THE right hairstyle will do more for your appearance than any beauty product in my book.

However, we all fall into style ruts, either by choice, a lack of prompting from the hairdresser or fear.

My uni graduation pictures bear the scars of a far too close crop by a scissor happy junior.

My hair resembled Rod Stewart at one stage after a feathering disaster at one city centre salon and I sadly never achieved the desired Meg Ryan choppy crop circa 'You've Got Mail' despite repeatedly thrusting magazine cut-outs into stylists' hands.

I've had the same bob-length hairstyle for a while now after a brief flirtation with longer locks and I'm happy to keep it this length.

However, Kathryn, from celebrity favourite Rainbow Room International, at Royal Exchange Square, says I'm not making the most of my "great" cheekbones. It's too heavy, too flat and it's dragging my face down.

I've previously been told that a one-lenth blunt cut is the best shape to add volume to hair that's a bit lacking in oomph but Kathryn adds in a few layers for more volume and body while maintaining the weight.

It's only a few tweaks to my existing cut but it makes the world of difference to the overall look.

She also uses two different colouring techniques, slicing and waving strawberry tones through my highlights to give it a bit more depth.

Add in a style dry with the new Dyson dryers which are now housed in all Rainbow Room salons and I'm blown over by the result.

Verdict: A flattering four stars.

Cuts at Rainbow Room start at £43.

www.rainbowroominternational.com/salons/royal-exchange-square