Soft hair styles?

I want to know how to style my hair without making it clumpy or hard like most gels and stuff. I want to be able to make it look feathery or messy i guess you would call it.

All the gels and creams I've tried make my hair very stiff and dry, I want something that would keep it soft and still give my style a strong hold for a while.

I'm willing to try pretty much anything, but I really dont know where to start. Do dryers and straighteners help? Or do shampoos and conditioners help? And do other products and tricks would work?

Here are the best pictures I could find for examples..

http://s52.photobucket.com/albums/g35/ce...

thanks

Soft hair styles?

Your album is set to private.

Soft hair styles?

Couldn't see the pic because it is set to private, but I use Frizz_Ease Dream Curls. Put it on while you are styling. Then you might choose one of those light hairsprays to give added staying power if you really need it.