Lisa Shepherd Hair Salon

Walking into a hair salon can be nerve-racking business. If you are anything like me the thought of walking into a hairdressers excites me but walking out again depresses me. I can’t wait to get home, get my brush and GHDs out and have a fiddle. Until then going out anywhere without a hat is a no-no.

What I need is a stylist that looks at my features and face shape and knows exactly what length will suit me and which colours would look best. I want a cut that will make my cheekbones more striking and suit my oval shaped-face, which is exactly why I have gone to Lisa Shepherd’s salon in the heart of the West End.

As soon as I walk in I am greeted by Jason Cocking, my hairdresser. He shows me to the chill out area, points to the fridge and tells me to help myself to the wine, ice cream and crisps. Already I feel at ease.

I have had some awful hairdressers in the past, who haven’t listened to a word I said, but as I explain what I want to Jason he listens tentatively before suggesting some styles and colours that he thinks fits the bill. Once we are happy with the brief I literally put my hair in his hands and he gets to work.

I don’t want a drastic cut or colour, just something manageable and flattering. The process starts by smothering my hair in a rich dark brown tint, streaked with golden blonde highlights. I look anything but groomed as I sit there with a heedful of dye and foil, but I happily surf the net on the customer laptop and soak up the atmosphere as my hair absorbs the colour.

After 30-minutes the colour comes off with an adorable hair wash, in an adorable back massaging chair. It’s then time to tidy up my tresses. Rather than butcher my barnet, Jason carefully styles my hair. He looks confident as he snips away and I feel confident as I watch his every move in the mirror and ask him for his top tips on keeping my hair looking fresh and healthy. I am inundated with knowledge and advice.

Two hours later I walk out of the gleaming salon swinging my hair and trying to catch the attention of every passer by. My glossy locks are brimming with flickers of blonde that catch the light and my purse isn’t as empty as you would think. For an uber stylish salon full of well-qualified staff and nifty little extras they weren’t half as expensive as I thought.

Jason’s top tips for a perfect haircut:

1) Take pictures to the salon. These don’t necessarily have to be of what you like. If you don’t like something show your hairdresser. At least they will have an idea of what not to do.

2) Blow dry to try. If you are unsure about going to a new stylist then book in for a blow-dry first. This will give you a good idea of how they work and how well they style your hair. It’s important that you feel comfortable.

3) Know your face shape. Ask for styles that will bring out your features. If you have a round face then you should avoid a rounded haircut that ends at the chin because this will add weight to your already round face. Ask your stylist to advise and be realistic.

4) If you don’t like something, then say. Jason assured me that he doesn’t get offended and would rather know if his customer is unhappy. It can then sort it there and then, so you walk out of the salon happy and he is satisfied that he has fulfilled his hairdressing duties.

5) Take an umbrella…. I learnt the hard way!

To book an appointment, contact Lisa Shepherd on: 0207 467 9560 or visit their website.

Lisa Shepherd
24 Mortimer Street
Fitzrovia
W1T 3JP