ombre hair

As the Summer months inch closer (OK, they should already be here but it is Britain) you might be starting to wonder about what to do with your locks for the warmer season. As we dream of festivals, trips to the beach and laid-back cool, a change to our mop is usually part of the transition. For vacation time it tends to be something casual and breezy, but a little more inspired. Dip-dyed (also called ombre) hair is a great way to have a little fun without getting a drastic cut, and the great thing is it doesn't need to be permanent.

For a sun-kissed look that's California cool, check out the likes of Rachel Bilson and Jessica Biel. These lovely ladies have kept their natural colour but weaved in honey and caramel notes, whilst teasing their waves to casual yet glamorous perfection. It's a little more directional than highlights, with two or more tones giving hair that grown out and soft feel for a romantic, hippie summer. Jessica Alba, meanwhile, has added subtle blonde strands that enhance the beauty of her gorgeous chocolate mane. Drew Barrymore, ever the flower child, takes the look a bit further with more of a contrast between the two tones. She still keeps that bohemian 70s vibe, occasionally adding a braid or fishtail plait for an extra surfer-chick kick.

For those who are feeling a bit more daring, it can be exciting to add an unnatural hue to your tresses. There are subtler ways than others, such as January Jones' cute lock of baby pink, or Lauren Conrad's peachy waves. Both complement their natural colours but bring a real playfulness to their otherwise quite safe, conservative styles.

There are also those who give this look their all; these ventures are not for the faint-hearted and yet are easy to pull off with confidence and the right attitude. Jessie J famously rocks her blunt fringe with various outlandish colours whilst Kate Bosworth has gone all out with an aqua-tipped effect for fashion-forward fierceness. Model Charlotte Free has made a style trademark out of her bleached and pink grunge locks, with designers clambering to book her for their shows to mix couture with street fashion for dramatic effect.

You might be thinking this fashion trend isn't for you, but there truly is something for everyone in the ombre spectrum. Whether your hair is short, long, light, dark, straight or curly, there is bound to be something you can add to put a new bounce in your step. Don't let the 'My little pony' colours scare you off; the natural-looking beach inspired effects are just as interesting and easy to achieve. And if you do like the look of the brighter shades but are worried about standing out too much in the office - fear not, semi-permanent brands such as Directions, Special Effects and Stargazer can last for just a few washes depending on how you treat it. Go for it, be your own hair icon!