While blunt bangs are always a fun trend to try, not everyone can pull them off. Instead, a simple, long blunt-cut bob with soft, side-swept bangs is a universally flattering blunt-cut style. When Naomi Watts made this subtle change to her already long, blonde style, everyone noticed. Great for naturally straight, medium to long hair, this style simply calls for a great flat iron and shine booster (try Ken Paves Shine Serum, $30).
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Sexy Long Layers
Dare factor: 2
Beyonce shows off side-swept bangs and long layers, as well as a two-toned ombre effect, half-light golden brown and half-dark chocolate brown hair color. The result is funky yet flirty, and great for most any face shape or hair texture. To get this haircut, ask your hairstylist to cut slightly blunt bangs that you can sweep to the side, and face-framing layers that start at your chin (no shorter). Wear it smooth like Beyonce's or piece it out with pomade a la Reese Witherspoon (try Frederic Fekkai Texturizing Balm, $17.50).
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The Flapper
Dare factor: 4
Of course, if you have straight hair and want to take the blunt trend up two notches (literally), this vintage bob is the way to go. While the style has been around for decades, Selma Blair's take on it is fresh and inspiring thanks to fringed bangs (vs. the usual super-blunt, heavy bangs), and precision-tapered, pin-straight sides (vs. the classic curl toward the cheek). Her Mona Lisa smile and sultry but simple eye makeup also makes this eccentric style look classic and cute, not costume-y.
Photo 8/10
Layered Curls
Dare factor: 1
Got curls? Sarah Jessica Parker's bang-less, slightly layered haircut is a great way to accentuate curls and keep the volume factor in the "just right" zone. You can wear this cut wild and natural or blow it out for a neatly coiffed style, using a round brush (try Satina Tourmaline-Infused Round Brush with Boar Bristles, $2.99) and a top-notch blow dryer.
Photo 9/10
The Buzz Cut
Dare factor: 5
Demi Moore, Natalie Portman and Britney Spears shaved it all -- and we mean all -- off. Now, model Amber Rose (aka Kanye West's "former flame") joins the ranks with a blonde version of a shaved head. While taking clippers mercilessly to your head requires some serious guts, we've seen our share of real women pull off this look beautifully. So we say, if you've got the guts (and amazing bone structure), go for it! Other benefits: Your hair will grow back in nice and healthy, and if you get sick of it, well, there's always Raquel Welch Wigs.
Earth to all those stuck in a hair rut: Your hair is there for the experimenting. It's the one part of your identity that gets to have all the fun with little to no permanent consequences. So take advantage! Instead of wearing the same, "safe" style every day, we implore you to try something different, something wacky, something good for your sense of adventure -- a brand new haircut. It's amazing how even a trim can not only change your appearance, but also help you feel more feminine, daring and empowered. (As celebrity hairstylist Italo Gregorio says, "You won't know what's right for you until you've tried as many things as possible.") Besides, the beauty of hair is that if you don't like it, you can always change it.
Whether it's a simple add-on you're after, or a drastic revamp (we suggest these fabulous short haircuts), any change to your hairstyle is the fastest way to make a bold impression. The question is how fearless are you? To get some inspiration for the new you, check out these celebrities' gorgeous cuts -- from classic to daring. What's best about these styles is that, with the right adjustments, they can work for almost any face shape. It's all a matter of which style fits your comfort level (and of course, works with your hair texture) -- which is why we've included a "dare factor" rating of 1 (low) to 5 (high). So go ahead, ditch your safety net and start those wheels turning for your next big makeover. Ready for exhibit one? (Hint: It's a time-tested favorite!)
