Putting a creative spin to hairstyles

J-LAW and her new pixie cut

I am so bored with my hair. What hairstyles can I try for 2014? —Liza Q.

 

Short hair is making huge waves this season, and we’ll probably be seeing more of it until next year. It is such a refreshing change from all the long, wavy hair we’ve been seeing these past years (frankly, everyone is starting to look the same). It is fresh, modern and apparently easy to maintain.

 

We’ve seen the transformation in Hollywood and local celebrities—their newly chopped hair seems to bring out a fun, younger version of themselves. We’re seeing more of the classic bob these days (Joey Mead and Iza Calzado already hopped on the trend) as well as the pixie cut, for the more daring ladies (a la Jennifer Lawrence).

 

But, of course, that isn’t your only option. If you’re not 100-percent sold, there are other ways to make your hairstyle look young and modern. Yes, you can still maintain the length of your hair while giving it an update.

 

Look to these easy runway looks from Spring-Summer 2014 for inspiration.

 

Messy updo. It’s the volume and the soft curls that make this hairstyle work. The disheveled look is chic, and you don’t have to try too hard. Simply let your natural waves work its magic

GILES

and twist hair up into a bun. But leave some volume on the top of your head, so your hair softly frames your face. This works well if you have thick, wavy or curly hair.

 

If you have straight, fine hair, you can use a curling iron, and then get a teasing comb to brush and give it volume.

 

Old-world braids. Braids have been around for ages—they’re versatile enough for casual occasions and formal events. To appreciate this look, you’ll need big, loose plaits instead of the tight ones you’re used to doing. Adding volume to your hair will allow it to stay loose and fluffy. Allowing a few stray strands to fall is cool, so don’t get tempted to make the hairstyle look too clean.

 

Intricate pony. It’s our go-to hairstyle: the ponytail, only better. You can try a few tricks to put a creative spin to this look. Exaggerate volume on the top, add twists and twirls—go on and add all the bells and whistles. Or you can add textures as well—super sleek, full volume, or a mix of both (sleek on top and poufy at the ends). This season you can go all out with this hairstyle.

 

Flowers in the hair. Adding flowers in the hair instantly brightens the face and softens your look. You can look sweet, girly and fresh when little blooms are added to a volumized updo. Or you can come off as a bohemian gal when flowers are worn around like a headband.

 

DOLCE & Gabbana

Headpieces. You can go simple and understated, or big, bold and ostentatious with headpieces. Gold is the obvious choice for a toned-down look with a metallic clip or ponytail holder. A gold headband can also add a modern touch.

 

On the other hand, you can be adventurous with a headpiece, sporting huge feathers, a bejeweled visor or a metallic helmet. There are plenty of options to make your look modern and new, as long as you can carry it with confidence.

 

Got a beauty question? E-mail the author at ask.kellymisa@gmail.com. Follow her on Twitter @kellymisa and visit her blog www.kellymisa.com.

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