New looks to try

12:21pm Friday 16th May 2008

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Fresh ideas for a new look ... which one do you dare to wear?

1. Backcombing is a fabulous way to achieve a seriously luxurious look and works on nearly every hair type, even fine, flyaway hair.

The trick is to aim for height and weightlessness in the look and avoid the matted, bird's nest effect, and you'll find it easier if you use a comb or special brushing out' tail brush.

Coat the hair in styling product such as hairspray then lift small sections of hair holding the ends of the hair firmly in one hand, then gently backcomb the length of the hair.

With curly hair, it's best to straighten the hair first.

2. Plaits have made a big comeback on the catwalks and we're not talking schoolgirl's pitgtails.

Try emulating a more grown-up style by drawing hair into a ponytail, securing in place then braiding the loose ends - not too tightly - and securing again with a band.

Run serum or even wax through the short pieces at the end of the braid for a neater finish.

3. Short sharp cuts are very now - seek inspiration from Natalie Imbruglia's square shape bob with a graduated, shorter back. Sweet!

You can still individualise the look with a longer fringe for a peek-a-boo result, or try a low side parting to help achieve a seductive yet utterly now feel.

4. Remember, oval face shapes are better suited to hair pulled back cleanly off the face, while other face shapes may look better with a softness on the forehead.

Try sectioning off a rectangle on the top of the head and backcomb the roots to create height at the front before smoothing over the top layer with a bristle brush.

We're not talking hillbilly quiff, just a glamorous nod to the 60s.

5. Don't forget to give your finished style the once-over with a lightweight shine spray for a divine, perfectly polished sheen.

Graham Webb International recommends spritzing Clynol's Lustrous final shine spray from their Look At Me range to give a super shiny finish.