Mid Length Hairstyles Over 40: 27 Timeless and Trendy Ideas for Women

As women over 40, we often seek hairstyles that are both stylish and age-appropriate, yet versatile enough to fit our active lifestyles.

This article on mid length hairstyles for women over 40 will provide you with a variety of ideas to refresh your look, from sophisticated bobs to playful waves.

Choosing the right hairstyle can enhance your natural beauty, complement your facial features, and even boost your confidence.

You might be wondering which mid length hairstyles suit your hair type, face shape, or lifestyle.

This guide answers those questions and presents styles that are easy to maintain, yet chic and contemporary.

Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance option or something with a bit more flair, you’ll find inspiration in these mid length hairstyles.

So, let’s explore the best medium length hairstyles for modern women over 40 that will help you look and feel your best.

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27 Best Mid Length Hairstyles for Women Over 40

1. Asymmetrical Bob

Asymmetrical bob haircut on a woman with straight brown hair.

The asymmetrical bob is a modern and stylish haircut where one side is slightly longer than the other, creating a chic and edgy look.

This hairstyle is perfect for women who want to add a bit of flair and sophistication to their appearance while keeping maintenance relatively low.

Ideal for women with straight hair, the asymmetrical bob can be easily styled with a blow dryer and a flat iron for a sleek finish.

Consider this look if you want a trendy and manageable hairstyle that stands out.

2. Classic Bottleneck Bangs with Layered Waves for a Round Face

Classic bottleneck bangs with layered waves framing a woman's round face.

This classic hairstyle features bottleneck bangs that gradually blend into layered waves, beautifully framing a round face.

It adds volume and dimension to the hair, making it appear fuller and more vibrant.

This hairstyle is perfect for women looking to soften their facial features while maintaining a polished look.

Use a curling iron to enhance the waves and some texturizing spray to maintain the style throughout the day.

3. Classic Side-Swept Bangs with More Volume on Top

Side-swept bangs with added volume on top on a woman with a natural look.

Classic side-swept bangs with extra volume on top give a timeless and elegant appearance suitable for any occasion.

This hairstyle works best for women who want to add height and dimension to their hair while keeping a sophisticated look.

Ideal for those with fine to medium hair, it can be styled with a volumizing mousse and a round brush for the perfect finish.

Go for this hairstyle if you wish to add a touch of glamour to your everyday look.

4. Classy High Ponytail

High ponytail hairstyle on a woman with platinum blonde hair.

The classy high ponytail is a sleek and sophisticated look that is both practical and stylish.

Perfect for women with long hair, this hairstyle pulls the hair up and away from the face, highlighting facial features and providing a clean, polished appearance.

Ideal for busy women who need a quick yet chic hairstyle, the high ponytail can be easily achieved with a hair tie and some hairspray to keep flyaways in check.

Consider this style for a look that combines elegance with ease.

5. Feathered Layers

Feathered layers hairstyle on a woman with wavy, silver hair.

Feathered layers add a soft, textured look to the hair, creating movement and volume without sacrificing length.

This hairstyle is particularly flattering for women with wavy or curly hair, as it enhances the natural texture and adds depth.

Ideal for those looking to add some bounce to their hair, feathered layers can be maintained with regular trims and a good moisturizing conditioner to keep the layers defined.

Choose this hairstyle if you want a dynamic and youthful look.

6. Half-Up Half-Down

Half-up half-down hairstyle on a woman with wavy brown hair and soft curls.

The half-up half-down hairstyle combines the elegance of an updo with the free-flowing beauty of loose hair, perfect for any occasion.

This style suits women who want to keep their hair off their face while still showcasing their natural waves or curls.

Ideal for medium to long hair, it can be easily achieved by pulling the top half of the hair back and securing it with pins or a clip.

This look is versatile and can be dressed up with accessories for a more formal appearance.

7. Layered Bob Ideal for Fine Hair

Layered bob hairstyle on a woman with silver-gray hair, adding volume and texture.

A layered bob is an excellent choice for women with fine hair, as it adds volume and movement to the hair.

The layers create an illusion of thickness, making the hair appear fuller and more dynamic.

This hairstyle is low-maintenance and perfect for women who want a stylish look without spending too much time on daily styling.

Regular trims will keep the layers looking fresh and prevent the ends from becoming ragged.

8. Low Ponytail

Low ponytail hairstyle on a woman with sleek, dark hair, secured at the nape of the neck.

The low ponytail is a classic and elegant hairstyle that is easy to achieve and maintain.

Ideal for women with long hair, this style keeps the hair neat and out of the way while still looking sophisticated.

It is perfect for both casual and formal settings and can be enhanced with hair accessories for a more polished look.

This hairstyle is also a great option for women with thicker hair, as it helps manage volume and keep the hair in place.

9. Low Tousled Updo

Low tousled updo on a woman with dark brown hair, creating a soft and romantic look.

A low tousled updo offers a soft, romantic appearance that is both stylish and effortless.

This hairstyle is perfect for women looking for a sophisticated yet relaxed look, ideal for formal events or special occasions.

It suits various hair types and can be easily achieved by loosely gathering the hair at the nape of the neck and securing it with pins.

This updo is great for highlighting facial features and can be paired with elegant accessories to enhance the overall look.

10. Medium-Length Shaggy Cut with Side Bottleneck Bangs Ideal for Round Faces

Shaggy medium-length cut with side bottleneck bangs on a woman with wavy, silver-gray hair.

The medium-length shaggy cut with side bottleneck bangs is perfect for women with round faces, as it adds structure and dimension to the hairstyle.

The shaggy layers provide a youthful, textured look, while the side bangs help to elongate the face.

This style works well with wavy or curly hair, giving it a natural, effortless vibe.

Regular trims and conditioning treatments will keep the layers looking fresh and healthy.

This hairstyle is ideal for women who want a modern and trendy look without too much effort.

11. Messy High Bun

Messy high bun on a woman with dark brown hair, styled loosely with some strands framing her face.

The messy high bun is a relaxed and trendy hairstyle that adds a touch of casual elegance to your look.

This style is perfect for women who want to keep their hair off their face while maintaining a soft, effortless vibe.

Ideal for medium to long hair, it can be easily achieved by gathering the hair into a high bun and letting a few strands fall loose.

This hairstyle is great for busy days when you want to look put-together without much effort.

12. Mid-Length Layers with Subtle Waves

Mid-length layered hairstyle with subtle waves on a woman with silver-gray hair.

Mid-length layers with subtle waves create a soft, romantic look that adds volume and movement to the hair.

This hairstyle is ideal for women with naturally wavy or slightly curly hair, as it enhances the natural texture.

The layers help to distribute volume evenly, making the hair look fuller and more dynamic.

Regular trims and conditioning treatments will keep the waves defined and prevent the ends from becoming dry.

Consider this style if you want a versatile and easy-to-maintain look.

13. Natural Mid-Length Curls

Natural mid-length curls on a woman with light brown hair, showcasing a voluminous and defined curly texture.

Natural mid-length curls are a beautiful and low-maintenance option for women with naturally curly hair.

This hairstyle embraces the natural texture, creating a full and lively appearance that highlights the curls.

Ideal for women with medium to thick hair, it requires minimal styling and can be maintained with regular moisturizing and curl-enhancing products.

Embrace your natural curls with this effortless and stylish look that is perfect for any occasion.

14. Shag Cut with Side Bangs

Shag cut hairstyle with side bangs on a woman with wavy blonde hair, adding texture and volume.

The shag cut with side bangs is a modern and edgy hairstyle that adds texture and movement to the hair.

This style is perfect for women who want a youthful and dynamic look, as the layers and bangs frame the face beautifully.

Ideal for wavy or curly hair, the shag cut can be easily styled with a bit of texturizing spray to enhance the natural waves.

Regular trims will keep the layers looking fresh and prevent the ends from becoming frayed.

15. Sleek Lob with Side Part

Sleek lob (long bob) with a side part on a woman with straight, dark hair, creating a smooth and polished look.

The sleek lob with a side part is a sophisticated and versatile hairstyle that suits any occasion.

Ideal for women with straight hair, this long bob creates a clean and polished appearance that is both timeless and modern.

The side part adds a touch of elegance and helps to frame the face.

This hairstyle can be easily maintained with regular trims and a good smoothing serum to keep the hair looking shiny and sleek.

Opt for this look if you want a chic and effortless style that is always in fashion.

16. Sleek with Blunt Bangs

Sleek mid-length hairstyle with blunt bangs on a woman with straight, dark hair.

The sleek hairstyle with blunt bangs is a bold and stylish choice that exudes confidence and sophistication.

Ideal for women with straight hair, this look features sharp, even bangs that draw attention to the eyes and frame the face beautifully.

The rest of the hair is kept smooth and straight, creating a polished finish.

Regular trims are essential to maintain the sharpness of the bangs and keep the overall look neat and tidy.

17. Straight and Sleek with Middle Part

Straight and sleek hairstyle with a middle part on a woman with dark hair.

A straight and sleek hairstyle with a middle part is a timeless and elegant choice that suits any face shape.

This look is perfect for women who prefer a clean and minimalist style.

It requires regular straightening and the use of smoothing serums to keep the hair shiny and frizz-free.

The middle part helps to create a balanced and symmetrical appearance, making it a great option for both casual and formal settings.

18. Textured Layers

Textured layered hairstyle on a woman with silver-gray hair, adding volume and dimension.

Textured layers add depth and movement to the hair, creating a lively and dynamic appearance.

This hairstyle is perfect for women who want to add volume and dimension to their hair without compromising on length.

Ideal for medium to thick hair, it can be easily styled with a bit of texturizing spray to enhance the natural movement.

Regular trims are necessary to keep the layers looking fresh and prevent split ends.

19. Tousled Textured Hair with Side Part and Long Side Bangs

Tousled, textured hair with a side part and long side bangs on a woman with dark hair.

The tousled textured hair with a side part and long side bangs is a chic and modern look that adds a touch of effortless glamour.

This hairstyle is ideal for women who want a stylish yet low-maintenance look that enhances their natural texture.

The side part and long side bangs help to frame the face and add a soft, feminine touch.

Use a texturizing spray to enhance the tousled effect and maintain the style throughout the day.

20. Tousled Wispy Curtain Bangs

Tousled hairstyle with wispy curtain bangs on a woman with dark hair, creating a soft and airy look.

Tousled wispy curtain bangs create a soft and airy appearance that is both stylish and versatile.

This hairstyle is perfect for women who want to add a touch of whimsy and movement to their look.

The wispy bangs frame the face beautifully and blend seamlessly with the rest of the hair.

Ideal for medium to long hair, this style can be easily maintained with regular trims and a bit of texturizing spray to keep the bangs looking fresh and defined.

21. Updo with Face-Framing Tendrils

Updo hairstyle with face-framing tendrils on a woman with light blonde hair, creating a soft and elegant look.

The updo with face-framing tendrils is a sophisticated and romantic hairstyle perfect for formal occasions.

This style is ideal for women who want to keep their hair up while still having some softness around the face.

The loose tendrils add a delicate touch and highlight the facial features beautifully.

This hairstyle is best suited for medium to long hair and can be easily achieved with a bit of styling cream and hairpins to secure the updo.

22. Voluminous Blowout

Voluminous blowout hairstyle on a woman with blonde hair, adding body and movement.

A voluminous blowout adds incredible body and movement to the hair, creating a glamorous and polished look.

This hairstyle is perfect for women who want to make a statement with their hair.

Ideal for medium to thick hair, it involves using a round brush and blow dryer to lift the roots and create volume.

Finish with a volumizing spray to keep the hair looking full and bouncy all day long.

23. Voluminous Curls with Side Part

Voluminous curls with a side part on a woman with curly blonde hair, adding fullness and definition.

Voluminous curls with a side part are a stunning and bold choice for women who love their natural curls.

This hairstyle is perfect for adding fullness and definition to curly hair, giving it a lively and dynamic appearance.

The side part helps to frame the face and adds an extra touch of elegance.

To maintain this style, use a curl-enhancing mousse and a diffuser to define the curls and add volume.

24. Voluminous with Wispy Bangs

Voluminous hairstyle with wispy bangs on a woman with dark brown hair, adding texture and movement.

The voluminous hairstyle with wispy bangs is a chic and trendy choice that adds texture and movement to the hair.

This look is perfect for women who want a full and lively appearance without compromising on style.

The wispy bangs frame the face beautifully and blend seamlessly with the rest of the hair.

Ideal for medium to thick hair, this style can be maintained with regular trims and a bit of volumizing spray to keep the hair looking fresh and bouncy.

25. Wavy Textured Medium-Length Bob with Highlights for Depth

Wavy textured medium-length bob with highlights on a woman with light brown hair, adding depth and dimension.

The wavy textured medium-length bob with highlights is a stylish and modern look that adds depth and dimension to the hair.

This hairstyle is perfect for women who want a trendy and versatile look that can be dressed up or down.

The waves add movement and the highlights create a multi-dimensional effect that enhances the overall appearance.

This style is ideal for medium to thick hair and can be easily maintained with regular trims and the use of a texturizing spray.

26. Voluminous Waves

Voluminous waves with gray highlights on a woman with shoulder-length hair, creating a sophisticated and elegant look.

This hairstyle features voluminous waves with natural gray highlights, offering a sophisticated and elegant look.

Ideal for women embracing their natural gray hair, this style adds body and movement while highlighting the beauty of gray tones.

Perfect for medium to thick hair, this look is achieved using a large barrel curling iron and a light hairspray to hold the waves in place.

Regular trims help maintain the shape and prevent split ends, ensuring the hair stays healthy and vibrant.

27. Textured Waves with Wispy Bangs

Textured waves with wispy bangs on a woman with blonde hair, adding a soft and playful touch.

This hairstyle combines textured waves with wispy bangs, creating a soft and playful look.

The waves add movement and volume, while the wispy bangs frame the face delicately.

Ideal for women who want a low-maintenance yet stylish option, this look suits various hair types but works best on medium to thick hair.

To maintain this style, use a texturizing spray for added volume and regular trims to keep the bangs in perfect shape.

How to Choose the Right Mid Length Hairstyle for Your Face Shape

Selecting the perfect mid length hairstyle involves understanding your face shape and what styles complement it best.

Oval faces are versatile and can pull off various looks, while round faces benefit from styles that add height and length.

Square faces look great with soft, layered cuts that frame the face, and heart-shaped faces are complemented by side-swept bangs and volume at the chin.

Considering these factors can ensure you choose a hairstyle that enhances your natural features.

Maintenance Tips for Mid Length Hairstyles

Maintaining mid length hairstyles requires regular trims to prevent split ends and keep the shape fresh.

Use quality hair care products suited to your hair type, whether it’s curly, straight, or wavy.

Incorporate hydrating masks and heat protectants into your routine to keep your hair healthy and shiny.

Experiment with styling tools like curling irons or flat irons to add variety to your look.

Proper maintenance ensures your hairstyle always looks its best, enhancing your overall appearance.

As a woman over 40, by exploring these mid length hairstyles, you’ll find the perfect style that not only suits your look but also enhances your beauty and confidence.

Photo of author

Abbey Emer, an expert hairstylist and passionate beauty advocate, is the vibrant Editor-in-Chief of LooksNiceOnMe.

With her extensive experience in hairstyling and a keen eye for beauty trends, Abbey brings a touch of elegance and creativity to every article.

Her renowned hair tutorials and dedication to empowering individual expression set her apart as a leader in the beauty community.

Abbey's philosophy: Embrace your uniqueness and let your hair tell your story.