Fringe benefits: everything you need to know about getting a fringe

If you’re anything like us, the long January nights were made somewhat easier by the return of The Traitors on iPlayer. Along with all the gripping twists and turns and bare-faced deceit, it was Claudia Winkleman’s Highland chic that’s got us really hooked. Think chunky Fair Isle knits, sweeping tailored coats and lots of houndstooth and herringbone. Not to mention an endless succession of very chic fingerless gloves that frankly, no winter outfit now feels complete without. Our lovely friends around the corner at Lavender Room on Bond Street have got some very similar styles, including this gorgeously soft and snuggly pair of Ginger Alpaca handwarmers, £40, that we’ve got our eyes on (also available in other colours). 

And we couldn’t talk Traitors without mentioning Claudia’s fabulously glossy locks. It goes without saying that her iconic fringe has become her trademark. It’s bold, heavy and face-framing, but there’s a fringe to suit every face shape and hair type, from long and choppy to brow skimming or micro. Fringes have the power to instantly transform your look, creating a real statement without losing any hard won length from the rest of your hair. Done right, a fringe can give finer hair the illusion of volume, soften or balance out facial features and really emphasise the eyes. Then there’s the added bonus that it can disguise any fine lines on your forehead (consider it a cheap alternative to botox) and disguise neglected brows.  

If you’re considering a fringe, chat to your stylist about what would work best for your face shape and hair type. And just be prepared that fringes are high maintenance, requiring a bit more effort when it comes to daily styling-especially a fuller fringe like Claudia’s. You’ll also need regular fringe trims to keep your hair out of your eyes, but after your first cut we offer a free fringe trim service. No need to book, just pop in and the next available stylist can sort you out. 

Top 3 fringe styling hacks

  • Blow dry your fringe first Your fringe will dry quicker than the rest of your hair, and the longer it’s left to air dry, the more likely it is it will set in its natural shape, which may not necessarily be where you want it to sit.

  • … And blow-dry it right (and then left) Jonathan’s top tip for styling your fringe? Hold your dryer over your face, directing the nozzle down your fringe. Use a small round brush to brush the fringe from side to side until dry. This will help it sit straight, and banish any pesky cowlicks.

  • Dry shampoo is your friend Even if you’ve always been able to go several days between washes, your fringe will get greasier more quickly than the rest of your hair because it is coming into contact with facial oils, skincare products and make up from your forehead throughout the day. You can either wash it with a tiny amount of shampoo to keep it going between washes, or use of few spritzes of a dry shampoo like Aveda’s Shampowder dry shampoo, £26, to keep it looking fresh and full and absorb any excess oil. 

And as for Claudia’s mirror-like shine? Get stronger, smoother and shinier hair with Aveda’s Botanical Repair range. Formulated for all hair types and textures, bond-building plant molecules and botanical oils instantly improve the look and feel of your hair, smoothing and sealing the cuticles to help eliminate frizz and flyaways and add shine. We love the whole range, but our hero product has to be the Strengthening Leave-in Treatment, £35.50, which also protects against heat damage up to 230°.

Shine news

This way to healthier hair

We’re thrilled to now be stocking Glowwa Hair Food, £34.99 for 60 capsules. With a hair-loving, expertly formulated blend of biotin, B12, folic acid, zinc, L-lysine, MSM, niacin, B5, B6, vitamin C and coconut water, this vegan-friendly hair supplement can help promote healthy growth and reduce shedding, nourishing your tresses from root to tip. Users also report seeing an improvement in the condition of their skin and nails. What’s not to love?

Shine bar glow up 

Our award-winning Shine shampoo bar has had a bit of a new year makeover. Don’t worry, we haven’t messed with the naturally derived formula, with its refreshing citrus aroma and rich lather. It’s just the biodegradable packaging that’s had a refresh, with now even less impact on the environment. If you haven’t made the switch to shampoo bars yet, why not give it a try and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle, one shower at a time. Available to buy from the salon or online, £9.50. 

And finally…

Last, but by no means least, we are very happy to announce that having absolutely smashed his training, the fabulous Jake is now fully qualified and ready to create some beautiful cuts and colours. Call or email us for a full list of services available with him.

That’s it for this month! Book your next appointment with us online, by email or over the phone. 

Jonathan Harries