15 instant hair updates to try today

Kenneth Stoddart is a veteran of shoots and shows, so the Priceline Pharmacy Hair Director knows a thing or two about quick-fix hair: “Pulling the hair back off the face and into a knot is a really fast way to add some style. Start with texturising spray, then rake the hair back with your fingers and secure at the back of the head. Loop your ponytail and only pull three-quarters of it back through the elastic, leaving the ends peeking out. Pin the loop down to create a knot.”

If you want to go for a bigger change, Stoddart votes the textured natural bob with balayage as the cut-and-colour combo of the season: “I’m loving the shorter bob trend and the soft natural movement that can be cut into the hair. The balayage colouring really complements these hairstyles.”

It was one of the biggest hair trends of the A/W 2016/17 shows, and better yet, requires little effort. “I love the hair jewellery that's around at the moment; it makes a simple updo look romantic and modern,” says Stoddart. “Styles like chignons and knots always look great [with accessories] and are quick and easy to achieve. Old brooches can be pinned to the chignon, too.”

With natural texture making a huge comeback, it’s time to give your volume products a rest. “Wearing the hair closer to the head keeps it more modern,” says Stoddart. “Stop backcombing and adding volume at the roots. To keep the volume out of the roots use a mousse on damp hair. The hair can be parted on the side or the middle and the mousse combed away from the part, then leave to dry naturally for the best results. Once dry, run your fingers through to loosen.”

Root concealers are the new wave of hair product. Designed to temporarily cover regrowth – and greys – in between salon visits, they come in sprays or powders, and are as easy to apply as hairspray. Try John Frieda Root Blur, L'Oreal Paris Instant Root Concealer Spray or Charles Worthington Instant Root Concealer.

The old-Hollywood wave is having a moment on the red carpet. Using a straightener on a low setting, take a section of hair and move the iron through about one-third of the way down, bending the hair under the iron. Unclamp the hair, then re-clamp under the first bend, but with the hair folded over the top of the straightener. Repeat in loose sections.

The natural trend means embracing what you’ve got with smart product placement – and no heat tools. “Add some hydrating mousse to damp hair, split the hair into four sections and gently braid each section (this can be done before bed). Twist the braids into knots and pin using ‘U’ pins to avoid puffiness and frizz,” suggests Stoddart. “Take the braids out just before hair is completely dry to avoid the crimped look and gently shake the hair out. Finish by running a serum through for separation and shine.”

Remember the topsy tail? Well, Prabal Gurung has brought the look back but with a (literal) modern twist. Starting from just above the ear, take a section of hair from the outer edges and twist inwards until the nape of your neck. Fasten with a hair tie and you’re good to go.

Behold: the lazy girl’s guide to changing your hair. Not only is this the trend anyone can do, it’s perfect if you want a change that isn’t dramatic, yet will completely refresh your look. Follow Kendall Jenner’s lead and swap your middle part for a deep side part or a high sweep. Better yet, it’s free.

If there was a word to sum up the hottest hair looks, it would be texture. So no prizes for guessing that a texturising spray is the product to own now. Stoddart agrees: “I use this inside the hair to add texture to the style and give it a lived-in look. It’s also great before putting your hair up as it stops the hair being slippy.” Texturisers have moved beyond basic sea salt sprays (though we still love these) and into modern formulations containing sugar salt, or hairspray/texturiser hybrids.

We’re used to alphabet creams for your skin, and now they’re all over haircare, too. The new BB and CC creams for your strands work to correct a multitude of hair issues by adding moisture, shine, smoothness, anti-breakage and even heat and UV protection.

When it comes to a cut that transcends the ages, says Stoddart, “I think the bob suits most age groups. It looks fresh and playful on younger women and chic on older women. Adding some light layers can help to loosen it up and stop it looking too heavy.”

You’ve heard the hype – and the Dyson Supersonic Hairdryer is the stuff of hair dreams. It’s lightweight (so you won’t pull a muscle drying thick hair), boasts superior technology to promote shine, and has in-built heat control so you won’t fry your strands. The result? A salon-style blow-dry that lasts for days.

Half-up styles are nothing new, but this season the look is deconstructed yet considered, with lots of natural texture and minimal hair pulled back. Prep with volume powder and a texture spray, and swap the usual top knot for a mini gym bun.

Thinking of going platinum? You need Olaplex in your life. This silicone-free treatment links the broken bonds in your hair during and after the chemical process, making your hair stronger. “It stops the hair from being damaged, which allows hair to be bleached white with no adverse effect,” says Stoddart.

Heading out this weekend? Pair your new hair with one of these fierce makeup looks.

For more hair tips from marie claire, check out marieclaire.com.au

Image credits: Getty