hairstyle that adds dimension and sophistication to medium-length hair. The angled cut gives the bob its signature sharp look, while the highlights add depth and brightness.
- Why it works: The angled cut creates a sharp, polished look, while the highlights add brightness and dimension.
- Best for: Women with straight or slightly wavy hair who want a modern, edgy style.
Tips for an Angled Bob
| Technique | Effect |
| Angled Cut | Adds structure and dimension to the hair. |
A sleek angled bob with highlights is perfect for women who want a bold, modern hairstyle that still looks polished and professional.
27. Tousled Platinum Waves
Tousled platinum waves are the perfect combination of edgy and playful. The platinum color adds a bold, modern element, while the tousled waves give the style a casual, laid-back feel.
- Why it works: The platinum color is bold and eye-catching, while the tousled waves keep the look casual and relaxed.
- Best for: Women who want to experiment with bold colors while keeping the style playful and chic.
Maintaining Platinum Hair
| Challenge | Solution |
| Color Fading | Use purple shampoo to maintain the platinum tone. |
Tousled platinum waves are perfect for women who want to have fun with their hair while keeping it chic and modern.
28. Polished Lob with Face-Framing Layers
A polished lob (long bob) with face-framing layers offers a sophisticated and versatile look. This hairstyle is easy to maintain while providing a sleek, professional appearance. The face-framing layers add softness around the face, enhancing your natural features.
- Why it works: The lob length is flattering for many face shapes, while the face-framing layers soften the overall look, making it appear youthful.
- Best for Women with straight or slightly wavy hair who want a polished and modern style.
Tips for Maintaining a Polished Lob
| Product | Benefit |
| Heat Protectant | Keeps hair safe from styling tools and adds smoothness. |
| Blow-Dry Brush | Helps achieve a sleek, polished finish quickly. |
The polished lob is a go-to hairstyle for women over 40 who want a chic, low-maintenance yet polished look.
29. Voluminous Platinum Curls
For women with naturally curly hair, voluminous platinum curls are a bold and stunning option. Platinum curls not only make a statement but also add a modern twist to traditional curly hairstyles. The volume of the curls creates a lively, youthful look, while the platinum shade adds a cool, edgy vibe.
- Why it works: The platinum color makes the curls stand out, giving them a striking appearance that exudes confidence.
- Best for: Women with naturally curly hair who want a bold, attention-grabbing style.
Styling Tips for Platinum Curls
| Product | Benefit |
| Curl Defining Cream | Enhances curl shape and adds moisture. |
| Purple Shampoo | Keeps platinum tones bright and free of brassiness. |
With platinum curls, you can embrace your natural texture while adding a trendy, modern edge to your hairstyle.
30. Choppy Layers with Bangs
Choppy layers with bangs create a dynamic, textured hairstyle that’s perfect for women who want a playful yet sophisticated look. The choppy layers add volume and movement, while the bangs frame the face, giving the style a youthful appearance.
- Why it works: The choppy layers give the hair texture and depth, while the bangs soften the face and add a fun, modern touch.
- Best for: Women with fine or medium hair who want to add texture and movement.
Tips for Styling Choppy Layers
| Tool | Benefit |
| Texturizing Spray | Adds grit and volume to enhance the choppy layers. |
Choppy layers with bangs are perfect for women who want a low-maintenance yet chic and textured style that adds volume and depth to medium-length hair.
31. Classic Straight Bob with Bangs
A classic straight bob with bangs is a timeless hairstyle that never goes out of style. The straight bob is sleek, clean, and polished, while the bangs add a youthful touch. This style is perfect for women who want a simple yet elegant look.
- Why it works: The straight bob is easy to maintain and looks sophisticated, while the bangs add softness and a modern twist.
- Best for: Women with straight hair who want a clean, classic hairstyle.
Styling a Straight Bob
| Tool | Benefit |
| Flat Iron | Achieves a sleek, straight look with ease. |
| Shine Spray | Adds gloss and smoothness to the style. |
The classic straight bob with bangs is ideal for women who want a hairstyle that’s both polished and timeless.
32. Angled Bob
The angled bob is a trendy, modern hairstyle that adds structure and dimension to medium-length hair. This cut is shorter in the back and longer in the front, creating a sharp, polished look that’s perfect for women who want a bold, structured style.
- Why it works: The angled shape gives the bob a modern, edgy look, while the length in the front frames the face beautifully.
- Best for: Women with straight or wavy hair who want a structured, bold look.
Tips for Maintaining an Angled Bob
| Technique | Effect |
| Regular Trims | Keep the angled shape crisp and polished. |
The angled bob is perfect for women who want a sharp, structured hairstyle that makes a statement.
33. Feathered Shoulder-Length Layers
For a soft, feminine look, feathered shoulder-length layers offer volume and movement while maintaining a classic appearance. The feathering technique creates light, airy layers that flow naturally, adding texture without heaviness.
- Why it works: The feathered layers give the hair lift and bounce, making it ideal for women with fine or medium hair.
- Best for Women with fine or medium hair who want to add volume and lightness.
Tips for Feathered Layers
| Product | Benefit |
| Volumizing Spray | Adds lift at the roots for extra bounce. |
The feathered shoulder-length layers are a great choice for women seeking a lightweight, voluminous hairstyle.
34. Wavy Shag with Bangs
The wavy shag with bangs combines the playful, textured look of a shag cut with soft waves and face-framing bangs. This hairstyle is ideal for women who want a relaxed, bohemian vibe with plenty of volume and movement.
- Why it works: The shag cut adds texture and volume, while the waves soften the look, and the bangs frame the face for a youthful touch.
- Best for Women with naturally wavy or textured hair.
Styling a Wavy Shag
| Tool | Benefit |
| Curling Wand | Adds definition to waves while enhancing texture. |
The wavy shag with bangs is perfect for women who want a low-maintenance, tousled look with plenty of volume and texture.
35. Sun-kissed beach Waves with Side Part
For a laid-back, effortless style, sun-kissed beach waves with a side part are the way to go. The sun-kissed highlights add warmth and brightness, while the waves give the hair a relaxed, beachy vibe.
- Why it works: The waves add texture and movement, while the side part adds volume and creates a soft, flattering shape.
- Best for: Women with wavy or straight hair who want a casual, low-maintenance style.
Tips for Sun-Kissed Beach Waves
| Product | Benefit |
| Sea Salt Spray | Adds texture and enhances natural waves. |
Sun-kissed beach waves are ideal for women who want a casual, natural look with a touch of sun-kissed brightness.
36. Wispy Silver Layers
Wispy silver layers offer a light, airy look that enhances natural gray or silver hair. The wispy layers add softness and movement, giving the hair a youthful, playful appearance while embracing the natural color.
- Why it works: The wispy layers keep silver hair from looking flat or heavy, adding movement and texture.
- Best for Women with naturally gray or silver hair who want a light, soft hairstyle.
Tips for Styling Wispy Layers
| Product | Benefit |
| Lightweight Mousse | Adds lift and keeps the layers voluminous. |
Wispy silver layers are perfect for women who want to embrace their natural hair color while maintaining a light, youthful style.
37. Teal Blue Waves with Fringe
For a bold, playful look, teal blue waves with fringe offer a striking combination of color and texture. The teal shade adds a pop of vibrant color, while the waves give the hair movement and dimension. The fringe adds a playful, youthful touch.
- Why it works: The teal color makes a bold statement, while the waves and fringe keep the look fun and modern.
- Best for: Women who want to experiment with color while maintaining a chic, stylish cut.
Tips for Maintaining Teal Blue Hair
| Product | Benefit |
| Color-Protecting Shampoo | Helps maintain the vibrancy of the teal shade. |
Teal blue waves with fringe are perfect for women who want to experiment with bold, trendy colors while keeping their hairstyle playful and youthful.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer sleek bobs, voluminous waves, or bold, vibrant colors, medium-length hairstyles offer endless possibilities for women over 40. With the right cut, color, and styling techniques, you can enhance your natural beauty and create a look that’s both modern and youthful.
By incorporating layers, bangs, and face-framing elements, these hairstyles provide volume, movement, and texture to suit any hair type or personal style. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance option or a bold, fashion-forward statement, these 37 chic Medium-Length Hairstyles offer something for everyone.
