Hair

“Gimme head of hair, long beautiful hair.” If you grew up in the 70’s, you probably remember the play Hair and this song. This song represented the Hippie generation, seems as though everyone male and female grew their hair long. Well, it’s 2022, I am 67 years old and I have long hair. I’m talking 5-6 inches below my shoulder long.

Going longer between cuts, my husband mentioned he liked my hair a bit longer. So, I decided to try long hair again. 

Feeling a bit insecure about growing my hair out, I would ask my stylist “Is this acceptable?” Aren’t there hair rules about aging women having long hair? Assuring me anything goes now, and they have several aging clients daring to do this, I continued on. Then when the pandemic hit, hair salons were a no-no. My hair kept growing, my husband continued to like it, and all was good.

Friends and family have varying opinions from saying they like it or saying nothing. What I hear often is the statement, “Your hair is so long.” I don’t know quite how to reply, “I’m sorry?” Usually replying, “My husband really likes it or it’s easy for me.” I feel a bit like I need to justify why I’ve done this to myself. It is easy for me, I’m outside a lot, I just pull it back. I don’t have to style it like short hair requires. Just blow dry upside down.

Maybe I am too old to have such long hair, but it feels good. I’ve yet to be accosted by the fashion police. As it drapes over my shoulder, I feel like I’m young again. Not to worry, I’ll never wear hot pants and miniskirts again, but for now I will keep my long hair. “Hair, grow it, show it, Long as I can grow it, my hair.” Remember, Don’t Live Old.