Going to a new stylist, conflicting exp. Any thought?

[gateauauxfraise]

Hello,
I've recenlty moved to a new place and after some researching, I came up with a salon and set up an appt. for a free consultation with one of the stylist. However, I do have some hesitation because of the stylist's style. Is this justified?

Here's the complete story: I walked in to the appointment and after showing him the picture of what I want, he said, "O.k. I think that'll be good." That's it. He didn't elaborate on anything, he didn't even touch my hair to feel the texture, etc. In addition, his own hair is kinda.. unkempt. He looks like ahem.. I should say with respect.. a hobo: the hair was haphazardly pulled onto a bun and his grooming is very unrully. But, the salon is known for cutting-edge style and very edgy, so I thought he would fit right in with the image of the salon.

My question is, should I just give him a try, knowing that I cannot judge the book by its cover? The haircut that I wanted wasn't a drastic change from what I've got anyway, more like a trim, so I thought it shouldn't matter, but still, maybe I'm thinking too much about this and I'm very picky with my hair. More importantly, what should I expect from an initial consultation with a hairstylist? What kind of things he/she should tell me and what kind of things should I ask other than "Will this work for me"? Any thoughts?

 

[Shimmer]

Ask for references. If he's got 'regulars' they're likely to be willing to be a reference for him.
Or, see if he has a 'book' with styles he's done in it.

 

[gateauauxfraise]

Well, I finally swallow the bitter pill & go. The result is so so; I asked for a lot of choppy layers, and feathery ends, I came out a la Cleopatra with boxy, blunt cut with somewhat an effort to break the ends & making it more choppy.

But, here's what I learned (for having over 8 years searching for stylist, and still!):

1. It doesn't matter how much experience you have, if you're not educated in the latest technique, you'll have a basic haircut. They're good cut, but won't be as stylish/cutting edge. This applies to the individual stylist, so eventhough you work in an edgy salon.

2. Stylist's appearance does not equal on his/her skill. My stylist has grungy overall personal style, but I came out with a haircut that can be easily obtained in Supercut with a lady wearing conservative style.

3. Know your hair well & don't assume the stylist know more about your hair than you do. You live with your hair all your life, your stylist, although seeing many different hair type daily, don't necessarily know what works/doesn't work for your hair.

4. When asking strangers for hair stylist recommendation based on stranger's hairstyle, make sure the hair type matches yours, otherwise, it's a total waste of time.

As for me, the search for a good stylist continue...

 

[so_siqqq]

Sorry to hear that you're not pleased with your hair cut.
Where do you live? Within the US?

I should also add a stylist should be able to work with any texture really. When you go into a consultation be more descriptive with what you want and explain how your hair is. And if upon the consultation you don't feel comfortable with the stylist then you should not get your hair cut by them. Don't be afraid to cancel an appointment. The client should be happy.