The games have begun! The teams competing for gold in the 2012 London Olympics feature the best athletes in the world—but a few have also managed to stand out for their style, as well. Which athletes have you had a hard time taking your eyes off of during the Olympic Games? Here are a few athletes (and styles) who have grabbed our attention.

 

 

MEGAN RAPINOE

Chic, fashionable, polished and practical for the field? Perfect. Megan’s shock of blonde hair and close, texturized crop are tough to miss in Team USA women’s soccer’s cluster of brunette ponytails. An excellent candidate for a modern pixie cut, a la Agyness Dein, Megan foregoes products on the field but experiments with different styling techniques when the game’s over.

Salon tip: How can you achieve texture like Megan’s with a blowdryer and products? Check out these tips from Aveda on working with shorter cuts.

 

Olympic-Worthy Hair

LOUIS SMITH

The last thing a guy focused on landing handsprings and propping himself up on the steeplehorse wants to worry about is his hair. That’s why we’re digging Louis’ newly top-heavy, close-shaven on the side style. The Brit only recently started rocking this pomp-esque ’do, but the look definitely gives him some edge with the judges, right?

Salon tip: Louis’ cut is definitely a bit on the extreme side. Suggest a similar style worn by David Beckham for the more hesitant clients.

   

 

VENUS WILLIAMS

No surprise, Venus showed up in London with some killer hair accessories. The tennis star and fashion entrepreneur went with sleek, long flowing braids and patriotic red, white and blue pieces woven in. Why the bright pops of color? For the first time ever, tennis players are allowed to wear colors and aren’t restricted to wear only white at their Olympic matches. USA!

Salon tip: Get even funkier with colored, braid-in extensions like these “Haut Hues” assorted sizes and lengths of pieces from Simplicity Hair Extensions.

   

 

JASMINE BREINBURG

She’s not exactly competing in the Olympic games, but Jasmine’s look lit up Twitter when she was featured in a medley of songs for the opening ceremonies. The 18-year-old dancer’s lust-worthy texture and volume grabbed everyone’s attention for the rest of the evening—check out that movement!

MODERN tip: You know we have our very own Texture! Resource Guide, right? Check it out here for curly runway looks, cutting tips and more.

 

THE SCRUNCHIES

They’re baaack. Your favorite hair accessory from the ’80s never really went anywhere, actually, when it comes to women’s gymnastics. And check out all of those old-school hair clips!

Salon tip: Fast forward to the 21st century: Have you seen the new Goody DoubleWear Line, hair accessories and jewelry in one?
   

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