Long locks have gained popularity among Hollywood’s silver-haired leading ladies, including Meryl Streep, Andie MacDowell, and Diane Keaton. Despite the age-old belief that it’s best to go for the chop in later years, celebrity hairstylist Jason Collier has debunked this myth. He emphasizes that long hair can be chic, elegant, and youthful at any age, with the right style and care.
Collier, a hair expert and brand educator for Jerome Russell Bblonde, addresses the common misconception that long hair in middle age can be aging, leading many women to feel pressured to cut their tresses. He firmly states, “However, this is just not necessary. Flowing locks can look chic, elegant and youthful at any age, it’s all down to the cut.”
He highlights that long hair can be flattering for a wide range of ages, particularly those with medium or thick locks. The key is to experiment with layers to add volume and movement. He advises, “To achieve the best look, request plenty of layers when you visit your stylist; they add volume, especially around the face, creating a softness and movement that is incredibly flattering.”
Collier warns against a super straight, one-length cut, which can appear harsh and potentially aging. Texture is another important factor to consider, especially for mature women who may experience hormonal changes during and after menopause. These changes can lead to weakened hair, making it more prone to breakage and splitting.
He emphasizes that long hair can be maintained well into one’s 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond. However, it requires extra TLC. “Absolutely keep your long hair into your 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond, but do keep in mind that it will need a little extra TLC. You will need extra products to care for your tresses and may need to take an extra 10 minutes for styling,” he says.
To create the illusion of thick and luscious locks, Collier suggests several styles for mature women, including mermaid waves, bouncy blow-dries, and relaxed updos.
He describes mermaid waves as having a uniform S-shape movement that adds beautiful movement to long hair. Bouncy blow-dries create a soft, smooth, shiny shape that “exudes youthfulness.” For those who prefer to wear their hair scraped back, he suggests swapping sleek styles for more relaxed ones, like messy updos. He explains, “For an easy, everyday look, try a messy updo. Add texture to your hair with a flat iron, pop it up in a loose ponytail in the middle of your head, and make sure to leave face-framing pieces as these create the illusion of lifted cheekbones.”
Women who prefer to style their hair with a fringe can opt for a statement style, like a block or curtain fringe, which accentuates the cheekbones and hides fine lines on the forehead. “Opt for wispy bangs reaching your eyebrows or soft side waves,” he advises.
Collier’s expert advice emphasizes that long hair can be a stylish and flattering choice for women of all ages. With the right cut, texture, and styling techniques, women over 50 can rock their long locks with confidence and grace.
