Q & A: Can You Suggest Some Grown-Up Summer Styles?

QUESTION: I love to wear my hair up in the summer, but most hair accessories look too young. Can you suggest some that are summery and grownup?

ANSWER: When it comes to giving your hair a summer update without resorting to scissors, accessories are the perfect choice. They're easy to use and can add a touch of style to whatever you're wearing. While some accessories can be too young-looking, there are a host of others that are chic no matter what your age. Here, some ideas:

• Hair sticks: They look like chopsticks and come in countless styles, from basic tortoise and black lacquer to printed plastic with jeweled tips. To use, pull your hair back into a ponytail, then twist it upward. Slide the hair sticks into the twist, making an X shape.
• Chunky barrettes: Baby barrettes and jeweled clips are decidedly teen, but a thicker, chunkier barrette works for anyone. Look for barrettes in mock tortoise shell, shiny colored plastic or fabric. While crystals can look great for evening, avoid them for daytime (ditto for sequins and glitter). Use a chunky barrette to hold your hair in a ponytail, a half-up-half-down style or a twist.
• Ornamental ponytail holders: Try ponytail holders made with subtle beading, hammered or brushed metal, or wood or other organic materials. Avoid teenage-looking holders with plastic flowers, glitter or feather ornaments. Simply sweep your hair back from your face and secure with the holder.