Katie Holmes

An extension is first placed on the partings of small clumps of hair and the natural hair is crisscrossed over the hair extension.

The two are then tightly braided and painted with bonding solutions.

Extensions made from human hair are more versatile, and can be colored and curled like your own hair. But synthetic extensions will melt from the high temperatures of curling irons or blow dryers.

Whether you decide on the long flowing locks on actress Hayden Panettiere, or follow Hayden, Katie and Victoria's lead to opt for a shorter style for 2009, hair remains a women's most versatile accessory.