21 Hairstyles That Say “This is My Decade” for Women Turning 40

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Turning 40 isn’t about slowing down—it’s about showing up with confidence and style. The right haircut can highlight who you are now and everything you’ve grown into.

This is the decade for bold choices, fresh starts, and hair that actually feels like you. Whether you’re ready for something sleek, playful, or totally new, it’s your time to shine.

Let your next hairstyle say what words can’t—you’re just getting started.

The Elegant Bob

The Elegant Bob
© Southern Living

For those who cherish timeless elegance, the sleek bob is a perfect choice.

This hairstyle gracefully frames the face, highlighting the cheekbones with its clean, straight lines.

Perfect for a professional setting or a night out, the bob maintains its charm across various occasions. It requires minimal styling, making it a practical option for busy lifestyles.

To add a personal touch, consider subtle highlights to bring out your natural hair color. Embracing the bob can lend a sense of poise and sophistication to your look.

Voluminous Curls

Voluminous Curls
© melodyjacob

With curls that bounce and shine, this hairstyle is all about embracing the volume.

Perfect for those who love to make a statement, voluminous curls exude confidence and playfulness.

The key is to maintain the curls’ health by using moisturizing products and regular trims. This style complements various hair textures and lengths, making it versatile for anyone.

Whether naturally curly or achieved with curling tools, these curls add a spirited flair that turns heads and boosts confidence.

Chic Pixie Cut

Chic Pixie Cut
© Fab Mood

Short and sassy, the pixie cut is a daring choice for those ready to embrace their adventurous side. This hairstyle accentuates facial features, providing a youthful appearance.

It’s perfect for those who prefer low-maintenance styles without sacrificing elegance. The pixie cut can be tailored to suit different hair textures and personal styles.

Adding a splash of color or some highlights can elevate the look, making it even more eye-catching. It’s a bold statement that says you’re ready to own this decade.

Sophisticated Updo

Sophisticated Updo
© Tania Maras

For special occasions, a sophisticated updo can add a touch of class and elegance. This hairstyle lifts the hair away from the face, creating a refined appearance.

The updo can be as intricate or simple as desired, with options like braided buns or twisted chignons. Accessories such as elegant hairpins or flowers enhance its charm.

Ideal for weddings, dinners, or galas, this hairstyle stands out for its timeless beauty and adaptability to different looks and styles.

Beachy Waves

Beachy Waves
© Fordham Global

Embodying a laid-back, effortless vibe, beachy waves are perfect for achieving that carefree look.

This hairstyle is ideal for those who enjoy a natural, tousled appearance that exudes charm.

Creating beachy waves is simple, using a curling wand and texturizing spray for that sun-kissed effect. It’s a versatile style that suits various occasions, from casual outings to more relaxed social gatherings.

The waves add a youthful flair, making it a popular choice for women looking to embrace their natural beauty.

Classic Layered Cut

Classic Layered Cut
© lejlabecirovic9

Layers can add depth and dimension to any haircut, and the classic layered cut is no exception. This hairstyle is perfect for those looking to add volume and movement to their hair.

The layers can be tailored to suit different face shapes and lengths, making it a versatile choice.

Whether worn straight or with soft curls, the layered cut enhances your natural beauty.

It’s a timeless choice that suits both professional and personal settings, offering a blend of sophistication and style.

Bold Fringe

Bold Fringe
© denisecallender

Fringes have a way of transforming faces, and a bold fringe is perfect for making a statement. Ideal for those looking to add a dramatic flair to their look, it highlights the eyes and creates a focal point.

The fringe can be adapted to suit various hair types, whether thick or fine. It’s a versatile style that works well with both long and short haircuts.

Embrace your individuality with a bold fringe that commands attention and reflects your bold personality.

Soft Bangs

Soft Bangs
© Fab Mood

Soft bangs offer a gentle, face-framing option that adds a touch of sweetness to any hairstyle.

Perfect for those who prefer a subtle change without a drastic cut.

These bangs are versatile, working well with both straight and wavy hair. They can be styled to the side for a softer look or straight across for a more classic appearance.

Soft bangs provide an elegant way to update your style, adding a youthful charm while highlighting your eyes and cheekbones.

Natural Texture

Natural Texture
© carvalho3533

Embracing your natural texture is all about celebrating your unique beauty.

This hairstyle emphasizes the natural curls, waves, or straightness of your hair.

It’s perfect for those who want to minimize styling time and embrace their hair’s inherent personality. With the right products, you can enhance your natural texture for a polished look.

This style exudes confidence and authenticity, allowing you to shine just as you are. It’s a testament to self-love and acceptance in this beautiful decade.

Classic Ponytail

Classic Ponytail
© Tania Maras

The classic ponytail is a go-to hairstyle for its simplicity and versatility. It’s perfect for active lifestyles, allowing you to look polished while on the move.

Whether worn high or low, the ponytail can be tailored to suit your personal style. Adding accessories like scrunchies or ribbons can elevate the look.

This hairstyle is not only practical but also timeless, offering a clean and youthful appearance that can be dressed up or down as needed.

Sleek Straight

Sleek Straight
© harmend13

Sleek and straight hair exudes professionalism and elegance. This hairstyle is perfect for those who love a polished, no-nonsense look that works in any setting.

Achieving this style requires a good flat iron and heat protectant to maintain the hair’s health. It’s a versatile option that can be paired with various accessories for different occasions.

Sleek straight hair offers a sophisticated appearance, making it a favorite for women who want to command attention with their style.

Tousled Bob

Tousled Bob
© eking0232

The tousled bob is a modern twist on the classic bob, adding a playful and carefree vibe. Perfect for those who love a more relaxed look, this style offers movement and texture.

It’s easy to achieve with texturizing spray and a bit of finger styling. The tousled bob suits any face shape and is great for both everyday wear and special occasions.

This hairstyle reflects a youthful spirit, making it a popular choice for women embracing their 40s with style and spontaneity.

Asymmetrical Cut

Asymmetrical Cut
© Latest-Hairstyles.com

For those ready to embrace their artistic side, the asymmetrical cut is a perfect choice. This hairstyle features uneven lengths that create a dynamic and intriguing look.

It’s ideal for women who want to stand out and express their individuality. The asymmetrical cut can be customized to suit your personal style and facial features.

Whether subtle or dramatic, this hairstyle adds an edgy, modern touch that’s sure to turn heads and make a statement.

Braided Crown

Braided Crown
© Ashley Brooke Designs

The braided crown is a whimsical and elegant hairstyle that exudes romantic charm. It’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of fantasy to your look.

This hairstyle involves braiding sections of hair and pinning them to form a crown-like appearance. It’s versatile, allowing for different braid styles and adornments.

Ideal for weddings or garden parties, the braided crown is a timeless choice that reflects grace and sophistication.

Modern Shag

Modern Shag
© nancy5713

The modern shag is a trendy, textured hairstyle that’s perfect for those who love a bit of edge. It offers layers and volume, creating a lively and youthful appearance.

This style works well with various hair types, allowing for flexibility and personalization. The modern shag can be paired with bangs or highlights for added flair.

It’s a fun and fashionable choice for women who want to embrace a casual yet chic look as they step into their 40s.

Retro Glam Waves

Retro Glam Waves
© carolynngriego

Retro glam waves bring back the allure of old Hollywood glamour, offering a timeless and sophisticated look. This hairstyle is perfect for formal events or when you want to channel a vintage vibe.

Creating these waves involves curling the hair and setting it for a polished finish. It’s all about achieving that smooth, glossy appearance that turns heads.

Retro glam waves add elegance and drama, making it a captivating style for women who want to shine with classic beauty.

Textured Lob

Textured Lob
© yukistylist

The textured lob, or long bob, is a stylish and versatile choice that offers length and movement. It’s perfect for those who want a modern look without compromising on style.

The texture is achieved through layers and styling products, providing a casual yet polished appearance. It suits various face shapes and hair types, making it universally flattering.

The textured lob is great for both everyday wear and more formal occasions, offering a blend of sophistication and ease.

Flirty Side Sweep

Flirty Side Sweep
© vania

The flirty side sweep is a fun and romantic hairstyle that adds a touch of allure and sophistication. Perfect for date nights or parties, this style creates an elegant asymmetry.

Sweeping the hair to one side highlights your facial features and adds drama to your look. It can be styled with curls or left straight for different effects.

This hairstyle is easy to achieve and versatile, making it a favorite for women who want to add a touch of glamour to their 40s.

Curly Bob

Curly Bob
© RevAir

The curly bob is a delightful and energetic hairstyle that combines the classic bob with bouncy curls. It offers volume and movement, perfect for those who love a playful look.

This style works well with naturally curly hair or can be achieved with curling tools. The curly bob adds a youthful and lively touch to your appearance.

It’s a versatile option that can transition from casual to formal settings, making it a popular choice for women embracing their 40s with zest.

Elegant Chignon

Elegant Chignon
© Latest-Hairstyles.com

The elegant chignon is a classic and refined hairstyle perfect for formal occasions.

It involves twisting the hair into a low bun at the nape of the neck, creating a polished appearance.

This hairstyle is ideal for showcasing jewelry or elegant necklines, adding a timeless touch to your ensemble. It’s versatile, allowing for different variations and adornments.

The chignon exudes elegance and sophistication, making it a favorite for women who want to make a graceful statement.

Messy Bun

Messy Bun
© Southern Living

The messy bun is a relaxed and trendy hairstyle perfect for casual days or a quick, stylish fix. It’s all about creating a look that’s effortlessly chic and full of personality.

This style involves loosely gathering the hair into a bun, allowing for strands to fall naturally. It’s ideal for adding a touch of laid-back charm to your look.

The messy bun is a versatile option that works well with different hair types and lengths, offering a carefree yet fashionable vibe.