Spring and summer boasted a lot of statement jewelry to go with all those cute warm-weather dresses, but this fall and winter, your hair is what makes the statement. It’s all about being noticed, breaking the boundaries of the same-old and trying something daring, with a throwback to earlier eras here and there.

We’ll start with the hottest colors of the season. Talk about stopping traffic, you are going to see a lot of reds this year. Mahogany is the most sought after, but auburn and ginger are bringing cars to a screeching halt, too. Dark cherry, copper and burgundy are also hitting the scene. If you can pull off a shade of red and have a flair for the dramatic, this is your year!

If you are more the blonde ambition type, the trendy colors for you are platinum (but please be sure this works for your skin tone; it isn’t for everyone), pale beige and warm honey. Add a few highlights for dimension, and you are ready to show the world your fun side. One of my favorite trends this year is the blonde and red combo, which can be as subtle or as contrasting as you dare.

Black or brunette this year needs a bold tweak to stay trendy, so for browns, add some caramel highlights or a pop of bright red, blonde or even pink to your locks to make them stand out a bit. For shades of onyx, add hints of violet, blue or chocolate for a layered feel.

This fall and winter season, short hair is all the rage. The ’60s style bob, layered and structured cuts and dramatic crops are keeping hairstylists’ scissors busy. If you aren’t keen on trimming your locks but still want to make a statement, the long hair trends are sleek and bright, with an emphasis on braids, bangs and accessories.

It’s both ends of the spectrum for style this year. Equally alluring is the look of effortless, romantic, purposely messy hair and structured, perfectly placed hair. For a romantic look, pinned-up-anywhere hair, loose braids at the base of the neck and braided up-dos with loose curls along the face are the way to go. For the more “put together” feel, it’s getting your hair as straight and as sleek as possible with a bang (or angled bob for shorter hair). Curl the ends back or forward (or both) into a flip for more shape if you’d like.

Accessories are necessities this year, so be sure to keep the following in your basket. Floral and nature-inspired pieces are huge and are perfect for almost anyone and any hairstyle. Floral crowns, large flower barrettes and butterflies are going to give you a super-feminine look instantly. Sheer or lace fabric headbands are great for glamming up or for a quick and sleek do. Metal, gypsy-inspired chain crowns are good for some occasions, and the ’80s teenager in me is thrilled that banana clips are making a comeback, creating the perfect faux-hawk for a night on the town.

By Jennifer Russo