5 Spring 2011 Hairstyles I'm Loving!

If the abundance of 2011 fashion trends already has you buzzing, then brace yourself for our round-up of2011 hair trends, because it's about to get epic. I'm not suggesting taking your tresses to any too-styled level, but nothing shakes things up like a new 'do, and you'll be hard pressed not to fall for the wearable élan of this season's offerings. I give a nod to short with the pixie's bad-ass cousin; say goodbye to the topknot as buns go low; and try something serious with a more severe side part. Plus, from an off-to-the-side swoop to thick, Jane Birkin-esque '70s fringe, bangs are definitely back. So, whether you're down to take some style risks or just want to effortlessly change things up, I've got your new look covered!

The Low Bun—Last year may have been the year of the top knot, but that's all about to change as buns make a shift to the nape. Pair the style with some sexy-glamorous sunnies for a relaxed-yet-elegant, warm-weather vibe.

Tip: Guido Palau, who created the look for Nina Ricci's spring show, recommends starting with a center part. Next, pull hair into a low ponytail, making sure to cover the ears. Then twist the ponytail into a loose knot. Remember, a too-tight style will look overly austere, so keep it loose for a touch of bohemian flair.
The Tools: Redken Thickening Lotion 06 Body Builder, $14.99, visit Redken for stores; John Frieda Frizz-Ease Hair Serum, $9.99, available at CVS.

The New Side Part—I'm really into the extreme side part for a while, but now I am crushing on them because of the versatility. The look works on both long and short hair and can go sleek and minimal or curly and wild.

My Tip: Place a comb flat against the side of your head. The spot where your head leaves the comb is where the part should be placed. Pull hair into a sleek, low ponytail or secure curls with a few bobby-pins.

The Tools: Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer, $19, available at Aveda; Garnier Fructis Style Wet Shine Gel, $4.00, available at Target. 

The Jane Birkin Bang—Though there's a decidedly '70s feel to this look, blunt bangs are very of-the-moment, as proven by Mulberry, Twinkle, and a slew of spring designer look-books.

My Tip: With this look, the fringe becomes your main accessory. Bangs should be heavy, slightly longer on the sides, and kept below the eyebrows. Layers are long and flowing, with a slight angle below the chin. Blow dry your bangs with a brush, then spray hairspray on a comb and comb through to make them look solid and thick.
The Tool: Blow Blow Out Serious Non-Stick Hair Spray, $19.75, available at Blow NY.

The Punky Short Cut—Ready for a big change in 2011? Go short with the messy, punk-inspired cut that popped up on the spring runways—think Carmen Kass and Balenciaga. Keeping some length on top maintains femininity, while a bit of disheveled drama makes it a little rowdy. This is really one of my favorite styles on a woman. There is so much versatility with short hair.



My Tip: The most versatile way to get this look is an undercut with length on top. To style, use a texturizing spray when wet, followed by a wax-based styling product once hair is dry.
The Tools: Davines Defining Wonder Wax, $24, visit Davines.com for locations; Fekkai Bouffant Coiff Lifting and Texturizing Spray Gel, $23, available at Sephora.

The Swoop—I mentioned this quick-change style before to people and I predict it's going to big for 2011. Go au naturel, like at Rodarte's spring show, or super sleek à la Louis Vuitton.

My Tip: Loosely pin your bangs to the side, either with bobby-pins or a barrette. Use a dry shampoo to add texture or gel for hold and shine.
The Tools: Bastiste Dry Shampoo, $7.99, available at Ulta.com; Sebastian Gel Forte, $12.49, visitSebastian Professional for stores.