Ever since seeing it in Australian editorials way back when, we’ve been marvelling the pastille hair phenomenon for yonks. We’ve since seen it trickle down through W, Bullett and i-D magazine, before making mainstream waves in the likes of Elle and Company, and Forever21’s ad campaign. Nevertheless, we’re still big fans of the Little Pony look. From lilac tips to cotton-candy topknots, we’re tapping this as a must-try trend for 2013’s Summer Ball.

Whether you choose to do your whole head, you opt for just the tips or you’re out-there enough to experiment with your eyebrows, there’s plenty of potential within a simple colour palette. Quick, easy, and a total DIY job, there ain’t real commitment involved either so graduates, don’t you dare hide at the back with the ‘employment world’ shield.

For dye-job virgins and seasoned-DIY-ers alike, there are a couple of secrets behind the perfect pastelle. The first being… conditioner. And tons of it. The second –-and sorry brunettes– but it’s that this is a look that tends to work better on blonder, fairer tresses.

For tried and tested results (and I mean that, having been every colour in the Little Pony string – turquoise, candyfloss, lavender, you name it), we suggest Crazy Color. It’s easy, affordable and simples to get your hands on at Leeds Market, online, those strange hair-meets-party shops in town.

Wet your hair and wash it as normal. Add a lentil-sized amount of colour to a handful of conditioner. (Sounds strange but you’ll see. Honestly, a pea-sized amount does prove a little too much.) Lather it all on and let it soak in for 10-15 minute, giving yourself the added benefits of a special conditioning treatment. Rinse off and voila: a soft yet stylish colour!

Remember, the colour will fade over time with washes, so just repeat as necessary to maintain the colour. When it’s that easy, we don’t doubt you’ll be testing all the tones; looking for the perfect one to complement your gown.

We’re telling you. Perfect your pastelle and score instant Summer Ball style kudos.

 Click here for Crazy Hair Color.