I am glad to read that so many others have not succumbed and cut their hair simply because they are over 40(Or over 50, like me!) I had the same problem as blossom97, I had my hair cut short but because it too is very curly it just looked dreadful. So I started growing it again and enjoy being able to wear it up or down..so many ways.. YES the famous women who have long hair are inspiring.. PS new to this forum, perhaps I should have introduced myself first...