Fun, flirty hairstyles for spring

As the weather gets warmer, many students began searching for new styles to accompany the new season. It's fun to go or try on the new styles of shoes, but it's often difficult to find new ways to update your hair. TEC has done the research and looked into the latest hairstyles for spring, as well as some tips for adjusting to the sun, wind and humidity.

Popular fashions can be seen on celebrities, and with the recent award shows and new movies, there are plenty of examples to choose from. Long, wavy layers are very popular, particularly with stars like Selma Hayek and Penelope Cruz. If your hair is already naturally wavy or curly, this can be an easy wash-and-go style. All you need to do is add some volumizing gel, let hair dry on its own and then pull it back to accent the waves. Make sure to condition your hair after a day in the sun or at the beach because these long layers are easily damaged and tangled.

"Long hair styles are definitely in this season, with flipped out ends and layers," said Laura Hamilton, owner of Hair Unique on Evans St.

Shaggy bobs are coming back in style, with chin length layers and bangs. If you've never had bangs before, this is a great season to try them. The bob has versatility with smooth, sleek looks as well as flipped-out flirty styles.

"Ask for bangs that just hit the eyebrow, and layer the edges so that they blend in with the rest of your tresses," said the recent issue of Cosmopolitan.

Their article on new hairstyles gives great pictures and a number of styling options.

The pixie cut can be fun for those that are really looking for the simple hairstyle. Celebrities like Halle Barry have made this look famous, and with the right face, this can be the perfect choice for you. Play up the texture with some pomade and you've got a fun, funky style that will go anywhere. You can also go with longer layers - similar to Mandy Moore in her upcoming movie, "How to Deal" by letting the ends flip out naturally for a unique do.

Color is another option to look at as the season changes, with new ways to brighten up your hairstyle.

"Hair color is seasonal. Start revving yours up for summer with bolder, lighter highlights," said the recent issue of Glamour.

Their article suggests using actual lemon juice to highlight hair in the sun, applying it around the face with a toothbrush. Salons always specialize in doing natural-looking highlights and can work them into your own hair color, or you can try to do it yourself with other methods.

"I always try to start putting Sun In on my hair when I blow dry it during the spring, but I have some natural highlights, so I haven't had to use it too much this year," said Linda Rusnak, junior accounting major.

For guys, it's always a good idea to keep your hairstyle simple during the spring and summer months. Highlights are always a sexy addition for guys, but make sure they're natural and not the bleached blonde kind. Those can get interesting when they start growing out, unless you're going for the "tipped" look. Spiky styles look great with the help of gel and other shine-enhancing formulas, and are easy to manage in the mornings.

Remember that it's important to protect your hair from the exposure to wind, sun and heat, particularly if it's colored. Pantene Pro-V offers a protective conditioning spray for colored hair that helps to keep your style from frizzing, or try Paul Mitchell's Color Protect Locking Spray. Also, Glamour suggests that you only shampoo every other day if you're used to typically shampooing everyday. Shampooing strips the hair of its natural moisture that it needs to look healthy, so on those non-shampoo days, just condition as normal. If you're going to be out in the sun all day, don't forget those part lines and protect them with sunscreen. It can be very painful to get a burned scalp, and the peeling process is not pleasant afterward.

Use these tips to enjoy the spring weather and find a new style that fits you.

This writer can be contacted at features@theeastcarolinian.com.

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