Holiday Hairstyles

Hair is a woman's crowning glory. It is the punctuation mark to our look. It communicates our wealth, our power and our lifestyle. As Frederic Fekkai puts it,

"Hair is more than a woman's best accessory, it's her greatest weapon."

Keeping our hair looking great is something we (want to) do on a regular basis, but when the holidays roll around, it's time to pull out all the stops and do something special. For some of us, that means an up-do. Personally, my hair is much to short to pull this one off, so I resort to something a bit different - I pull out the curling iron or hot rollers and set about to give my hair more lift and body. I then work in some Control Paste, mixed with a little Coconut Oil for shine (as well as to help tame my super-thick tresses). It works, and is much more playful than my everyday style that is much straighter.

Here are a few ideas to help give your hair, long or short, a festive look just in time for New Year's Eve:

I'm loving this chic cut on Sarah Michelle Geller. Her fringed bangs are an easy-to-wear style that can soften your face and take years off your look. This works well with hair from chin length to much longer. I also love her low-lights, as they add some fabulous dimension to her blonde locks and help them look more natural. This cut also lends itself to playful hair accessories - just sweep the bangs back with a pretty headband or pull it back in a ponytail for an easy look. If you've had the same long locks for years, why not consider freshening up your look with fringed bangs?

With a headful of gorgeous spiral curls, Thandie Newton is the epitome of understated elegance. If your hair is not naturally curly, this may take a bit more work, but the look is worth it!

Keira Knightley proves that short hair can still be pretty darn sexy. Her softly tousled look is a great way to give short hair a festive feel. Try Aveda's Control Paste for that piece-y look that creates such great texture.

Nicole Kidman's hair proves that chic doesn't have to mean fussy (after all, she does have a new baby in the house). Try dressing up a simple bun with a fabulous hair accessory such as this jeweled hair comb for a little shot of glamour without looking overdone.

Reese Witherspoon knows how to work a chic updo while giving it that girl-next-door appeal. Her messy updo is a wonderful take on a traditionally formal look - with a modern twist. Take note of her lowlights that add depth and interest to her lovely blonde hair.

*Photos courtesy of Hairpedia.com.