How to Get the Haircut You Want at the Salon

Flopping down in your stylist’s chair and mumbling vague instructions isn’t going to get you the glamorous new hairstyle you’re looking for. Instead, you must take a clear and proactive approach when conveying your hair needs to your stylist. Here are some tips and tricks to help you leave the salon a happy new you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Peruse magazines ahead of time. Magazines are a woman’s best friend when it comes time to choosing a new hairstyle. Not only will you be able to see what new styles are hot, but you’ll also have a glossy example to take with you to show your stylist. Look for hairstyles in the length you’re looking for with similar texture (fine or thick, straight or curly) to your own hair.
2. Cut out pictures that you like. Be sure to take more than one to the salon unless you know for certain that the one hairstyle you have chosen is right for your hair type. It never hurts to have a “plan B" hairstyle just in case your first choice ends up being wrong for your hair or too much upkeep for your liking.
3. Book a consultation with your appointment. Hairstylists typically work on half-hour appointments, and the really busy ones may have even less time to devote to you. If you’re going for a big change, ask the receptionist to book extra time for you and your stylist to discuss your potential new hairstyle. After all, you don’t want to have to rush the creation of your new style because you spent half of your appointment discussing it.
4. Be sure to convey your “wants” and “don’t wants” when discussing your new hairstyle with your stylist. Mention if you want attention drawn to a particular facial feature. By the same token, if you have areas you want to detract from (such as a long neck or big ears) don’t expect your stylist to automatically know this. Be clear and concise so you won’t end up with haircut regret.
5. Show up to your appointment dressed appropriately. If the new hairstyle you want is sultry and sexy, don’t show up in sweatpants. Dress for your appointment as you intend to be dressed when going out to show off your new hairstyle. This will help your stylist tailor the cut to match your personal style.
6. Pay attention. Yes, you’ve had a long day and you just want to sit back and relax and let your stylist work that magic … but now is not the time to fall asleep on the job. When changing your hairstyle you need to be a part of the process, so keep your eyes on the scissors in order to make sure the game plan you and your stylist discussed earlier is being followed.
7. Speak up when in doubt. If it looks like your stylist is straying from the original concept, don’t bite your lip and hope for the best. Do be polite (never tick off someone with scissors), but firmly voice your concerns if it looks like your stylist is going in a direction you don’t want. It’s better to speak up early on so adjustments can be easily made instead of walking out with a horribly shorter version of what you wanted.
8. Pay attention during the styling. So the cut is done and you think you can relax? Not just yet. Half of a fabulous hairstyle is in the styling, so take mental notes when your stylist is working his or her magic. Pay attention to what products are used and how. The same rule goes for what type of brush (if any) is used to style your hair and how the blow dryer is worked. You may not be able to make an exact recreation at home the first time, but knowing how your stylist got your hair looking so great is the first step to getting the same effect with a little practice.

Tips & Warnings

• Always show up early (or at least on time) for your appointment. You don't want to tick off your stylist or have to rush through your cut.
• Don't be afraid to speak up if your stylist suggests something you don't like. If you don't say what you want, then you are partly to blame for your bad haircut.