Fashion & Style

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)

Life after 40 is full of energy, movement, and new…

Robin - June 13, 2025 0

Life after 40 is full of energy, movement, and new adventures. Whether you’re smashing on the padel court or jet-setting to a new destination, your hair needs to keep up. We know that versatility and low-maintenance styles are key for women with active, on-the-go lifestyles. The right hairstyle should look polished, require minimal fuss, and transition seamlessly from workouts to work meetings. Join us as we explore practical, stylish hair solutions designed to move with you—no matter where life takes you next.

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1. Textured Bob

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A confident woman over 40 sports a chic textured bob, perfect for staying stylish during her fitness routine. | Image source: Photo by shahin khalaji on Pexels

The textured bob is a stand-out choice for active women over 40. Its layered, slightly tousled shape keeps hair off the neck during workouts, while still looking chic for any occasion. This cut works beautifully on most hair types, from fine to thick, and requires minimal styling—just air dry or add a touch of product for effortless movement. Celebrities like Viola Davis and Jennifer Aniston have embraced this look. For inspiration and expert tips, explore these bob haircuts.

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2. Low Ponytail with Side Part

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A group of athletic women with sleek low ponytails and stylish side parts prepare for an outdoor workout together. | Image source: Photo by Los Muertos Crew on Pexels

A low ponytail with a side part offers a blend of sophistication and practicality, perfect for both sports and travel. This look stays put during activities yet transitions easily to a polished dinner style. Add a silk scrunchie or sleek hairpin to dress it up, or keep it simple for everyday wear. Discover more ways to personalize this timeless ponytail with advice from Harper’s Bazaar.

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3. Soft Layered Shag

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A woman shows off her voluminous hair styled in a casual, layered shag that frames her face effortlessly. | Image source: Photo by Google

The soft layered shag brings volume and natural movement, making it ideal for active women who want an effortless, just-styled look. Its feathered layers keep the hair light and bouncy, even after a workout or a long day of sightseeing. Unlike the classic ’70s shag, today’s versions are softer and more blended, offering a flattering frame for all face shapes. See modern shag inspirations for ideas on how to make this carefree style your own.

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4. Braided Crown

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A woman with a stylish braided crown smiles confidently, her practical travel hairstyle perfect for adventurous, active journeys. | Image source: Photo by Google

A braided crown is both elegant and extremely practical, especially for women on the move. This style keeps hair securely off the face, no matter if you’re hiking a trail or exploring a bustling market. Travel bloggers love this look for its blend of beauty and function, and it holds up throughout the day. Want to try it yourself? Follow this step-by-step braided crown guide for easy styling.

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5. Short Pixie Cut

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A confident woman with a chic pixie cut shows off her sporty style in a vibrant, athletic outfit. | Image source: Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels

The short pixie cut is the ultimate in low-maintenance style—perfect for women with busy, active routines. This cut requires minimal styling and dries quickly, freeing up precious time. Celebrities like Halle Berry have made the pixie an icon of confidence and modern flair. For more star-inspired ideas, check out these celebrity pixie cuts.

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6. Blunt Lob

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A confident woman showcases a sleek, modern blunt lob, radiating timeless elegance and contemporary style. | Image source: Photo by Google

The blunt lob offers a chic, modern edge that’s as practical as it is stylish. Its straight, even ends give a sharp look that’s easy to maintain and works beautifully for all hair textures. This long bob falls just above the shoulders, making it easy to tie back for workouts or let loose for a sleek finish. Explore professional blunt lob ideas for inspiration.

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7. High Messy Bun

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A stylishly effortless messy bun sits atop her head, the perfect sporty hairstyle for an active day out. | Image source: Photo by Google

The high messy bun is every active woman’s go-to for fast, fuss-free hair. It’s perfect for pulling hair up before a workout, a padel match, or sprinting through an airport terminal. This style is all about relaxed texture, so don’t worry about perfection. Use a sturdy hair tie and a few pins to keep it secure, even during movement. For step-by-step instructions and creative variations, check out these messy bun tutorials.

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8. Shoulder-Length Layers

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A chic, shoulder-length cut with soft layers showcases the versatility of this effortlessly stylish hairstyle. | Image source: Photo by Ultra on Pexels

Shoulder-length layers provide the perfect balance between style and practicality for women on the go. The layers add movement and volume, making hair easier to manage and less prone to tangling during activity. This length is long enough for ponytails or braids, yet short enough for quick drying and effortless styling. Experts recommend this cut for its versatility and the way it transitions seamlessly from office hours to after-work fitness or travel.

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9. Side-Swept Bangs with Mid-Length Cut

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A confident, active woman with mid-length hair and stylish side-swept bangs enjoys a brisk outdoor workout. | Image source: Photo by Luis Quintero on Pexels

Side-swept bangs paired with a mid-length cut bring a touch of softness and youthfulness to any look. These bangs are easy to style and blend seamlessly into layered or textured hair, creating a flattering frame for the face. Maintenance is simple—just a quick trim every few weeks. For inspiration and maintenance tips, explore real-life examples of bangs with mid-length styles.

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10. Classic French Twist

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A sleek French twist updo adds a touch of elegance, making it the perfect hairstyle for stylish travelers. | Image source: Photo by YouTube

The classic French twist offers a timeless blend of elegance and practicality, making it a favorite for women on the move. This updo keeps hair secure and polished, whether you’re attending an event or navigating a busy airport. It’s surprisingly easy to master with a little practice and can be dressed up or down with accessories. For step-by-step instructions and chic variations, visit this French twist styling guide.

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11. Sporty Fishtail Braid

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A woman with a sleek fishtail braid ties her sneakers, ready to embrace her active, athletic lifestyle. | Image source: Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels

A sporty fishtail braid is both durable and stylish, making it ideal for athletic activities like padel or hiking. This braid holds hair snugly in place, reducing tangles and staying put even during intense movement. It’s a fresh twist on classic braids and looks great with activewear or casual outfits. For easy-to-follow tutorials and creative fishtail variations, check out these video guides.

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12. Sleek Low Bun

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A woman exudes confidence with her hair styled into a sleek, low bun for a polished, sophisticated look. | Image source: Photo by Google

The sleek low bun is a favorite for women seeking a polished look that lasts through workouts, travel, or a busy day. This style resists frizz and stays comfortably in place, even during long flights or high-energy activities. It’s easy to achieve with a smoothing serum and a secure elastic. For professional tips and step-by-step tutorials, visit this low bun guide.

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13. Curly Wash-and-Go

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A woman with beautiful, bouncy natural curls showcases her effortless wash-and-go hairstyle, radiating confidence and joy. | Image source: Photo by Polina on Pexels

The curly wash-and-go is a dream for women with natural curls who crave minimal effort and maximum style. Simply cleanse, hydrate, and define your curls—no heat or complicated styling needed. This approach highlights your natural texture while saving time for all your adventures. Don’t forget to use a good leave-in conditioner for lasting hydration. For step-by-step routines and expert curly hair advice, check out these wash-and-go tips.

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Final Thoughts: Embracing Practical Style

13 Hairstyles Women Over 40 Are Wearing for Active Lifestyles (From Padel to Traveling the World)
A confident women with stylish, flowing hair enjoy a morning run together, radiating active lifestyle inspiration. | Image source: Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels

Finding the right hairstyle is about supporting your active lifestyle and feeling confident in every moment. The best cuts and styles are those that adapt to your schedule, whether you’re playing sports, traveling, or enjoying daily life.

Don’t be afraid to experiment—try a few of these looks to see what suits your routine and personality. Embrace styles that bring out your energy and individuality. Your hair should move with you, wherever your journey leads next.

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Robin

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