The New Year often calls for a new regime and new look, so if you’ve been to-ing and fro-ing whether to opt for a tresses transformation then StyleNest are on hand to make your decision making process stress-free and a cut above the rest. 

StyleNest chat to Jonathan Long co-owner of Lockonego hair salon in London’s Kings Road to bring you some top tips to ensure this 2014 brings you a look to embrace. Whether you are looking to make a bold and drastic change with colour or cut or subtle adjustment to add some style to your lustre lacking locks, Jonathan Long is on hand to help you find the best look.

Look 1. The Crop

Going for a crop is the ultimate, bold move in reinventing yourself in an instant and is bang on trend right now with celebrities such as Keira Knightley and Miley Cyrus showcasing this chic look at its most feminine.

• If you are considering a crop, you need to think about the colour. A strong colour is a must for maximum effect and to give it an ultra-cool edge.
• Bear in mind the maintenance. While it is easy to believe that short hair means less styling time, consider your hair type. If it is curly and unruly you will have to straighten your hair every day.
• To keep it looking great you will be looking at regular trims and refresh the colour every 4-6 weeks.

Look 2. The fringe

Bold, blunt fringes are big news right now and are an instant way to change your image without a complete overhaul of your hairstyle.

• Consider the shape of your face when deciding on a fringe. Long fringes, just above the eyes are great for long faces, while if your face is round, you can get away with a short, funkier fringe. For very angular faces I would opt for something softer, like a side-swept option.
•  You will need to “style” your fringe every day. Invest in a good radial brush to smooth it down and avoid curling it under as this can end up with your locks sticking out in the wrong direction!
• A fringe is a commitment and you will notice the growth in your fringe quicker than the rest of your hair. Do take up your hairdresser’s offer to trim it in-between cuts.

Look 3. Extensions

For those that don’t naturally have long, tumbling, voluminous locks but crave this look, then hair extensions are a great option.

• If you go for extensions that involve weaves or bonding be prepared to take extra care of your own hair to prevent damage.  You need a careful maintenance routine to keep tangles at bay such as a de-tangling serum applied regularly. Also you should wrap your tresses in a bandana at night to prevent extra frizz and friction.
• You will also need to see your hairdresser regularly to check the extensions are still in place.
• Consider temporary extensions, favoured by many celebrities, which you can take out at the end of the day. There are some great options on the market where you can colour match perfectly to your own shade.

Look 4. Colour change

There is nothing quite like a dramatic colour change for a confidence boost and a sure way to turn heads.

• Brunette or red to blonde is a colour change that is frequently requested in my salon. Do consider which shade of blonde will best suit your skin tone.  If you are naturally dark, you will need your roots retouched very six weeks, so it is a high-maintenance option. Also bleaching hair regularly will take its toll on the condition so regular treatments and trims are a must.
• Red is a wonderful statement colour. Again, the shade needs to be carefully considered against your skin tone. Red is the fastest to fade, so refreshing the colour regularly is a must.
• Slices, highlights and flashes are a way to make a more subtle change and will also be less maintenance when it comes to fade and regrowth.

Look 5. Fashion colour

A bright, fashion statement colour; red, purple or blue, is about as bold as it gets when it comes to making a statement hair change.

• For an all over colour you will need your hair lightened first and remember, it will fade so regular refreshers can be done in the salon or at home.
• Why not fake it. There are some great hairpieces on the market, which give you a flash of colour without the full commitment.
• If you have light coloured hair why not try a semi-permanent colour? The hue won’t be as vivid but you can try some lovely pastel shades as a toe in the water to going for something more vivid.

Look 6. Growing your hair

Of course, change for you could be growing out a short style and going for something longer. Patience is a virtue, so they say, and so it is with growing your hair.

• Do visit your hairdresser regularly because careful styling will give you in-between styles, such as a short bob, which will make the growing process easier to endure.
• Regular trims are a must to prevent hair from splitting and breaking off. Your hair grows on average half an inch each month so a trim every 8-12 weeks will keep your hair in great condition while you are growing it.
• Those in-between phases can be frustrating. Hair accessories can give you a different look in an instant. Or why not try slicking it back with some strong hair gel for an evening out?

To visit Jonathan Long at Loconego, visit www.lockonego.com

Click here to see StyleNest’s roundup of the best party hair essentials.