It’s been two weeks since we rang in the beginning of 2011, and with that in mind, out with the old, in with the new has been applied to everything from closet clean-outs to personal relationships. But what better way to signify change than with a hairstyle that breathes new life into the January blahs? Here are some of our favourites, and the ways you can take your hair from same ole to hip and with it.
Going Ginger
Maybe you spent the better part of 2010 re-growing a haircut you’re still cringing about “ and of course, if that’s the case, losing inches will only result in tears and minor depression. So instead of making changes with a pair of scissors, take the route of Lauren Conrad and Jennifer Love-Hewitt and add ginger tones to create some depth and to maintain interest. Whether you’re going lighter or going darker, playing with red will give you a completely new vibe, preventing another season of same old with an eye-catching twist on an old favourite.
Parting Ways
In addition to volume and braids dominating spring 2011 runways, the dramatic side part made a comeback courtesy of shows by Lacoste and DKNY. Another alternative to losing length, changing your part from something subtle to the dramatic can completely change your face shape, adding angles and highlighting cheekbones where center and subtle parts can make your face seem round. Of course, if you really want to make a change, slick your hair into a low ponytail, creating a sleek, show-stopping look that channels 80s glamour through an empowering aesthetic.
Be Blunt
Keeping in step with the dramatic, angled look created by side parts and sleek, low ponytails, blunt cuts are maintaining the powerful vibe honed by most designers in their spring/summer 2011 shows. While volume is still very much present, hair boasting a sharp, dramatic cut “ ala Chloe Sevigny “ is channeling the sleekness of the early 90s, as multi-layers and an abundance of texture is being replaced by cuts both sleek and minimalist. The best part? Growing out will be easy “ simply chop to your shortest layer and use your straightener to create subtle waves.
The Pompadour
Believe it or not, the rockabilly look has officially become the perfect way to transition from short to long locks without the choppy layers of the mid-to-late 2000s. Pioneered by the likes of Janelle Monae, the controversial volume-in-the-front/business-in-the-back has recently been seen on the likes of Ginnifer Goodwin and Natasha Bedingfield, and while reaction’s been mixed, the look certainly follows the punk rock and grunge aesthetic that’s returned in 2010. And if you’re not ready to make the cut? Simply pump up the volume in the front and fasten your hair into a French twist to create a classic interpretation of 50s-inspired tradition.
