In Japan, color treated hair is something commonly seen in the streets of the younger generation. They also love bangs, high buns, and messy on-the-go styles. If you don't want to fork out the money to color your hair then no worries! Natural hair color is the way to go this summer so with 5 of my favorite hair styles to choose from, you can pick one that will bring out the best of your hair naturally colored or dyed! I've included Japanese inspired looks that are fun, quick and easy styles that fit perfectly for summer or even going out. My picks for styling products are Bumble and Bumble, which you can purchase at several different salons here in the Seattle area.

Side Ponytail
This is the easiest look to pull off and is the best for hot summer weather as you have your hair to the side and away from your neck!
1. Part hair a little past the middle of your head with a braid comb.
2. Spray about a palm full of mousse and apply to damp hair by scrunching it from the bottom. Bangs look best if they are straight and parted so don't mousse the front.
3. Pull hair to the side, saving a little piece about 3-inches thick and tie with a clear twisty.
4. Take the remaining 3-inch thick piece and wrap around the tied part of the hair and tuck in the ends of the piece into the twisty. Make sure that it is tucked underneath.

Braided Front
This is a flirty twist to the classic braid, but it's absolutely cute for this season as it works for all lengths of hair.
1. Start by parting hair a little past the middle of your head and if your hair feels a bit rough then try spray on conditioner to soften it.
2. Take 3-inch sections of hair from the tip of the part and begin braiding down to the side until you reach a quarter down towards the end.
3. Use a clear twisty to tie and secure the ends. Pull the rest of your hair back into a bun or a short pony tail and tie, hiding the clear twisty from the braid.

Simple curls
This is a style that's fitting for day and night-time! It is the way to go for something classy and simple!
1. Apply a palm-full of mousse to already damp hair and then comb so hair is straight.
2. You can choose to part your hair straight in the middle or a little past the middle.
3. Make 4 sections of hair (2 in the front side and 2 in the back) and twist them into messy buns and pin them down with bobby pins until they are secure.
4. Use a blow-dryer and blow all 4 mini-buns until they are completely dry.
5. Take out the pins and let the curls loose by using your hands and scrunching them. Do not comb the hair because this will lose the curls. Spray with a small amount of hairspray to keep them in place.

Messy Bun
The messy bun is suited for all types of outfits, especially casual and day wear and it is a quick-do!
1. Apply a palm-full of mousse to hair and be sure to not miss any areas of your head.
2. Save a small section of about 5-inches in the front-middle of the top where your hair usually parts. Pull the 5-inch section all the way back and push so you have a mini-pouch at the top of the head and pin down with a bobby pin.
3. Take the rest of the hair and twist it into a non-tight bun with loose ends and pieces sticking out. Pin with bobby pins or use a thin black hair-tie to secure.
4. Use hair-spray to keep hair in place and for a long-lasting hold.

Straight Bangs
This look is one of the most popular and is seen in the streets of Japan. This style looks great on its own so accessorizing would be the way to go!
1. Straighten hair with a flat iron and then spray on a small amount of spray-on conditioner.
2. This is the part where you can have fun with your hair and use different hair accessories. Headbands are making a huge comeback this season and they are simple and girly. You can match or mix-and-match colors depending on your outfit. My favorites are the ones with the bow on the side, but pick one that represents you best!
3. You can also try different hair clips and clip a small section of hair on the side back. Again, pick a hair clip that brings out your character.

E-mail me at lilly@napost.com with any questions!

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