Q. What hairstyles are popular this summer? I feel like I need something new.

A. Hairstyles are part of the fashion industry and are therefore always posting new trends. Last summer the hottest trends in hair were the pony tail and the precision (sharp edged and angled) cuts. This year the pony tail returns; big and fluffy with a top bump-up in the crown or sleek and tight to the head with a straight ponytail. The bob is still popular but the blunt, angular precision cut version has given way to a more easy-care version. This year the asymmetric bob is popular, with one side longer than the other. The bob also is going softer with more gradual lengths being cut in to add volume. The fringe or bangs are wispier and the whole look is more relaxed. Fringe (bangs) are hot hot hot this year. Long side swept bangs, short baby bangs, and wispy chopped fringe are all making the fashion cat walks. Layers are also popular on the model circuit this season. The look is layers and textures with a natural almost unstyled feel that’s free and full of movement. Pay attention to all the stars and shows this summer and you’ll also find that short hair is everywhere. There will always be long hair and thus the continued popularity of the pony tail but short hair is really in this summer. For awhile all the celebs were growing out their hair or opting for hair extensions to get instant length but not this summer. This summer all those long tresses are being cut short. You’ll see short hair on magazine covers and on many of your favorite actresses. Color trends have changed for this season as well. Wild hard edge color has given way to softer and more traditional color options. Blonde and golden brown highlights as well as soft strawberry reds are the trendy choices. The possible exception to this trend is platinum. This white blonde color is everywhere and is one of the most popular with summer short cuts. Remaining in style is the color combination of blonder or lighter on the top and darker or browner around the base line of the hair. Overall, the word for the summer of 2010 is, “easy”. The look is carefree and easy with softer edges, softer color and more free-form cuts. Personally, I think taking it easy for the summer is a great trend. I plan to embrace it.