Springsummer 2011 trends Hair

Step into spring with our guide to the top hairstyles fresh off the catwalk. Julian Holland, creative director of Mark Hill, gives us his take on the trends to try.

Studio 54 curls

The look: Disco glamour with the volume cranked up

As seen at: Marc Jacobs, Sonia Rykiel and Badgley Mischka

These carefree curls pay homage to the hedonistic, decadent disco divas of the late '70s. "It's a retro look but it can be updated by making the overall style more controlled," says Julian.

Step one

To get this look at home, Julian suggests you start by styling your hair into a side parting and prepping your mane with a volumising mousse.

Step two

Blow dry your roots only using a large round brush, pointing the nozzle down the hair to help eliminate fly-aways.

Step three

To create the blown-out textures, either plait or coil and twist the rest of your hair in small sections and secure with clips.

Step four

Blow dry your hair or leave it to dry naturally. Unravel your plaits or pin curls and comb through using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. "You'll get great texture but you can boost this by gently back-combing close to the roots," says Julian.

Step five

As the style is supposed to be touchable and soft, don't overload your hair with more products. "Just a spritz of Diamond Shine Spray is all you need to complete the look," says Julian.

Glam tip: Add a decorated clip, grip or bow where the smooth texture meets the waves.

Play it down like: Alexander Berardi

Not sure if this retro style is the one for you? Forego the back-combing and gently run serum through curled ends to create a soft and polished effect.

"You can also sweep your hair around into a low side slung pony tail, leaving the textured hair just to fall over a shoulder. Keep the top sections smooth as the contrast between textures is what makes this look work," says Julian.

Get the look essentials: John Frieda Luxurious Volume Thickening Mousse Trevor Sorbie Large Radial Brush Remington Luxe AC Hairdryer Kit

Strictly slick buns

The look: Straight-talking, refined chic

As seen at: Carolina Herrera, Chloe, Viktor + Rolf

This no-nonsense style has always been a fashion favourite – with good reason. It's effortless, graceful and adds finesse to any outfit. Plus, it's simple to mimic.

Step one

If you like your hair smooth and sleek, create a sharp parting on dry hair by using a tail comb. "You can put the parting where you like but, personally, I prefer a side parting as this adds softness to the style," says Julian.

Step two

Comb your hair back towards the nape of your neck. Tilt your chin upwards as you gather your hair to create a smooth, tight pony tail and secure with a hairband.

Step three

Twist the pony tail around until it creates a tight coil and secure with grips and fine pins. Finish with a misting of flexible-hold hairspray.

Glam tip: A boho braid can take this look to a new level. "Try plaiting small sections of hair before pulling into a pony tail," says Julian.

Play it down like: Donna Karan

Donna Karan models walked the runway sporting a softer, looser take on the structured chignon that carried feminine charm.

To get the look, Julian suggests using your fingers to create a soft parting. Take your hair back into a loose ponytail just behind one ear and secure with a hairband. Twist the pony tail around until it loops back on itself and secure it with grips. As it's a lived-in look, it doesn't need to be entirely perfect. "Allow loose ends to stick out of the chignon and leave some tendrils to frame your face. Smooth through these pieces with a Raw Straight and Shine Ceramic Styler to finish," says Julian.

Get the look essentials: Charles Worthington Frizz Free Serum Umberto Giannini Glam Hair Rock 'N' Roll Extreme Hairspray Boots Thin Ponybands

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