Hair in your 50s is having a moment. In fact, it just about deserves its own category.
Recently, we wrote a piece on 5 of the best haircuts for women over 50, after Mamamia's Holly Wainwright and contributor Teresa McNamara wrote about being prescribed an 'age-appropriate' hairstyle.
The response we received was HUGE, and it told us one thing: when it comes to hair over 50, women are sick of being told they need to fit into a certain box.
For many of us, we reach a certain age and we suddenly feel limited to one hairstyle. One haircut. Select hair colours.
Which is, of course, total and utter BS.
Hair is a totally individual choice and how you look and feel should never be defined by a number. You should always go for whatever look makes you feel most confident and happy — so, like all other areas of beauty, you do you!
Watch: Short hairstyles we love. Story continues after video.
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With that in mind, since we've already looked at how people are styling their hair over 50, we thought we'd look at the best colour options to try if you're looking for something different.
In fact, we enlisted the help of Kirby Lago, National Kerasilk Ambassador and owner of Pelo by Lago, to help us pull together a list of some of the best colours for women over 50.
And yes, it's going to make you want to book a salon appointment.
What are the best hair colours for women over 50?
When it comes to what kind of hair colours best suit women over 50 and beyond, Lago said there are a few things to keep in mind.
"Remember, the key is to choose a hair colour that compliments your skin tone and enhances your features. It's a good idea to consult with your stylist who can help you select the best shade based on your individual characteristics."
Because as we all know, hair colour isn't a one-size-fits all kind of thing. It's completely dependent on the individual.
With this in mind, Lago said there are five particular shades that are generally most flattering on women over 50 - including of the most requested colours she sees in her salon.
1. Soft shades of blonde.
First up, we have soft shades of blonde. "Light blonde shades like honey blonde, golden blonde, or ash blonde can add a ‘youthful’ and soft glow to the complexion," shared Lago.
2. Rich brunettes.
Lago said to think "deep chocolate or warm chestnut brown shades," explaining that these warmer hues can "provide a sense of elegance and sophistication, while still offering a natural look."
Sign us up!
3. Subtle highlights.
Not keen on an all-over transformation but still want something... different? That's okay! Lago said adding subtle highlights or lowlights to your natural hair colour can really level up your hair game.
"This can create dimension and depth, which can be particularly flattering for older hair. It's also super easy to maintain," she said.
4. Natural and subtle shades.
In salon, Lago said some of the most-requested (and flattering) colours her over 50s clients ask for are natural and subtle shades to create a low-maintenance lived-in colour.
We love low-maintenance!
She said, "Many women in this demographic opt for hair colours that mimic their natural shades or are only slightly different. This includes soft shades of blonde, warm browns, and grey or silver hair."
5. Dark roots, lighter ends.
Another of the biggest requests Lago sees in her salon is women over 50 opting to maintain darker roots and lighter ends, which she said creates contrast and depth.
"In my salon we use Goldwell and with our colour range we can work with your grey hairs to ‘cover, blend and beautify’ them. This is a great way to soften out the grey hairs, cover them subtly or embrace them by working them in with your colour."
"There are so many different shades of grey that can be super flattering and elegant!"
What hair colours should women over 50 avoid?
Now, as we said before, how you look and feel should never be defined by a number, and there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to what hair colours you should and shouldn't have.
"Do whatever makes you feel beautiful," said Lago.
Hear, hear.
However, if you really want to know what an expert would suggest avoiding, Lago said, "Personally I would suggest avoiding any fluorescent, bold colours as these can often tend to wash you out, and are also harder to maintain."
She also said to be being mindful of jumping into anything, and taking the time to speak to your stylist for tips on how to style and colour your hair best to suit your look.
"Avoiding doing something for the sake of doing it," said Lago. "There is no such thing as age appropriate hair or any rules to hair styles and ageing."
"Being over 50 doesn't mean you have to cut your hair short, do what makes you feel best, and what enhances your unique beautiful features!"
"Whether you embrace your greys or cover your greys, wear it with confidence and guilt-free! There is the perfect hairstyle and colour out there for every one of you, consult with your stylist to find that ONE."
So, there you have it! Five of the best hair colours for women over 50.
Tell us. What's your hair colour of choice? Share with us in the comment section below.
Feature image: Getty
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