Though most of us don't change our hairstyles every season, Fall is the one time of year it's really hard to resist.  The heat, sun and surf are a perfect storm for split ends and brassy colour.  And with the arrival of fresh new wardrobe options, naturally you want to top your look off with great hair. 

John Frieda's Canadian Creative Consultant and celebrity hair stylist, Alain Larivée knows a thing or two about what's in and what is definitely out. Aside from running his own salon in Montreal, he has been touring the country with John Frieda styling hair for the likes of everyone from Yours Truly to Super Important People. While he cut and blow-dried my hair into perfection, he dished on what we all need to know about fall hair.

What are the overall trends for hair right now?
 

(images via easyhairstyler.com, allure.com) 

My favourite haircut trends for fall 2012 are the "long and naughty" look and the return of the "power cut".
 
"Long and naughty" is when long hair has been layered and blow-dried to perfection with a round brush, giving this style the ideal foundation. To properly finish this look hair is rocked up and dishevelled on the surface with a little back brushing and overall [spritz of hairspray] to add the attitude that gives the final signature to this hot look.
 
The "power cut" is making a comeback this fall. This style is achieved when hair is cut creating a strong blunt line above the shoulders. Textured channels are then cut into the under mass to give this cut the proper attitude. The finished look is a simple cut that doesn’t look over-styled. Natural locks are the way to go for Fall.
 
What's colour swirling and how is it different from ombre?


(images via allure.com, allure.com) 

The difference between these two looks is all in the technique. Ombré sports a strong and defined demarcation line from darker to lighter tones, whereas colour swirling is more natural, softer and more progressive from darker roots to lighter ends. The inspiration is from young children’s hair, which often has darker roots leading progressively to lighter ends and lighter currents of colour overlaid in random sections. 
 
To create the colour swirling effect, the base colour is applied on the roots and then the custom blending happens on your lengths. Lighter tones are gradually added into the colour mixture and worked towards the ends. Currents and contours are sporadically added to the surface and the mass is then swirled together until it is finally colour-bathed at the sink following processing time. What's also unique about this technique is that it can be worked into any base colour: it's all about the artistry of hair colouring.
 
What are the trends in hair colour?


(images via stylelist.com, allure.com, cosmeticsandbeautyreviews.wordpress.com) 

This season we are seeing a transition to darker and bolder hues. Pastel tips and two-tone colour were fun for spring, but fall is bringing back classic shades in a bold way. Hair colour trends include midnight black, glossy chestnut and rich auburn.

Looking to recreate one of these celeb styles at home? Here are some options to get you started:


1. Herbal Essences Body Envy Volumizing Mousse (C$3.99)

2. Sebastian Trilliant Thermal Protection and Shimmer Complex (US$7.00)
 
3. John Frieda Precision Foam Colour in 4BG Dark Chocolate Brown (C$12.99)

4. Wella Professionals Natural Volume Styling Mousse (US$5.48)
 
5. Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray (C$29.50)
 
6. John Frieda Precision Foam Colour in 2N Luminous Natural Black (C$12.99) 
 
7. John Frieda Luxurious Volume Extra Hold Hairspray (US$5.59)
 
8. Giovanni 2chic Brazilian Keratin and Argan Oil Ultra Sleek Leave In Conditioning and Styling Elixir
 
9. John Frieda Precision Foam Colour in 6R Light Red Brown (C$12.99)