Virtual Salon

You ask for a trim and somehow leave the salon with a pixie or your stylist’s definition of long layers has somehow made you look like a 70s icon. Don’t despair. We’ve all been the victim of hair hit and runs but from now on, you can avoid them almost entirely. Here, our pro-tips to helping you get the look you’ve always wanted—every time.

Get References: Before you even think about trying out a different salon and stylist, talk to your friends whose hair you love and ask who they go to. Another way to find topnotch stylists? Ask women with great cuts whom you meet for recommendation.

Don’t Fly Blind: Always schedule a consultation before you let anyone pick up the scissors. If the stylist isn’t listening to you or seems to give the same cut to everyone regardless of their hair type, try someone else.

First Impressions Are Everything: When evaluating a salon and stylist, your trial run starts at the very first phone call you make to schedule it. If the receptionist is rude, it’s a major red flag.

Take In the Atmosphere: While you’re meeting the stylist, pay attention to the salon’s vibe. Is the overall feeling rushed and stressed out or energetic yet laid back? The mood of a given place really can clue you in as to how successful your experience will be.

A Picture’s Worth? Well you know the rest. It’s always helpful to bring in pictures of looks that you like and even ones that you don’t like. This way your stylist can really, clearly see what your vision is. Just be open to the fact that that no matter how much you love a certain look it may not work with your hair.

Keep An Open Mind: A successful consultation also involves listening to the stylist, who is, after all, a professional, which is why you are paying her for a service. If she makes a recommendation and can fully explain why she is making it and what the outcome will be, it’s worth considering even if it seems counter to what you want.

Get On The Same Page: Have the stylist show you exactly how much he intends to cut and what your hair will look like, as a result. Again, pictures are helpful here. Many times, styles gone awry are the result of miscommunication. You may consider a trim to be a quarter inch taken off the bottom, while to him, it’s more along the lines of an inch and a half.

Upkeep Is Key: A stylist’s definition of low maintenance may mean a four-step regimen instead of a six, while you’re more of a wash and go sort of a girl. If you are allergic to blow dryers, get infrequent haircuts and aren’t into using a lot of product, say so in the beginning.