By Joely Waker
George, a name synonymous with amazing hair and the hairdresser that the likes of Rosie-Huntington Whiteley, Alexa Chung and ELLEs Editor-in-Chief have on speed dial has launched his own namesake salon in London.
What George Scissorhands (as hes known in ELLE HQ) cant do with a pair of scissors simply isnt worth knowing; he is also the hair supremo behind many ELLE cover stars dos, including Cameron Diaz, Alexa and his BFF Rosie.
As you can imagine a personal cut with George doesnt come cheap, prices start at £300 and expect an epic waiting list (its 110% worth it) or you book in with one of his expert cutting-colourist team (prices from £60). Whatever you do, be reassured that youre in the best hands in the business.
So, what else sets the salon apart, besides George? There is a healthy tuck shop selling fresh, raw juices and complimentary treats including the occasional homemade bakes by Mrs. Northwood, nawww! The top-notch colourist team includes George's sister Sally (we love the family touch) and they stock Redken and Pureology, two of ELLE's favourite hair brands.
If youre not London based and still want a piece of Georges style (everyone then) heres what to ask your hairdresser for, from the main man himself
How can you ensure you get the perfect haircut?
Talk to your stylist to let them get to know you and work on a style together. Let them know a little about your lifestyle and how you wear your hair out of the salon. The consultation before the cut is important to every hair appointment as this is the time where you know what will help you achieve the perfect haircut.
How is it best to convey your hairstyle idea to your hairdresser?
Bring in ideas for them to see what you want; pictures are great as it helps to build a vision. I take inspiration from this and just adapt to what would suit and sit with their features. Sometimes the pictures wouldnt work on the hair type or suit their style so its about working on a version to get the best out of your hair.
How should you wear your hair to the salon?
I personally prefer it if a client comes in with natural hair as I get a good impression of the type of their personality and it gives an indication of their sense of style and also their lifestyle. You can tell a lot about a person from their hair! Also, they can then see the transformation easily too.
What you should you tell your hairdresser about yourself, your ability and your lifestyle?
This is so important as it gives us a real understanding of how you wear your hair. Tell them about the time you have to style if limited they can also suggest products to speed up your routine like Redken Pillow Proof Primer which dries your hair twice as fast. If you struggle to style at home is important you get a good cut which will fall into place. And do ask them for how to tips to take away with you and style at home. Avoid getting a cut you cant maintain at home.
If you're not happy with your haircut, should you be honest? Or wait for it to grow out?
Definitely be honest a good cut and style is often collaborative and a process that might take a couple of cuts to get to perfection, although I aim to do it first time but sometimes if you are trying a new look, your hair might need to grow, or gradually go shorter etc. I worked in this collaborative way with Alexa Chung for years and it developed into a really nice hair relationship. We tweak the style from time to time and have discussions about how the cut and style can evolve, depending on what is going on in her life and career.
If youre trying out a new stylist have a consultation before you book that way you can tell if they understand what you want to get. It really is important to build a trusting relationship with your hairdresser after all your hair is in their hands!
Should you always buy the hair products your hairdresser recommends?
Definitely, as whatever brand they have in salon they are trained in and will know exactly what to recommend for your hair.
If you can only afford to buy one product from the salon which is the best to invest in?
At the moment Id say the Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo & Conditioner it has an antioxidant called Astaxanthin for stronger, softer hair.
George Northwood salon 24 Wells Street, London, W1T
Email: reservations@georgenorthwood.com
Tel: 020 7580 8195
Follow him on Instagram @GeorgeNorthwood
