New Hair : My experience at John Carne (Knightsbridge)

Last week I was getting my hair done at the elegant John Carne salon in Knightsbridge. Just a few paces from Harrods, it is very easy to find - and despite being in a bustling part of town it feels remarkably tranquil. The gleaming floors and mirrored walls, with FashionTV on in the background, instantly imparts a very modern and professional atmosphere. I was lucky to have my hair coloured by Ellie and my hair cut and styled by Sean. Both were so friendly, and I was thrilled with the result.

I came in with a rather drab and grown out bob. The highlights had faded so much that my hair was almost blonde, so I asked Ellie to give me an overall more brown base. I asked for a cool toned shade but Ellie gently advised that a more warm undertone would blend in nicely with my natural hair and make root growth far less high maintenance. Ellie was beyond patient as I laboriously considered all the brunette options! Having a Masters from Schwarzkopf evidently helps - Ellie appreciates every angle. The decision was made: an all-over brown with just a few scattered highlights for a very natural feel.

I then spoke to Sean, a charming Australian who carefully looked at the photo I had brought in. It was a very advanced cut, longer in the front and with a complex undercut at the back. He clearly enjoyed the challenge though, and gave me a very sleek and feminine little bob.

Special mention must be made of the room downstairs...





Although I have been to salons with a massage chair, this massage chair has a personal control so you can decide how (and if) you'd like it, and relaxing music plays as you settle in. Nothing can compare to the delicate light display that unfolds above and around you. I felt like I was in a James Bond film, there was something so very decadent and sci-fi about having my hair washed and massaged while the colourful lights and plush chair eased me in and seemed to detach all stress away. The hair products used were from the Seah range by Schwarzkopf, and after using the Cherry Blossom conditioner I have literally abandoned all my old ones. I thought Bed Head Moisture Maniac was good - but this is just brilliant, and it smells so wonderful too!

Not only was I very pleased with the final effect, I was also reminded of how it felt to be pampered. I have been going to Rush for a while and although I love my hairdresser, it must be said that the utilitarian atmosphere is nothing short of unpleasant. John Carne so far has just 3 salons, the others are in Wimbledon and Guilford. It certainly is a far more personal and boutique style option, and yet the prices are very much in line with (admittedly painful) London salon prices. A ladies haircut and blowdry starts from £55 and half head highlights start at £95.

The combination of a smooth inverted bob and natural hair colour looked very sophisticated. The best thing is, Sean has cut my hair so precisely that even a novice like me can blowdry it and it simply falls into place effortlessly! The true test of a good haircut is what happens once you wash it at home. I did notice that the salon offers a "Style School" hour-long lesson for £55 which sounds like a great idea. The salon also hosts a range of manicure and pedicure treatments. My visit was an absolute treat and it really is a perfect place to go and indulge.

John Carne Knightsbridge
3 Montpelier Street
0207 225 2242
www.johncarne.co.uk


- Check out my little video to see the before and after...




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