A regular Best Beauty Always reader wonders why the general thinking still seems to be that older women should not have long hair. It’s a great question because there is quite a bit of debate on the subject. What I don’t understand is why? How a woman wears her hair should be a matter of personal taste and lifestyle considerations, not a question for general discussion.
That said, it pays to remember that women’s hair has been the subject of much discussion throughout history. Hair has been imbued with mystery and power, and has been a theme or focus in many great literary works. There’s a lot of backstory to consider when wondering why hair remains such a hot topic.
Not so long ago, culture seemed to demand that a woman past the age of twenty-five or thirty set aside her youthful flowing locks in favor of a more mature look, one that said she was ready to take on whatever life had in store. The cultural seismic shift called the ‘60s pushed aside a lot of old thinking on hair and many other topics, and hasn’t given an inch in the decades since. Long hair is an option for you if that’s what you want. It has worked for Stevie Nicks, who is 61 and still wears her hair long and straight.
Check out a fabulous photo of singer Emmylou Harris, 62, and more photos at her official Web site. Flip through the photo galleries there to find a photo that includes Emmylou, rocker Patti Scialfa, 56, and actress Susan Sarandon, 63, all three with long hair, looking fabulous. They can carry off the long hair so well because they are not defined by it. They are all so much more than just their hairstyles, and that’s something for all of us to keep in mind.
So you’re not a rock star or entertainer? So what? If long hair is part of who you are, then work it. Just keep in mind that long hair at any age demands a commitment to keeping it looking fantastic. A good cut on a regular basis keeps hair healthy. A great cut will work with your hair type, your features and your lifestyle.
Find a stylist who will take the time to give you a cut that works for you. Talk with your stylist about changes you’re experiencing, in hair thickness or texture, in the shape of your face as you age, as well as changes in work, exercise and travel demands. A good stylist will be able to suggest modifications to your long cut that will work for you now. For photos of some great cuts, long and short, check out this piece at More magazine’s Web site.
The debate certainly won’t end here. What’s your opinion?
