"Platinum blonde is really big right now," says Mary Rakestraw, who attributes the trend to pop icons like Gwen Stefani and Christina Aguilera. Rakestraw recommends the look to women who already have light hair. "It can be a lot of maintenance, and you'll need a great repair treatment regardless because of the bleach." She also suggests using shampoos made just for blondes.

As for the cut, the staff of Beyond the Fringe has reacted to the switch to stronger shapes. "Things aren't so soft anymore. You'll see a lot more blunt cuts. The look is more edgy and modern, but still classic and wearable," she reflects.

Makeup also took a hint from the past. "Amy's look is really Blondie-esque," says Cathryn Walsh of Dahbe, referring to the popular '80s rock band. "We wanted to continue with the funky trend but still keep it fresh for summer."

Cut by Jennifer Hasper
Color by Mary Rakestraw
For Beyond the Fringe Salon 661-259-1982

Makeup by Lea Metz
For Dahbe Skincare & Makeup Parlour 661-253-0279


Being everything to everyone isn't always easy, but the staff of Concerto manages just fine. "We have a really warm atmosphere, and we're always taking classes to keep up to date with the industry," says stylist Melissa Colgan. The claim becomes obvious after viewing the two-tone, edgy-chic results of the Concerto makeover. "We were acknowledging the funky trend. The front is lifted, and it's been toned to a gorgeous copper. The panels on the sides are lighter so that they pop out, and the deeper shades are incorporated on the bottom for the same reason," says Colgan, who adds that the look isn't too high maintenance. The same can be said for Avery's sparkling makeup, which uses heavy lashes and lined eyes to balance the strong hair color. A sweet, shiny lip doesn't compete for attention, but completes the look.

Cut and style by Kelly Metcalf
Color by Melissa Colgan and Kelly Metcalf
Makeup by Ana Printsian
For Concerto Salon and Spa 661-287-0163


Shannon Hair is an exclusive Bumble & Bumble salon, and, true to its trendsetting brand identity, Shannon Hair is producing looks that demand attention. Take, for example, this multi-tonal creation. A natural, feminine spin on a classic design, it creates dimension with modern, chic style. It's also easy to maintain, says the salon staff. Simultaneously smooth and choppy, it's perfect for the girl who doesn't mind creating a stir.

Alisha's makeup also finds a comfortable spot between natural and dramatic. "I think that fake lashes are great, even during the day. Just pair them with a nude lip so you don't go overboard. You can even get away with colorful shadow, like the soft purples pictured here," says Cathryn Walsh of Dahbe.

Cut by Angela Byrd
Color by Shannon Rha
Style by Lissa Bricker
For Shannon Hair 661-799-7272

Makeup by Cathryn Walsh
For Dahbe Skincare & Makeup Parlour 661-253-0279


Pricilla's is a full-service salon that offers massage, facials, hair treatments, and now - even shopping. Pricilla's Closet boasts trendy clothes, jewelry, shoes and hair accessories. And the summer months will also see a new addition: spray tanning.

But the real stories are the unique looks created within. Erin Silik, a makeup artist, knows all about summer trends. "Glowing, flirty and fun; that's what it's supposed to be about. For the face, forget about dark and heavy color. Pinks on the eyes, with a nude lip, is totally wearable every day," says the proponent of Fresh mineral makeup. "We carry the line, and it's awesome - especially during the warm months when you want to look perfectly glowing." Paired with a short, soft cut, the look is both youthful and timeless.

Cut and style by Garret Markenson
Makeup by Erin Silik
For Priscilla's Salon 661-253-1125


Casual. Fun. Sweet. Sexy. These are the attributes Ashley Beckwith strived for with Brynn's summer cut and style. "Long, soft layers are always in, and this color really brings out her eyes. So many women pay for extensions, so gals with long hair should keep it long, but make it look styled with layers and a round brush. It's totally feminine, all-American, classic, and guys love it!," she explains.

Shelley Shindelus, an esthetician, brightened Brynn's face with teal liner under the lower lashes. "It's a really summery addition," she says. But it's not the most important summer trend. "If you do one thing this season, wear sunscreen. Make it a ritual, like brushing your teeth, and add a visor for good measure. The sun's damage will negate your good skin care regimen and any makeup looks better on healthy skin."

Color by Colleen Odle
Cut and style by Ashley Beckwith
Skincare by Denise Ballard
Makeup by Shelley Shindelus
For Della Stella Salon & Spa 661-259-9115


Here's proof that short hair can still have plenty of movement. The trick is in the color, says Renee Kathny, stylist and owner of Rituals Colour Salon. "We colored the hair in panels of red and black. That, with the shattered fringe bangs and Aveda's pure flower and plant-based styling products, results in a look with freedom of movement." No longer the stiff strands of the past, trendy short hair gets height from anti-humectant pomades that keep things touchable. The look is completed with makeup that embraces summer. Pearlescent whites highlight the eyes while soft peach tones brighten the skin.

Cut, color, style and makeup by Renee Kathny
For Rituals Colour Salon 661-296-1530


According to Michael Beck, stylist and owner of Entourage, what's "in" is what fits. "There's no one thing that everyone has to have. It's what fits the face. Spiky, messy, neat, curled... It will all look great on different people. You have to put bone structure and eye color into the equation. The process should be very customized, and shouldn't be broken up into cut or color. They go together," he says. Still, there are some things that have evolved style-wise. "Highlights are now seen as an accessory. They aren't trying to look natural. We're doing panels of color. Even fine hair can look thick and super dimensional with color," he continues.

"Stephanie's makeup is intentionally soft and glossy," says Cathryn Walsh of Dahbe. "Summer is about getting out there and not fighting the elements. A low-maintenance look will always be in style."

Cut by Jen Davis
Color by Jen Dole
Style by Stephanie Salazar
For Entourage Hair Salon 661-222-7446

Makeup by Cathryn Walsh
For Dahbe Skincare & Makeup Parlour 661-253-0279