I’ve spent decades looking for the perfect hairstyles, just to find that the right hairstyle for me changes as I age. When my thick hair turned to thin hair, I realized I had to switch things up and find a style that gave the illusion of volume — without requiring too much work. I looked specifically for low-maintenance hairstyles that fit two criteria: first, they had to be wash and wear haircuts; second, they had to hold their shape and body all day long. These are the six that I landed on. They’re fun and a little flirty, while also being uniquely suited to mature women’s hair texture.

Easy Wash and Wear Haircuts for Women Over 60

Low-maintenance hairstyles don’t have to be boring. Whether you’re looking to change your hair color, swap your side part for a middle part, or find wash and wear haircuts for inspiration, the looks on this list fit the bill. There are long and short hairstyles, plus tips for a professional hairstylist.

1. A Classic Bob

If a versatile hair style is what you want, a classic bob is the look for you. A bob hairstyle works on short, medium-length, and long hair, and it’s easy to style, whether you prefer blow-drying or air-drying. Typically, bobs fall around the jawline or the ears, and they often include face-framing bangs that complement the wearer’s facial features. For women with gray hair, the bob is especially nice, as its clean, crisp lines have a sophisticated, pulled-together quality that reflects the well-earned wisdom of the wearer. 

2. Short Pixie Cut

A short haircut that will never go out of style is the pixie cut. Pixie cuts are typically tight to the head, though contemporary trendy looks have provided variations on the foundational cut. Because of their length, pixie haircuts tend to be playful, especially when combined with color or balayage. This style gets its name from the pixie fantasy character, which makes sense since it’s soft, feminine, and pretty. It’s definitely one of the best hairstyles in the “short haircuts for women over 60” category, not least of all because pixie cuts are among the most low-maintenance hairstyles. The shorter your pixie haircut, the less styling and washing that’s required. While pixie cuts can look cute on just about anyone, they especially flatter women with a heart-shaped or round face. For additional dimension, choppy bangs or side-swept bangs can be added to pixie cuts.