IN FASHION

HERE COMES THE SUN!
Sassy Spring & Summer Style At last!

Temperatures are rising, birds are chirping, buds are blooming! As flowers start showing off their brightest colors, we usually feel the urge to do the same. But Summer 2006 seems destined to trumpet a different trend!

From the fashion runways to award show red carpets, women are dressing in predominantly black, white and a wide range of grays. Any other color--either as an accent or a single bold statement--will be subdued.

If it's yellow, it will be dusty mustard. If purple, opt for lavender.

Fabrics will be soft-washed cotton, delicate linen, gauzy silk, chiffon--with perhaps a ruffle, bow or bit of crochet. Jewelry will be at a minimum, with a single large pendant or long, swinging earrings-- not both! Makeup will stick to earth tones, with the emphasis on a fresh, clean, natural look.

"With such a bold but basically colorless silhouette, more attention will be paid to your hair," says Clairol Color and Style Master Ingrinette Pope, whose work can be seen on music videos and in national beauty magazines.

"For a sensational, inspirational color that makes you stand out in the crowd, try Textures & Tones, a permanent haircolor with moisture-rich conditioners for brilliant, resilient hair.

"Bring out your personal beauty with a trendy shade like Blazing Burgundy or Bronze or Ruby Rage, all colors created specifically to complement African American skin tones."

As for hair style, Ingrinette recommends short to medium lengths for warmer weather, embracing your natural texture or layering if you relax your hair to allow the most options for styling. "Whether you part in the center or the side, go for soft waves or curls, brush hair back or up or forward, give yourself as many options as you can so youâll be turning heads all summer long!"