Long and loose
BY VICI PAPAJOHN Gulf Breeze News news@gulfbreezenews.com

Long hair can be worn in casual, breezy styles or pulled back for a more elegant and structured look.

Long hair is in vogue, and even summer heat waves cannot make area fashionistas give it up! Don't reach for the shears, get creative.

Long hair blows out for a beautiful casual look, and can be whipped up into a smart looking pony tail if it gets too hot while commuting or between appointments.

Visit local department stores and discount stores for a collection of clips and combs. Don't forget that if you use an accent color for shoes or bags, at least one accessory should follow suit. For example, if you are wearing a grey or blue suit with red shoes and are carrying a chic red computer bag, snap in a red barrett. It pays off to add pizazz with accessories -- especially hair accessories -- as you can give them something to look at coming and going!

Hair care experts warn that summer time is the time to pamper your hair as increased sun exposure and potential exposure to chlorinated or salt water add to the abuse. Take the time to pamper your hair with a deep conditioning. Imagine justifying an hour by the pool with a coat of nourishing cream - heat intensifies the absorption rate of such treatments, and you will feel more relaxed from the break.

Photos courtesy Joelle Carter

Layers also are a lovely way to lighten hair and give it more movement. A little-known benefit to layered hair is that air flow increases and you will feel cooler! Get creative and you will not even consider clipping those long locks!