Long hair is really having a moment lately. You only have to look at Oliva Colman's latest hair transformation to see that.
The award-winning actress turned heads with her latest hair transformation, embracing her grey in a way that feels effortlessly elegant and perfectly timed for autumn.
The look was created by celebrity hair extensions specialist Inanch Emir at INANCH London, using a bespoke blend of four different grey shades of naturally curly Gold Class Hair extensions, individually applied to complement Olivia’s natural grey hair.
© Getty ImagesCallum Ashely Townsend, the UK ambassador for Bellisima, and a specialist when it comes to texture, told me: “I’m loving Olivia Colman’s new hair and how it completely transforms her look ... It’s a really beautiful example of how embracing grey can look effortlessly elegant."
What about the psychology of long hair?
According to psychotherapist Anna Mathur, best-selling author and host of The Therapy Edit podcast, we're hard-wired to find flowing tresses a marker of beauty and fertility.
"Long hair connotes childhood and femininity while short hair connotes power, confidence and strength," she confirms.
How to keep long hair lustrous after 50?
This can be tricky, according to Consultant Trichologist Anabel Kingsley. "Leading up to and upon entering menopause, our oestrogen levels lower and this can result in recurrent bouts of hair shedding known as telogen effluvium.
"While testosterone levels don't rise, the percentage of them in relation to oestrogen does, which means our follicles have a more testosterone-dominant environment to contend with, and we also lose the protective effect of oestrogen.
"Due to hair becoming more fragile and finer, it is harder for long hair to be maintained, as it becomes more brittle and prone to breakage; therefore, it is important for women of this age to look after their scalp and hair health."
Hairstylist Paul Windle of Windle London, told us why women should absolutely embrace their hair length as they get older. The talented professional explained: "I think it’s wonderful if someone wants to let the grey grow in, but I also think colour is a great way to give your hair vibrancy and even experiment with edgy creative colours. A good cut is essential and can make such a difference to the shape and texture of the hair, making it more flattering and in better condition with regular cuts."
© Getty ImagesPaul added: "Face framing, for example, can really soften longer hair and be very flattering, it's also great if you want to experiment with styling, tying back or putting up your hair. We are seeing the continued popularity of curtain fringe/bangs, too."
He added: "As hair can tend to thin when we age, I recommend that you try and stay away from strong shampoos and heavy conditioners. Try and use products that feed the hair."
The key is in the hair's condition; there's no point in growing your hair without a trim. Giving your hair some TLC will help in the long run, making your hair look full and youthful.
4 more long-haired grey muses
© Getty ImagesAndie MacDowell, 68
Andie MacDowell famously stated about embracing her natural silver hair and aging: “I want to be old. I’m tired of trying to be young. I don’t want to be young. I’ve been young.”
© Getty ImagesKelly Hu, 58
Kelly Hu once said she was "wearing my grays like a badge of honour".
© Getty ImagesHilarie Burton, 44
Hilarie Burton Morgan described embracing her natural grey hair as a "relief" and an exciting step toward becoming "the salty one" in the room.
© Getty ImagesStacy London, 57
Stacy London has a "grey clause" with brands these days.'You can do whatever you want to my hair, but you can't dye my grey streak. It's a part of me!”
