Hair Styles

For a chic, modern ensemble like a pant-suit or a simply cut dress, can slick the hair back or customize the "do" with barrettes with flowers or pearls. Peasant dresses, high-waist frocks, or any other period-influenced cut — either wear your hair au naturel — sprinkles of small flowers take well to curly hair — or tie it back loosely, in a romantic style.

Shine On

The number one most important aspect of hair is shine. Straight hair by nature tends to have more sparkle, but flyaway problems will automatically ruin the effect. To combat this common dilemma - especially prevalent in the winter or in colder climates you can use a good hair spray or even a leave-in conditioner. For wavy and curly hair, both prone to brittleness and dullness, slather on a moisturizing product before you begin styling, and then use a shining serum to gloss your hair.

Length Matters

Obviously you're limited by the length of your hair, but then again, biology is there to be conquered.

Short
There are some seriously sexy and glam looks for short-haired gals. Short hair adds a note of sophistication to your look. There are numerous options for a cropped top just as versatile as long hair, but a lot less hassle. The fabulous twenty-something mini barrette look is super-fine; use gel to slick the front of your hair down, fastening one or two barrettes in strategic places (slick down two strands on your cheekbones for that Flapper look). Tousle the hair on the back of your head for a wild contrast. What about those elasticized, fine-toothed headbands? Another simple-but-chic look. Just pull one through your hair and - voila - the pixie look. Let's not forget, you can also use a wig.

Long
If you decide to wear your hair up — a wise choice in the summer or if your wavy/curly hair is prone to frizz or go through mood swings — there are many wonderful 'dos you can do. Scour fashion magazines, consult with your hairdresser, and ask friends for help with trying styles out.

Some essential terms you'll need to know are:

Chignon
A tight knot at the base of the head, the Evita look. Can be a wound braid or plain, ungathered ponytail. Perfect for any type of hair.

French Braid/Pleat
Three-stranded braid woven close to the head, gymnast-style. Good for out-of-control locks.

French Twist
The twist-and-fasten look, like a hot dog bun on the back of your head. Despite that unappealing description, it's actually all the rage right now — and it's pretty timeless, too.

Bun
A ponytail wrapped around itself, usually at the top of the head. The ballerina look is very flattering if you have a long neck.

Updo
A generic term for any upswept look. Usually with loose tendrils of hair framing the face. Think supermodel.

Petal Curls
An elaborate, cutting-edge style that involves constructing many smooth folds of hair on top or at the back of the head. Stunning, like a flower made of hair.

Glam It!
Fresh flowers, yet another option for beautiful detail, add dimension and texture. Flowers may be pinned into the hair, placed around the head. Then, people won't notice that your hair is short or long, they'll just focus on the flowers. Remember that when your hair is short, the details say a lot. The bonus of shorter hair is that with less to work with (and to hide the pretty hair piece), the accessory will appear more visible and more dramatic. Earrings, barrettes, or unique accessories (like a beaded tiara) can create a whole look.

Ask around for handcrafted pins, combs, headbands or hats. Hair pins, "baby" barrettes and handmade clips are popular and fairly easy to find these days. Many salons now sell them, sometimes made by local artists. Be sure to ask when you book your appointment.

Try the humble headband for a final touch of sparkle. You can glue sequins, flowers, ribbon and bits and ends to them.