holiday hair inspiration

now that the holiday season is in full tilt (have you finished your shopping yet?), we are constantly searching for hair and makeup inspiration for our various gatherings amongst family and friends. what better way to get into the festive holiday spirit than to experiment with glamorous hair looks? here are a few looks from the runway and the red carpet that are currently on our wish list:

if conventional wisdom is any indication, 'tis the season for loose, romantic waves. the tried and tested look is a year-round staple, but many of our clients request it this time of year. we're all for the easy elegance of these wavy styles (natalie portman provides a lovely example). however, if you'd like to change things up, may we suggest experimenting with the polished ponytails and poufs that were among the defining looks of the fall/winter runway season? we are dying to emulate the classically chic high ponytail spotted at louis vuitton, as well as the bardot-inspired pouf at vera wang for added drama.

if wavy/textured styles aren't your thing, going sleek and straight is always an option. for inspiration, we look no further than the high priestess of straight styles: gwyneth paltrow. her trademark center-parted long locks are a perennial favorite, and we like how she paired the simple style with an unusual dark blue eyeliner.

of course, if you're feeling especially festive, you can adorn your hair with a gilded, jeweled or feathered hair accessory. each of these embellishments, be they headbands, combs, clips or barettes, are a youthful, fun and whimsical addition. furthermore, they can be used to accentuate virtually any hair style -- whether its curly, straight, long, short, up, down, or anything in between! while diane kruger and lauren conrad opted to embellish their low chignons with glittery headbands (with a few face-framing pieces pulled forward), elle fanning and jessica lowndes instead wore their hair down.

how will you be wearing your hair for the holidays? tell us!