Maxine Salon stylist Josie Nevarez, an expert in lavish styling, gives us the scoop on ‘Lox,’ a new type of extension that’s catching on like wildfire. Here is her insight on this fashion-forward trend:

• Whether you choose to wear your hair up or down, Lox is versatile – treat it just like your own hair. Curl or flatiron to blend the extensions with your natural hair.
   
• Lox is a safe, quick and an affordable type of extension. There are a few types of textures and many color shades to match your current color.

• Concerned about caring for the new hair-do? Fear not! Just make sure your hair is tangle free, brush a few times a day and don’t flip hair over to wash or blow-dry.
• Celebs are turning heads with their glamour locks – Sarah Jessica Parker, Vanessa Hudgens and Lauren Conrad all rock the desired approach.

• Feeling edgy? Add pops of color like Katy Perry and Nicki Minaj.

Josie reveals that with all the extension companies she has worked with, Lox happens to be the cleanest and easiest method, with little to no damage to your natural hair. That’s reason enough to give it a go. Have fun with it and create your own fabulous look!

Shelly Aguirre, one of Maxine Salon’s sought after stylists, has mastered the look for haircutting, hair extensions, keratin straightening and many other hair treatments. Here she breaks it down about how to keep your locks looking brilliant in these dry wintery months. Listen to the expert!

• Your mom may have taught you to shampoo daily, however every other day is recommended! Natural oils are the best conditioner for your hair. Working out and getting sweaty? Sweat isn’t dirt! Just rinse and run some conditioner through the ends.
• Trying to eliminate static? Use a light hold hair spray on your hands, then, run your fingers through your hair. A weightless cream will work as well.

  

• As silly as it sounds, switching your pillowcase from cotton to satin will prevent too much friction on the cuticle while you sleep.
• Book an appointment at the salon for a treatment during these cold months. A stylist can prescribe a perfect blend best suited for your hair needs.
• Next time you’re in the chair, ask your stylist questions on how to achieve that salon-perfected blow dry at home. A few tips from a pro can make all the difference!
• Hair feeling dull? A color gloss that can be found at Maxine will give your hair the shine and brilliant you are looking for.

There aren’t many Don’ts when it comes to Mini-Do’s!

Uber talented Mini-Do Master, Dani Hauflaire, explains this hair trend as being a simple and easy way to complete a look that works perfectly with jeans or a dress, depending on the occasion. 

These looks are all based upon a simple technique called “pin-curling,” which made its’ debut back in the 30’s.  Ranging in size and shape, this curl can allow for many different style options.	This style works well with hair that has been air-dried or even DOH (day old hair.)

To achieve these looks at home:

Tools needed: Curling Iron, Bobby Pins/Hairpins, Teasing Comb, Mason Pearson or a bristle brush for smoothing, Optional barrettes and flowers, Hairspray (Kerastase Double Force Hairspray for a sturdy base) and Fibre Architecte (apply to hair before heat styling to protect against split ends.)

• First, decide whether or not the Mini Do will have a part. Then, choose the size of the curl, the number of pin curls and where you would like the curls to be placed (side of head, on top of head, etc.).
• Next, section off the desired portion of hair. Pull hair straight out at a 90° angle and curl the entire piece.  Make sure to curl the hair starting in the middle of the hair shaft, working your way up to the base of the hair and then back down, curling the ends last. This will allow the hair to have body and curl throughout.
• You will then have an “S” shaped curl to work with. Let it cool and then tease the base.
• After cooling, begin wrapping the curl in a circle shape, from the ends up to the base of the scalp.  Pin the curl to the head with one or two bobby pins. Voila! You have a pin curl!  Repeat accordingly for your desired look. Secure with a firm-hold hairspray (Kerastase Double Force.)
• You can finish off the look by adding barrettes or flowers. 

Check out these gorgeous mini-do’s by Dani

Day Old Hair. We like to call it DOH. You know what it is. Some are blessed with hair that looks better after a few days sans washing, but for those who need assistance re-vamping the perfect coif that was created yesterday- read on.

Whether you are recovering after a late night of over-indulging or find yourself rushing to work, sometimes there’s no time for a fresh style. But seasoned stylist Sanda Petrut has got you covered. In fact, she recommends purposely running around with DOH every now and again because it’s actually GOOD for your hair. “Not washing your hair daily allows for the natural oils to develop, which gives hair plenty of movement, separation, and sexiness.” It can make hair easier to style and save you time and energy.

Looking to add mega-volume to seemingly lifeless locks? Before you go to bed, take your hair and lift it vertically to create a high ponytail on top of the head, making sure it’s not too tight. By sleeping with the hair up like this, you will create natural fullness and lift in your hairstyle the following day. You can also add mousse to dry hair, fluff it until it dries, and brush it out. The results are instant shine and fullness. For longer hair, add more texture and body by using a 1½-inch curling iron and curling random pieces. You can also go through and re-blow dry your hair using a large round brush.

• For short hair, tuck the hair behind the ears and then change the direction of your bangs.

• Looking for laid-back, yet sexy “beach-y” hair? Before going to bed, mist your hair with water and create loose braids. In the morning, undo the braids and brush it gently. If you have bangs, mist with water and re-style them.
• Want more wave? Just use a big curling iron, 1 inch to 1 1/4 inch.

• Got another night on the town? Part your hair down the middle and start braiding your hair on both sides of the head towards the back, twisting the braids into a nice bun and then leave the ends sticking out. This simple, no-fuss style is easy to put together, yet will elegantly polish off any evening look.

• To create one of these looks, tease the hair in the crown area and then throw your hair into a simple bun or a ponytail.

• For a finishing product to use with any of these styles, look for something lightweight with flexible hold – Sanda recommends Cotton Uzu by Shu Uemura.

Happy New Year! 'Tis the time for new beginnings and New Year's Resolutions. What's the number one resolution people make? For most it is a resolution is to lose those extra pounds gained over the holidays. Luckily, there are many alternatives for getting fit and healthy, and that is where Karen Bobos can help.

Karen is the owner of KB Fitness Solutions Inc. and Skinny Socials, two companies that specialize in health and fitness.

Karen’s goal is to educate clients that there is no trick to being healthy, there really is no magic pill, but rather optimal health is achieved through eating right and moving our bodies. It is her mission to help clients live long, healthy, and happy lives. The key is figuring out how to stay motivated and adhere to a consistent exercise program. KB Fitness Solutions Inc. is a team of experts, including personal trainers, registered dietitians, and more specifically to do just that. 

With the desire to educate clients on how to have fun, enjoy a cocktail party, and not over-indulge, Karen created Skinny Socials. These events are designed to let guests enjoy healthy, delicious hors d’oeuvres and low-calorie cocktails without regret. Be sure to check out her blog - “The Skinny” featuring tips and tricks for smart indulging.

Leslie Shores

 You can follow Leslie on

Frolic and Play with these flirty, feminine, oh-so glam looks.

 Long skirts, Long gloves are HUGE this season.

Another trend we’re OBSESSED with - The Polka!!Not the dance...the DOTS! Check out these sleek, sexy, sophisticated looks straight from the runway. 

Re-vamp the staples in your wardrobe. Add a little polka-dot-panache to the timeless pieces already in your closet. For instance- that little black dress of yours-pair it with a scarf, fun tights, or accessories!

Glam it up with BIG, ROUND, over- the-top shades! For the more reserved and classic look, choose a style similar to Jackie-O’s.

Or take on a more modern approach to this trend and treat yourself to these splurge-worthy, Tom Ford “Carter” sunglasses.

Go Gangster this season with vintage, luxe looks incorporating all types of Menswear; anything from traditional bowler hats, to military jackets, vests, and plush fur.

Think of a designer clad version of Bonnie and Clyde- “vests with an open bow-tie or a full on suit with a blouse to make it fem…”

Pair this with a “watch and jewelry ON TOP of your clothes, along with chunky boots or lace up wedges with socks.”

Take these looks. Mix and match. GET INSPIRED!