As a season marked by fashion revivals, it’s no surprise that some of the hottest hair trends for the summer of 2011 happen to be updated versions of classic styles. Much of this is driven by celebrities who sometimes take inspiration from the fashion trends of yesteryear. As such, here are some of the most popular cuts and hair colors for the hottest months of the year.

Long hair is always popular, but this year the way it is styled will take precedence over the way it is cut. For example, first appearing on various fashion runways this spring, the summer beehive is back in vogue, albeit a bit more relaxed than its predecessor. Jennifer Lopez was one of the first celebrities to sport the updated beehive this year.

Another new trend for long hair this summer is the braided topknot. Combining two popular hair trends of the past three years, the braided topknot recently appeared on the Sass and Bide spring runway to compliment their summer tribal fashion line. While some styles combine multiple braids, the basic hairstyle consists of a single French braid running up the back of the hair, finished off with a messy topknot. Many celebrities have sported variations of this hairstyle recently.

For a more casual long hair look, the double hair knot is a soft, summery look that is perfect for almost any facial shape. The look is essentially an undone braid sitting at the nape of the neck, and incorporates elements of texture and contour to maintain a fresh look.

Medium hair has been dominated by long bobs, but summer 2011 styles will feature a twist on the outgrown bob – literally. Loose waves that just graze the shoulders will add a feminine sophistication to your hairstyle. Bobs with loose waves and enhanced volume can be done in both fully stylized as well as more relaxed varieties, offering something for just about every woman.

Extremely short hair will be another trend in 2011, with the pixie crop emerging as the favored short hairstyle. Celebrities like Emma Watson and Carey Mulligan have sported this look in the past, but unlike 2010′s pixie cut, which was long in the front and short in the back, this style is daringly short all over.

Full, bold bangs will also be in vogue this year. One popular variation involves pairing this style with a sleek bob, and all lengths and styles of hair have seen the reemergence of the fringe. Long and oval face shapes are best suited for these bangs.

Colors can be as extreme as the summer temperatures, and two of the most popular shades at the moment are vibrant red and pale blond colors. The rarity of these colors adds to their appeal, and in general the best shades should be bold without appearing unnatural. Both of these colors look especially great on women with fair complexions.

With as much variety for hair as there is for fashion, the summer of 2011 should prove to be a fun-filled season of experimentation for fashion divas everywhere.

Have you ever felt like you would rather learn to maintain your own natural hair than to leave it at the hands of a hairstylist? *raising hand* Well I certainly have. I don’t want to get into salon bashing (because there are great hair stylists out there), but I have had some bad natural hair salon experiences in the past.

As discouraging as a bad salon experience with my coily hair has been, I’m thankful for being ‘pushed’ to learn how to style my own locks. Having said that, there are still some hair treatments that I would rather leave to a natural hairstylist either because I need a second opinion, or I just don’t have the time. For those who are looking for a natural hair stylist:

Ask around for recommendations or search online for highly rated stylists. The best determinant of a good stylist is hearing from his or her clients. For me personally, it helps when the client actually has natural hair, or even my type 4 coily hair. Knowing that a hair stylist has worked on my type of hair before gives me the confidence to trust that the hairstylist can also work on mine… if needed.

Opt for a consultation. You are essentially building a relationship with your hair stylist, and every relationship begins with getting to know one another. Taking advantage of a consultation gives the stylist a chance to ‘learn’ your hair, hear your concerns, and answer your questions. In turn, it gives you a chance to see if this stylist fits the bill.

Know your hair! When you know what your hair likes or doesn’t like, it makes it that much easier to determine if a stylist is right for you. If your hair cannot take direct heat, for example, don’t settle for a natural hair stylist who is direct-heat-happy. Do you know your hair type? Density? Texture? Some natural hair salons display client photos of natural hair styles that were performed on clients who actually had relaxed hair. So if you’re basing your natural hair styling decisions on a collection of client photos, remember that hairstyles look different from person to person, depending on the texture of the hair (i.e. coily, curly, straight, texturized, etc.) Knowing enough about your natural hair will help you choose the best styles for your hair.

Take your time and start your search early when you don’t need a stylist. Otherwise, you’re taking a gamble and your hair may face the consequences. Do your research and your hair will thank you for it.