One of the questions people ask me most frequently is, "Is my hair too long?" Hair length paranoia can be caused by your height, weight, body shape and, most often, age. I think one of the biggest fears of any woman is that she'll look young from the back and old from the front. The thought of a construction man giving a woman passing by a once-over only to quickly jerk his head forward when he sees her face is a legitimate cause for a nervous breakdown. No one should be put through this trauma. After all, who wants to look silly? With a little common sense and a full-length mirror, this gross error easily can be avoided.

One of the first things I would like to say is that I like long hair. I think it is suitable for woman over 25, 35 or even 40 years old. I think it can be flattering, very appealing and often erase a few years. There are a few guidelines that you should be aware of if you chose to wear your hair long. They will help to keep you looking your best.

Long hair should always be exceptionally beautiful hair. The best long hair is healthy, vibrant and has great texture. Hair that is dull, dry, brittle or thinning is definitely not suitable to be worn long.

Even long hair must always have a shape. On anyone older than 16, hair that is all one length is no longer flattering. It will drag your face down and give you a tired, droopy look. Some shaping or layering is always more flattering and will give your face an instant lift.

Long hair is not a blanket to cover body flaws. I know many women who think that wearing their hair longer can cover up the few pounds that somehow they have put on over the years. The only person you are fooling here is yourself. Long hair will actually accentuate your weight gain. It can also make you look lower to the ground. This is a fatal combination that should always be avoided.

Do you find yourself wearing your long hair up every day? This is a sure-fire sign that it's time for a new, shorter style. I know that many women with long hair think it is easier to care for than a shorter style that requires a blow dry. This may be true, but don't you want to look your best? There are no shortcuts. Looking good does take some time and effort, especially as the years goes by.

I am often asked how I know what's new in beauty. The answer is simple. I never stop looking at people, magazines, movies or anything else that catches my eye. I have the tremendous advantage of living in New York and L.A. and often traveling abroad. I am always walking the streets, checking out everyone who passes me by. I've learned what works and what doesn't simply by keeping my eyes wide open and my mouth shut. Believe me, there is nothing more embarrassing than being caught mouthing the words, "What was she thinking?"

I have recently started to use my phone camera to document some stellar beauty moments and some all-time beauty faux pas. Below are pictures of women I passed on the streets while filming "Ambush Hits the Road" who made attempts to look their best but didn't quite get it right. I think we can all gleam a few beauty do's and don'ts from these snapshots.

Pretty Color, But Not for Hair
Everyone who watches "Ambush Makeover" on the Today Show knows that I have a special place in my heart for redheads. I think that reds are often one of the most special and flattering color choices. Truly beautiful red hair should look like you could have been born with it if you'd been incredibly lucky. This means you must be aware of the tone of the red shade you choose. Natural red hair has either a golden or copper base color. Reds that have cherry or burgundy hues should be the color of cars, not hair.


Shampoo Is Oily Hairs Best Friend
Fine, straight hair is often envied by women with curls or frizz. It often falls into place with little or no effort and has a shine that most women only dream about. There is a downside to this hair with perpetual shine. It needs to be shampooed daily; otherwise, it can look excessively thin. When hair is not clean, the part can look extra wide, almost giving a balding look. This hair must be shampooed frequently to keep it looking full bodied. Conditioner should only be used on the tips of the hair shaft.


When Frizz Takes Over
Curly hair needs to be controlled. Curly hair is naturally drier than straight hair and can often have a frizzy texture. I often see woman with this texture who don't have a clue how to handle it. They either try to blow it straight or leave it curly. It often ends up looking like fried, dried out-hair that is in horrible condition. It's not! Curly hair should not be shampooed frequently, but it does need constant conditioning to maintain a healthy look. Styling products with low alcohol content will hold the curl in place and prevent hair from looking damaged.


Who Are You Fooling?
Hair extensions can be the perfect solution for women who want to make their fine hair appear thicker or to add a few extra inches to their hair. Hair extensions that are applied correctly look totally natural. When they are applied incorrectly, on the other hand, they can look like you are wearing your pet on your head. The texture, color and length must always blend with your natural hair. Extensions that are too long, thick or thin just look wrong.



If you identify with any of these pictures, don't panic. Visit your hair stylist and ask for advice. If your hair isn't right, a little cut or color can fix almost any problem. Most likely a small change will make a big difference in the way you look. Here's to the new you!

In case you missed it check out Louis Licari's segment from this morning's TODAY show on how you can look thinner simply by getting a new haircut.

Watch the segment from TODAY

More from Louis Licari:

• Look Younger and Thinner with the Right Hairstyle
• Age-Defying Hair Secrets

Summer is right around the corner. I'm already dreaming of those warm sunny days. Sounds good, right? No? Oh, you're still fighting to lose the extra pounds you put on this lazy winter?

Not to worry! There is no reason to be nervous if you are still holding on to your winter weight  Your hair can help create the illusion that you spent the long cold winter sprinting on the treadmill.

If this sounds too good to be true, you don't realize what the right haircut, color and style can do for you.

Watch the segment from TODAY

Check out my tips for looking younger and thinner with the right hairstyle. It's simple!

When you have been in the hair business as long as I have, you can't help but notice how people cut, color and style their hair. The moment I meet someone, my eyes go directly to the top of their head. It's a horrible habit that makes almost everyone uncomfortable, and I've tried to stop doing it for years to no avail. My eyes are especially drawn to any hair faux pas. There is nothing more frustrating than having to bite my lip instead of giving a hair tip. It often takes every inch of my self control to keep my lip zipped.

Here is a list of the most common hair faux pas I have tried not to notice over the years.

Picking the wrong haircut and style for your hair's texture. Wearing fine hair too long or layered will only make it seem wispier and see-through. Wearing curly hair straight often looks dry, fried and tortured in place.

TIP: Always work with the texture of your hair. You're not fooling anyone but yourself.


Picking the wrong hair color. There's a rumor out there that you have to make your hair color lighter as the years go by. Guess what? That's not always true! Often the best solution to avoid dull hair color is to make it brighter or richer.

TIP: Your hair color should always provide contrast to your skin color. If you find your self putting on more makeup than usual to look alive, you have picked the wrong hair color.


Making clean hair look dirty by misusing products. This is so five years ago. Hair today looks fresh, clean and natural. It should never look over-gelled, moussed or waxed into place. Hair should never look like it's made of shiny plastic.

TIP: Less is more. If you can't run your fingers through your hair, you have used too much product.


Highlighting hair to look solid or worst yet, frosted. There are two common highlighting mistakes.

The first is when too many highlights are placed too close together, creating a loss of contrast and often resembling an overall, single-process color. This will result in an unnatural looking color that requires frequent touch-ups instead of the graceful grow out that highlights should provide.

The second mistake is when highlights are left on too long to avoid gold shades. Highlights without gold often appear grey and frosted. This will make your hair look dull and you look older.

TIP: Never place your highlights too close together or make them too pale. Highlights should accent and brighten your base color, not change it or make it dull.


Using scrunches, butterfly clips and banana clips as hair accessories. They are tools to keep your hair off your face. They are appropriate to use while washing your face, applying makeup or giving yourself a facial. As easy and gentle as these are to use, they should never be worn outside your home.

TIP: There are many simple and chic accessories available at your local drugstore or beauty supply. Look for the simplest headbands or covered elastics. They are gentle to your hair and always look right.


That's it! You now have the list of my Top Five hair faux pas. The good news is that they are all easy to remedy. With very little effort you can look prettier, softer and younger!

Can you believe that it is already March? Spring--traditionally the time of new beginnings--is just around the corner. The weather changes and so does your wardrobe. This season, wardrobe changes may be minimal because all of us are short on cash. This is the perfect time to rethink your look. A change of style and cut might be the best answer to the doldrums of this year's dreary financial news. This doesn't mean you have to cut your shoulder-length hair into a pixie or make your brown hair platinum blond, but the uncertain times may prove to be the incentive you need to undertake small changes that will make big differences in your look and the way you feel about your future.

Rethink your color, cut and makeup. Your hair is your most important fashion accessory. Your hair will do more to change and update your look than any pair of shoes or hot new jeans--and will cost a lot less, too.


Highlights today
Highlights have changed dramatically over the last couple of years. If your hair looks streaked or frosted, or is growing out with a definite root line, it's time for a change. Highlights should be a natural looking combination of thin and slightly thicker strokes of color placed randomly on the top layers of your hair and around your hairline. They should not be placed on the under layers of your hair. Placing lighter hairs over dark hair gives the illusion of depth and texture. Notice any child's hair that has natural streaks. Their highlights are only on the top layer of their hair. Sometimes nature does know best. And lighter isn't always better. Did you notice the color of Jennifer Aniston's hair color at the Academy Awards this year? Jennifer went blonder, forfeiting her caramel highlights for a paler blond shade. Her hair color, which was always one of my perpetual favorites, became more ordinary. Sometimes less is more.

Roots have become acceptable over the last few years. Not only do they create a modern look, they also let you go a bit lighter than your skin color would normally allow. Remember, hair color should always provide contrast with your skin color. The darker color at your roots makes your lighter ends acceptable. I am not talking about black roots with a solid line of demarcation separating blond ends. The darker roots should slowly blend to the lighter color on the tips of the hair. Gisele Bundchen's hair is a perfect example of today's great looking roots.

Want to know the biggest hair trend for 2009?  Go red!  At the end of last year I turned supermodel Coco Rocha into a fiery redhead, which was featured in Vogue Magazine.  Now I'd like to tell you how to get this glamorous look.

Is red a color for everyone? The answer is no, but it is the most influential color of the New Year. Blondes now want to be golden strawberry shades, and brunettes want to have warm chocolate hues. Ultra blond and ash colors drain colors from your face, while red adds color, warmth, and youth. Remember, there are very few natural redheads so if you choose to be red you choose to be noticed.

Watch the segment from TODAY

Here are my tips for going red:

1. Use a slightly lighter formula around the face and progressively darker formulas going towards the nape. To keep color real use at least three formula's in the same color family. Making the tips of the hair lighter will help to keep your new color looking natural.

2. Think copper, not burgundy. Natural red hair has golden undertones. Blue reds do not exist in nature. If your color looks more like a car color than a hair color, you picked the wrong color.

3. The best candidates to go red are people with pale or pink skin. If you have olive skin and insist on trying red you must chose a very dark auburn shade. Red hair is not an option for people with ruddy skin.

4. Beware of hot roots. There is nothing that shouts "I color my hair red" more than bright roots. Hair should always be slightly darker at root and lighter on the tips.

5. Red hair fades more quickly than any other hair color. It is essential red heads keep their hair in optimum condition to keep their color vibrant. Always use a color preserving shampoo and conditioner.

6. Never highlight red hair. Highlights make red hair look faded, brassy, and orange. Use translucent colors to accent the natural nuances of your hair color.

7. Glosses or semi-permanent colors will extend touch-ups. Red hair fades faster than any other hair color. Supplement your touch-ups with semi-permanent colors and glosses. This will keep your color bright and condition your hair.

Related Content:

As I was contemplating my first blog of the New Year, I thought about all the obvious topics. The most apparent were New Year's resolutions, the Obama family's first year in the White House, predictions of break-through celebrities of the year to come, and of course, hair color, hair styles, and makeup trends for 2009.

Unfortunately, I am not psychic, and do not have any mystical powers. I don't have a clue about tomorrow's headlines or how the next year will unfold. I am, however, an astute observer who thrives on pop culture. I always think of myself as someone who chronicles data more than a predictor of fashion or beauty trends. The holiday movie releases (which are consistently the best films of the year) give the first clues to the newest trends of 2009. The actors whose films come out as the year ends are usually the preeminent stars of Hollywood who stroll the red carpet during award season. I mean after all, aren't the Academy Awards show the Super Bowl of beauty and fashion?

The reviewers and the box office opening numbers are starting to make it increasingly clear who the star players will be. The candidates this year seem to be a group of well-established actors with whom we are quite familiar. This season, in fact, seems to provide a Hall of Fame of glamorous thespians for whom we'll wait with baited breath to see their "look" for this momentous evening. They will be reviewed from head to toe by every self-proclaimed fashionista on television and in print. There will be two groups of winners: the people who win the Oscars and those who are proclaimed to have the best dress, hair and makeup.

There are many fashion savvy contenders at the Oscars this year. The competition will be brutal and I predict one of the most glamorous award seasons that we have ever witnessed. The world has never been more ready to escape to the fantasies of Hollywood. We'll see the usual suspects: Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Cate Blanchette, Kate Winslet, Leonardo DiCaprio, Nicole Kidman, Anne Hathaway, and Penelope Cruz channeling the old Hollywood style. Don't be surprised to see the more free-spirited actors also primed for their close ups. I am sure Meryl Streep, Francis McDormand, Kathy Bates, Sean Penn and Frank Langella will have never looked so poised, polished, and sophisticated as they will at this year's Oscars.

Hollywood, movies and the stars are the perfect diversion from our very real world. We are entering a new heyday for Hollywood and 2009 promises to be one of the most exciting years ever to watch the Academy Awards. I'll be glued to the TV on February 22 and be sure to report Hollywood's new glamorous look as its glitterati walk down the runway.

Related Content:

Yes, I went to see the movie Twilight. I can't lie and tell you that my young niece and nephew dragged me to see the film. I wanted to go. Since I discovered Ann Rice's novel, Interview with a Vampire, I have been fascinated with the subject. I have been reading every bit of press about this film for months. Vanity Fair featured the cast of the movie posed as the hot new Hollywood icons. Entertainment Weekly's cover story this week features the movie's smoldering star, Robert Pattinson, with the headline "TWILIGHT EXPLODES!" I was at the Today show studios and watched the escalating frenzy as Pattinson and his beautiful costar, Kristen Stewart, walked into the studio. It was total pandemonium. How could I not go? I had to see what all the hype was about.

I tried to order my tickets online, only to find the movie was sold out for the entire opening weekend in every theater in New York City. I was disappointed but I accepted my fate and made plans for the following weekend. During the week I heard more about the movie's romance than the usual kills and blood sucking that occur in every vampire story. I was a bit confused. I really had no idea what to expect as I navigated through the mad crush to get in the theater and find a seat.

About 15 minutes into Twilight I realized that this was a movie about a first love. Initially, I was irritated. I was expecting a movie with amped-up action scenes and fair maidens in distress. Instead, I found myself in the middle of a fantasy about an impossible love that could be eternal. What I found most surprising was that I became mesmerized by the movie. I realized that no matter how jaded I have become, the fantasy of finding a soul mate is never lost.

Fantasies are a pleasure we should always allow ourselves to enjoy. They provide the sweet moments in life that often make us excited about tomorrow. Fantasies have never been more important than they are now. These are precarious times. The holidays are upon us. It is time to live our fantasies to the fullest.

The holiday weekend is over, marking the unofficial end of summer. Any illusion of an unscheduled free life is about to come to an abrupt end. Kids are on their way back to school, most college students have already left, and the rest of us have resumed our fall schedules, which seem to be more demanding and overwhelming each year. September is the springboard to the rest of the year. This is the perfect time to make changes in your life and have a fresh start for fall. The easiest changes to make are in your appearance. Now is the time to look in the mirror and re-evaluate yourself. Look at everything, from your hair to your makeup. Summer looks are often not appropriate after Labor Day. What works in the summer often doesn't translate to fall.

Here are five tips to look your best for fall 2008.

1) It's time for a haircut. Don't get nervous! I am not telling you to cut it off. I am only suggesting you get a trim. Now is the perfect time to put the shape back in your cut so it will be easier to manage and look more polished.

FALL FORECAST: Watch out for the most subtle A-line bobs.


2) Tone down your hair color. Summer wreaks havoc on your hair color even if you're not a sun bunny. Summer sun and wind can make natural looking sun-kissed hair color look fake and over processed.

FALL FORECAST: Hair color has never looked so believable. Golds, coppers, auburns, and chocolates -- color tones found in nature -- are the most desirable shades.


3) Comb the makeup counters. The naked face doesn't work in the fall. It is definitely time to look like you made an effort to look your best. Makeup doesn't have to look unnatural. The end result should look like you, only prettier.

FALL FORECAST: Makeup artist Enid O' predicts smokey eyes with pale cheeks and lips or strong red lips with nude eyes and a light blush.


4) Learn how to finish your hair at home. Hair this season looks more finished than we have seen in years. You should not be solely dependent on your hairdresser to look good. Watch your hairdresser style your hair. Notice what styling tools and products are used. Buy them and practice. You should be able to do your hair in 15 to 20 minutes.

FALL FORECAST: After several seasons of a tousled look, fall hair will be smoother, with controlled waves. Hair will never look frozen or sprayed in place.


5) Have a bad hair day 'do as a back up when you are running late. Life happens! Sometimes there's just no time to get it together.

FALL FORECAST: Pony tails with combined textures will be the "I need a blow dry but I don't have time" 'do this fall. Use styling products to slick hair back, and then pull remaining hair into pony tail. Leave pony tail free of product to show natural texture. Women with shorter hair should master simple chignons. Chignons should be worn low and look like you did them yourself. Leaving the ends out of the twist looks younger and fresher.


Fall is here. Everyone is back from vacation. You will soon see all your old friends and probably make a few new ones. It is time to look your best, embrace the season, and as always, have fun looking beautiful.

---

More from Louis Licari

• Try on new hairstyles from Louis Licari with Makeover-o-Matic
• Get more info from the Today show on iVillage

There was a time, not so long ago, when the quintessential beauties were always blonds. People born blond wanted to be blonder. People with dark hair wanted to be as light as they could be, even at the risk of frizz and brassy hair. The woman with the lightest hair was always considered the prettiest. Well, times have changed.

Women have realized that the most flattering hair colors often extend far beyond the blond pallet. I myself became aware of this doing the Today Show's Ambush Makeovers. The blonds always looked good, but the warmer, richer, darker colors looked great. They made the most significant positive difference on almost every makeover. More vibrant hair colors made women's skin tones look more radiant. The makeovers looked prettier and younger. No one was more surprised than me by this realization. I made my career keeping some of the most famous women in the world blond. Have I been blindsided by blonds? I might have been guilty of being a "blond addict", but one day at a time I am opening up myself to the world of more fiery colors.

How many times have you been flipping through fashion magazines and wondered why your hair doesn't look as great as the women in the photographs? The models might be younger and maybe even prettier but that's no excuse for your hair not to look gorgeous. Hair can make an ordinary woman look like an exceptional beauty. Don't ignore your most important fashion accessory. It is too easy to make good hair look great and the best part is you can do most of your primping at home. This usually takes very little time and costs a fraction of salon prices.

Watch the "Ambush Yourself At Home" segment on TODAY

Here are some easy tips.

Never walk around with your roots showing. This looks unkempt and like you don't care about your appearance. Don't fool yourself; people do judge a book by its cover. There are root touch-up kits available that can cover the grey hair on your part or hairline in 10 minutes. You can practically put it on while you are brushing your teeth. Having a busy schedule is no longer an excuse for walking around with grey roots.

Are you due for your highlights a couple of weeks after you have a major event to attend? Don't panic! There are temporary mascara highlighting wands that come in great colors. They can be used to extend a touch-up or add extra highlights around your face for your special occasion. They will wash off in one shampoo.

Brush on highlights easily give permanent salon quality highlights at home. With a brush you have exact control of color placement. The guess work of the old fashioned cap highlight is gone. You place the highlights exactly where you want them to fall. This is perfect for accenting facial features or your hair style. The new highlighting kits come in gold and bronze shades. You will never have to worry about your hair looking like a frosted home job again.

"Louis, what would you do to the way I look if you were looking at me for the first time?" Women ask me this question almost every day. Women almost always know when it's time for a makeover, even if it's on the subconscious level. If this question has ever crossed your mind, you probably do need a makeover. Most likely every time you look in the mirror you know you are not looking your best.

MISTAKE 1) Your hair is just hanging without doing anything to flatter your face shape. You often find yourself wearing it back in a pony tail. Your hair color is not as vibrant as it once was. You might be feeling bored, starting to go grey, or just dreary. You don't have to put up with not feeling or looking your best. Take an action, take the time, and give yourself a cut and color.

It’s time to let the new you out. There is no better way to look more beautiful than releasing the beautiful hair that you have been totally ignoring. This is the sure fire way to release the true beauty of your hair.

MISTAKE 2) This happens when women try to force their hair to look like something it isn't, such as thicker, curlier, or straight. Accept what you have and make the most of it. Make yourself a promise. Take care of your appearance by making the most of your natural hair. People will notice your new hair instantly and tell you how great you look. You will love the way this makes you fell.

Mistake 3) You have had the same style and cut since you were in school. Small changes are mandatory to look modern and your most beautiful. Your face and hair change over the years and your style and color should too! TIP - Go to the salon with your old haircut and color. Tell your hairdresser you are ready for a change. Don't tell him or her what to do. Be open to suggestions. Most likely you’ll be happy you were brave enough to make a change and update your look. Remember the rule of thumb: Five years with the same haircut and exact same shade of hair color is the end of the statute of limitations of beauty and style.

Mistake 4) People can't see their own color. They often think they are brown when they are blond. Barbara Walters recently admitted to still feeling like a brunette on “The View”. The hardest person to look at is ourselves. We see ourselves as we were, not as we are. I know this is a frightening thought, but the general consensus of opinion is that we see ourselves five to ten years younger than our actual age. Go to a professional and have your hair color-checked from time to time. Is your color so blond that it washes out your complexion? Is it so red it looks like a wig, or is it so dark you are starting to look like a vampire? If any of these scenarios are true, you must make immediate changes. These are not flattering hair colors. At this point I must mention a personal pet peeve: hair that is so over-highlighted it looks like a solid color or a single process. If there is no contrast between the base color and the highlighted color something is desperately wrong.
TIP - If highlighted hair needs to be touched up once every four weeks your hair is over-highlighted.

Mistake 5) Weight loss and gain warrants a change in style and color. Hair styles and colors can change the shape of your face and add or subtract pounds. Take advantage of this, a new shape and color can accent or hide a multitude of sins.

Mistake 6) "I don't have time for myself." This is no excuse. Make time! You deserve and need it for your self-esteem. No one likes a martyr! Most salons are open early and close late for the working woman. If you have children and do not have a sitter, bring them to the salon. It doesn't take more than a couple hours for a cut and color. Bring toys and keep them amused. Video games, coloring books or something to read will work wonders. Everyone, staff and clients included, most likely won’t notice the young guest.

Mistake 7) Overuse of products. Today’s hair looks fresh and clean and controlled but never coated. If your hair looks sprayed in place so it can't move or coated in grease, you are misusing products. Hair should be touchable and move in the wind.

Mistake 8) Trying to grow fine hair long. Fine hair below the chin looks see-through and always separates. Shorter hair looks thick and full. One hair problem that is rarely discussed is the general thinness that occurs to almost all women over forty. This hair must be kept short to look full. Extensions are the only way to add body and fullness to fine hair. They do require maintenance and they are expensive.

Mistake 9) You are looking for a promotion at work and you are wearing the same style and cut. Appropriate change of appearance is an easy way for people to look at you in a new way. You must look like a leader and as if you already have the promotion. You must look like the new empowered you. Your previous dress and style are no longer suitable. You must look at yourself as a leader. Your co-workers will expect this from you and you will instantly gain their respect.

Mistake 10) You have been going to the same stylist or colorist so long, they don't look at you any more. If you find yourself sitting in the salon chair with a wet head and the haircut begins without a discussion, or your color formula is mixed before you talked to your colorist it is time to move on. You pay to have the stylist and colorist re-evaluate your hair each time you sit in the chair. This is an essential part of the service. Don't allow yourself to be cheated! This is an imperative part of the creative process.

A makeover is the most fun way to have a head start on a new life. A new you is the easiest way to gain confidence and have a fresh and optimistic outlook about life. What are you waiting for?

Do you want to know who gets most excited about my Ambush Makeovers? I know you think it's the makeovers or their family and friends, but the truth of the matter is that it's me. I am totally "juiced" every Friday morning. I can feel the adrenalin flowing the minute I wake up. I know this sounds corny, but think of it from my point of view: I don't know what's to come. I don't know who the makeover is until I go to the Plaza to look over the crowd. I look for a diamond in the rough or a woman who doesn’t make the most of her God-given looks.

Once I talk with the potential makeover and feel that she is ready for a major change, the race to the reveal begins. The women's looks are in my hands. I have about two hours to make a transition that usually takes about a year. Oh, and by the way, remember I am doing this live on national TV. Now, do you understand what I mean when I say I am "juiced?”

Are you a diamond in the rough? Have you not cut or colored your hair in the last six months? Are you so busy with your children, husband, and career that there's not a second left for you? Have you given into weight gain, a few wrinkles, or a few grays? You might be a diamond in the rough and it could be time for a makeover!

First of all, you don't have to be ambushed on the TODAY show to get a great makeover. You can do it at home. I would recommend that you start with your haircut. A great haircut that looks good with your face shape is the foundation of your new look. I know you're thinking, "Great, but where do I find this perfect haircut?" Look around whenever you're out and if you see a great haircut, ask who cut it. The person with the cut will be flattered and you might have found a new hairstylist. Call and go for a consultation. Let the hairdresser know you are ready for a new look. Be open to suggestions. If you don't agree with the stylist at all, you probably are in the wrong salon. Move on and go for more consultations.

Once you find the best hairdresser for your hair, make an appointment. You don't have to start with a major change. Your makeover can happen over time. The most important thing is to get started. Make a small change with each haircut. You will have a new look before you know it. Once you have a new haircut, it's time to rethink your hair color. The first step is to look at your hair color today. Is it dull, grey or flat looking? Has it become darker over time? Is it flattering to your complexion? If not, do something about it. You can color your hair at home or at the salon. When you want a major change, it's best to go to the salon. Not only do they have the skills and materials, professionals have the "color eye" to look at you. They can see immediately what color would be best on you. Besides picking the right color for you, the mess of color stays at the salon, not in your bathroom.

The last part of the makeover is the finish of the hair or the blow dry. The blow dry can make a good haircut great. Hair should look groomed, but never forced into place. You should develop your blow drying skills, so you are not a slave to your hairdresser. Now you're ready for a little make-up and a whole new you.

By the way, I am watching the most glamorous Grammy award show I have ever seen while writing this blog. Almost gone are the edgy fashions, hair, and make-up typical of the music industry. For the most part, the women looked like old Hollywood. Armani, Calvin Klein, and Celine were the designers of choice for the Grammy’s 50th anniversary. The hair was as glamorous and modern as the dresses.

Alicia Keys had three wardrobe changes with two hair changes. She looked absolutely beautiful in her elegant faux hawk. Beyoncé had a new log bob with a shorter nape that was blonder than she has ever been. Fergie looked like she was ready to accept an Academy Award. She wore her hair long, blond, and wavy. New teen sensation, Miley Cyrus had the same hair style as Fergie, only wore a brunette shade. Rihanna’s new short hair du jour looked great with her bangs down and up and off her face.

The writers’ strike is all but over, and it looks like everyone is ready to celebrate. The Academy Awards are 13 days away, but who's counting?

---

More from Louis Licari

• Try on hairstyles by Louis Licari on Makeover-O-Matic!

What's going to happen if the writers strike doesn't settle? Can you imagine a year without the Academy Awards? Besides not showcasing the best movies and performances of the year, where would we look for our fashion and beauty inspiration? I mean, let's face it. If we have to look at one more paparazzi shot of Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan, Paris Hilton, or Kim Kardashian, I am sure people will start to burn magazines, throw shoes at their flat screens, and pray that their computers crash. If the strike continues, people will be forced to run to Starbucks in Beverly Hills to gawk at the stars. The sidewalk to Starbucks could be, lord help us, the red carpet of 2008.

Can you imagine hearing Ryan Seacrest ask the actors about their new hair style and hair colors, and their response is that they needed a touch-up so they threw it back in a pony tail. The ever-present "who are you wearing" question would be answered "Juicy Couture and Uggs.” We could be in deep trouble.

I choose to have faith that the Oscars will go on and we will have another opportunity to watch the "creme de la creme" of fashion and beauty, and sometimes the faux pas that make even more news than those that are dressed well.

The most important fashion accessory besides hair, fashion, and jewels, is the arm candy that escorts you to the awards. The right arm piece can cover a multitude of sins. If you are Angelina Jolie and you look a bit too thin, does it really matter if you have Brad Pitt on your side? Will anyone notice or hear the comments of an ill-fitting dress over the “oohs” and “ahs” of the glamorous couple? I don't think so!

As far as predicting who is going to win the awards this year, I don't have a clue. The actors’ performances across the board were extraordinary. I do, however, think I have a little insight on how they will look: Glamour will prevail. Actors will look like old movie stars. They will be the modern versions of Rita Hayworth and Cary Grant. Hair will have wave and movement. Hair will be worn down, except for the occasional up-do. Hair color will be bright, but natural. Make-up will feature strong lips and eyes. Eyeliner is the most important make-up trend of the season. No woman will be without at least the slightest trace around her lid.

The countdown to the Oscars has begun. We have seen some of the most celebrated faces and bodies look incredible over the years and others who left us thinking, "What was she thinking?" I hope and pray that we will have the opportunity to watch the hits and misses of the “Superbowl of fashion and beauty” on Oscar’s 80th anniversary this year. It is scheduled for February 24th, 5PT/8EST.

Keep your fingers crossed everything is a go. I already bought my 94% fat free microwave popcorn. Let's hope the Academy is ready. I mean, really, guys; it is the best night of the year!

---

More from Louis Licari

• Try on hairstyles by Louis Licari on Makeover-O-Matic!

New Year's is a day away! New York is crowded with tourists from around the world. Most of them seem to be here at the TODAY show plaza. People are screaming for makeovers. Pandemonium has set in. "Ambush Makeover" Friday is hot!

Since it is almost New Year's, I though I should talk about the most important trend of 2008. There is no doubt in my mind that the color red will be the most significant trend of the new year. The color red blows every other hair color away. Blonds and brunettes pale by comparison. Red is vital and demands attention.

I can hear the people reading this blog thinking, "No way am I going red!" Calm down! I am not saying that everyone has to be a no doubt about it, red head, but red undertones can help every color to come alive and make you look prettier. Think about the difference between an ash blond and golden blond or an ash brown and chocolate brown. The ash colors are drab and drain the color from your complexion. The warm (red) base colors make your skin color come alive. This is what today's hair color is all about. Hair color should brighten your look. When you have the right hair color, it should look like you have on a bit of makeup. Red tones will make every hair color more dynamic.

BEAUTY WARNING! I must address all people with sallow complexions. You must avoid lighter warm shades. They will blend with your skin color and make your skin appear more sallow. This is a major beauty faux pas. You should choose a darker color to provide contrast with your skin color. Dark golden blonds, deep chocolates, and dark auburns work best with sallow complexions.

TIP - If you have to wear more makeup to make your new hair color work, you have picked the wrong hair color.

Two perfect examples of the power of red are our last two "Ambush Makeovers."

Watch the segment from TODAY: The first makeover was Rose, a 70-year-young woman with an incredible spirit. Her hair color was a light brown with large stripes of white blond highlights. The highlights were so pale it almost looked like grey hair. This is a definite beauty "don't". I chose a soft, golden red color that immediately eliminated her dull grey brown look. We then gave her shorter layers to work with her fine texture hair. Rose's hair looked lush, thick and vibrant. She looked at least 10 years younger.

The second makeover was Debbie from Worcester, MA. She works with special needs children and had no time for herself. Debbie had golden highlights on her brown hair and she looked good. But, I wanted her to look great. I made her hair a rich auburn color and the stylist gave her a beveled back bob. The new Debbie looked like a movie star!

Do hair color and hair cuts make a difference in the way you look? The answer is yes! The biggest trend in 2008 is warmer colors. This is the easiest way to update your look.

The color pallet for 2008 includes golden blonds, strawberry blonds, light golden browns, chocolate browns, auburns, and true reds.

BEAUTY WARNING! - These colors must always look natural, not like they come from a bottle. Copper tones usually look the most natural.

Look hot, add a pinch of red, and have a Happy New Year!

---

More from Louis Licari

• Try on hairstyles by Louis Licari on Makeover-O-Matic!

The big question I am asked every year is "How is everyone wearing their hair?” Long? Short? As I predicted in June's blog "trend alert!" short hair is showing up everywhere. Katie Holmes, Victoria Beckham, Rihanna, Ellen Barkin, Jenny McCarthy, and many more are all sporting the new bob. Honorable mentions must be given to Vogue's Anna Wintour for making this chicer than chic styles her trademark.

BEAUTY NOTE - Anna's hair style is the same, but her hair color has gone through a metamorphosis. Anna Wintour is now a "no doubt about it blond."

That is all news but it is not the hair headline. The mane story this year is big hair is back. Full sexy hair is the look. Whether it is long or short, wavy or straight, doesn't really matter. This is the year to plump up your hair. Volume is key to update any style. Penelope Cruz, Eva Mendes, Kate Moss, Hayden Panettiere, Jessica Biel, Anne Hathaway, Emmy Rossum, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Gisele Bundchen are all celebrities that have opted for big hair. Even the short trend setting bobs are worn full. The reason why so many have tossed their flat iron is simple. Big hair is soft and sexy. It makes almost every one look beautiful.

A little height in the hair is flattering to everyone. It is the instant way to add a touch of "sex kitten" to your look. Before you run to the drugstore for an industrial size can of hair spray please finish reading this blog. Big hair this go-around has a new look and feel. It certainly is not like it was in the 60's, 80's, or even the early 90's. It moves when you do, and it is soft and touchable. The body and volume is throughout the hair, not just the crown of the head. Hair looks fluid, never like it's has been frozen in place.

TIPS FOR "BIG HAIR" 2007-2008!

1. Light products are essential. Hair should look clean, not product heavy. Use a shampoo, conditioner, and styling products that are appropriate for your hair texture. Hair should never look coated or weighed down. Styling products must give body but never make the hair look stiff. I must shamelessly give my Louis Licari Root Lift Spray a plug here. It gives just enough hold and is never sticky. The added bonus of root lift products is they give lift to the roots and leave the ends of the hair with its natural texture.

1. Blow dryers, round brushes, hair spray, and even rollers are back. They never actually went anyplace. I must tell you that I have never been to a shoot where the hair dresser did not use these tools. No matter how the model's hair ends up looking the hairdresser always starts out with a blow dry and then a set of velcro rollers. This is a sure fire way to give hair lift and body even if it is to be worn straight. Hair styled to be worn straight hair also requires the use of a paddle brush.

TIP - Flip head over and concentrate on straightening the ends of the hair with a paddle brush. This will give you a straight hair look and maintain body and fullness throughout your hair. The smallest amount of hair spray used after the comb out is the last part of the hairstylist ritual.

TIP - Give your hair a quick mist of hair spray while it is still in rollers for extra body. By the way, I think that hair spray is the closest product that both professional and amateurs use. Fess up! I know you have your favorite spray hidden someplace. This gives body to the finest hair. Don't worry, if you only use a fine mist you won't look like a dowager.

3. A great cut with long layers is the foundation for big hair. This gives the hair easy lift for fullness. This works on all textures of hair. If your hair is very fine barely layer the ends. This will maintain fullness and provide movement.

4. If your hair has waves, show it off! Emphasis the wave with a large barrel curling iron. Place the curling iron in the same direction as your wave. This will result in a glamorous wave and not little girl curls.

5. I know that women with fine hair are thinking, "Great! What am I suppose to do this year?" Fine hair can look fuller too. The tip here is to not overdo your hair. This will make your hair look like a stiff and teased hair style from another era. Modern hair should always look free and easy. Start with a good cut with barely-there layers. Blow-dry your hair, using a volumizing root lift, with a round brush lifting the hair off the scalp. Very gently back-comb the root of your hair. Lightly use hair spray for extra support. These steps will give your hair maximum fullness. If hair is very fine you must keep your hair very short.

Short styles give the illusion of fullness to the finest hair. If longer hair is your fantasy you should consider a hair piece or extensions. I am sure that celebs like Sharon Stone's and Paris Hilton's long hair styles have been attached in a few hours rather than grown for years.

WARNING - Woven or glued extensions on delicate fine hair can lead to some hair loss. Clip-on falls and extensions are gentler to the hair.

This is the year of glamorous and feminine hair. Hair should look effortlessly styled. Think big, live large, and look beautiful!

---

More from Louis Licari

• Try on hairstyles by Louis Licari on Makeover-O-Matic!