photo: Pascal Le Segretain, Getty Images post designed by bri emery

It’s pretty safe to say that Michelle Williams, Halle Berry and Ginnifer Goodwin currently take the cake in the short hair competition. But just like Mia Farrow, Edie Sedgewick and the many, many pixies before them, it’s important to find ways to switch it up. Here are some suggestions on how you can keep that cropped cut fresh:

~Products: TRY THEM ALL! Go into Ulta or Sephora or your local salon and ask questions. Every short haircut reacts differently to product depending on the natural texture, and when you put it on. One product can look totally different when applied to damp hair vs. dry hair. Try matte pomades that have no shine, then try regular pomades that do have shine. Try pastes, spray waxes, control creams, you can even try hand lotion. Product is your best friend when it comes to short hair and you have to be a little bit of a Goldie Locks to find the one that’s just right. It’s what gives you the most versatility and milage with a short haircut.

~Parting: Changing your part is so much fun with short hair. Perfect example here and here. It’s a great remedy for boredom. If you have a stubborn cowlick in front, blow dry it the other way right when you get out of the shower for more control. Also, try parting your hair on the diagonal. Start with a deep side part and then split the hair diagonally. This will keep your hair feeling balanced and not too side heavy.

~Slick it! Call me crazy, but I’ve always loved this look and it’s a fun way to change things up for a night out. Generously apply a strong holding gel to damp hair. Set into place with a fine tooth comb. For a more subtle version, try this instead.

~Accessorize. Bobby pins, thin headbands, and earrings. Short hair begs for some sweet accessorizing. Somehow, exposed bobby pins always look rather cool in short hair. In my opinion, thin headbands tend to look better than thick headbands in shorter hair. And, well, earrings are the BEST on girls with short hair. You notice them more. Plus, it’s a great way to keep the look super feminine.

~Go for some edge. Absolutely LOVE THIS! Before you decide you’re totally over your short hair, live it UP! Take the sides super short for one last hurrah. It’s so SO chic and you might just find a new love for short hair.

~To bang or not to bang. Bringing your bangs down typically helps to soften your look. Pushing them back tends to bring out your facial features, bone structure, and allows your face to take center stage. If you need help with styling your bangs, we’ve got you covered right here.

xx Kristin Ess