One of the easiest ways to change your whole appearance is to change your haircut. A new hairdo can make you look younger, smarter, and, yes, thinner. So, what are the basic rules for getting a great haircut? First of all: don't do it when you've....

... just been ditched, lost a job or had any kind of really stressful situation in your life. I agree that you're looking for something to lift you up, but you're bound to make a mistake if you're thinking purple (as in hair color). So, if you really want to make the wheel of fortune turn around by getting a hair style makeover, wait for a week or two, or, if you really, REALLY, want to do it now, take your best friend with you. She'll probably save you from the worst hair disaster.

Second, find a hair stylist you can trust. This person should listen to your wishes and ideas and give you constructive advice. Anyone whose first words are 'What have you been doing with your hair' followed by a disgusted face expression isn't the one. Trust your intuition and find a salon and a hairdresser you feel comfortable with. Also, don't be afraid to speak your mind. If you don't like the way things are heading, tell the stylist to stop and make him/her explain what's happening.

If your trip to the hair saloon ends in something you didn't want (for example, you asked for golden highlights and you ended up with orange or wanted a layered, playful look and now look like a ManU fan) let the hairdresser know. Don't be intimidated or scared to say you're not satisfied, ask to see the person in charge and demand a refund. They are likely to obey, because they don't want you to bad-mouth them all over the neighborhood, don't they?

Think simple. Most of the Hollywood celebrities sport simple, classical haircuts, which are very easy to maintain (visit Beauty Riot for some ideas and photos). Another advantage of such haircuts is that you can save money on trips to the saloon because the classical look doesn't get so messy once the hair grows.

Don't go against your nature. If you have curly, wild hair, ask your hairdresser to give you the best possible cut without you having to iron your hair every time you wash it. If your hair is thin and straight, don't ask the stylist to make it voluptuous, thick and wavy. He'll do it, but when you have to do it by yourself at home, you'll find it impossible to replicate.