Hey there, beautiful! So, you’ve reached the magical age of 40, and you’re ready for some hairstyle inspiration that matches your fabulous self! Age is just a number, and it’s the perfect time to explore new looks that reflect your evolving style. Let’s face it; we all know a great hairstyle can transform the mundane into something jubilantly exciting, especially as a mom enjoying life to the fullest.
If you adore short locks, you’re in for a treat! The chic bob continues to hold its crown, perfectly balancing trendiness and ease. Not only does a bob look wonderful on medium round faces, but it’s also a blank canvas for creativity. You can add highlights, texture, or go for a sleek finish to keep the look fresh. Who knew simplicity could be so stunning?
Now, for the curly-haired queens among us, let’s turn those ringlets into show-stoppers! Curls can be your best friend, enhancing your natural beauty while adding personality to any outfit. From casual days at home to outings with friends, embracing your curls is a fabulous way to celebrate life at 40 and beyond. It’s all about showing up and turning heads—let those ringlets shine!
Not quite ready to give up long hair? No worries! Medium to long hairstyles also have the potential to steal the spotlight. Soft waves, straight locks, or a simple ponytail can look effortlessly chic without taking up too much of your time. Plus, who wouldn’t want a go-to hairstyle that works for everything from coffee dates to parent-teacher conferences?
Let’s embark on this hair adventure together as we unveil 19 stunning hairstyle ideas that will inspire you even more. Your 40s can be the decade of fabulous hair days, so let’s indulge in styles that celebrate you and the radiant journey ahead!
#1 Forty & Forever: Hair’s Second Act

So, you’re searching for hairstyles that rock for the “over 40” crowd? Forget everything you thought you knew about getting older! This hairstyle is proof that age is just a number. Take a look at this awesome ‘do – it’s giving off serious cool-mom-but-also-totally-knows-what’s-up vibes. The long, flowing layers with the highlights add dimension, and the bangs are like the cherry on top, making you look instantly younger and stylish.
Want to avoid the “I’m trying too hard” look? This hairstyle nails it. It’s all about effortless beauty with a touch of glam. See how the waves are loose and not overly styled? That’s the secret! It’s versatile enough for a casual day out or a fancy dinner. Plus, it shows you can embrace your age while still looking like you totally belong on TikTok. Seriously, this hairstyle is a winner if you want to look and feel amazing!
#2 Timeless Tresses: Forty Onward

Finding the right hairstyle when you’re, shall we say, *experienced* can feel like a mission impossible, but it doesn’t have to! This look is all about effortless style. It says, “Yeah, I might be forty, but I also might just be really good at faking beach waves.” Plus, those subtle highlights? Total game-changer. They brighten everything up without looking like you’re trying to relive your glory days from the mall food court in 2003.
These loose waves are proof that you can still rock a trendy ‘do, no matter what your age. Think of it as the hairstyle equivalent of trading in your mom jeans for a killer pair of skinny jeans. It’s fresh, it’s fun, and it’s definitely not your grandma’s perm. This haircut is like a fountain of youth, but instead of making you younger, it just makes you look incredibly stylish and confident. And honestly, who needs to be 20 again when you can look this good?
#3 Forty Forward: Hairstyles Reimagined

Thinking about hairstyles for 40 year old women doesn’t have to be boring! Check out this look: it’s like if caramel lattes had a baby with sunshine. Those soft waves make her look like she just walked out of a hair commercial, even if she was just wrestling the remote control from her kids. Definitely a style that says, “I’ve got my life together… mostly,” without trying too hard.
This hairstyle is proof that you can rock that “effortless chic” vibe, no matter your age. It’s like she’s whispering, “Yeah, I woke up like this,” when really it probably took a good 20 minutes and some hairspray. But hey, who needs to know? The key is the highlights – they add so much dimension, and the loose curls give it that “I’m ready for anything” attitude. Perfect for hitting up the PTA meeting or conquering the world, one hair flip at a time!
#4 Forty & Fearless: Hair Reborn

So, you’re scrolling for “40 year old women hairstyles” and land on this picture? Excellent choice! The style is like the cool mom who knows all the latest TikTok dances but still has her life together. It’s not trying too hard, but it definitely makes a statement. The waves are playful, the colour is gorgeous. If you look at this picture, you can feel like this woman knows the best coffee shop and also gives really good advice.
It just goes to show that 40 isn’t just a number; it’s a chance to level up your hair game. Think of this hairstyle as the superhero cape of your 40s. It says you’re confident, stylish, and ready to take on the world, one perfectly tousled wave at a time. This hairstyle will make you look so fabulous, even your teenage self will be jealous!
#5 The Forty Effect: Ageless Hair

Think of your hair like that epic plot twist in your favorite book—it can completely change the story! This hairstyle on the 40-year-old is proof that you can totally rock gorgeous, flowing locks at any age. It’s like saying, “Yeah, I’m 40, but my hair still knows how to party!” Plus, the way it frames her face? Chefs kiss.
Seriously, who needs a time machine when you have a great haircut? This look is all about effortless cool, which is perfect for anyone who wants to look put-together without spending hours in front of the mirror. It’s like the hairstyle equivalent of comfy jeans and a stylish top – classic, comfy, and always on point. Now, if only we could find a filter that makes us look this good on Zoom!
#6 The Forty Factor: Hair Confidence

Finding the perfect hairstyle can be tough, especially when you’re trying to balance looking stylish with feeling comfortable. This hairstyle is like the unicorn of ‘dos – it’s got those beachy waves that scream effortless cool, but also enough polish to rock at, like, a parent-teacher conference or even a fancy dinner (if your parents ever make you go to one!). Plus, the light highlights add a touch of brightness that makes you look refreshed, even if you stayed up way too late watching TikToks last night.
Think of this hairstyle as the ultimate “I woke up like this… but actually, I spent 20 minutes with a curling iron” look. It’s versatile enough to wear with jeans and a t-shirt or dressed up with a cute dress. Basically, it’s the kind of hairstyle that makes people wonder if you have a personal glam squad following you around, even though you just learned the curling technique from a YouTube tutorial. Who needs a time machine when your hair can make you feel this good?
#7 Forty & Fine: Redefining Hair

This lady’s got the “I woke up like this” look perfected, even if it took an hour (and a lot of hairspray!). Forty-year-old women’s hairstyles don’t have to be boring or stuffy. Just look at this amazing wavy hair! It is like she’s starring in a shampoo commercial, and that’s what everyone wants! It is bouncy, shiny, and makes her look like she’s ready to conquer the world…or at least ace that next Zoom meeting.
Think about it: This hairstyle is like the ultimate superpower for anyone who wants to feel confident and amazing. It’s proof that you can rock any look at any age, and who knows, maybe it’ll even inspire your mom (or future you!) to ditch the same old ponytail. So, go ahead, give those waves a try, and prepare to turn heads like you’re walking the red carpet. You’ve totally got this!
#8 Forty & Fierce: Hair Unleashed

Isn’t it wild how some hairstyles just never go out of style? Take this look, for example. She’s rocking that half-up, half-down ‘do, but with a twist! The little bun on top keeps things playful, and those loose curls? Total power move! It’s the kind of hairstyle that says, “Yeah, I’m grown-up, but I still know how to have fun.” Plus, it’s super versatile. Dress it up with some fancy earrings for a party or rock it with jeans and a tee for a chill weekend.
This isn’t your grandma’s ‘sensible’ haircut. This is a hairstyle that proves age is just a number, and forty is the new twenty… with better shoes (and maybe a slightly higher credit limit). This lady looks amazing, and her hairstyle shows it! It’s like she’s saying, “I’ve got this!” to every single hair out of place!
#9 Ageless Allure: Hair’s New Chapter

Look at this woman’s hair! It’s like it decided to skip out on any mid-life crisis drama and just be gorgeous. The layers are flowing and the color is like sunshine mixed with caramel – basically, it’s the hair equivalent of a really good dessert. This hairstyle is proof that turning 40 doesn’t mean you have to get a boring “mom” haircut.
This is the type of style that can make a 40-year-old look super confident, not like she’s trying too hard to look young. It’s a great reminder that you don’t have to pick some crazy color or extreme style to turn heads. It shows that keeping it classy and simple can still make you feel as amazing as you are.
#10 The Radiant Forty: Hair Evolution

Who says turning 40 means you have to settle for boring hair? The woman in this picture clearly knows the secret! She’s rocking a super cool, wavy lob that screams “I’m stylish and I know it!” It’s like the perfect mix of “I woke up like this” and “I actually spent an hour making it look like I woke up like this.” Seriously, that effortless wave is hair goals for any age.
This hairstyle is also a great example of how a little bit of color can go a long way. The highlights and lowlights add dimension and make her hair look super healthy and shiny. Plus, it’s proof that you can still be a total babe with a hairstyle that’s both age-appropriate and totally on-trend. So, if your mom, aunt, or any cool 40-year-old you know is looking for a hair upgrade, show them this picture!
#11 Forties & Fabulous: Hair Authority

So, you’re looking at this picture thinking, “Wow, that’s some amazing hair!” And you’re right! This look is totally achievable, even if your mom or aunt is thinking about trying it out for her fortieth birthday. It’s like the hairstyle equivalent of finding out your favorite band is playing a secret show: unexpected, cool, and definitely worth checking out. Who knows, maybe you’ll even borrow this style yourself one day!
This gorgeous, wavy, highlighted look is like the opposite of a mid-life crisis. Instead of buying a sports car, maybe your mom or your aunt should go for a hair makeover and turn heads everywhere! It’s proof that 40-year-old women can totally rock some awesome hairstyles and show the world how stylish they really are. If she ever needs help with her curling iron, you know who to call!
#12 Locks After Forty: The Remix

Think forty means boring hair? Nah! This picture proves that forty-year-old women can totally rock killer hairstyles. That gorgeous, wavy, and super shiny hair? It’s like the hairstyle equivalent of a cool mom, stylish, fun, and definitely not trying too hard. You’d never guess she’s “over the hill” (which is a totally lame saying, by the way!).
Seriously, if you showed this pic to your grandma, she might actually consider trading in her blue rinse for something a little more awesome. Who knew looking effortlessly chic was a 40th birthday gift option? It’s proof that some hairstyles are timeless and totally get better with age. Now, let’s just hope we can figure out how to get hair this good, no matter how old we are!
#13 Unstoppable Hair: After Forty

Getting ready to rock your forties? This hairstyle is like the ultimate cheat code to looking amazing! Check out those soft waves and the highlights that make everything pop. It’s like you’ve got your own personal sunshine beaming from your hair, and who doesn’t want that? Forget about trying to figure out if your hair is “too long” or “too short” – this look is perfect for anyone who wants to add a little “wow” to their everyday style.
This isn’t your grandma’s 40-year-old hairstyle, it’s more like a “I woke up like this…but actually spent an hour with a curling iron” kind of vibe. Plus, it’s totally versatile! Dress it up with a fancy outfit for a special occasion, or keep it casual with your favorite jeans and t-shirt. Either way, you’ll be turning heads and making everyone wonder what your secret is. Spoiler alert: it’s this hairstyle!
#14 Midlife Mane: Elevated

So, you’re scrolling for “40 year old women hairstyles” and bam! You see this pic. First thought? “Wow, her hair is better than mine, and I’m not even close to 40!” It’s like, forget finding the fountain of youth; just steal this hairstyle and suddenly you’re rocking the “ageless beauty” look. Those blonde highlights? Total game-changer.
Seriously though, check out that effortless wave. It’s not trying too hard, but it still screams “I’ve got my life together…mostly!” Plus, that shoulder-length cut is the perfect length. You can still throw it up in a messy bun for gym class, but also look super put-together for, like, a parent-teacher conference. It’s the ultimate multi-tasking hairstyle for the modern woman, no matter her age.
#15 Beyond Forty: Hair Alchemy

So, your mom (or aunt, or cool older cousin) is hitting the big 4-0? Don’t let her think it’s all grey hairs and boring buns! This hairstyle is proof that “forty and fabulous” is totally a thing. It’s like, a perfect mix of professional and “I can still pull off a killer Instagram selfie.” Plus, those waves? They’re like, instant confidence boosters, perfect for owning that school meeting or rocking a night out with friends.
This look is all about showing off style without trying too hard, which is honestly, a genius move. The highlights frame the face just right, and it’s short enough that she won’t spend hours styling it. Basically, it’s the kind of hairstyle that says, “I’ve got my life together, but I’m still totally fun.” So ditch the idea that 40 means boring hair – this proves it’s totally possible to look amazing at any age!