Revitalize Your Look: Top Anti-Aging Hair Fixes for Women Over 50

THE HAIR HANDBOOK: HOW TO GO FROM FROSTY TO FLAWLESS

Ah, hair - the ultimate status symbol and our crowning glory (pun intended). We've all been there - standing in front of the mirror, scrutinizing every grey strand, every wispy bit. But what's the secret to staying fabulous, even as the years go by? We asked London's top stylists for their expert advice on how to conquer the ageing process and rock that silver fox look with confidence.

THE A-LINE BOB: DON'T BE TEMPTED!

Michael Van Clarke, award-winning stylist and owner of luxury salon in Marylebone, knows a thing or two about what works - and what doesn't. 'Forget the facelift,' he warns. 'A better hair shape is the real key to eternal youth.' And that's where the A-line bob falls flat. Think about it: as we age, our hair gets fluffier at the ends, wider at the bottom, creating a 'depressing, heavy-squat look' (ouch!). No thank you! Van Clarke recommends graduated, precise layers around the face, flowing into longer layers at the back - it's all about lift and energy, baby!

THE SQUARE-FACE FRINGE: AVOID THIS AT ALL COSTS

Tom Smith of Aevum salon is a firm believer in the power of fringes. But not just any fringe will do. 'Many women in their 40s and 50s think cutting a full fringe will cover up those wrinkles,' he says, shaking his head. 'But it can have the opposite effect - making your face look heavier.' Oh dear, that's not what we want! Instead, opt for sweeping, lightweight fringes with choppier edges and curved angles. It's all about maximising shape in the hairline, which often gets finer and weaker as we age.

GOING BLONDE: THE PERFECT ANTI-AGEING TRICK?

Like Kate Middleton, many of us are turning to blonde to add some much-needed sparkle to our locks. But be warned: it's a high-risk, high-reward situation. 'Going blonder can be a disaster if you get it wrong,' warns one stylist. To avoid the dreaded Bird's Custard blonde (no!), make sure to choose a shade that complements your skin tone - and don't forget to highlight your roots for an effortless look.

THE BIGGEST HAIR MISTAKES OF ALL TIME

We asked London's top stylists to spill their biggest hair faux pas. Here are the ones they dread seeing most:

• Rushing change: going from long hair to a bob overnight (no, really, it doesn't work like that!)
• Ignoring hair health: neglecting colour and condition for the sake of looking trendy
• Not taking care of your scalp: healthy roots equal better hair - don't neglect this crucial step!
• Wearing too dark hair colours as we age: our skin tone changes with time, so it's time to lighten up (literally!)

THE HAIR HANDBOOK TAKEAWAYS

So there you have it - the top tips for staying fabulous as we age. Remember:

• Go for graduated layers and a face-framing fringe
• Choose shades that complement your skin tone
• Prioritise hair health over trendiness
• Don't rush change - take it slow and see what works

And finally, if all else fails, there's always the trusty old wig or hairpiece to save the day. As one stylist so sagely put it: 'It's a fabulous way to get a boost - but do use wigs and hairpieces to test the waters before committing to a dramatic change.'

There you have it - the definitive guide to age-defying hair. Stay fabulous, everyone!

References:

• Michael Van Clarke, award-winning stylist and owner of luxury salon in Marylebone (vanclarke.com)
• Tom Smith, co-founder of Aevum salon (aevumsalon.com) and ambassador for Evo Hair and Calecim Professional
• Richard Ward, royal and celebrity hairdresser with his own salon in Chelsea (richardward.com)
• Edward James, celebrity stylist with four salons across London (edwardjameslondon.com)
• Jo Hansford, MBE-winning Mayfair salon founder (johansford.com)

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