Fall is the perfect time for a hair refresh, and the Side-Fringe Shag is emerging as the must-have style for women over 50 this season. As the autumn leaves change, why not transform your look with this modern twist on a classic cut that combines sophistication with effortless style?
Why the side-fringe shag works magic for mature hair
As we age, our hair often becomes finer and loses volume. The side-fringe shag addresses these concerns brilliantly by creating the illusion of fullness and dimension through strategically placed layers. “The beauty of this cut lies in its ability to work with age-related changes rather than fighting against them,” says hair expert Melissa Tanner, creative director at Elevate Salon in Chicago.
The textured layers create movement and bounce, while the side fringe softens facial features and can elegantly camouflage fine lines around the eyes and forehead. For those experiencing thinning hair, volume-enhancing techniques pair perfectly with this versatile style.
Autumn-ready adaptations for the side-fringe shag
Fall’s cooler temperatures and lower humidity make it the ideal season to embrace this style. “The side-fringe shag is like a cozy sweater for your hair—comfortable, flattering, and perfectly suited to autumn,” notes Tanner. The cut works beautifully with fall’s richer hair colors, whether you’re embracing your natural grays or opting for warm caramel or auburn tones.
Consider hair glossing treatments to add shine and dimension, particularly beneficial during fall’s drier weather. These treatments can make aging hair appear up to 30% thicker while enhancing your new cut’s movement.
How to customize the side-fringe shag for your face shape
This versatile cut can be tailored to flatter any face shape:
- Round faces benefit from longer layers and a deeper side fringe
- Square faces are softened by feathery layers around the jawline
- Oval faces can carry virtually any variation of the style
- Heart-shaped faces shine with fuller side fringe and textured layers
The perfect alternative to trendy wolf cuts
While wolf cuts have gained popularity among women over 55, the side-fringe shag offers a more sophisticated, age-appropriate option with similar volumizing benefits. “Think of the side-fringe shag as the wolf cut’s elegant sister—all the texture and volume, but with a refined, polished finish,” explains stylist James Morton.
Low-maintenance styling for busy autumn days
One of this cut’s greatest advantages is its minimal styling requirements. Unlike the choppy bob that might require more precise styling, the side-fringe shag actually looks better with a bit of natural texture.
For easy fall styling, try these approaches:
- Air-dry with a lightweight mousse for natural texture
- Use a round brush just on the fringe for a polished look
- Apply texturizing spray to enhance layers and volume
Combating autumn dryness with proper care
Fall’s cooler air can leave hair feeling parched. Consider oil pre-treatments before shampooing to lock in moisture. “The side-fringe shag is like a garden in fall—it still needs nourishment to look its best,” Morton notes. “Regular deep conditioning treatments keep those layers looking lively and full of movement.”
Embracing your natural texture
The side-fringe shag truly shines when it works with your natural hair texture. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, this cut can be adapted to enhance what you already have. For women embracing their natural gray, the textured layers can showcase the beautiful dimension of silver strands.
Ready for your autumn transformation?
As we settle into fall 2025, the side-fringe shag offers a perfect blend of classic style and modern edge for women over 50. With its face-framing layers, youthful movement, and low-maintenance appeal, it’s no wonder this elevated take on the classic shag is becoming the season’s most requested cut. Your hair deserves this refreshing update as the leaves begin to fall.