A CHANGE OF SEASONS often brings on feelings of the need to change one’s look. As soon as beach weather hits, most of us want a new hairstyle that reflects our rejuvenated mood. But with so many new trends and products, where do you begin? Is the ‘ombre´’ look over? What does ‘balayage’ mean? What products can hold texture but look natural? How do you try out bangs that won’t immediately be regretted?

Bikas says that the trends for this season are centred around a ‘lived-in’ look.

Luckily, Maria Bikas and her team of stylists at the Maria Bikas Salon have you covered. Bikas says that the trends for this season are centred around a ‘lived-in’ look. If you are a brunette, she suggests a smoky look using balayage, a method of applying highlights that results in a more natural appearance. Blondes are beautifully butter cream this season, wearing tones in the beige palette.

For the adventurous, soft pastels, such as pinks and blues, are very popular. Bikas’ tip for staying on trend with the more extreme colours is to give them an ‘acid washed’ effect.

When styling, think soft, less structured curls. PRO TIP: don’t start your curl right at the root or leave an inch or two uncurled at the ends. Brush your curls out afterwards.

Bikas recommends Kevin Murphy’s Bedroom Hair (a texturizing spray) and Session Spray Flex (which offers a hold that doesn’t feel brittle or crispy). For enhanced volume try Kevin Murphy’s Anti-Gravity lotion.

Recently, many stars – like JLo and Arianna Grande – have been rocking sleek high ponytails on the red carpet. The key is to use the right products on sections that you don’t want to move, such as L’Oréal Professionnel’s Infinium Hairspray.

PRO TIP: wrap hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic and keep the ponytail smooth and styled. Perhaps add some very loose curls for texture.

One of the most popular highfashion trends this season is visible bobby pins; they can mimic jewellery and add an elegant chicness.

COPPER SUNSET
• Stylist: Lindsay • Model: Melissa
Soft bangs can be very flattering and help conceal fine lines, while heavier block bangs tend to look fun and youthful.

LIVED-IN PINK
• Stylist: Melissa • Model: Alex
Shadow roots are huge this season, enhancing the lived-in vibe of this look.

BUTTER CREAM
• Stylist: Doris • Model: Heidi
Doris gave Heidi a flattering V-shape cut and Hollywood curls to amp up the glam.