After close to 10 years of long hair I am suddenly tempted by short.
Why? I find that more and more often (as in almost always) I default to a braid down my back. And it appears that, absent hair to fluff or float around my face, all I can see is lines and wrinkles. I don’t want to be defined by the crevasse between my eyebrows.
So I went to Pinterest and searched for short haircuts and the third photo up sent me to a piece called, in the language of 2018, 100 Mind-Blowing Short Hairstyles for Fine Hair.
That was easy. I mean, I don’t really need my mind blown but in this era of hyperbole that’s probably the level of impact I’d be looking for.
For example. Style #15 of the 100.
Not that I’d walk around with my hair in my face, too many years of my mother’s training for that, but, you know, as a direction.
Or even a little shorter, as per Style #12.
What do I aspire to?
- An edge, but warm
- Balancing masculine structure with feminine volume and tendrils
- I’ll blow dry and use product once or twice a week, but this needs to be wearable even on the days when I cannot be bothered (my current regime may need more oomph, although I do like my straightener)
- I don’t want to travel to San Francisco, I need to rely on a hair stylist in my suburb
Oh, and I still want to avoid coloring. I think I have enough of a silver/white stripe that my hair might look something like this – all of its own accord. Never too late to be a punk rock star.
I haven’t even looked at Styles 20-100 yet. Weekend reading.
Finally, in case you wonder if I’ve forgotten something, yes, I know there’s an election on Tuesday but I cannot imagine that anyone needs a) a reminder of my political leanings or b) a reminder to please vote.
So I’ll just wish you all a wonderful weekend. I look forward to hearing your opinions on Haircuts For A 62-Year Old Woman Who Is Not Prepared To Surrender Modernity, Just Yet.
All the best to you and yours.
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115 Responses
I will be most interested in what you decide. I have fine hair too, but haven’t had short hair since the fifth grade (and that was not by choice!)
It appears you want to go really short instead of just chin length?
I always worry that fine hair (like mine) will just go very flat if a lot of styling is not done.
@Susan D., Chin length never worked on me, my hair pokes out in too many different directions. Short short used to work. And yes, I’ll have to style it but as long as I can do that once after washing, and subsequently tuck a long front piece behind my ears, maybe with some gel, I THINK I can pull it off.
I really need to go in for a consultation I think, precisely because of that fine hair thing. I have a fair amount of hair, but it is fine and slippery.
Ironic that I comment so rarely, and of all your thoughtful posts, it should be one related to hair that brings me here! Ah well – hair. I’m 47, and have frizzy/fuzzy/curly/coarse hair. So, sadly, not much to offer in the way of ideas or images. But, I too, am thinking of a chop – and you describe what I’m looking for so beautifully! Edgy, tough – but still feminine. Is that possible? (Metaphors abound when we talk about hair, right?) Thank you for your beautiful and thoughtful words. I look forward to these posts every week.
@Sarah Chepkirui, Thank you for the kind words. Much appreciated.
I think women’s hair, in its own way, is worthy of full-on academy research and commentary, so, perfectly fitting to chime in for this:).
I’m sorry,I can’t help-I find your hair beautiful and after a couple of mistakes,I’ll never go to short hair again myself. Too many work to do every day for anything shorter than a bob.
Maybe you could play with (I have never discussed haircuts in english with so many details-so,I fail with terminology :-)) some kind of undercut and a little bit shorter hair than you have now,a little asymmetry….
Have a nice weekend anyway!
Dottoressa
@dottoressa, My memories of my two short haircuts and the year(s) thereafter was that they were easily managed – when the cut was good. I think it suited my hair? My problem with in-between lengths is that I have never found one that worked. I am wondering if bangs would get me what I’m looking for, but, I have a vague memory that bangs look terrible on me. Ha! Thanks for the input!
I think you’d look great with short hair, taking the style more trendy or even edgy. You can pull it off. The question becomes, is it easier to deal with or will it be more work? I grew my short hair out two years ago because I was tired of the style I’d had for about 15 years but was finding longer hair harder to manage, until I found the spin-brush.
Oh Lisa, please consider carefully. All older women have short hair, and I am hoping to resist as long as possible. I understand why they do it – because we are too hot all the time! But I remember my grandmother who, throughout my entire childhood had long, lovely hair swirled into a very chic french twist, saying “I never felt pretty again after cutting my hair” Resist ♡
@Jacqueline,
Agreed!
@Jacqueline, I’ve had short hair since the early 90’s, and I don’t do it because I’m hot (I mean, hot-flash-hot). I never even heard anyone say that, among my friends. If I knew how to style a French braid or even a bun, I’d have long hair, but I’m clueless, so I love the ease of short hair. But I guess it depends on your hair. Mine used to be thick, so I didn’t have the patience to blow dry it until it was dry, but it’s thinner now, so that’s no longer an issue. It only has a slight wave, so it doesn’t need much fussing, if you find a good stylist. It took me a while to find a good stylist (I think it’s MUCH harder to style short hair than long),
However, I’m having some of the same issues as LIsa, as to not wanting to look drab, but stylish with an edge – but it’s about whether I should let my gray grow out. We’ll see. . .
@Jacqueline, I am not hot! Except under a quilt:). I think of short hair as edgier than what I am doing now. If I could stand to leave me hair down I’d like it. But I keep putting it into a braid because Sturdy;).
OK, your hair would be GREAT in this style. Moreover, I just switched hairdressers for the first time in 15 years (I’m very monogamous) because I can no longer justify spending 300 bucks every 11 weeks since the 800K renovation. And my new hairdresser (she’s, like, 25 and 125 bucks more affordable) is freakin’ awesome. Change can be very good. For so many reasons.
@K-Line, To clarify – that includes colour! (Don’t want you to think I’m a mad spender on haircut alone!)
@K-Line, After these really supportive comments, I am now convinced I need to find a local stylist as a first step. And yes, change can be good and I know I am going to need to pay more than I have been.
Luckily gray hair is cheap;).
I have fine hair, am 63 and wear it just below shoulder length with choppy piecey bangs. I let my trusted stylist update the details of the cut as she sees fit as I would keep it exactly as it was in my favorite picture of myself from about 15 years ago but that’s just not smart. The length varies, sometimes it is just at my shoulders, most often just below or a bit longer. It is not edgy at all, but current. I always wore my hair long, back in the day I got a Dorothy Hamill cut and eek! hated short hair and have never had it short again. I admit I have styling challenges and am never quite satisfied. I do get regular highlights and will say that color does improve the texture and manageability. I LOVE your hair and if I had it, I’d keep it as is. But I do like your stock exchange ID photo hair, what about a current edgy version of that as a baby step?
@MarlaD, My single biggest issue is that any baby step I’ve ever taken in the past has been disappointing. I’ve gotten my best results from a) super long b) below collar bone and straightening c) above my cheekbones. I fear it’s all or nothing!
The styles you show are great, and I know what you mean about pulling back your hair meaning that all you see are lines and wrinkles. I toyed with the idea of short hair but my face is too long for it to be flattering. A bob – longer than chin length but not so long that it drags my face down – seems best for my white hair, and I get lots of compliments on it, so apparently it is flattering. My hair is not particularly fine, however, so YMMV.
@MJ, I think bobs work for a lot of people – I am sure yours looks great. Because I am so WASPy-looking, it’s really hard for me to do a bob and not immediately look like someone I am not:).
Why not consider a scaled or slow approach? What if you find that your hair does not behave well with a shorter cut, or that you feel some aspect of your identity has been lost to you or others? It could take a long time to find your way back to a comfort zone…speaking from experience…a little at a time until you know what is best for you. I know, now, that I shall, as long as possible, attempt to wear a longer length of hair…it is my best length for comfort and freedom of expression. On the other hand, you may discover that going short opens up a wonderful, wild new you…and, by going the slow way, you can really get into your observations and insights and….and share all of that with us for our edification.
One last thought, you’ll remain beautiful regardless of hair style or length…but, some things … whatever they may be… do make it easier for us to launch our days more easily.
@Saeh, Thank you. This is all reminding me of how much I have, in the past, loved a dramatic shift:).
Noooooooooooooo to chopping. As a lazy sturdy gal a braid or ponytail is so convenient. BTW, I’m 69. Still wondering how that happened. You have lovely hair and can get away with length. I’m sure whatever you de, it will look wonderful.
Happy weekend.
@MaryAnne, Ha! Well thank you. If I had wavier hair, coarser, so that the braid would leave me with the proverbial “volume at the crown,” I’d not be so so tempted. It’s pinhead that bugs me…
We may have the same kind of hair—quite a bit of it and fine. I’ll be watching with interest. I have done the chin length bob. My hair does tend to flip up–which never bothered me, but then again, I’ve never had stylish hair.
@Susan D., I’ll report back! There were so many comments here it’s taking me a very long time to reply but I’m determined to get to everything.
Agreed.
@Drew,
oops, this posted to the wrong reply. sorry.
I imagine that there are hair stylists of skill within your community. Ask around at your gym and see who they recommend. If someone’s hair looks decent at the gym, they’re a good bet.
@RoseAG, Ha! Good idea! In my case I’d have to ask at the yoga studio but point well-taken.
Well….we must see photos of your haircut should you decide on a new style. I love the longer length in front of the style in the photo – I have done that and end up using clips to keep it out of my face constantly. Just remember, it doesn’t take brains to grow hair! If it doesn’t work for you, time will help. Good luck.
@Elaine, It doesn’t take brains to grow hair. Hahahahahahah!
Lisa, I wish I had an answer for you. I love Pinterest and sometimes save photos of women our age whom I find attractive and bare some vague resemblance to me. Most of them have long hair.
I also tie my hair back in a ponytail which used to be a braid. (My hair has thinned out and the braid doesn’t quite work.)
I have never liked choppy hairstyles as I think they make me look conventional and like I’m trying too hard.
I could agree with readers who advise to do this gradually. What would happen if you started with a conditioning and trim? How have you felt with short hair in the past?
Whatever you decide actually will grow out.
Luci
@luci, In the past I have loved how I look with very short hair. It is an effort, however. So this is in some ways an investment decision – am I annoyed enough with how I look with my hair in a braid to invest in the work of a short cut? I don’t know!
Well, a haircut is pretty exciting. I had very short hair and needed longer hair. You’ll look great in what ever you choose. Straightening my hair has made such a difference . So has an excellent stylist. Can’t wait to see what you do.
I’ve also discovered i cannot leave the house without makeup. Then again I’m older than you.I need all the help I can get.
@Sandra Sallin- Apart From My Art, It is exciting!
I love your attitude towards life and beauty.
If you’ve never coloured, consider donating your hair to wigs for cancer survivors. Perhaps it doesn’t even need to be totally natural any more if your hair is healthy.
A talk with a trusted stylist will help with your decision.
@Julie Anne, Yes, takeaway is that I first need to find a stylist down here I can believe in. And if anyone who needs a wig would like gray hair, I’m glad to donate.
Please, please keep it long. It’s easy to cut and hard to grow. Your hair is beautiful and I fear you’ll miss it if you let it go. I enjoy seeing you with your youthful abundant hair. I’m 61 and my hair has always been fine. I keep it as long as i can which is nowhere near as long as yours. My hair barely clears my chin, but it softens my face and I enjoy the feeling of hair……..Having said all that I hope you enjoy whatever you decide.
@DaphneJonquil, Oh thank you:). I have had it chopped before – when I was 22, and again at 44, so maybe it’s just my bi-decade urge?
Go for it! It’s only hair and will grow out. It sounds like you’ve had short hair in the past, so you know what your hair is like when short. I wish I had more hair (as you describe that you do) – mine is fine, but I don’t have a lot of it, so it tends to be stringy, if you will, if too long. I keep it in varying lengths of short – sometimes real short, sometimes longer.
@Jeannine, Thanks for the encouragement:). Next step, fid a stylist on the Peninsula. I’ve gotten a couple of useful recommendations, will be researching!
Why not go and try some wigs on? You can see how it might look. This is what Jane Seymour recommended in that volume Jane Seymour’s Guide to Romantic Living back in 1980s – seems quite sane. And, if you can get hold of a copy of that book, give it a read. Quite something. I am going shorter and shorter and I like it. It very much depends on how your hair behaves. But even if you make a mistake, it will grow back. Or you could wear a wig….
@Annie Green, Oh my gosh trying on a wig seems more adventurous than a haircut! I wonder why…
Love your hair long, Lisa. I remember a couple of years ago when you cut quite a bit off, and I loved that too. But I also think you would look fierce with short hair. And I mean an edgy short cut, not a chin length bob. That looks great on some women, but I’d be brave and go for something really cool. You can totally pull off short hair. Find a cut that just looks like “Lisa.”
Of course I must confess to being an avowed short hair person most of my life. Grew it out a few time, to shoulder length, then a few years later I wore a bob, and chopped it after three years as too labour intensive. My current cut makes me feel like me.
@Sue Burpee, I couldn’t have said it better myself.
@Sue Burpee, I couldn’t have said it better either.
Also you look so great in your MeCut:).
I suggest getting long bangs first before going full-on short. I know a woman your age who wears them with a side braid and it looks great (she is a stylish dresser which helps, as well as likes wearing earrings). With that hairsyle, the wrinkles are not the first thing one notices.
@Alice, I haven’t had bangs in decades. I had them as a little girl, and really not since. I will absolutely ask the hair stylist what she thinks.
Love your hair long. I think your beautiful, long hair sets you apart.
@Karen Johnson, Thanks. I would like it more if I had a hair person to follow me around with a curling iron and hairspray. Ha! But thank you.
Nine years ago, I cut my hair short because I was just so tired of looking the same for so long. I was turning 58 at the time, but my decision had NOTHING to do with age. I despise the stupid adage that getting one’s long hair cut off is some sort of a surrender to old age. How ridiculous, and ageist. My short styles through the years were, as you so nicely put it, Lisa, edgy but warm. I loved it and never regretted cutting my hair. Over the past year, I’ve grown it out into a short bob with bangs. That’s ok, too. I’d say, if you have the urge, do it. Experimentation is fun.
So well put. I have had short hair for a very long time – and I have also grown it out to a chin length bob. I just look so much better in short hair. I too am tired if reading that cutting one’s hair is a surrender to old age. I think it is quite the contrary. Shorter hair can look younger and edgy. And it is still feminine. I feel feminine. Thank you for letting me rant a bit.
(And I love seeing mature women in long grey hair as well – I wish I could pull it off!)
@Linda Green, Given that my long hair is in a braid 98% of the time, I don’t feel like cutting it would be a concession to age. I want to look edgy and feminine. I was thinking that I’ll need to start were more girly clothes if I do this, to keep the gender balance right where I like it.
So, if you want a face frame…
My hair does this thing naturally where, if it’s been pulled back and then you brush your hand lightly over it perpendicularly to the direction the hair is pulled back (so, from the top of the head down past the ear if hair is pulled back in a back-of-the-head bun), a bunch of the newer, 5-8″ hairs sort of float out and can then be put in front of the ears or tucked just behind the ears. (alternatively to doing this deliberately, one can be in a strong wind in Chicago or expose one’s hair to a damp sea breeze or light snow flurries and then all those bits will pop out of the constraints of being brushed back and can be arranged as desired, sort of, except that the humidity makes them curl madly and auugh.)
Usually by the end of the day my hair is doing this anyway, and I do not know if it is a feature of only my weird hair or if it’s something everyone can do. It’s also possible to sort of pull those parts forward after separating them from the long hair and then re-brush the rest of the hair back into its confines for a smoother rest-of-head, although that’s not usually necessary for me unless humidity is a Thing.
I don’t know if everyone’s hair would do this, if gently prompted, but I suspect that a layered cut could be done to *make* it happen if your hair doesn’t do it naturally – then you could still ponytail 98% of your hair and tuck the shorter front bits behind ears for Practical situations (or bobby-pin them down for Desperately Practical situations) and leave them to float around your face otherwise.
That said: it is not an edgy or remotely masculine look, so there is that. But it is low-maintenance (I’m all about low-maintenance, I’m afraid) and would potentially be an option to see how you deal with hair-around-your-face without committing to a very short cut immediately.
But do what you want to and have a fabulous time of it! :-)
@KC, My hair doesn’t generate enough stray to look anything but fuzzy:). But bangs and a braid might work…
I love your long silver hair, Lisa.
@Mary Q, Thank you. I feel that in some ways I am just not up to supporting it as it deserves!
I cut my hair fairly short for my 65th birthday, after having long hair for a few years. Long hair for me is just too much maintenance. I then started the process of letting my hair go to its natural color, which is gray but I’m calling it silver. Recently went to a pixie cut. I love it, my husband loves it (what else matters.) i go to a salon with amazing young stylists and they keep it looking modern, not “granny.” If I get tired of my current style/color, I know I can work with my stylist to grow it out and can always color again. I love the photos you posted, and think you’d look great with short hair. But you might want to make incremental changes to try it out. Even a few inches off can feel so fresh, but still allow for it to be pulled back etc. Have fun with it!
@Margaret, Thanks for the inspiration! My hair is kind of light brown with a LOT of white but I’m going to call it silver too!
Regular reader, first comment. Did we just meet at TJ’s card rack? You found a card that you shared with me and I happily received. If so, my long hair was pulled tightly back waiting to be cut. If, indeed, that was you, you looked lovely to me with you hair falling free.
@nan, It wasn’t me but I wish it had been! And I am quite clear I have a doppelgänger somewhere, I would love to meet her too.
I recall when I was turning 40 and I asked myself, “Am I too old for long hair?” I went through this again at 50, and then at 60. I decided that if it’s ok for Stevie Nicks, Cher, Barbra Streisand, Emmylou Harris (I could go on) – it’s ok for me!
I have a suggestion for you – ask your stylist for sideswept bangs and long layers. This will make all the difference without making a dramatic change. If you still want short hair – as others have mentioned – you can keep cutting from there. Good luck with the transition.
@audrie, Layers never work for me, the wave in my hair is both indistinct and stubborn. But I’m really warming to the idea of bangs. Kind of Joni Mitchell-eque.
I love these haircuts that you show here. I am all about low maintenance when it comes to hair. For years now, I have had a bob (I think that’s how you describe chin-length) and used to blow-dry after each shampoo. About a year and a half ago, I had heart surgery and was not allowed to raise my arms above my head while my sternum was healing. As a result, no blow-drying. I found that incredibly freeing – “so that’s what it is like for men who just shower and go!” I thought. Since then, I have gotten a haircut that looks great when I want a blow-dry but also looks fine without it. So, I say go ahead and try a change. After all, it’s only hair and will grow back if you don’t like it but, with a great cut, I am sure you will love it. BTW, I am 69.
@Jane, I am so glad your heart surgery is over and was successful! And that’s the Holy Grail – looks good when fluffed, and straight out of the shower to the garden too;).
Loyal reader but non-commenter here. Yes to change! Do it! I’ve mostly (ignoring the experimental 80’s perm…) had a very pretty, straight, ends-curved-under-with-a-curling-iron bob of varying lengths since high school. My daughter’s recent wedding and the thought of all those photos made me take a hard look at my 68-year-old face framed by long, severe vertical sides of hair. Had it cut much shorter, with layers (life changing!), slightly asymmetrical, slightly whimsical if that’s possible -and it is SO much more flattering. Not to mention I now have the fun of playing with round brushes, mousse, spray, and all the other accoutrements I never needed and couldn’t be bothered with when I was working.
And remember, worst case scenario: hair grows. Whatever you do is not permanent.
@Patricia L, I love the light-heartedness of your approach. And that you find the accoutrements fun. I feel that I might also find them fun, as long as they were optional…
I wish I could upload a picture here. I love your hair long, and I’m quite sure I’d love it short too. The top style is my favorite.
I love Francoise Hardy’s silver hair style. She looks so feminine, and it frames her bone structure so well. I know what you mean about the all hair pulled back and only seeing lines feeling. xo
@KSL, She looks amazing. Also I wish I could sing like her;).
Hi Lisa, what’s really going on? EVERY TIME I’ve cut my hair short (& I cut my own so whacking it off is ultra convenient) it was a subliminal reaction to severe stress in my life. Like when my parents passed away, and when I finally underwent bilateral hip replacements_I’m 59 BTW. Your mane, like mine, is a crown; it’s missed when it’s gone, for many reasons. My long-haired friends agree, on wicked days, there’s nothing simpler than that braid, or other tie-back strategies. And when the hair returns to swooshable length, I swear another phase of life begins, always positive. So, cut if you will; it’s been my experience that cutting one’s hair is so much more than sporting new ‘do. (The shorties you bookmarked are very pretty, and they point to a different priority. After all these years, do you want to be tethered to ‘products’ & a stylist?)
@Tamsin, Good point. My mom has further declined, it’s been stressful.
I cut my hair when I was 21 and moved to London, again when I was 40+ and moving up rapidly in my career. Now, a move? I don’t know.
Maybe just bangs first.
I have had great luck with Zoe at CODE salon in SF; I know you said you didn’t want to travel, but she is phenomenal. Took me from long dyed brown hair to awesome short and silver. I’ve never gotten so many compliments on my hair. She does NY fashion week to give you an idea of her skill level.
I think Kristy at Spoke and Weal on california in Palo Alto is very good for local. Juut in University has some experienced people too.
I would say go for it! Change is fun and enlivening. Think Tilda Swindon and go for fierce and edgy.
@Hadilly, Thanks for the recommendations! I had a great SF stylist – but I will go for a consult at Spoke and Weal. Totally want fierce and edgy but also a little girly. Never settle:).
Part of the challenge of a haircut is, does it fit with the rest of you? You have the body type that will allow short to be clean and edgy, if you want to go that way, because you’re so lean.
But the important question, which only you and your stylish can answer, is how your hair will behave once it is short and freed of its weight, and whether getting it will be as low-maintenance as you hope to get it into the style you want.
I like the idea of layers and a long bang as an interim stage for evaluation.
@maryn, Long bangs for evaluation – strong possibility. And I absolutely need to talk to a couple of local stylists, thankfully I’ve got two good recommendations in these comments.
I’m of the belief that with hair – why not? It will grow back. I will say that you might want to venture north though – you could say have it cut expertly the first time and maybe every 6 months and do in between cuts locally? Just a thought. I love bagandberet and have been tempted to go shorter by her wild hair – which I love. And yes, voting. And have my plus one (did you report on that? Someone did – make sure you bring a friend who has not reliably voted)…
@Jb, Wasn’t me with the plus one idea but I love it. And I agree, I have every hope that my hair would grow back.
The Vintage Contessa interviewed a woman a few weeks ago with similar style hair. I think her name was Helen. Changing hairstyle big step but it sounds like you’re ready.
I think you’d look great.
@BarbG, I’ll go take a look. Thank you!
I’m 74 and have the bi-level style #12, which I love! Wash and wear – use only one product, Living Proof Dry Volume Blast. I love short, edgy cuts on older women and I think you’d look spectacular. I also like a faintly masculine style of dressing which I believe you appreciate.
I’m not a fan of bobs, especially the “Buster Brown” variety – find them unflattering on my age group.
Go short – it will be your most stunning look.
@Lynn McClain, Thanks for the vote of confidence! And also the product recommendation. If I wear a bob I look SO INCREDIBLY PREPPY that I mislead the world;).
Lisa, I love your long feminine hair with menswear inspired clothing. I would go for a couple consultations with stylist before doing anything drastic. You may love it at first but keeping an edgy cut requires frequent trims… just something to consider if you are looking for low maintenance.
Don’t do it. You’ll regret it. Every day. Ant it takes forever to grow back. It’s like watching paint dry.
Fun to think about this rather than politics! Given your clean features and thick hair I think you’ll be fine whichever way you go.
Side note: My New England father married a real Texas beauty after my mother died. In her 70s’ and 80’s she still looked great. She advised going to an excellent make up artist every year or two because she noted women tend to focus on what has changed for the worse in our own faces. The artist will look at you fresh and highlight your current good points, (and not mourn your once strong jawline or whatever ). I’m not much for makeup and was never a “beauty” as she was, but still that has been helpful advice. A consultation (which I would never have done) every few years boosts my confidence and helps avoid that frozen in time style.
Any stylist with Sassoon training should be able to create/maintain those styles. I have found that the shorter you go the more full-bodied superfine, super straight hair appears.
That hairstyle is super-cute! I can’t speak for the fine of hair – I have a bit of a wavy salt and pepper Brillo pad to contend with that prevents me from wearing anything too short without a lot of flatiron interventions, but for what it’s worth, that second cropped style is awesome.
The shorter cuts look edgy and stylish. But…A friend did a short angled cut and she felt it did not frame her face and it made her look a bit severe.
She had fine hair but lots of it. Eventually she went back to shoulder length hair that she could put up or leave down. She could straighten or add curl as she pleased. These styling options framed her face and suited her well They also offered a few options. I would consider all the factors before cutting short. On the upside if you cut short,,,it always grows back.
Lisa, honestly you would look stunning with a short, edgy cut, or with layers and long bangs swept to the side. I think it will take years off and you will feel more youthful. Trust your I instinct or intuition. You have been thinking about a haircut for sometime now, and I think most of your followers are discouraging you. Women get too attached to long hair that they have worn “forever”. Find a good stylist by interviewing them. I’m 68 and have worn short and long styles. I love my short hairstyle and my stylist thinks it makes me look younger than my peers.
Your hair is gorgeous the way it is, but I understand your desire for change. I do love the last style pictured in your post, and with your amazing bones, you would certainly look great in short hair.
I like your hair and think that updo’s are always elegant, especially as we get older. Anyway, having to wash and style a short cut can take time you may not want to spend in the morning. I’d say get a chin length layer that you could pin back or pull out to frame your face or try a half bang. You are probably the only one noticing lines and wrinkles so consider trying new lip stick to take your attention when you look in the mirror.
I like KSL’s hair as well as your in your profile photo. So elegant. Ok, I’ll stop now.
Thanks so much. Lisa was one of my main inspirations to stop coloring my hair and let it go silver.
I am biased. I have very short hair and I get compliments everyday. The biggest benefit? It is easy–wash and air dry, a bit of product to push the cowlicks in better directions–and out the door. Plus once it was short, I decided coloring it was a waste of time and money. Everyone and every head of hair is different, but your list for what you aspire to tells me you are ready! I like all of the hair styles, except, like you, the years of maternal admonitions to get that hair out of my eyes would lead me to do something about the front pieces.
Like others who have commented, I have worn may hair long and short and medium over the years. In most recent years I had worn it long. My hair is silver and it looked elegant swept up, but it was thinning and at a certain pont a couple of years ago I felt that it would look fuller if it were short. It does! I get compliments on it all the time.
I suggest that, instead of going directly to short, you enjoy all the different looks you can get on the way to that goal. My favorite thing about the going from long to short: the extremely varied styles along the way.
With the length of your hair now, you could easily have 4 to 5 excellent styles until you reach short! What fun!
Mine is long now, and I haven’t reached the wanting to cut it stage yet, but when I do, I am so happy at the prospect of the process.
I also say you MUST find an excellent stylist and make sure s/he understands your need for simple upkeep.
Good luck & I look forward to seeing the results of your decision.
I got my first pixie cut around age 9 and, as you know, have had variations on it for the majority of my life since then; I think my hair last touched my shoulders, just barely, around 2002. When I asked for my first pixie cut, my mother asked if I was alright with people mistaking me for a boy, because that would happen a lot, she thought. Oh YES I was! (My cut turned out to be quite helpful at the local skating rink, which had girls- and boys- only skates; I’d just take my huge ’80s earrings out for the latter and didn’t have to miss any songs at all.)
The last time I had ostensibly long hair coincided with a picture for my first driver’s license, so I used a photo of my 17-year-old self as ID – who I barely resembled even in college – forever (I was smiling in it, a rarity for me, and who wants to go back to the DMV to swap out an OK picture for something that could be much worse? I renewed by mail). People loved to tell me how great I looked with that longer hair, and at one point I told a clerk who’d ID’ed me for wine and exclaimed over my picture that thank you, it was a nice photo, but I loved having short hair and my husband loved it, as well (That addendum was cowardly.) “And why do you think he loves it?” the clerk countered. “Because – ” it was as if a stranger’s sarcastic voice was coming out of my mouth “- it means he can have me all to himself?” The clerk sat back like a satisfied prosecutor. It was so weird.
I am now 40 and have been a pixie-cut, fashion-industry-adjacent New Yorker for a long-ass time. People comment on my hair all the time, usually to say that they love it and wish they had the guts or “the face” for it (this is silly – I do not have delicate features, as you know: https://www.instagram.com/p/BpCfX4bnM7k/ ). My texture is identical to yours, as are my feelings about haircut frequency (and cost), my texture (not thin but very fine), and my distaste for “the angry eleven” (I usually go very short but have started growing back a bit of bangs, as time’s pen has been particularly active on my forehead). I would note the following:
– VERY short cuts are delightfully wash-and-wear – I do not own a hair dryer and simply comb my hair when it’s wet, then apply a bit of pomade and/or spray when it’s dry – but cuts like the ones you’ve pictured are not, not in those iterations (they’re volumized, blown out, and flat-ironed; I only look like that when I let my stylist blow it dry and style it after cuts).
– I get my hair cut once every 2 months or so, and it costs about $90 (again, I’m in New York; that’s the men’s price, and the women’s price is more like $125, which is another beef for another time). When you are lucky enough to find The Stylist who solves your personal hair riddle, he or she will not be cheap, especially in the Bay Area (FWIW, I used to get my hair cut at the Stanford Shopping Center and thought everyone there was fantastic; no idea if that salon still exists).
– What little wash-and-wear volume I have comes from the aggressive bleaching I do every 2 months or so, as it makes my hair much coarser and more straw-like (which is a good thing for very short cuts). If you do not want to do that kind of work at home and are not applying harsh treatments to your hair, the cut is going to have to do a lot of the work, and that’s most likely to happen if you choose something like The Lanphear Flop (one of my all-time favorite short cuts: https://avantisalonboston.wordpress.com/2012/11/27/girl-of-our-dreams-kate-lanphear/). I did not blow my hair dry when I had this look – nearly shaved on one side, with well-shaped, exaggerated bangs with lots of structural layering underneath – and it worked like a charm. I think you would rock the hell out of this look, particularly with your style.
– I love androgyny, but I find that I like to wear more makeup (usually a strong eye, occasionally a strong lip) when my hair is especially butch, particularly since I don’t wear dangly earrings these days.
– Create a Pinterest board with looks like the ones you favor so that you can pull it up on your phone at the salon; even Joan Didion couldn’t roll up and expect the words she used to a stylist to translate into the cut of her dreams (and her hair is dead simple).
– Consider others’ practical tips, but know that their feelings about their looks are their own, and that all that really matters is you before a mirror recognizing yourself.
– That said, it never hurts to have a few pictures of Michelle Williams in your pocket. Girlfriend has been through it ALL when it comes to going SHORT, coming back, and everything in between. Maybe paste a few of those pictures on a votive candle.
– Do not cut your own hair. This isn’t a risk for you, I don’t think, but cheapness and a misplaced sense of adventure led me to do it for about a year, and whoa. Rough times.
– Think of the good/cheap/fast triangle. It’s applicable here as well.
Lisa, Your hair is gorgeous…You are unique with your longer hair…Everyone over 50 has short hair…The few who don’t really stand out…If you are bored, go to a stylist you like and ask them to help you work through some newer looks with longer hair…Please don’t cut your hair…I just can’t believe you will be happy…
One of the few with longer hair…
Adding my voice to the chorus…
I love having short hair, and I think with the right cut it would look so very elegant and feminine and fierce on you. It’s true that you don’t have as many options for special events, but I can walk out the door with wet hair and have it look great by the time I hit the office, something I never managed with longer hair.
I can recommend Wiyanna at Jasko Schroeder in Menlo Park if you need someone to shepherd you through a radical change. She has taken me from hip length to shoulder length to pixie, and done a great job the whole time. Her rates are a bit high, but I find she’s worth it.
Chopping off one’s long hair to go short can be SO satisfying – but then one has to live with the result … which can include bad bed-head every morning with necessary wet-down and re-styling (no room for imperfection with short hair) before appearing in public. (This said by one who has had very short hair with very long bangs for almost 25 years – and who has been coloring that hair very dark brown for even longer.)
And at the risk of sounding very old-fashioned indeed: what does your Significant Husband think? He may be more invested in your long flowing locks than you realize …
I suggest you try an interim well-cut shoulder length style, as you have done before (and which looks great on you!). That may satisfy your desire for a change, but would leave you with a good amount to cut further if you still want the thrill of a Big Change.
And after all, it’s only hair – which will grow back. Plus, unlike many of us, you’ll look good no matter what you do!
DO IT!
ALL THREE WOULD BE BRILLIANT ON YOU!
I think YOU would be VERY HAPPY!
I VOTED AND MAILED…….TWO STAMPS!!!
if you are willing to make the drive, I recommend Vanessa at Alova Salon in San Jose – she will tell you which of those haircuts will and won’t work with your hair taking into consideration the amount of styling you are willing to do, and she does excellent hair cuts
Is it windy where you live? The down side to short hair is getting hit in the face with the short hair in the front. Mine is long enough to pull back, but I have short hairs in the front that drive me absolutely crazy when the wind is up. Just a thought.
Edgy is you! You are an edgy-and lovely- woman. Go for it!
Dear Wonder Woman, know this: those idealized hair pix on Pinterest don’t convey the ton of procedure and process [and product] it takes to conjure that look, then compound the labor a hundred times over to even maintain the look, and what’re you left with: severely limited styling options. Phooey. As an alternative, take a look at real hair in real places like the grocery check out line, the coffee shop…and, well here’s real hair on a real person, and may I be so bold as to say this ‘do’ would be a sensational first plunge commitment into shorter length, this length leaving you with styling options. And look, you even left a comment: https://www.instagram.com/p/BkJKAZtA0A5/
I vote for Amanda Priestly in “Devil Wears Prada”–you could pull that off, I think!
I go back and forth between long gray hair and a chin-length bob. I’m never sorry when I cut it, but I always enjoy the process of growing it out.
Wow! Hair is a popular topic-so many comments! I too consider the exact cut you have posted. It is chic and will show off your color (or lack thereof). Remember that by wearing your hair pulled back you are already rocking a short look.
I will hang onto the longer hair until it is too much trouble. Until then my favorite quote about hair-“Invest in your hair, it is the crown you never take off.” Go rule your kingdom.
I took this very plunge 6 weeks ago! And not only that, I’m pretty sure I called up one or two of those images with my hairstylist. In the end, I cut off enough hair that it appeared a small animal on my stylist’s floor, moved from shoulder length hair to the final image you posted and I have zero regrets.
I love the edge, the ease and the universal positive response. Plus is highlights my silver hair in a new way that rocks.
Ugh, hair! Such a challenge! In my late 40s I still have my business appropriate shoulder length side parted do, and I would love to do something shorter, choppy and punky. But my stylist has helpfully noted that with my thin, fine hair that tends to frizz, my fantasy cuts will require much more time and product than my current style (fast to blow dry, turn the ends under with a brush, spray to hold down whispies and go). At least one of your other commenters mentioned the same – make sure that you are on board with the amount of product and fine fussing and styling that a shorter do might require.
I love your long silver hair, and the shoulder length, thick and wavy silver/white of a 40ish work colleague. Sadly I’m turning to mouse with silver patches….
I’m a little late commenting, but here goes. You’d look great with short hair, but in my opinion, it’s more work. Most of the hairstyles that look good on the Internet are a pain in the butt to maintain. I keep my fine hair blunt cut, roughly collar bone with a couple of face-framing layers. I only blow dry it a couple of times a year. That means lots of updos, but I like how I look with my hair up (kind of like having short hair without the trouble). I get a lot of grief from my s-in-l for having longish gray hair, and I’ve talked to my stylist ad nauseam about cutting it, but we always agree this is best for my goals. Sometimes I put sea spray on it, but that’s the only product I use other than shampoo and conditioner. I am willing to sacrifice up-to-date style for the simplicity of clean and easy hair.
Have you decided? Emma Thompson is looking quite stylish with short gray hair — I’m tempted, but I’m not sure my hair is thick enough. I could see you in something similar.
If you want modern/edgy, short hair is definitely the way to go. It’s only hair and it will grow out eventually, so go for it. Long hair can easily look generic or dated, although the wrong short cut can definitely go that way also. Get a consultation with a great stylist, see what your best options are, then do it. You’ll look great either way, but a new look can be fun. Good luck!
I have fine, straight hair and my current style is very similar to the 3rd photo. Very easy to maintain with a bit of product. Good luck with you decision.
Amazing how the question of hair ties into all these emotional responses, much like politics, although I know that wasn’t your intent. I had longish hair for 10 years, long enough to wear up in a bun, which is pretty much where it stayed. I think you would look fabulous with the kinds of styles you show. Mine is currently shorter, and could be edgier if I styled it, but I am fortunate to have found. a hairdresser who gives me a cut that I can make look more edgy, or I can arrange in a floppy mess, my own most comfortable place. I say go with your gut and what makes you happy, and find someone who gets that, then you are set.
Coming back to say that I did it and it’s glorious! All concerns about being too old for short hair are gone in the freedom and clarity of this new crop. Feels clearer and happier…. hope you find the right hair for you right now!
So envious of your short short hair direction. My (large) ears stick out at right angles, so a close to the head crop is not for me. Have never worn earrings in my life because my ears are never visible! Chin length and grey now, after a lifetime of shoulder length. I feel liberated by being all grey (no nasty chemicals and a ton of money) and by a shorter style, both in terms of time saved and the dragging-down effect long hair had on my features. My hair is very very thick and straight, so I did sometimes feel submerged by my hair. Good luck with your style decision!
Have you decided? Emma Thompson is looking quite stylish with short gray hair — I’m tempted, but I’m not sure my hair is thick enough. I could see you in something similar.
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