The Hair Edition

A sleek ponytail is always chic. Photo via Meg Hibbard.com

We spend a lot of time in this column discussing fashion: what’s in, what’s out, what to wear when it’s hot, what to wear when it’s cold, how to dress for your body shape, etc. Often, we forget that finding a great outfit is only part of the equation. What about the stuff that goes along with it?

What you do with your hair may seem trivial, but many view it as an art form, just like fashion. Don’t believe me? Check this out. If someone has a great head of hair, that’s usually the first thing I notice. A good hairstyle sets the mood for the entire outfit, and can be a fun way to play with your look.

Let’s start with the basics. Finding the appropriate hairstyle for your outfit might not seem that difficult, but it can definitely make (or break) your ensemble. Would you take someone seriously in a business suit and pigtails?

I didn’t think so.

Go for romantic curls like Taylor's. Photo by David Shankbone via Flickr.

If your outfit is clean and classic, pull your hair back into a sleek ponytail, or throw it all into a high pony at the crown of your head. Either of these looks are perfect for work because they pull your hair out of your face for a more polished look.

For a night out on the town, channel your inner red carpet diva. Part your hair on the side and curl hair in 1 in. sections with a 2 in. barreled curling iron to get that romantic, old Hollywood look. To put a finishing touch on it, pull one side up just above the ear and secure with bobby pins. This look would go perfect with a short summer dress and heels.

If you’re out for a summer picnic, embrace your natural texture whatever that may be. To go with your jeans and a tee, opt for what Mother Nature gave you. It will look effortlessly chic! Especially with humidity levels rising, not all of us can keep up with our daily blowouts and sleek, shiny manes.

Rock those curls, girls. Photo by Cali4beach via Flickr.

For naturally curly or wavy hair, scrunch in your favorite styling product while your hair is still wet and let it air-dry. My favorite product is Redkin’s Fresh Curls. Its scent is fabulously floral and it leaves hair soft, not crunchy. As your hair is drying, try not to touch it- this will create frizz. When it’s almost dry, flip your head over and give those curls some scrunching.

For those with a short ‘do, you probably think you’re missing out on all of the fun. Wrong! A cute headband or sparkly barrette will look cute with any pixie cut.

Fun barrettes are great accessories for a pixie cut. Photo by KathyC81 via Flickr

Anyone that has the killer confidence to sport a short do is a trendsetter in my eyes. Even though you don’t have endless options with a pixie cut, it tends to let your other great features take center stage.

What is your go-to hairstyle in the summer? Do you go with the flow, or do you fight what Mother Nature gave you? I’d love to hear your styling tips and how your hair becomes your greatest accessory!