How to get an A-list haircut

You may not have the same jet set lifestyle or the styling allowance (damn) as your favourite celebrity, but that doesn’t mean you can’t channel them with your haircut; let’s face it, as far as Hollywood beauty routines go, this is probably the easiest (and most affordable) way to emulate your favourite star, too. Whether you’re still hung up on the Rachel, or it’s the Rosie or Alexa that floats your follicle boat, we’ve got the lowdown from Hob Salons Stylist Pete Burkhill on what to expect, what to ask for and how to get it. Now go forth and shine, like the superstar you are…

By Georgia Day

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• 1 Inspiration is everything

  Just because you’re not an A-Lister yourself, it doesn’t mean you can’t get the same treatment when it comes to your tresses.  Every stylist agrees that it’s attention to detail that sets a celeb crop apart. Which means, those reference pictures you cut out and keep of Emma Watson’s pixie cut or Taylor’s choppy bangs? Take them along to your pre-cut consultation. It turns out that celebrities rely on them too: ‘Bring pictures, not just one but a few, and know what you like and what you don’t like,’ says Pete Burkhill, stylist on HOB’s creative team. ‘Celebs take inspiration from everything around them, just like you.’ It doesn’t just stop at the hair though. If you’re getting a cut for a big occasion like a wedding or a big event, take pictures of your outfit too to ensure the whole package works well together. ‘A lot of the time, celebs will bring in not just pictures of the hair but also the entire look so you can really get a feel for the tribe they are identifying with.’
• 2 Your lifestyle is a big consideration

  While you might not be changing your hair on a weekly basis to match whichever red carpet you happen to be on, it’s important to talk to your stylist about your general style, your day-to-day routine and the way you usually wear your hair; understanding that your cut needs to work just as well for barre class and brunch as it does for nights out, will help them ensure your cut is specifically suited to you. For instance, if you’re thinking of going for a bob but in reality scoop your hair into a pony 6 days out of 7, it’s worth letting your stylist know – it might mean going for a lob and adding some longer layers around the front to add interest to your everyday style. ‘You need to be honest,’ says Pete. ‘There is no point in telling your hairdresser that you’ll blow dry your hair every morning if you are more of a get-up-and-go kind of person.’ Likewise when it comes to colour, think carefully about how much upkeep you’re prepared to take on. Rihanna and Nicki Minaj may have perfected the chameleon colour vibe but they’ve got an entourage of stylists at their beck and call, that we’re pretty sure most ordinary folk don’t have.
• 3 It's all about you

  Take the time to talk to your stylist about all factors that will make the difference between a cut that looks like it’s wearing you or one that looks like you were born to wear it. Your face shape, hair texture and even your natural parting can all affect the end result and your hairdresser may need to customise (adding layers or perhaps blunt cut the ends) to achieve the perfect result for your face. Be warned though, even if you come in with a very specific cut in your head, it’s best to have an open mind just in case your dream look just isn’t achievable: ‘If your stylist recommends not doing it, there is probably a good reason to listen,’ advises Pete. One of the considerations that celebs need to factor into their beauty routine is ensuring their hair looks as good on camera as it does IRL. And while you may not have quite so many paps following your every move, it can’t hurt to make sure your hair looks selfie-ready at all times. ‘Hair that's in good condition always looks good, so invest in a treatment like Olaplex as part of your service or a stand-alone treatment to repair damage done,’ says Pete. If you’ve opted for a look that requires a bit of upkeep in the styling stakes, it’s important to make sure you have the routine down pat before you leave the chair so you know exactly how to achieve it. The same goes for cuts that require specific product use afterwards (Jourdan’s sleek and shiny lob will most definitely require some serious serum action). Talk to your stylist and make sure you feel comfortable about when and how much to use when you’re back at home.
• 4 Need-to-knows

  • If you’re going for a big change, think like an A-Lister and take time to feel comfortable with your stylist over a couple of consultations. The more collaborative the cut is, the better the result for you.
  • Celebs rarely have a bad hair day, which means booking in for regular trims post-cut to banish split ends.
  • Celebrities are often best mates with their hairdressers and for good reason. If you love what yours has done, let them know! This could be the start of a beautiful friendship (and the best hair of your life)…