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Leighton Meester believes “versatility” is her best beauty asset.

The Gossip Girl actress – who recently became the global ambassador for Herbal Essences hair care range – likes to experiment with a variety of looks.

When asked what her biggest beauty asset was, Leighton replied: “Versatility. I try different looks and I’m happy that I can achieve them and not look like a clown. I like to have fun with hair and makeup.”

While Leighton enjoys experimenting with her hair and makeup, she has also learned to embrace her natural beauty – something she found hard to do at first.

She told WWD: “You can get used to getting your makeup and hair done all the time and then you don’t love what you look like naturally. So I try to embrace that. I learned to love the way I look without makeup and how my hair dries naturally. It took me a long time.”

While Leighton’s style is emulated around the world, she urges people to create a look which is unique to them.

She said: “I’m lucky because expressing my personal style is fun and I have fun with it. Everyone should love their own look. Don’t copy; do your own thing.”