Tips for Discovering Just the Right Hair Style for You

If your hair isn't right, your day just isn't right either, as most of you already know who've ever experienced a "bad hair day." You may know you need a new hair style, or even a hair makeover but just not sure how to go about it. However, once you know your facial shape, you're able to decide on a better style and hair cut, as the shape of your face determines what is flattering to you.

Some people with obviously round or square faces don't have a problem determining their facial shape. However, maybe you're not totally sure of the shape of your face. Probably that's because your hair could be covering up your facial outline. You can either take a photo of yourself (looking straight ahead) or and then cut out your face to get a better idea of its shape. On the other hand, stare into a mirror, outlining your face with a removal substance (such as lipstick), making sure to pull back your hair.

Best Hair Styles and/or Cuts for Round Faces

If your face is round, you'll want to add more length to your face. Realize that a rounded hairstyle will make you appear shorter and fatter, only adding to the roundness of your face. Also, be aware that layering around your face or bangs isn't not a good idea, as this will only add to your face's roundness. For round faces, hair should be extended to the chin line, because you don't want to appear heavier than you really are. On the other hand, cut your hair above your chin (rather than at the chin line), deemphasizing the roundness of your face. Next time you see actress Drew Barrymore on TV, notice how she wears her hair, as she's a good example of someone with a round face.

Best Hair Styles and/or Cuts for Square Faces

You'll also want to visually lengthen your face if you have a square-shaped face. Therefore, your hair should extend just a little below your chin. Keep in mind that curls flatter square faces, especially layered curls. As for bangs, don't have them cut straight across the forehead like a first-grader, accentuating the square shape of your head. For square faces, a lot of softening, layering, and shaping is good. For example, Actress Sandra Bullock, who has a square face, looks great in her wavy, layered locks.

Best Hair Styles and/or Cuts for Heart Shaped Faces

For a heart shaped face, bangs work well, as they serve to balance a wide forehead and narrow chin (giving a face a heart shape.) Choose a layered style that's thicker at the bottom than at the top, staying clear of straight hair which bring out your jawbone. Actress Ashley Judd, an example of a celebrity with a heart shaped face, becomingly wears her shiny dark hair fuller at the bottom.

Best Hair Styles and/or Cuts for Oval Shaped Faces

If you're blessed with an oval face, you're lucky as you can get away with just about any hairstyle. You can wear your hair either short or long. Just be sure to not cover up your facial features. The next time you see a picture of actress Jennifer Anniston, admire how her beautiful long golden locks compliment her lovely oval face.

Most of all make sure you're not sporting he same hairstyle you wore thirty years ago. What worked for you then probably isn't bringing out your best features now. You might have looked adorable in high school with that bouncy ponytail, but now it's time for a newer, fresher look. Also, keep in mind that as you grow older, a lighter color (or light highlights) does wonders in knocking off a few years.