Short and Sassy

I've been contemplating cutting off my long locks, but have held back because it's often said that short hair ages women--and I didn't want to end up with a "mom do". But then I came across photos of the lovely Mariska Hargitay, who in my opinion looks far, far better with short hair than she does with long. Which made me realize that it's not really about the length--it's about the cut, color, and of course your face shape and what compliments it. What do you think--can short hair look young and chic?