According to a book I read one of the 5 top needs that a man has is an attractive spouse. Although some could be offended by the book from what I remember it's really pretty good.
I don’t buy that. For one thing what one man finds attractive another may find repulsive. Sure, everyone wants a spouse that
he finds attractive but the definition of “attractive” can vary greatly. Having a cover girl (or guy) may be very important to
you but it is not important to everyone. I have been with some of the most stereotypically attractive guys in the world, but none of them are what I would consider relationship material.
Some people are motivated and drawn to things that are less superficial such as intellect or shared values. Others are attracted to practical things like income.
One’s taste can also change dramatically over time. We have all acquired a taste for foods we once hated. It is possible to experience this with people as well. What you find attractive today may not be what you find attractive tomorrow. So, no, not ever man needs an "attractive" spouse.
As for women cutting their hair as they get older: when they are very young girls long hair is one of the things that define a girl as female. This is especially true in the West. As a woman gets older and older she has other things to define her femininity: body, make up, clothes, etc. No more "need" for long hair. See, A, B, and C above...