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| The results of my latest salon visits |
How do you describe a haircut or hair colour to your hairdresser?
If I say textured bob do you think of Marion Cotillard or Victoria Beckham? How dark is chestnut brown? When you say honey blonde is your hairdresser thinking the same colour?
As part of Hair Romance’s Salon Advice series, I want to give you the tools to navigate the salon and to have fun while you’re there. There’s no need to be afraid of the hairdresser. I love going to the salon and here are my tips to explain to your hairdresser what you want to do with your hair.
Bring a picture with you
Bring a picture with you. In fact, take several pictures of hairstyles you like to the salon. Save them on your phone or print them and put them in your bag. Even if you’re referring to a celebrity, don’t expect that you and your hairdresser have the same image in mind. Celebrities are always changing their hair. You might say you want Drew Barrymore’s balayage but she’s been rocking that look for years. Which version are you thinking of? Taking a picture means you can make sure you and your hairdresser are on the same page.
Talk about why you like the picture with your hairdresser
Talk about why you like the picture with your hairdresser. You may like the length of a style but prefer less layers. You may have chosen that photo as the hair colour is perfect even though you hate the haircut. Explain to your hairdresser, “I like this picture because… and then this haircut because…but with this fringe…” etc. Be clear about what you like.
Listen to your hairdresser
Listen to your hairdresser. Your hairdresser is a trained professional and can work with your hair to give you a fantastic haircut. Once they know what you like, they can customise a style to suit your hair type. You may love that fringe, but your hairdresser can see that cowlick on your hairline and they know your hair will never sit that way. Have a conversation with your hairdresser and if you trust them take their advice.
The key to a great result is all in the consultation
The key to a great result is all in the consultation. Be clear with what you want and have a real conversation with your stylist as to how you can achieve that result in your hair. There will be compromises but if your stylist explains why you can be assured of a great style that will suit your hair.
When I go to the hairdresser I often let them decide what to do with my hair and I love the surprise result. This is because I trust my stylist and I know they do a fantastic job.
If you’re not comfortable with the consultation don’t proceed with the haircut. The best result will be because of the expectations at the start. Talk to your stylist and have fun with your hair.
Do you have trouble explaining what you want to your hairdresser? Or are you happy every time you leave the salon?
{ 13 comments… read them below or add one }
This is great advice! I see too many people are aren't happy with their hair when they leave my salon because of the communication during the consultation.
I always tell people to bring a picture and make sure it's a two-way street when talking to the stylist.
great advice, and very helpful. bringing a picture is important, but so is being comfortable talking to your stylist.
@On Stage Hair Design – Thank you! I agree, communication is key to a happy result for both the stylist and the client.
@Aurelie D. – so true, you should feel comfortable discussing your idea with your stylist. If you don't comfortable it may not be the right salon for you.
Great ideas! I have never brought a picture to my stylist, but its seems like an awesome idea, and I will defiantly start bringing pictures to my hair appointments!
Great advice. I think this is a great example of something in life where you need to be clear and realistic about your expectations. I spent years getting less than satisfactory results and never understood that it was inability to be clear, and express concern when my expectations weren't met.
Oh yea, I think it's important to let your hairstylist understand what you want, and also hear his advice. A good hairstylist will tell you honestly what works for you and what wouldn't.
Good advice, and what a timely post for me! I am studying in Buenos Aires and am going for a haircut tomorrow. Right now looking up "hair words" to make sure I can describe what I want in Spanish…eek!
@~M – a picture says a thousand words! It's so much easier to explain what you mean with a photo.
@nicola lynda – great comment, it really is about beaing clear and realistic about what your hair does. Hope you've found a great stylist now?
@Bun Bun Makeup Tips – exactly! But sometimes it's hard to hear your hair won't do what you want
@Megan – How fab to be in Buenos Aires! Definitely take lots of pictures, even take an old photo of yourself with a haircut you liked before so they can see what you mean. Good luck!
Good advice! My bestie is a hairdresser so I am lucky – she tells me what I need to have haha!
@Katrina from The Block – Lucky! Nothing beats a hairdresser bff, total trust in your stylist
Great advice to give! We hairdressers are so creative that we can get a little excited sometimes … pictures couldnt get any clearer- and with everyone owning a smart phone these days , it just makes it easier and more fun! dont be shy and let us help you get the most from your hairstyle !! keep up the great blogs Hair Romance – love your work ! xxx
@Elly Hanson – thanks for commenting! The best hairdressers are creative and clients should relish that! Using pictures is the best way to make sure you're talking the same language.
Thanks for your advice! Great idea to take a picture!
xxxx
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