There is an often overlooked consideration when determining the best overall haircut and style for yourself: your body type or shape. The complete visual picture of yourself below the neck is just as relevant a consideration as your face shape and your hair's natural texture when it comes to "YOUR" style.

Knowing how the shape of your hair will either balance or contrast with your body shape is paramount in order to create your most flattering overall style. Fact of life: particular haircuts and styles simply create a perfect balance on particular figure types, while other hairstyles create a readily visible contrast with other body types. Like viewing yourself in a full-length mirror, the hairstylist must see you standing out of the styling chair and not with your body shrouded beneath a cutting cape during your pre-hairstyle consult.

Use these hair dos and don'ts as a guideline for your figure type listed below:

* Body type: Slim and straight

Do: The goal is to add some body and curves where you can - in your hair. Medium length, wavier, or chunkier hairstyles look best and add feminine flair to this body type. Long bangs, layers, and angles also flatter.

Don't: Don't too big-haired or your hair will look disproportionate to your body. Also avoid too long, too straight and sleek hair as it emphasizes your thinness. Too short or spiky hair can also look masculine on a boyish figure.

* Body type: Curvy and full

Do: Go for a layered, medium-length cut. An angled look will camouflage extra pounds. Try side parts and bangs for a soft, complementary look to your curves.

Don't: Stay away from hair that is too short and close to the head or, in the opposite spectrum, long and very full. Round-shaped styles, like a curly, shoulder-length style with lots of height and width, are also not for you.

* Body type: Petite

Do: Keep hair loose, smooth, and neat for a professional, sleek appearance. Try medium to short length hair with layers, angles, and some height at the top of the head.

Don't: Don't go to extremes. Too-short hair will make your head look too small, and too-long hair will overpower your figure. Also avoid anything that can fall into the "cute" category, like high ponytails, braids, pigtails, and the like.

* Body type: Tall and athletic

Do: Experiment with hairstyles to see what flatters your hair texture and face shape. Your body type works best with most hairstyles.

Don't: Forget the old standby ponytail -- leave that style for gym time! Flatter your figure with soft, feminine styles with some length and wave.