3 Hairstyles Anyone Can Do With a Short Bob Haircut

One of my favorite haircuts of all time is the bob. There are many variations of this haircut, and it’s a look that will never go out of style. Sometimes people stray from cutting their hair above their shoulders for fear of high maintenance styling or not being able to just throw your hair up when you’re having a bad hair day. These are valid concerns, however shorter hair can be way more versatile that you think. If you have a few bobby pins and a curling iron, you’re pretty much good to go! Here are three easy ways to style a trendy short bob haircut and look amazing.

Look #1 – Curled

Short hair is beautiful when smooth and sleek, but my favorite look for this hair length is an effortless wavy texture. It’s so flirty and playful and can be dressed up or dressed down easily.
Here’s how to get the look:
1. To get the most volume and oomph, work with your natural texture. Don’t waste your time blow drying your hair smooth to then add the curls. Let your hair air dry, even if it’s messy and frizzy, and use that as your foundation.
2. Take a few sections around the top of your hair and wrap them around a curling iron. When you remove the curl, gently pull the hair down. This will help soften the curl and turn it into more of a wave. Don’t curl your whole head! Leave some of your natural texture within the curls you’re creating to keep this look more natural.
3. Once finished, tousle your hair with your hands and fluff it up!

Look #2 – Added Twist

If you get bored with wearing your hair all down, or if you hate when your hair falls into your face, this look is super cute and easy to create!
Here’s how to do it…
1. Part your hair to the preferred side and twist the front fringe area away from your face.
2. To secure the twisted hair, criss cross two bobby pins over it.
3. Take some of your hair that is left out and let it fall over the bobby pins so you cannot see them. You can always create this same look with a braid too!

Look #3 – Pinned Up

Most short styles are nearly impossible to pull up into a ponytail so at times this can make you feel stuck when you want to wear an updo of some sort. Bobby pins are your solution, your savior and your best friend.
1. With shorter hair, all you literally need to do is pull some hair back and pin it up. The messier the better! You’ll be surprised at how chic this can look.
2. If you prefer all your hair out of your face, just pin up any bits of our place. I personally love when a few pieces of hair fall out like my model is showing here.

How to Use Vinegar For Hair and Skin Care

5 Surprising Ways to Use Vinegar For Beauty

Many common kitchen ingredients are just as useful in the bathroom. In fact, I turns to vinegar for many DIY hair and skin care remedies.  If you don't have the time to wait for this international beauty product to arrive (or are looking for something a little more practically priced), pick up a bottle of apple cider vinegar at your local grocery store. And to get tips — along with a few of ours — for using vinegar from head to toe, just keep reading.

• For smooth skin: "Because vinegar is acidic, it closes the pores of your skin and makes it extremely shiny,". That's why I recommend mixing vinegar with your body cream. "It also gives a nice smell without having perfume,".
• For shiny, brass-free hair: "Most of the time women don't rinse shampoos and conditioners very well, so hair is [left] heavy and not shiny enough,". To avoid this, I suggests applying five drops of vinegar (mixed with cold water in a bowl) into the hair and scalp after shampooing, conditioning, and rinsing. But instead of washing it out, leave it in to degunk and debrass your strands.
• For a healing bath: Mix a little apple cider vinegar in your bath water to let the anti-inflammatory properties soothe your itchy skin.
• For a clean scalp: Apple cider vinegar has natural antifungal properties and therefore can help eliminate a flaky scalp caused by dandruff. Create your own cleansing shampoo by mixing a solution that's half water, half apple cider vinegar into a spray bottle and apply.
• For a clear face: Vinegar balances the pH of the skin and acts as an astringent on oily complexions. Stir up a half-and-half mixture to use as a toner before your daily moisturizing routine.

Shampoo Tips:

 4 Signs That You're Not Washing Your Hair The Right Way

Summer's freak rainstorms and high humidity bring more bad hair days than not, but the culprit could likely be in the shower. Shampooing seems like one of those no-brainer steps that we don't put much thought into (lather up, rinse, on our way), but it's actually fundamental in making your hair look and act like the best version of itself -- not to mention helping styling products work better. We've amassed four ways you might be washing your hair wrong.
Not getting hair wet enough. This is a big one. It's likely that you're rushing, even multitasking in the shower, so you won't be late to work, and immediately plop shampoo on top of your head the second you step in. But take a step back, hair should be soaking wet first. Think about it: the same way a dirty pot is easier to clean after a soak in warm water, your hair and scalp will be much more receptive to cleansing once every part is wet.
Shampooing the ends. Don't do this. Focus shampoo on the scalp where oil is produced. Refrain from reenacting your own personal Herbal Essences commercial and lathering all your hair into a big soapy pouf. Then ends of your hair are the driest, and shampoo will only draw out more moisture. (The same rule applies to conditioner, but reversed: No need to apply to your roots, which will only make them greasy. Target the drier, more tangly ends.)
Washing too often or not enough. We read all the time that you should space out washes as long as possible, but it's not a one-size-fits-all rule here. Some can go a week, while others need to wash everyday. Know your hair type and when it needs cleansing. Experiment by stretching out or increasing washes, and see how your hair responds. Curly hair tends to be more dry and can go longer without washes, while straighter hair can look greasier sooner. Those who are more active and exercise regularly should find a formulation that gentle enough for everyday use. Also, if you have an aversion to fluffy, freshly-washed hair, spot treat areas of the scalp that tend to get oiler first -- particularly around the crown and the top of the head.
Letting residue build up. Dull, blah hair? Do you load in lots of stylers and hairspray every day? After a while that product will start to build up and weigh hair down. Clarify once every few weeks to give your hair a fresh start (any more than that isn't necessary). You don't need to strip your hair to make sure it's squeaky-clean. Find a formula that will get rid of product, but won't dry out your hair's natural moisture. Hair that's entirely deplete of moisture will overcompensate by producing more oil.

Summer Hair Care: 4 Ways To Save Your Strands From Heat, Chlorine And UV Rays

Don't Ignore The Signs

"The most common signs of damage during the summer are dryness, static and frizz. All the moisture from the hair cuticle is taken out by the sun, saltwater and chlorine leaving the hair very dull. To protect your hair from these elements, rinse frequently with fresh water and spritz with a nourishing treatment after you get out of the water to keep it hydrated and protected

 

Ride The Waves

"Styled correctly, your curls can be as vibrant as ever,". "You need to style with a product that holds and adds moisture; apply to wet hair and allow to air dry. Once dry, squeeze in some defrizz serum to soften, yet maintain curl definition. Of course, there is another option: If you have thick, curly hair and it is weighing you down in the heat, cut it off! Go for short, textured styles to gain more freedom. Plus, it's trendy and sexy!"

 

Lather Up Richly

"Moisturize your hair as you would your skin. Women should look for moisturizing shampoos and conditioners that are rich in proteins rather than sulfates that strip and dry hair out. If you do blow dry it, make sure you put it on a warmer setting as opposed to high heat. Stick with a great leave-in conditioner as it brings frizz down and conditions while giving the hair texture. And be sure to get frequent trims so that your ends stay healthy."

 

Lock In The Moisture

"When you apply oils or creams to damp hair it helps seal the cuticle and lock in moisture,". "I always apply product starting at the ends and working my way up. Using a hair mask at least once a week is key in helping hair stay moisturized through the summer. When in the shower, I suggest applying the mask then putting a shower cap on to help it penetrate. Leave it on for at least 5 minutes to achieve great results."

6 Ways to Look Better Without Spending a Cent

Looking good doesn't have to cost a lot of money. In fact, it doesn't have to cost a thing. There are plenty of ways to look better without spending a single penny. We talked with top dermatologists, hair stylists, makeup artists, and estheticians to score their secrets for looking your best for the best price of all: free. Read their tips here.

De-puff while you sleep
Banishing puffy eyes overnight is as easy as changing the way you sleep. "Elevating your head with pillows while sleeping helps the fluids from gathering around the under-eye area," says celebrity makeup artist Tina Turnbow. Got a few cents to spare? "Cucumbers and cold chamomile tea bags are great, too," she adds.
Posture, please
Standing tall can have long-term benefits. "My mother-in-law is 93 years old and has amazing posture," says dermatologist Dr. Kathy Fields, co-creator of Proactiv skin care. "She looks at least 20 to 30 years younger because of it! It’s the cheapest tip on earth and good for your health."
Create a face-flattering ponytail
“Anyone can pull off a sleek high ponytail," says stylist Oliver Ifergan of the Oliver Ifergan Atelier in Beverly Hills. "The trick is to find the most flattering angle for your bone structure." Ifergan's easy trick: "Pull the hair back, then with your pointer and middle finger follow the cheek bone all the way back, and voila! You have the perfect ponytail position.”
Freshen up your face
It only takes a couple of minutes to perk up tired-looking skin, says Dallas esthetician Renée Rouleau. "Massage your knuckles underneath the eyes and above the cheekbones," she explains. "Do this for two minutes after cleansing and moisturizing in order to create a more active blood flow." (When blood doesn't circulate enough, skin starts looking dull.) That's why Rouleau says, "A two-minute massage will help nutrients to resurface, leaving your skin with a revitalized glow."
Avoid acne
Can't figure out why you're breaking out on your forehead? Your hair care could be to blame, says New York City dermatologist Dr. Ellen Gendler. "Sometimes the oils from the hair and products that people use in the hair can contribute to acne," she says. Rinse conditioner off the body, and keep hair styling products away from your skin. The result: a clearer complexion, without spending a penny.
Lose the sweetness
"Neither start your day nor end your day with sugar," says Bren Lee Gomez, an esthetician and makeup artist in Los Angeles. "If you start off eating or drinking something with refined sugar, you'll be sallow and dehydrated by lunch time and require even more sugar to keep going. If you eat sugar just before bedtime, you'll wake up with dehydrated skin."

Bad Beauty Habits to Break

6 Bad Beauty Habits to Break Now

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Hi everyone, Whether it's not always washing your face or not always washing your brushes, we are all guilty of a few bad beauty habits that we know we ought to break. What better time than the start of a new year?

See why clear lip gloss is a makeup lover's must have

Here is a list of the six bad beauty habits that I challenge everyone to break in 2012. And yes, I am guilty of some of the things on this list. (Hey, nobody's perfect! We all need to try harder!) See them all below.

1. Not removing makeup
This one is pretty basic, but it still needs to be said. Taking off your makeup before you go to sleep at night is so important. When in doubt, reach for the extra virgin olive oil! 2. Not wearing sunscreen
Apply a sunscreen or moisturizer with SPF everyday to protect it from the sun. Your face (and health) will thank you later.
3. Not drinking enough water
Soda does not count as water.
4. Using bar soap to wash your face
*Shudders*.
5. Using moisturizer on the eyes
Use eye cream!
6. Wearing foundation that does not match your skin tone
If you'e unsure about what foundation you ought to be using, try a couple out at a cosmetics counter and have one of the makeup artists help you to find a formula and color that accurately matches your skin's tone and texture.

Brazilian Blowout Is Dangerous, FDA Says

Craving perfectly straight, sleek hair? It may be time to head back to the flat iron.
Brazilian Blowout — one of the popular versions of the Brazilian keratin straightening treatments currently offered at salons — has just been confirmed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (F.D.A.) to contain “dangerous levels” of formaldehyde, in spite of its label claim to be “Formaldehyde Free.”
QUIZ: How Healthy is Your Hair?
The violations are just two of several cited in the FDA’s public letter to Brazilian Blowout CEO Mike Brady, which goes on to institute a mid-September deadline for the company to either address all concerns, or risk seizure and injunction of product inventory.
Yet controversy is not new to the Hollywood-based company. In November 2010, California’s attorney general’s office filed a lawsuit against Brazilian Blowout, claiming that the high levels of formaldehyde in the product was illegal under the terms of California’s Safe Cosmetics Act, as well as in violation of Proposition 65 — which requires clear labeling of chemicals that can cause cancer.
And while Brazilian Blowout has been in the spotlight of scrutiny, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (O.S.H.A.) put out a hazardous materials alert just five months ago for similar brands of straightening products in addition to the Brazilian Blowout, emphasizing that stylists who work with and expose themselves to formaldehyde repeatedly could be placing their health in danger.
MORE: Are You Using Toxic Cosmetics?
Industry insiders say that easier application process is part of the reason Brazilian Blowout leapt to such popularity in recent years among consumers who opt for chemical straightening services. Whereas other brands often require abstaining for one to three day from showering and sweating until the product takes hold, Brazilian Blowout allows the consumer to get moisture in the hair without adverse effect right after treatment.
But when New York stylist and salon owner Mark Garrison first received the Brazilian Blowout to use on clients, he says the discrepancy between the “Formaldehyde Free” labeling and the experience of applying the product was immediately apparent.
“I could tell the Brazilian Blowout had formaldehyde in it the very first time I used it,” says Garrison. “Eye burn! Throat choke! And the smell was a tell tale giveaway — it smelled like formaldehyde!”
Perplexed by the claim of “Formaldehyde Free” when the application process seemed to reveal otherwise, Garrison ordered an independent lab to test the kit. “The results showed that Brazilian Blowout not only had formaldehyde, but above what is even considered safe by O.S.H.A. standards,” says Garrison, who adds that his attempts to communicate his test results with Brady were personally dismissed by the CEO.
In tests conducted by the F.D.A., the agency found that Brazilian Blowout contains anywhere from 8.7 to 10.4 percent formaldehyde, which is multiple times that of the 0.2 percentage that peer-reviewed Cosmetic Ingredient Review board considers safe for consumers.
MORE: The Best Haircut for Your Hair Type
Garrison warns that after backlash began to surface about hair straightening brands using formaldehyde, many simply switched to other formaldehyde derivatives that often (though not always) end in “aldehyde,” in an attempt to escape recognition of the carcinogenic name on the label, while still using it.
“Methylene glycol is the most common ingredient. It is formalin and aqueous formaldehyde mixed together. This was just another way for companies to say their formulas were formaldehyde-free,” says Garrison.
One place where companies are forced to come clean is the Manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) that details ingredients and potentially hazardous information, and which consumers have a right to request. Many brands link to the report (however discreetly) on homepages.
Yet in spite of all the disputation, lawsuits and warnings, many women still persist in seeking out a treatment that will miraculously turn frizz-prone and poufy strands smooth and shiny. Garrison says he is now trying out a product by Liqwd for these clients, though a dose of realism is best served with your blow out.
MORE: Tame Your Hair Troubles
“Liqwd is a de-frizzer, not a relaxer. Anything that relaxes has to have something that breaks down cysteine bonds,” Garrison says of the proteins that make up hair strands.

It's All In The Wrist: Fashion's Finest Show Off Their Stacked Bracelets

Minimal trends be damned! This season, fashion's elite are opting for an excessive approach to dressing -- more specifically to donning accessories.
During Fashion Week, while models took the runway in sleek cuff and simple bangles, insiders like Marie Claire Accessories Editor Taylor Tomasi-Hill sat front row with their wrists littered in all sorts of bracelets and bangles. From beaded to braided, covered in rhinestones or rope, there's one thing that everyone can agree on: more it more!
And our friends at Refinery29 noticed that these pieces are much more than a statement, it's about sentiment. They interviewed over 20 stylish folks in NYC who love to layer. What did we learn? That summer camp-era friendship bracelets are back, studs are almost essential and eye-catching pieces like railroad spike cuffs by Giles & Brother are the perfect mix of quirk and cool.
Our advice, if you need to add a watch to the mix, make sure it features a large face -- otherwise it will get buried beneath your twine, chains and charms.

Hair Extensions

Stars Go to Great Lengths This Summer

Hayden Panettiere, Oliva Munn and Jessica Alba sport hair extensions.
When the heat is on, most women opt for shorter, cropped 'dos, but some of our favorite stars are going to great lengths this summer.

"Extensions can be very fun and rewarding," celebrity stylist and Hair Basics expert Ted Gibson tells StyleList. "They can range in price from $500-$5,000 and last from two weeks to four months, depending on which hair extensions you and your stylist decide on."

Hayden Panettiere, who has turned heads with her frequent hair switch-ups, attended the Vans Custom Culture Contest event in New York City on June 2 rocking wavy blond extensions. At the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation benefit on yesterday, Olivia Munn gathered her long, dark lengths into a ponytail and left out a few face-framing pieces. And for the Covenant House California Gala last Thursday, Jessica Alba paired her gorgeous mommy-to-be glow with layered, sun-kissed extensions for a half-up, half-down hairstyle.

Anxious to lengthen your locks like these celebs? Check out the expert advice below on how to style and care for hair extensions.

Not all extensions are created equal. "Always consult with a professional when it comes to hair extensions. You have to try and seek out the perfect extension type suitable for your hair. "Human hair extensions (especially Remy Hair) are by far the best, and they have to be customized according to your hair and the look you want to achieve. Regular salon visits are important to keep your extensions in good shape."

Ask and you shall receive.  there are three questions every pro should pose before you sit down in the chair:
• What look do you want to achieve?
• What length are you looking for?
• What is your face type and body frame?

It's all about blending and layering. "When extensions are applied, it is key to blend them with the client's hair to achieve a more natural look. Never wear extensions at one length. We suggest a lot of layering,". "When cutting the hair, make sure to use a razor but don't overdo it as the hair will look frayed. Be careful how much pressure you put on your hair extensions with accessories -- it can pull them out."

Paddle away. "The most important tool is a professional paddle brush made especially for extensions,". "It is important to always brush the hair from the bottom up."

Say no to alcohol. "Products are so important to maintaining a beautiful mane of hair,". "Alcohol-based products should not be used. Instead, focus on more oil-based products like shea or argon and a little goes a long way. Too much product will wear your hair down and increase build-up on the scalp."

Don't sleep on at-home hair maintenance. "Before taking a shower, slowly brush your hair upwards to prevent breakage. Use intense hydrating shampoo and conditioners followed by a great detangler and a wide-tooth comb. Apply a leave-in conditioner and let hair air-dry for a summer look,

Know when it's time to let go. "Keeping extensions in too long can cause major hair or scalp damage," adds Pitters. "I tell my clients to take them out after 10-12 weeks."

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High Rise Denim is Back for Spring 2011

High Rise Denim

High-rise denim is back. After witnessing runways filled with bell bottoms and longer hemlines, we know by now that the Seventies' influence has taken over for Spring 2011, and the trends in denim are no different. This season, some of the best denim makers out there are introducing a higher rise, a cut that addresses both fashion and function. "A high or mid-rise style elongates the leg - especially when it's a flare or trouser style - and creates a long, lean line," Mille Monferin, 7 For All Mankind's denim design director, told StyleList. "A great way to offset the volume of a wide leg style is with a higher rise." Comfort, he said, is definitely a big part of it too. "Higher rises offer more control and help avoid the dreaded muffin top," Monferin said. "There's nothing chic about constantly having to yank up your jeans." J Brand's founder and chief executive officer, Jeff Rudes, told StyleList that while they have offered some high-rises in past seasons, their popularity for spring has grown in a big way. This has led them to increase their offering of the style - there's a wide-leg, flare and even a skinny jean all with higher rises. But, he said, this doesn't mean his jeans at J Brand are exactly like they were in the Seventies. "With modern technology, denim fabric is lighter weight, softer and with stretch so it is much more comfortable than the high-rise styles that were worn in the Seventies," he stressed. James Jeans is also offering an array of newer high-rise styles for spring. According to Seun Lim, creative director at James, the new "High Class" series of jeans will include some of the brand's top bodies in rises ranging 9 ½ inches to 9 ¾ inches. There's also a new mid-rise option that features an 8 ¼ inch rise in a straight leg or a flare. "The biggest benefit of our mid to high rise styles is the way the waist bands are uniquely contoured from front to back," Lim said. "The front is perfectly leveled for a sexy look and feel, and the back is higher and therefore provides added comfort and assurance that your undergarments won't be peeking out." Chip Foster, who founded the Chip & Pepper denim brand with his twin brother, is off on a new venture. He just launched a denim line he calls Pray For Mother Nature. For spring, Foster said he has taken six of their original low-rise styles and made them higher. "Higher rises tend to be universally flattering and no matter what, almost everyone loves a little more support," Foster explained. "No matter the body type, you can rock a mid-rise jean." Jill Shehebar, marketing director at Blank NYC, agrees with Foster. That's why they've been offering higher rises since they opened for business. For spring and summer, the company has taken the trend a step further by offering high-rise cut-off denim shorts and self-belted aviator shorts along with their already popular high-waisted skinnies. "The high rise skinny we have this season has really cool color block front detail and back stitch," Shehebar said. "For late spring and fall, we have more high rise flares and belles. High rise is universally flattering if styled the right way." And, if styled correctly, you don't have to be worried about looking like you are wearing "mom jeans." How to avoid the matronly look? "Pair them with a romantic blousy top, or a tailored shirt tucked in," suggested Francis Pierrel, senior vice president of retail and wholesale for Diesel, which is also introducing two new high-rise styles for spring - the Hi-vy, a high-waisted skinny, and the Ronhoir, a high-waisted bootcut. "For younger girls, the crop top is making a come-back. Accessories also help spruce up the look, pairing a sexy wedge or heel and a chic handbag."

Julia Roberts Goes Back to Blonde

Julia Roberts transforms from brunette to a blonde.

 

Julia Roberts steps back into the light. With light hair, that is!
We spotted Roberts rocking a new blonde hair color at the premiere of "Jesus Henry Christ" during the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City. Center-parted and styled in beachy waves, the 43-year-old actress' lighter locks make her appear 20 years younger.

Are you excited to see Roberts return to blonde? Or do you miss the "Pretty Woman" in the darker strands she donned back in February?

Eva Longoria's Perfect Ponytail

Eva Longoria wears the perfect ponytail during an appearance on the "Late Show With David Letterman."

Eva Longoria brought the pony show to David Letterman, when she visited the late night TV host yesterday.

The 36-year-old "Desperate Housewives" star was spotted at the Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City with her auburn-colored strands in the perfect ponytail. With her locks smoothed up, Longoria added length with hair extensions that fell into loose curls. She finished the look by concealing the ponytail holder with a piece of hair.

Sexy smoky eye makeup, coral blush and lip gloss accentuated her 'do.

Color of the Week: Lavender

From left, clockwise: Asos playsuit, $62.76. Essie "Lilacism" nail polish, $8. Ferragamo ribbon and ballet flat print silk scarf, $147. 3.1 Phillip Lim silk bralette, $85. Valentino R.E.D. floral printed ruffle skirt, $775.

There's no denying that this spring is all about color. Runways all over the world featured brights in every shade. In a series titled "Color of the Week," StyleList will outline the most popular hues -- as declared by Pantone, world-renowned color authority -- with designer inspiration, celebrity examples, beauty tips and more. For our sixth installment, we present #15-3817, also known as lavender.

Whether worn as an accent or all-over, lavender is a timelessly chic hue that will dress up any ensemble.

We adore how the models at Tracy Reese sauntered down the runway in '70s-inspired frocks composed entirely of lavender and Chanel's watercolor shirt dress that would be the ultimate in picnic attire.

And Prince can have his purple reign: the paler, more subdued hue looked lovely on Kelly Osbourne and Christina Hendricks -- two women who aren't afraid to show of their curves.

But for us common folk, the springy shade is 100 percent wearable: we'd love to pair a some flirty lingerie under a flimsy tank, or wear this scarf as a headband, a bracelet -- the options are endless!

The ladies of our Blogger Network aren't afraid to mix it up -- Arielle of Something Navy gave her mother's vintage dress a modern spin with loads of sparkling jewels. Throwing caution to the wind, the blogger added floral-printed shoes -- making for a chic evening ensemble.

Kate Hudson's glam Elle UK cover look inspired us to incorporate the hue into our beauty routine -- we didn't think it was appropriate to rock an insanely ornate smoky eye to the office, so we opted for a new shade of polish -- Essie's "Lilacism" nail polish.

• Silk Scarf
• Prettydon't miss last week's color: russett brown.

The 10 Biggest Blow-Drying Mistakes

Are you blow-drying your strands with the proper technique? Most of us go about blow-drying our hair with the same excitement we reserve for teeth cleanings and tax filings.

But aching wrists and frizz frustration don't have to be your drying destiny. Chances are, you're likely just making one or more of the most common blow-drying mistakes.

Are you committing one of these most common mistakes?

1. Not Sectioning Hair First. Flipping your head over and blow-drying until you get dizzy, feel light-headed -- or both -- isn't going to help your cause. Keep a claw clip or duckbill clips near your blow dryer, so that you can easily section hair into the bare minimum of three horizontal sections as you dry.

2. Standing Up As You Blow-Dry. "One of the best pieces of blow-drying advice I can give is to have a seat. You will not believe the difference this makes," says Scrivo. When you're comfortably seated, you can fully harness that upper-body strength without getting tired. Plus, it always helps to steal those precious rejuvenative moments for yourself, wherever you can during the day.

3. Holding The Brush In The Wrong Hand. Many women lift the hairdryer with their dominant hand, while working the brush with the weaker one. You'll get better results by instead holding the brush with your stronger hand, as you'll need the improved dexterity to get the job done in less time. "Even many professional hairdressers learn this incorrectly,". Well, now you can style with even more finesse than them.

4. Overtwisting The Brush. When you brush that first stroke into a section of hair, you don't want to go it more than a quarter turn, which is just enough to give it some smoothing tension without risking snarl. After you pull the brush away from the scalp to the midpoint of strand length, then you can safely start twisting the brush to create shape and curl while under the pointed jet stream of your blow dryer. This is where the magic happens!

5. Pulling The Hair Downward At The Crown. The natural inclination is to pull your brush downward, but that will only give you flat results. That just won't do if you want a roaring mane of silky smoothness. Instead, pull your hair up towards the ceiling, imagining a horseshoe shape coming out of your crown. (Stick with us here.) Hair in the horseshoe should always be blasted in an upwards direction, while hair falling below the horseshoe can be styled downwards for smoothness.

6. Holding The Dryer Too Close. It's totally counterintuitive; holding the mouth of the blow dryer right on top of hair doesn't dry it faster, but only leaves tell-tale damage and pouf in its wake. Always dry with a plastic nozzle in place to regulate and direct heat, and keep it at least an inch away from strands. We had to try it to believe it, but it really does speed things along faster by providing a more even dry -- kinda of similar to a rotating dish in a microwave.

7. Holding The Dryer In The Wrong Position. Your goal: keep that nozzle parallel to each section of hair you hit. Otherwise, the heat will irritate and rough up the cuticle, leaving you with flyaways, damage and smoking strands. And by that, we don't mean sexy.

8. Keeping The Dryer Motionless. Some shake, rattle 'n roll is good for your hips, and apparently, your hair too. Keeping that dryer moving ensures that hair will dry at the same rate all over, and it will actually prevent your shoulder and wrist from hurting from the strain of staying in one spot. "To a stylist, this is second nature, and we do it almost subconsciously," .

9. Going Too Fast. "Women often blow-dry..as if they're in some kind of panic. This is not a race against time. Slow down the process, be more methodical and careful," . In fact, if you race through the process, you'll likely find that you need need to keep going back and re-doing sections anyway, wasting more time in the long run. If your hair dries rapidly (lucky you) before you get a chance to style the section, simply keep a spray bottle of water nearby for a refreshing spritz.

 10. Not Drying The Hair Completely. This is for the frizz afflicted out there; if the pouf starts growing almost immediately after you've finished blow-drying, it means you didn't dry it 100 percent. Sometimes hair looks done, but is cold to the touch -- which is the dead giveaway that water is still hiding out in there. "Your hair should be room temperature after blow-drying,".

 

5 Celebrity Secret Styling Tricks to Transform Your Hair

Transform your hair with these pro styling tricks.

If you've ever tried to recreate anything from a basic ponytail to the sexy bed hair seen on celebs and runway models with less-than-stellar results, there's a reason you can't match the look.

And it's not your hairstyling skills.

Experts tell us there are five essential tools in that are key to pulling off any hairstyle you want to create with ease.

The good news is, you can find all of them at your local beauty supply store.

And remember, attitude is key.

"Confidence is the best tool or product we use. When the girls walk down the runway, they believe they look good, even if they hate the clothes, hair and makeup. If you're trying a new look or product, own it!"

Bungee Elastics

Ponytails look freshest when you finger comb strands into place, but the process of pulling the gathered hair through a regular elastic destroys the piece-y texture and flirtatious tail height of your pony. This is why celebrities and models opt instead for bungee elastics.

Like a mini bungee cord, you simply wrap the elastic around your hair, and secure by hooking the ends together or on the surface of the elastic so as not to disturb the finish or volume of your hair.

"Regular elastics can only be wrapped a certain amount of times, and sometimes it's too tight or too loose. It's like shoes not coming in half sizes," says Ryan. "I like bungee elastics, as they allow you to wrap the elastics around until they are a perfect fit."

Dry Shampoo

How do red carpet updos stay in place so beautifully, when your attempts to replicate result in strands slipping out of place and flattening in minutes? It's actually not hairspray that's the key, but a dry shampoo that stylists just about always use to prep roots before styling hair.

"These work by applying a layer of fine powder to the roots of the hair. It will absorb the hair oil, and when you brush it out a few minutes later, the hair will be fuller and dryer looking. It adds volume to limp, fine hair and gives great texture for updos, as hair that is too clean is slippery and hard to style,"
To apply, work through sections of hair separated by a pick comb, and spray powder in opposite direction of hair growth, at the root. Allow to absorb for a few minutes, and then brush out. Not only will your hair fall into different shapes more easily, but this is a great way to cheat more days out of a blowout.


Point-Tipped Straightening Iron

Straight hair on the red carpet always looks like freshly ironed sheets, while waves and curls capture long-lasting bounce. Yet the reason why your results are fleeting most likely has to do with the use of a too big or bulky-shaped flat iron.

"Don't buy a big iron to save time, because it will be hard to manipulate, and you won't be able to direct the hair. If the edges are beveled, you can create volume and movement in the hair without leaving the creases that sharp edges can,"
"I like an iron that tapers to a point so that you can get to the hard-to-reach parts of hair, like bangs. Curved edges and a heated curved back are great for straightening and adding volume to the hair,"


Backcombing Brush Or Comb

While the '80s may have given the art of hair teasing a bad name, a solid back comb is the crowning foundation for most hair styles you see sported on red carpets and runways.

"When you want to create volume, you need a back comb. A regular brush or comb doesn't have enough bristles or teeth. The more teeth and the closer they are placed together, the better,"
Grasping a section of hair, push a few smooth yet firm strokes down toward the root. Once you have a good base, continue the back-combing through to the ends, though using less pressure. Then spray a light workable hairspray for hold, making sure that the formula isn't too sticky. "Don't be afraid of too much volume -- it's easy to tame and remove,"
Once you've finished teasing, gently smooth down the exterior with a bamboo brush with both nylon and boar bristles for the sleekest results.

And don't get frustrated -- rarely does anyone learn to back-comb the first few times they try. With some practice, you'll be able to add the technique to your styling repertoire.

Salt Spray

Ever wonder why your authentic bed hair never quite looks the same as the tousled, come-hither waves of Victoria's Secret photo shoots and Sports Illustrated swimsuit covers? It's all in the prep spray.

"This is a backstage staple, as it gives a rough lived-in look, but still gives volume. If you blow-dry it in, it gives a dry full texture. When used on curly hair, it gives a chunky, sexy look. I like to use a little cream on the ends to give definition,"
For texturized hair that sits with volume, spritz all over roots before blow-drying with a round brush. Or to add a piece-y lived-in look, finish your style with a few spritzes all over strands, and distribute with your fingers.

Carrie Underwood ACM Awards 2011: Pink Hair Extensions

Carrie Underwood rocks out with pink hair extensions at the 2011 Academy of Country Music Awards.

Did Rihanna influence Carrie Underwood's "good girl gone bad" image?

Underwood hit the stage with Steven Tyler at the 2011 Academy of Country Music Awards to perform "Undo It" and "Walk This Way" donning pink hair extensions. The neon hair pieces added a pop of color to her golden blond locks and soft makeup.

The Top Female Vocalist of the Year nominee rounded her edgy look with a studded corset, black tutu skirt, fingerless gloves and booties.

Can we expect an Underwood rock album in the near future? Maybe not, but we love the fact that the 28-year-old singer and actress is having some fun.

What do you think of Carrie Underwood's pink hair extensions?

Choose Feathers As Your New Hair Accessory

The New Feather Trend.... 

 Upon clicking through, our interest was warranted—is now offering feather hair extensions, one 2011 trend we're psyched to try. "The feathers are sourced responsibly, the colors are all-natural, and come from farm-raised happy birds." And we're pretty happy too: Not only are these rad accessories ethical, the cost to change up your look only costs $45. The extensive selection of feather colors and lengths, then will set them in whatever part of your hair you want. The whole process takes no more than 10 minutes, plus you can still wash or blow dry your hair, and the extensions last for over a month. 

How Not to Damage Your Hair With a Flat Iron

Before you pick up your flat iron, read these pro styling tips.

If you've ever used a flat iron, you've likely suffered from smoke and sizzle that led to split and fried ends.

But contrary to popular belief, you don't need to endure damage in order to achieve the sleek and smooth locks that flat iron addicts crave. Most people have simply never been versed on the proper way to flat iron. Bad techniques live on, and are often passed down from family, friends and poorly trained stylists.

Size your section: There's no one standard size to section your hair for flat iron use, as hair thickness, length and iron size all vary greatly. "The goal is to make sure that each and every strand of hair gets even heat distribution. If you choose a section that is too large, the outer portions will get heated while leaving the inner portions unaffected," says Davis. Experiment to find what amount heats all of your strands equally, and then stick to that size going forward.

Smooth, don't pull: "Those who have long been using irons such as the CHI have a tendency to grip the hair and pull it straight, using friction. This method will give you decent results in the short run, but over time, will damage your hair," says Davis. Instead, move the iron slowly yet steadily through your hair, focusing on smoothing the strands instead of tugging down on them.

Don't pass multiple times: "Passing over the same section continuously -- like more than three times -- damages hair more than using a high temperature setting," says Davis. The perfect degree varies by hair type and condition, but you'll want to experiment until you find a temperature that gives you the desired result in one to two passes. And if you're smoking, you're burning.

Use heat-protective serum: Anytime you flat iron, be sure to prep strands with a heat-protective serum, like those made with jojoba and argan oil. Typically, serums are more effective than sprays because they coat strands in a protective fashion, but be sure to use no more than a quarter-size amount at a time to prevent buildup.

Don't iron wet hair: While it's OK to style hair that is still slightly damp, wet hair magnifies heat to dangerously scorching levels. Too often, people use the flat iron to do most of the straightening work, when in fact, that's the role of a hair dryer. Use your iron as more of a finishing touch to set shine and seal in moisture and sleekness, or else pay the price with badly heat-damaged hair.

The Well-Shod Squad: Sole Society Launches

Model Anne V. at the Sole Society launch preview event.

Have a shoe habit?

Now you can get a quick fix at Sole Society, a brand new shoe sale site where every pair costs an easy-on-the-wallet $49.95. The footwear E-porium will offer personalized monthly selections of trendy styles, tailored to match each customer's personal profile. The site positions itself as a private club, but anyone can join – the only requirement for membership being an initial questionnaire that establishes your style preferences.

The new site is a division of HauteLook, one of a growing number of limited-time designer sample sale websites. While HauteLook runs sales for only 48 hours at a time, Sole Society will offer footwear fiends continual access to its upscale offerings. "Shoes are consistently our most requested category," explained HauteLook CEO Adam Bernhard, "we wanted to offer women access to on-trend shoes every day of the year."

Each month, the retailer sends out individualized product suggestions, based on members' style bios. Customers can peruse and purchase any of their recommended styles, or reject them for further selections. The site also offers styling tips and how-to's from its roster of stylists and fashion insiders.

Initially, Sole Society's offerings will be limited to their exclusive label, Marco Santi, but shoe shoppers stay on your toes: by next season their will be plenty more to choose from.

Spring styles from Marco Santi for Sole Society.

Celebrity Beauty Looks of the Day: Sienna Miller, Blanca Suárez and Catherine Zeta-Jones

The latest standout beauty looks from the celebs you know and love...

Sienna Miller's honey-blond locks, Blanca Suárez's matte red lips and Catherine Zeta-Jones' raven locks.

Sienna Miller:
The actress and designer's honey-blond locks looked amazing at the launch of Twenty8Twelve Spring 2011 collection in London, England. Her strands had tons of natural volume, and the coloring looked great with the British beauty's soft pink lips and cheeks.

Blanca Suárez:
The 22-year-old Spanish actress spiced things up at the Fotogramas Awards ceremony in Madrid, Spain. With a matte red lip, bold lashes, and a side-knotted stylish 'do, Suárez was rocking a standout beauty look.

Catherine Zeta-Jones:
The 41-year-old actress sported a sultry, charcoal smoky eye at the dinner for the 26th annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in New York City. Her complexion was luminous, and she completed her look with a shimmering peach lip that really popped against those dark raven locks.