Review: Michaeljohn
Michaeljohn in Mayfair is one of the most well-appointed salons I have come across in a long time. Everything feels sleek and shiny and smart: think marble effect flooring, majestic mirrors, and bright yet flattering lighting. You feel more sophisticated simply for being there.
What’s more, although it feels incredibly glamorous, it is not remotely pretentious – which is a difficult balance to strike. Its relaxed ambience largely comes down to the friendly staff, who seemed genuinely happy to see me for my early-doors weekday appointment.
Despite being busy, I was not rushed. If anything, extra time was taken over every aspect. Two shampoos, a treatment, and a lengthy head massage – coupled with an excellent back-massaging chair – had me in a zen-like state even before I sat down in the styling chair. Here, the lovely stylist Neave carefully studied my hair type, my current cut and the shape of my face to divine which approach would be best for me (and it’s worth mentioning that I was only having a trim).
Neave had me stand to get the baseline of my hair just right, which is always a sign of a perfectionist, and took her time in creating each layer. A careful blow-dry followed, for which minimal product was used – again, a mark of a true dab hand.
Glossy magazines (and a steady stream of frothy coffees) kept me occupied throughout, and the 90 minute appointment flew by. When I did make my way (reluctantly) to the door, I noticed that the chairs were filling with a happy crowd who chatted in a familiar fashion. Not only does Michaeljohn have a bevy of regular clients – they are all demonstrably thrilled to be there. The salon also has another floor dedicated to colouring, which was tellingly just as busy.
Prices start at £60 for a cut and blowdry with a Junior Stylist, rising to £189 for an appointment with the Creative Director. It is not exactly inexpensive, but their standards are sky high. Neave is a Junior Stylist, but she has worked at the Michaeljohn for four years and has further experience from previous salons. I have paid far more than £60 for Senior Stylists elsewhere and been significantly less happy.
And that is really the whole point. I left with hair which looked just as I had envisaged when I stepped in. That is the crux of any successful salon – and that is what will have me joining their lengthy list of regulars.
Michaeljohn has locations in Mayfair, Knightsbridge and Belgravia. For more information visit www.michaeljohn.co.uk
What’s more, although it feels incredibly glamorous, it is not remotely pretentious – which is a difficult balance to strike. Its relaxed ambience largely comes down to the friendly staff, who seemed genuinely happy to see me for my early-doors weekday appointment.
Despite being busy, I was not rushed. If anything, extra time was taken over every aspect. Two shampoos, a treatment, and a lengthy head massage – coupled with an excellent back-massaging chair – had me in a zen-like state even before I sat down in the styling chair. Here, the lovely stylist Neave carefully studied my hair type, my current cut and the shape of my face to divine which approach would be best for me (and it’s worth mentioning that I was only having a trim).
Neave had me stand to get the baseline of my hair just right, which is always a sign of a perfectionist, and took her time in creating each layer. A careful blow-dry followed, for which minimal product was used – again, a mark of a true dab hand.
Glossy magazines (and a steady stream of frothy coffees) kept me occupied throughout, and the 90 minute appointment flew by. When I did make my way (reluctantly) to the door, I noticed that the chairs were filling with a happy crowd who chatted in a familiar fashion. Not only does Michaeljohn have a bevy of regular clients – they are all demonstrably thrilled to be there. The salon also has another floor dedicated to colouring, which was tellingly just as busy.
Prices start at £60 for a cut and blowdry with a Junior Stylist, rising to £189 for an appointment with the Creative Director. It is not exactly inexpensive, but their standards are sky high. Neave is a Junior Stylist, but she has worked at the Michaeljohn for four years and has further experience from previous salons. I have paid far more than £60 for Senior Stylists elsewhere and been significantly less happy.
And that is really the whole point. I left with hair which looked just as I had envisaged when I stepped in. That is the crux of any successful salon – and that is what will have me joining their lengthy list of regulars.
Michaeljohn has locations in Mayfair, Knightsbridge and Belgravia. For more information visit www.michaeljohn.co.uk