Short Cuts for the Summer!

SHORT STYLES YOU WILL HAVE TO TRY TO COOL YOU DOWN THIS SUMMER!

Summer is here, so how about doing some short styles and trying something new! 

PIXIE

I like to think that the pixie cut is a great option when it comes to short hairstyles for summer because it looks very cute and feminine. Not to mention, it’s so easy to maintain if you are plagued with thick curly hair, and you will definitely stay cool in the heat this summer.

BOB

Even if you opt out of bangs, a bob can still look stunning on any woman, and I have to say that it is one of my favorite short hairstyles for summer. I love the bob because I think it can be so great when styled the right way, and you don’t have to go through the whole ordeal of cutting off all of your hair, which can definitely be too traumatic for some people.

GIRLY MOHAWK

So before you make a judgment, hear me out: a girly mohawk comes in all shapes and styles. I like the girly mohawk as one of the short hairstyles for summer because it’s daring, sexy and you really only live once, so why not try something different? Everyone has different tastes, but a girly mohawk can be really flattering on some people. I think it’s a great option if you want to add some style in a short haircut as opposed to the alternatives which can seem lifeless and flat, especially if you have very straight, thin hair.

GAMINE

This is a great option when it comes to short hairstyles for summer simply because it’s one of the most practical, but still fashionable and sexy. I think, despite popular belief, that there are many different things you can do with a gamine style haircut, one of them being wearing a headband or pinning back the front bangs with a bobby pin or bow. Plus, it will keep you cool in the unbearable heat of summer!

CROPPED

The difference between the cropped hairstyle and the pixie is that the cropped style is longer on the sides and back, so it isn’t quite a pixie or bob, but it’s sort of in between. I also love a cropped haircut as one of the short hairstyles for summer because it isn’t quite as dramatic as a gamine or pixie but it’s definitely short enough to keep you cool in the summer sun. I’ve seen a lot of older women with this hairstyle but I don’t see why younger women can’t also wear it.

UNDERCUT

Living in New York, I have seen many women and men take on the undercut hairstyle. I think some people attribute this style to the so-called “hipster” movement but it’s still of one the best short hairstyles for summer. Here’s why: if you aren’t ready to essentially shave off all your hair and go gamine, but you really want to keep your hair as short as possible to avoid the heat this summer, the undercut is a great compromise. The undercut is pretty much self-explanatory in some sense; basically, the hair is cut from underneath but it gets covered from hair on the top. Even if you don’t really consider yourself a hipster, or punk, or whatever label you want to include, the undercut is definitely in fashion right now. You can even keep your hair longer on the top and only undercut it on one side if you want to.

REVERSE MULLET

A reverse mullet is ideal as one of the short hairstyles for summer, because your hair is almost completely off your neck but you still have some length in the front. At first glance, most people don’t even realize that the back part of your hair is shorter than the front. Overall it’s a very chic and sexy option to beat the summer heat without completely cutting off all of your hair.

Easy Summer Styles

Easy Summer Styles

Summer is a time for letting loose, being carefree and staying cool – and what better way to achieve all three than with easy, breezy summer hairstyles? Put away the hairdryer, the straightening irons and all of those other styling products that require heat and make you sweat. For this season, keep it cool, look cute and stay fresh with these super cute and super easy to achieve summer hairstyles. 

THE PONY TAIL

The age-old, go-to hairstyle is as fashionable as ever and is one of the easiest summer hairstyles to achieve. Not only is it super easy to create, but there are several ways to wear this style. Slick back your hair, pull it all together and secure it on top of your crown with an elastic band to create a slick, playful look. Gather it loosely at the nape of your neck for a more sophisticated, romantic style. Pull it to the side of your head for an edgier look. Add some extra dimension and interest by pulling a few strands of hair out to frame your face, or secure the pony with a ribbon or a bandana.

BEACH BABY

Stop trying to control those waves or that extra body and instead embrace it during the summer months. Hair that looks like you just came from the beach is playful and completely carefree. To achieve this style, apply some wave-creating product to your damp hair, flip your head upside down and scrunch it with your hand. As your hair dries, those waves will come out and you will have a lovely, stylish ‘do.

THE BRAID

A braid is another simple to achieve, go-to hairstyle that is perfect for the summer months. And, just like the ponytail, there are a variety of ways to wear a braid. Do a loose one at the nape of your neck. Pull your hair into a high pony and braid it. Gather your hair to one side and tie it in a braid that cascades over one shoulder. Other options include the classic French and the trendy fishtail.

A BUN

Want to really keep cool this summer? A bun is an excellent option. This style pulls all of your hair up and off of your neck, plus it looks sweet, romantic and sophisticated. Start by putting your hair in a ponytail and wrap your hair around the elastic that is securing your pony. Use a few pins to hold the bun in place. Alternatively, you can braid the pony and then wrap it around the elastic and secure it into place.

RANDOM PINNING

Create a super easy up-do that will keep you cool and give you a chic look this summer. To achieve this style, randomly twist sections of your hair, pull them up and secure them at random points on the back of your head with bobby pins. Instead of twisting, you can also try braiding.

A HEADBAND

Want to keep your hair down, but out of your face? How about wearing a headband? There are so many different types of headbands out there, so you can easily find one that will work with your outfit or your look. Comb your hair smooth or create some body and scrunch it. Part it down the middle or to one side, or slick it back and put your headband in place.

HALF UP, HALF DOWN

A half up, half down style is always a great option for the summer months. There are a number of ways you can wear this one. Pull the top of your hair back, slick it back and secure it with a clip or an elastic band. Loosely gather the top of your hair so that a part remains in your hair, and secure it just below your crown.

2013 Summer Hair Styles

2013 SUMMER HAIR STYLES

Instead of your usual ponytail to keep your hair up, how about sporting some new ways to wear your hair this summer? Whether your hair is short or long, there are some fresh new ideas for hairstyles that will please everyone. 

THE MERMAID

The mermaid has luscious, flowing waves like a mermaid’s hair and is braided at the top around the sides for a little elegant, yet youthful twist. This would be a great poolside hairstyle next to that new swimsuit you’ll be wearing this summer!

KNOTS AND TWISTS

If you want an updo that isn’t too fancy but still gives you some style, choose a twist or braided knot. This works for medium-long length hairstyles and can be very helpful for keeping those locks off your shoulders to keep you nice and cool this year.

SOFT AND SWEET CURLS

Bangs are back, and so are soft, sweet curls. How about combining the two in this creative hairstyle? Curls that are soft and not too harsh are perfect for short, medium or long hairstyles. To get this look, use hot rollers instead of curling irons, a sleek hair balm, and ask your hair stylist to give you longer, blunter bangs if you want to try adding bangs.

THE BOHO BRAID

The Bohemian (Boho) trend is hot right now, and especially in the world of summer hairstyles. To get this look, let your hair air dry to give it a wavy, loose look, create two braids from each side of your hair in alignment with your forehead, and join them at the back of your crown so they meet in the middle. This look is really popular with celebrities right now and could be done with any length of hair.

SOFT AND SWEET BUN

Twisting your hair into a soft, silky bun at the top of your head is perfect for a casual or more elegant outing. If you want to add some style, try adding in a bandanna  headband or scarf. I love this look for days by the pool when I still want my hair to look pretty without it getting in the way!

SHORT AND SHAGGY

Maybe you don’t even want to think about your hair this summer and want to cut it off, or maybe you have short hair and just need to add a little flair to your hair. This short and shaggy look would be perfect to keep your hair out of your way and still add a little style to your locks. I think this look would be super-cute with any hair color and would be awesome for those hot days of summer when you don’t want to mess with your hair.

THE LONG BOB

If you’re thinking of trying a new hairstyle or a new hair cut this summer, try the long bob! Add in a few highlights and you’ve got yourself one trendy hairstyle. This would be easy to maintain and would look great for casual outings or more formal ones. If you’ve got the guts to cut your hair, go for this look, which still gives you some length, but is also short enough to be low-maintenance and keep your hair off your back.

Red Carpet Inspired Updo's

GORGEOUS RED CARPET 

INSPIRED UPDO'S 

Keeping your hair off your face is vital to staying calm and cool, and what better way than to rock the latest catwalk trends? Here’s the red carpet inspired updo's.

GLAMOR MEETS WET LOOK

Two of the biggest looks of the season are wet look hair and retro vintage styles. There aren’t many red carpet inspired updos that can carry off both looks perfectly, but I’m loving this one! Giorgio Armani teamed a slick side-parting with plenty of wet-look style, pulled back into a classic bun at the back of the head. Striking pastel eyeshadow and nude glossy lips are a great way to wear this look for the daytime, or add a bright red lip to really ramp up the retro.

THE NEW BEEHIVE

Plenty of leading ladies have rocked the beehive recently, so it was no surprise to see Marc Jacobs giving it a chic new makeover. You create the look in the same way, adding plenty of volume at the roots, but sweep your hair out the side rather than back.

BUN FUN

It’s no wonder that this look is a celebrity favorite – it’s super easy to do, and ideal for those days when you haven’t got much time! Chanel gave the look a modern update by creating a straight center parting, and spraying the hair with a shine boosting spray, before tying into a low slung bun behind the neck. It’s a great look for wearing with statement makeup, as it’s chic without being too bold.

RETRO BOWS

For an off-duty style, loosely tie a colorful scarf through your hair. When you need a more together style, this Louis Vuitton look is perfect. Create a small classic beehive, keep your parting clear, and add a big retro bow on a satin headband. It’s perfect for day-old hair!

BOUNCY PONYTAILS

Reese Witherspoon’s retro style with everything from the backcombed fringe to the big volume, and her smoky eye and nude lip finish the look perfectly. Frederic Fekkai created the look, and recommended treating hair with a volume and texturizing spray, before a smooth finish serum. Then blowdry hair to add volume, using a big brush, and split the hair into two sections. Comb the fringe back, and secure. Curl the bottom of the ponytail to add movement, and secure with plenty of hairspray.

TEXTURIZED

Scarlett Johansson looked gorgeous with this hair, so it’s no surprise to learn that it was created especially for her. Frederic Fekkai wanted to show off the “real Scarlett,” and so opted for a hairdo with plenty of natural movement and texture. Get the look by working a volumizing styling whip through towel-dried hair, before using a hairdryer and round brush to create big, tousled waves. Secure the hair using a grip at the back of the neck, and add more curls with a curling iron. Spray with hairspray, and tease the curls for more volume. Clamp the ends of the hair with a flat iron to create a sleek finish, and ruffle – this look is all about being imperfect yet gorgeous.

Spring Hair Trends

HAIR TRENDS FOR SPRING

As winter comes to an end, the hair trends for spring start to take over. The hairstyles seen on various runways shows for spring are the perfect combination of daring and wearable. 

KNOTS

One of the most popular hair trends for spring 2013 is a tight knot. They are classy, composed, and ever so chic. To get the coveted tight knot look, blow-dry your hair and use smoothing serum to keep fly-aways in check. Create a ponytail at the nape of your neck, tie your hair around, and secure with bobby pins. This is the perfect hairstyle for work to keep your hair out of your face and secured for the hectic day ahead of you.

BRAIDED BEAUTY

The great thing about this style is the variety of ways you can wear it. This spring, braids are all about putting a twist on the classic hairstyle. You can always try an adorable milkmaid or a simple messy braid. Waterfall Braids are a hott trend these days too! So get your braids going and don't be afraid to rock it out.

DROP IT LOW (PONY)

Similar to the knot trend, this is a classy and perfect way to keep hair out of your face while looking fabulous.  It may seem that there is only one way to rock a low pony, but designers across the board have shown subtle variations between them. You can play around with hair bands, make your hair sleek or messy, and even switch up your part to have some fun with it.

SLICK IT BACK

The “wet” trend that showed up last spring has been toned down to one of the most popular hair trends for spring 2013. Rather than having an all over wet look, this season it’s all about being slicked back. Take your roots and gel them back for a bold look. Make it your own and add volume or play around with the part of your hair. Just be careful with this look and try to avoid making your hair look super greasy.

ALL DRESSED UP

One of the easiest hair trends for spring is to add hair accessories. The best thing about this trend is your accessories can be as bold or understated as you want. Whatever you feel comfortable with, go with it and have fun!

ALL MESSED UP

This personally might be my favorite hair trend this season because I love the appeal of an effortless look. Regardless of if you prefer your hair up or down, anyone can rock this "too cool to care" style.

CATCH THE WAVE

In my opinion, big waves will always be in style. They can emulate the over-the-top style from the '60s, or take on a rock n’ roll vibe. This is especially good for the spring and summer months when the heat begins to damage your hair. If you are lucky enough to have naturally wavy or curly hair, let it air dry and add some smoothing serum to rock this style. If your hair is naturally straight, add some curling product and curl just a few pieces with a wand.

The best thing about these hair trends for spring is that they are all about having fun. Whether you like wearing your hair up or down, put-together or messy, there is a style for you. Don’t be afraid to play around with these trends and see what you feel comfortable in. 

Makeup Tips

GREAT MAKEUP APPLICATION TIPS

There are tons of different makeup application tips out there, but how do you know that you are following the right ones? Check out these makeup application tips to hopefully find some new tips you didn't know about!

MIX PRIMER WITH FOUNDATION

This one is all about saving you a step in your makeup application! Mixing primer with foundation is a great way to not only make your makeup last longer, but it's the ideal way to save you some time in the morning! This is also almost like a homemade BB cream with a little bit more coverage.

OPPOSITE COLORS 

Did you know that when you use green-tinted concealer, it will cancel out red? What about when you use yellow-tinted concealer, it will fade out blue and purple that could make up any under eye dark circles? Just take a look at your color wheel, whatever is on the opposite side will cancel out the other color. This will help tons when applying your makeup

USE EYE SHADOW ON YOUR LASH-LINE

Do you want your eyeliner to be really light, soft and subtle but don't want to draw the line or can't do it light? Use eye shadow with a very thin brush along your lash-line  This will make your eyeliner appear really soft, subtle and smudged. 

FLAT SIDE OF BRUSH FOR BLUSH

Using the flat side of the blush brush can actually really help you control where you put the blush and it'll allow you to know exactly how much you put on.

LIGHTER COLORS OPEN EYES

If you are constantly looking for a way to keep your eyes open and to make them appear more awake, just add in lighter colors along your lash-line and in the inner and outer corners of your eyes! 

ONLY APPLY BLUSH TO APPLES OF CHEEKS

Did you know that applying blush to just the apples of your cheeks is the best way to go about applying blush? It all depends on your face shape what type of angle you should be using when you are applying blush.

TRANSLUCENT POWDER BEFORE BLUSH

Finally, do you have a problem with your blush staying on and perfect all day? Try putting on translucent powder before you put on your blush to hold it there! 

Say Goodbye to Dandruff!

HELPFUL HOME REMEDIES FOR DANDRUFF

Are you interested in some home remedies for dandruff? We all know how having dandruff can be  embarrassing and bothersome. There are helpful and effective home remedies for dandruff that can help you get rid of those pesky flakes! These home remedies for dandruff are easy to make and affordable! 

OLIVE OIL

Olive oil is great for so many things and it’s known as a moisturizer and clarifying agent. Warm up some olive oil in the microwave for 20-second intervals until it’s warm, not hot. Then, apply the oil to the affected area in circular motions, leave in your hair for at least an hour and wash out with shampoo. You can even leave it in overnight and wash it out in the morning!

LEMON JUICE

Lemon juice has been touted as nature’s cure for dandruff and can help balance pH levels and oils on the scalp so you can enjoy tousling your hair without worrying about flakes! Simply squeeze the juice of a lemon into a glass of water. Next, wet your hair and remove any excess water. Massage your hair with the lemon peel for a few minutes and then rinse your hair with the lemon juice and water mixture.

COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil is another treat for your hair and as a bonus it helps get rid of dandruff! Massage 3-5 tablespoons of coconut oil into your scalp and shampoo after about an hour. There should be no need to condition your hair since the coconut oil makes a fab conditioning treatment. Or you can combine a tablespoon of lemon juice and 5 tablespoons of coconut oil, massage onto your scalp and shampoo after an hour.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Apple Cider Vinegar is another must-have for DIY divas! ACV does wonders for our skin and our hair. Mix ¼ cup apple cider vinegar and a ¼ cup water and pour it into a spray bottle. Next, spritz this mixture on your hair and scalp, being careful to avoid your eyes. Then, wrap your hair up in a towel and leave it up for 15-60 minutes and wash your hair as normal.

BAKING SODA

Baking Soda is fast and easy to help get rid of dandruff. Wet your hair, then rub a handful of baking soda in your hair and vigorously rub it in your scalp. Use this baking soda treatment instead of shampoo for a few weeks and it should revive your scalp to produce natural oils. You might find that the treatment can dry your hair out at first. If so, use less baking soda and you should start seeing fewer flakes!

ASPIRIN

Here’s another fast and simple home remedy for dandruff. Grab a couple of aspirins and crush them until it’s a fine powder. Then you just add the aspirin to the normal amount of shampoo you use and rub it in your hair and scalp. Leave this in for a couple of minutes, rinse well and wash again with only shampoo.

MOUTHWASH

Mouthwash contains hydrogen peroxide, which has antiseptic properties that will help get rid of fungi that causes dandruff. Wash your hair as usual, then apply a capful of any mouthwash on your hair and rinse with cold water.

Have you ever tried any of these home remedies for dandruff? Share with us your experiences and let us know what you think of our suggestions.