20 Chic Short Hairstyles for Women Over 40 to Refresh Your Look

Hey gorgeous! Ready to freshen up your look? We’ve got just the thing for you with these 20 chic short hairstyles tailored for women over 40. Whether you’re heading to a trendy brunch, a professional meeting, or a casual day out, these hairstyles are perfect for any occasion, versatile enough to suit your unique hair type and keep you sparkling with confidence.

1. Classic Bob

Step into an effortlessly chic look with a classic bob that transcends time and age. This elegant hairstyle isn’t just for the young—it’s a dazzling choice for women over 40 who want to combine sophistication and style in one fabulous cut.

Effortless Elegance

• Achieve that perfect bob by having your stylist cut it to just jaw length—long enough to frame your face but short enough for easy maintenance.
• Add a slight wave to your hair using a medium-sized curling iron, which adds volume and softens the overall look for a modern twist.
• Enhance shine and smoothness with a few drops of hair serum; this keeps the bob looking polished and frizz-free all day.

Quick and Chic Styling

• Turn your classic bob into trendy tousled waves by simply scrunching in some texture spray after a blow-dry.
• A side part is an easy way to switch up your look; it adds volume and can be done in under a minute with just a comb or your fingers.
• For a smooth, sleek finish, run a flat iron through your bob, but don’t forget to use a heat protectant spray to keep your hair healthy and damage-free.

Don’t shy away from trying new styles with your classic bob. Experimenting with different techniques can bring out the best in your hair and boost your confidence. Embrace the effortless elegance and let your hair do the talking.

2. Pixie Cut

Imagine waking up to a chic, textured pixie cut that radiates confidence and modern flair—perfect for women over 40 who want to make a bold statement. This edgy yet sophisticated look is sure to turn heads and become your signature style.

Transform Your Texture with Ease

• Apply a lightweight, texturizing spray to add grit and volume.
• Use a curling wand on a few strands to create a slightly tousled effect.
• Finish with a matte pomade for definition and hold.

Effortless Chic in Minutes

• Experiment with a deep side part to switch up your look.
• Tame flyaways with a small amount of styling cream.
• Accent your pixie with a stylish headband or hair clip for added flair.

Feel empowered to embrace your bold side with a pixie cut that’s as dynamic and confident as you are. Experiment, have fun, and let your hair reflect the fearless woman you’ve become.

3. Asymmetrical Bob

Embrace the chic sophistication of an asymmetrical bob, a hairstyle that boldly reinvents your look while radiating modern elegance. Imagine sleek, angled cuts that frame your face, rejuvenating your style with a fresh, contemporary edge. The asymmetrical bob not only highlights your features but also brings a youthful vibe to your everyday ensemble.

Sleek and Polished Techniques

• Use a flat iron to achieve a smooth, straight finish that accentuates the bob’s dynamic angles.
• Apply a light hold spray to maintain the sleek look while avoiding any stiffness.
• Incorporate a shine serum to enhance the hair’s natural luster, giving it a polished appearance.

Easy and Elegant Styling Hacks

• Tuck one side behind your ear for an effortless, asymmetrical flair that contrasts beautifully.
• Add subtle waves to the longer side with a curling wand to soften the look for a casual day out.
• For a quick transformation, use a volumizing mousse at the roots to give extra lift and movement.

Redefine your hairstyle with an asymmetrical bob that brings out your modern, confident self. It’s the perfect mix of edgy and stylish—explore these tips and let your hair make a statement.

4. Shaggy Lob

Step into a cozy reading nook, where soft waves and choppy layers combine to create the perfect relaxed shaggy lob. This hairstyle not only exudes effortless chic but also embraces the comfort and warmth of a timeless look, making it ideal for women over 40.

Volume and Movement Essentials

• Start by adding a texturizing spray to damp hair to enhance natural waves and create a soft, tousled effect.
• Use a large-barrel curling iron to loosely curl sections of your hair, ensuring the curls aren’t uniform to maintain that laid-back vibe.
• Run your fingers through the curls to break them up and add volume, avoiding a polished look for that perfect undone style.

Quick and Effortless Styling

• Dry shampoo can be a game-changer for adding texture and lift, especially on second-day hair.
• For a trendy touch, try using a bit of hair wax or pomade to define the shaggy layers and frame your face.
• Consider spritzing with a light-hold hairspray to keep the waves intact without making your hair stiff, ensuring flexibility and movement.

Embrace the ease and sophistication of the shaggy lob. With these tips, you’ll discover that great hair can be as comfortable and stylish as your favorite reading nook. Experiment, enjoy, and let your hair reflect your vibrant personality.

5. Textured Crop

For all the curly-haired women over 40, a playful textured crop can be your new go-to style for combining vibrancy with carefree elegance. Imagine stepping into a cozy living room with natural light highlighting your beautiful curls that frame your face effortlessly, making every day feel like your best hair day.

Vibrant Layers for Volume

• Ask your stylist for choppy layers to add dimension and bounce to your curls.
• Apply a lightweight mousse to damp hair and scrunch it upwards to enhance natural volume.
• Finish with a diffuser to maintain the texture without frizz, creating that coveted tousled look.

Easy To-Do Style Hacks

• Use a leave-in conditioner to keep your curls hydrated and soft.
• Embrace the day two look by spritzing a curl refresher spray to revive yesterday’s texture seamlessly.
• Accessories like colorful headbands or stylish clips can transform your look in a matter of seconds, adding personality and flair.

Your playful textured crop should feel as lively and fun as you are. Dare to experiment, love your curls, and feel fabulous every day, no matter your age!

6. Sleek A-Line Bob

Your sleek A-line bob can be the epitome of sophistication, effortlessly chic for any occasion. Embrace the elegance of this timeless cut with its flattering lengths and simple yet impactful style.

Mastering the Perfect A-Line

• Start with a precise trim every 6–8 weeks to maintain the sharp, angled look.
• Use a high-quality flat iron to achieve that flawless straight finish with a slight curve inward at the ends.
• Apply a shine serum to add that extra bit of gloss, enhancing the sleekness of your hair.

Effortless Sleek Hair in No Time

• Dry shampoo isn’t just for volume; use it to keep your bob looking fresh by adding texture and body.
• For an instant, polished look, tuck one side behind your ear and add a simple, elegant hairpin.
• Play with parting your hair in different places to add variety and revive your style effortlessly.

Now’s the time to reinvent your look. Embrace the A-line bob, and let your hair reflect your sophistication and confidence every day.

7. Curly Short Bob

Who says you can’t have fun with your hair after 40? A bouncy curly short bob can add a pop of playfulness and youthfulness, making every day feel special. Embrace your natural curls—they’re your secret to an effortless yet chic look.

Tame and Define Your Curls

• Use a curl-defining cream to enhance your natural texture without weighing it down.
• To minimize frizz, apply a leave-in conditioner on damp hair and scrunch using a microfiber towel.
• Refresh your curls with a light mist of water, followed by a quick touch-up with a curl-enhancing spray.

Quick Volume Boosts

• Flip your head upside down while diffusing to maximize lift at the roots.
• Try sleeping with a satin bonnet or pillowcase to maintain curl shape and reduce friction.
• Add root-lifting powder to key areas for instant volume and bounce.

Don’t be afraid to live dynamically and let your curls reflect your vibrant personality. With a few simple tweaks, your short bob can always look lively and full of life.

8. Choppy Pixie

Imagine yourself basking in the gentle glow of a sunlit room, where your chic choppy pixie cut instantly stands out as the epitome of modern sophistication. Tailored for women over 40, this edgy yet elegant style effortlessly enhances your natural beauty and radiates confidence

Revamp with Irresistible Texture

• Use a texturizing spray to emphasize and separate the uneven layers, giving your pixie cut a playful and dynamic look.
• Tease the crown lightly to add volume and depth, making fine hair appear fuller.
• For a creative twist, style the front layers slightly forward, framing your face with a trendy, fashionable edge.

Quick Styling Adjustments

• Opt for a matte styling paste for an easy, tousled finish that maintains all-day hold.
• Change up your look by tucking shorter pieces behind your ears, creating an effortlessly chic aesthetic.
• Experiment with hair accessories like thin metallic headbands for a touch of glamour without the fuss.

Embrace the versatility of the choppy pixie cut and let your hair become a canvas for your unique style. Each day is an opportunity to shine and redefine what it means to look and feel fabulous over 40!

9. Layered Lob

Soft layers and a chic lob cut—just the perfect way to embrace style and sophistication. The layered long bob (lob) is ideal for women over 40, providing a versatile look that flatters all hair types. It’s where timeless elegance meets modern flair, achieving that effortlessly polished aesthetic without the hassle.

Mastering the Layered Lob

• Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair to enhance body and lift.
• Blow-dry with a round brush, focusing on creating volume at the roots.
• Use a texturizing spray to separate layers and add a touch of movement.

Quick & Chic Lob Styling Hacks

• Create beachy waves with a flat iron for a laid-back yet stylish vibe.
• Sweep hair into a low, loose bun and secure with a hairpin for an elegant look.
• Add a delicate hair accessory, like a jeweled clip, to elevate your everyday style.

Your hair is your crowning glory, so let these easy, breezy lob styles inspire you to explore new looks—and embrace every day with confidence and style.

10. Soft Waves

Picture yourself with those effortlessly chic, soft waves that add just the right touch of femininity to your look. Your hair, styled to perfection, complements your cozy cashmere sweater, creating a scene straight out of a dreamy Pinterest board. Dive into this tutorial to achieve that romantic and gentle charm effortlessly.

Romantic Waves with a Curling Iron

• Use a 1-inch curling iron to wrap small sections of your hair, holding each curl for about 10 seconds.
• Alternate curling directions for a more natural, tousled effect.
• Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the waves soft yet defined all day.

Quick & Easy Wave Hacks

• Try the overnight braid method: simply braid damp hair before bed and unravel in the morning for effortless waves.
• For a trendy twist, combine sea salt spray with a diffuser. This combo enhances natural texture and adds volume.
• Add a touch of personalization with a side part or subtle highlights to make your waves truly unique.

Embrace the beauty of soft waves and let them become your go-to style. Experiment with these tips and discover how effortless and chic your everyday look can be!

11. Side-Swept Bob

Soft waves cascade effortlessly, framing your face with a natural glow. The side-swept bob, a timeless classic, exudes sophistication while adding a modern edge. Perfect for women over 40 wanting a chic, low-maintenance look that elevates their everyday style.

Frame Your Face with Elegance

• Start by blow-drying your hair smooth using a round brush to create volume and smoothness.
• For a slightly wavy texture, wrap sections of your hair around a curling wand, ensuring some strands start mid-length for a natural look.
• Tuck one side behind your ear and secure loosely with a bobby pin for an effortlessly refined style.

Quick & Easy Styling Hacks

• Use a lightweight hair serum to add shine and reduce frizz instantly without weighing your hair down.
• A gentle side part adds a touch of glam and can be achieved by using the end of a tail comb to section your hair.
• Incorporate a stylish barrette or clip to personalize your look, perfect for transitioning from day to night.

Dare to experiment with these elegant and effortless styles that enhance your natural beauty. Transform your everyday hair into a statement of confidence and grace.

12. Modern Mullet

13. Feathered Bob

Looking to add a youthful, chic twist to your hair? The textured feathered bob is perfect for women over 40, offering a carefree yet sophisticated vibe. With its soft, layered texture, it’s a versatile look that adds movement and frames the face beautifully, giving you a fresh, modern style.

Volume Boosting Techniques

• Blow-dry your hair upside down to lift the roots for added volume.
• Use a vented brush to gently tease the hair around the crown, giving it a natural, airy lift.
• Apply a light texturizing spray to the ends for a feathery, tousled effect that stays all day.

Quick & Easy Styling Hacks

• Twist small sections of hair with your fingers while blow-drying to create effortless waves.
• Use a wide-tooth comb to shape your bob after applying a leave-in conditioner, ensuring a smooth, polished finish.
• Add a hair clip or a soft headband for a quick, stylish update that keeps your hair looking fresh and put together.

Embrace the textured feathered bob and transform your everyday look with these simple, stylish techniques. Experiment, have fun, and let your hair reflect your vibrant personality!

14. Tousled Pixie

Craving a hairstyle that exudes effortless chic with a sprinkle of playfulness? The tousled pixie cut is your go-to for that relaxed, beachy vibe, perfect for women over 40. Imagine the freedom of wavy, carefree locks, playfully tousled and ready to turn heads, all while you lounge comfortably in your cozy yet sophisticated space.

Perfectly Tousled

• Use a texturizing spray on damp hair to enhance natural waves before air-drying or using a diffuser.
• Twist small sections of hair around your fingers while blow-drying to create soft, loose waves.
• Lightly tease the roots with a comb for added volume and a more carefree, relaxed look.

Quick & Flawless Transformation

• Apply a small amount of lightweight mousse to dry hair for instant texture without the crunch.
• Invest in a mini flat iron to effortlessly flip the ends for a casual, lived-in style.
• Add a touch of sea salt spray for that perfect beachy finish, even if you’re miles from the shore.

Embrace the tousled pixie and let your hair reflect your relaxed, youthful spirit. These tips make it easy to try something new and fabulous with minimal effort!

15. Short Shag Cut

Trend alert! The retro short shag cut is making a stunning comeback for women over 40. Think ’70s flair meets modern chic—perfect for adding a playful edge to any look.

Get That Textured, Luscious Look

• Start with damp hair and apply a lightweight mousse for added volume.
• Blow-dry using a diffuser to enhance the natural layers and texture.
• Finish with a texturizing spray to lock in the movement and playfulness of this timeless cut.

Quick Shag Styling Hacks

• Use a sea salt spray for effortless beachy waves without the heat.
• Accessorize with a trendy headband or silk scarf to elevate your retro style instantly.
• Embrace your natural hair texture—this cut looks fabulous whether straight, wavy, or curly.

Embrace your inner free spirit and rock that retro shag with confidence. Fresh, funky, and utterly stylish—transform your everyday hair into something extraordinary!

16. Blunt Bob

Embrace the chic and timeless appeal of the blunt bob—it’s more than just a haircut; it’s a statement of sophistication and confidence. Perfectly straight and wonderfully polished, this style frames your face with precision, giving you a modern and elegant look. In a cozy setting with warm lighting, your haircut becomes the centerpiece of effortless beauty.

Perfecting the Sleek Look

• Use a flat iron to achieve a crisp, straight finish. Apply a heat protectant spray first to keep your hair healthy and shiny.
• For added sleekness, run a bit of serum through the ends to tame any flyaways and increase shine.
• Trim regularly to maintain that sharp, clean edge which is the hallmark of a perfect blunt bob.

Quick Styling Enhancements

• Incorporate a middle part for a classic look that suits any occasion, from business meetings to dinner dates.
• On busy mornings, a quick blow-dry using a round brush can add volume and polish in just minutes.
• Personalize your blunt bob with subtle highlights or lowlights to add dimension and a touch of flair.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with your blunt bob—each tweak can refresh your style and keep you looking effortlessly chic. Embrace this timeless hairstyle and let your confidence shine through every day.

17. Angled Bob

Ready to embrace a chic and modern style that can elevate your look no matter the occasion? The angled bob is a perfect choice for women over 40 who want to showcase elegance and sophistication. This versatile haircut can be easily adapted to suit your unique hair type and daily routine.

Effortless Elegance with Minimal Effort

• Maintain your bob’s sleek look by using a straightening serum and a flat iron to smooth any frizz or flyaways.
• For a touch of natural wave, twist damp hair into loose buns overnight and wake up to soft, effortless curls.
• Accessorize with simple hairpins or a stylish headband for a quick yet sophisticated touch.

Quick and Classy Styling Tips

• Try a side part to add volume and movement to your angled bob without extra styling time.
• During the colder seasons, protect your hair with a light leave-in conditioner to keep it looking sleek under scarves and hats.
• Adjust the length of your bob to suit your face shape—longer in the front for a flattering frame, shorter for a more playful look.

Experimenting with a modern angled bob doesn’t need to be daunting. With these easy and stylish tips, you can confidently rock this look and feel fabulous every day.

18. Cropped Curls

Discover the joy of youthful, playful bounces with cropped curls that bring out your natural texture. This fun and energetic look celebrates your unique style and adds a lively touch to your everyday appearance. Ideal for any sophisticated setting, your hair will create a captivating impact in any room.

Rock Those Natural Curls

• Apply a curl-enhancing mousse to damp hair for defined, bouncy curls.
• Diffuse-dry your hair with a blow dryer to maintain volume and shape.
• Scrunch your curls with a light-hold spray to set your style without stiffness.

Quick & Easy Curl Refresh

• Use a water spray bottle to lightly mist your hair before reshaping curls with your fingers.
• Sleep with a silk scarf to preserve curl definition and reduce frizz.
• Mix a leave-in conditioner with water for a quick curl revitalizer on the go.

Embrace your natural curls and let your playful spirit shine through. With just a few simple steps, your cropped curls can always look vibrant and fresh, making you feel confident and fabulous every day!

19. Long Pixie

Nestled in your favorite reading nook, a long pixie cut takes center stage. This stylish twist on the classic pixie cut brings elegance and versatility to fine hair, perfect for when you want to embrace a softer, feminine look without sacrificing sophistication.

Voluminous Layers for Extra Dimension

• Add mousse to damp hair before blow-drying with a round brush for added volume.
• Create light waves with a curling iron to enhance texture and make the layers pop.
• Finish with a light mist of texturizing spray for a touch of effortless chic.

Quick Styling Hacks for Busy Mornings

• Use a flat iron to quickly smooth any unruly sections, perfect for a polished look on the go.
• Accessorize with a stylish headband or clips to personalize your pixie and add flair.
• Opt for a side part to give your hairstyle an instant lift and modern edge.

Embrace the versatility and charm of a long pixie cut, letting your personal style shine through. Experiment with these tips and discover how easy it is to achieve an elegant, effortless look every day.

20. Undercut Bob

Imagine a hairstyle that says chic and bold all at once; that’s the magic of an undercut bob. It’s the hidden, shaven section that gives this polished look an unexpected twist, perfect for women over 40 who love to stand out with sophistication. The undercut bob embodies modern elegance, paired flawlessly with a soft gray ensemble and a serene living room backdrop.

Undercut Bob Styling Essentials

• Start with damp hair and apply a heat protectant spray to prevent any damage.
• Use flat iron to straighten the remaining sections, achieving that polished, sleek finish.
• Tame frizz with a smooth serum for a refined touch that highlights the edgy undercut.

Quick & Chic Hair Hacks

• For a simple, stylish look, gather the top section of your hair into a mini bun, letting the undercut peek through.
• Experiment with hair chalks to add a splash of temporary color to the shaved part for a fun twist.
• Amp up the texture by using a sea salt spray on the rest of your bob; it’s effortless and adds volume.

Get ready to embrace the boldness of the undercut bob. With these tips, you’ll find it’s simple to inject some edge into your elegance, making every day a new opportunity for a fresh, confident style.

So there you have it, fabulous! These short hairstyles prove that turning 40 is just the beginning of your chicest years yet. We hope you’re feeling inspired to try out these beautiful styles and revamp your look. Explore more stunning hairstyle ideas and beauty tips right here on Shadsy. Save this pin for later and share it with friends who love trying new looks! Follow Shadsy on social media for more tips, trends, and inspiration.