Marie from Sydney has asked an interesting question about fortysomethings and hair length. If you have a look at the chapter on style, my two hair experts have slightly differing opinions on the subject. For me, it's a curious thing that hair length is related to age at all. There are many cultures across the globe where the length of hair as we age isn't relevant in society, yet in the Western World we continue to debate if a woman of a certain age is right in keeping her hair long, or is she just trying to look younger? Thing of some of the most beautiful famous women on the planet, and many of them have long hair....Elle Macpherson being one.

Ultimately there are a number of issues surrounding this question, however, first and foremost should be if having long hair actually suits you in the first place. Rega rdless of your age, some women don't suit long hair, and some types of hair, such as very fine, can look a little lacknig when worn beyond the shoulders. Then there is the question of hair quality - to wear it long it needs to be in great condition like in those shampoo advertisements. Also, for some women, if they are covering greys this can become more of a chore as well as an expense if her hair is long.

Personally I think the long or short question is best answered by a woman herself. If she is happy to have long hair, and it gives her pleasure and confidence, then who is right to tell her she's wrong? For other women who are unsure, however, why not experiment with a "long" cut. Clever use of layers can not only break up the weight of hair, and colour if you have highlights, but it also frames the face and softens it - which can be more flattering as we age.

For more information, refer to Chapter 2 of the book, entitled Hair.