I had the absolute pleasure of having my hair beautifully transformed at Andrew Jose Salon, and goodness me, it was long overdue.
Just a hop, skip, and a train ride away, I found myself in Fitzrovia at Charlotte Street in central London. You cannot miss Andrew Jose Salon, beautifully situated on the corner with ample natural light and perfect for a spot of people-watching.
A Long Overdue Pamper
I must admit I am not the best at keeping up with regular hair appointments, and my hair was in desperate need of attention. My treatment for the day was balayage, wash, cut and dry.
For much of my twenties and thirties, I was loyal to highlights, but they really took their toll on my hair. If the pandemic gave me anything good, it was time for my fragile strands to rest and recover.
Upon arrival, I was warmly greeted by Emelie, who offered me a glass of Prosecco, the perfect start to my pampering. My glass was regularly topped up, which added to the indulgent experience. From the very beginning, I felt relaxed and properly cared for.
Expert Styling with Natasha
The magician in charge of my hair transformation was Studio Director Natasha—finally, someone who truly understood what I wanted. I often ask for a slightly wider frame of lighter pieces around my face, but in the past, I have left salons with thin streaks that disappear after a couple of washes.
This time was completely different. Natasha listened carefully and made sure she understood exactly what I wanted. I brought a reference photo, which she kept nearby for guidance. In previous appointments, I often ended up with a yellow-toned blonde that did not suit me, but Natasha found my perfect shade.
Not only is she incredibly skilled, but she is also wonderfully easy to talk to. The whole team at Andrew Jose Salon share the same warmth and professionalism, and it felt more like catching up with friends than a standard salon visit.
The Magic of Balayage and Hair Wash
For those unfamiliar, balayage is different from traditional highlights in its freehand application technique. The result is a softer, more natural look, think sun-kissed rather than stripy. The lighter tones are painted strategically and not taken too close to the roots, allowing a gentle grow out over time.
And then the hair wash, what bliss. The scalp massage felt like pure therapy, and I made sure to enjoy every second.
The Perfect Cut and Finish
My hair length is precious to me as it never seems to grow quickly, no matter what I do. I am always nervous that too much will be cut off. During my appointment, I discovered that one side of my hair had been damaged from always carrying my bag on my right shoulder. Natasha evened out the lengths, and the result was perfectly balanced and healthy-looking hair.
After a precise trim and blow-dry, I could hardly recognise my reflection. My hair looked shiny, healthy and alive, a complete transformation from the dull colour it had been before.
A London Salon with Legacy
Andrew Jose has held this beautiful corner location since 1988, and it is easy to see why. The salon founder, Andrew Jose, is renowned as one of the world’s leading hairstylists and educators. He has styled countless celebrities and models, won Wella Vogue Salon of the Year in 1990, and has been nominated for British Hairdresser of the Year six times.
You can truly feel that level of expertise in every part of the salon experience.
Leaving with Confidence and Shine
By the time I stepped out, the sun had set over London, but that did not stop me from admiring my reflection in every shop window along the way. I could have stayed chatting with the team for hours, but I had to let Natasha go home.
I left the salon feeling refreshed, confident and grateful to everyone at Andrew Jose Salon. I cannot recommend them highly enough; an exceptional experience from start to finish.
Andrew Jose
1 Charlotte Street
London
W1T 1RB
United Kingdom
