The Blurb:
When it comes to hairdressing, Jamie Stevens is a name to know. After opening his first salon at just 18, he has gone on to win an impressive array of awards and work as the official hairstylist backstage on The X Factor. His eponymous salon in Kensington first opened in April 2012 and is fashionably monochromatic, clean and modern.
The Process:
After being greeted at the desk with a smile and showed to a seat, I talked with creative stylist Jonathan Andrew about the look I was hoping for. I must admit to having something of a phobia of scissor-happy stylists, but Jonathan’s affable manner and calm professionalism assured me that I was in good hands. I relaxed into a massage chair and chatted happily to the assistant as she attentively washed my hair and treated me to a head massage.
After taming my windblown waist-length hair with a Tangle Teezer (an absolute must if, like me, you struggle to manage your mane), Jonathan began the cut. I’d asked for a modest two and a half inches off the ends, and he stuck to his word, lightly layering my hair to add volume to the centre-parted style I’d opted for. We kept up an enjoyable and natural conversation throughout, rather than the cardboard chit chat that hairdressers sometimes resort to.
Whilst previous stylists have insisted on drying and straightening my hair despite my protests that I wear it naturally wavy, Jonathan listened to my wishes. He diffused it lightly (it was cold outside, after all!) before arranging it in a simple up-do so I could continue with my day and let it dry of its own accord. Jonathan even showed me how to plait it loosely as it dried to help create soft, flattering waves that would enhance the style.
The Result:
From start to finish, my visit to the salon was a relaxing and enjoyable experience. One thing that stood out was the genuine friendliness; the staff seem genuinely close, which makes for a warm and helpful team. I couldn’t help but notice how when a salon regular came in, everyone caught up with her like old friends, eager to see photos from her recent holiday. My lackluster hair has had a good dose of volume and life injected into it, and looks healthier than it has in a long time. All in all, my trip to Jamie Stevens was the perfect way to update my style, unwind, and forget the rain outside.
