Hair tips: Hairstyles for your face shape

Kerry Heathfield offers some advice for picking a hairstyle and colour to suit your face shape and features...

With spring on its way it might just be time to start planning a new hairdo, because nothing says “hello new season” and “hello new trends” like a new haircut.

Just as with anything else it is always easier to narrow down your options by knowing what will look best on you and what will suit your shape. Of course, your hair type is something to consider but luckily we live in a century riddled with many gadgets and options. Stylers, straighteners and curlers make a girl's life a lot easier.

First things first: you need to figure out what your face shape is. Here is a really useful article showing how to do just that.

Once you've figured out your face shape, you can look at what styles will suit you. Read on for a breakdown…

Steer clear of fringes as they will instantly make your face appear smaller. The best style to opt for if you have a small forehead is a face-framing layered look, it will instantly flatter.

Soft layers or curls will soften your angles and a side-swept fringe will soften the face. Avoid sweeping your hair completely away from your face as this will reveal the angles you are trying to soften.

Don't go for a style that will frame your face and cheeks, such as a bob. A dark blend of hair colours will detract from rounder cheeks and give more definition.

Flatter your face with a long or side-swept fringe to draw the eye away from your forehead and rather to your facial features.

Long fringes are a no-go; rather opt for a shorter fringe. Thin, sleek hair works well with glasses. If you have long hair, a sleek high ponytail is fashionable and will have you feeling less dork and more sexy in seconds.

While the thought of a new cut or colour is intriguing, you have to think about your lifestyle before making any drastic changes.

When changing your hairstyle it's important to consider your lifestyle and how much you want to commit to the style before going ahead with it.

Time: If you're forever rushing around and really don't have much time to sit and style your hair every day, then it is better to opt for a simple style that won't require hours of hairspray and styling.

Money: Changing your colour and getting a cut that needs to be cut in order to keep shape every few weeks will result in a lot of money spent. If you can't afford it then maybe less colour and a cut that needs less upkeep is your answer.

Author : Kerry Heathfield

BIO : A 20-something Durban girl in the process of completing a writingDiploma. Lover of writing, reading, fashion and all things girly.Magazine and TV series addict. Dreams of owning a designer handbag andmeeting Zooey Deschanel. Full of passion and laughs. Visit her blog at http://guesswhatgirls.wordpress.com