For some women, getting a cut and color is just about getting a “cut and color” — if they’re still frequenting The Lemon Tree or another one of those churn ‘em in, churn ‘em out places.
For this NYC woman, getting a cut and color is a mini-retreat from cell phones and deadlines; it’s a way of stepping out of my work-weary mind and escaping into a haven of citrus-infused lotions and shampoos. It’s surrounding myself with romance—antique mirrors, whimsical artwork, and a back garden filled with the sounds of chirping birds. “Chirping birds?” you exclaim. “Just where is this woman traveling to get a cut and color—the Catskills?” Trust me, it’s no farther than taking a cab ride to The Grooming Room in Hell’s Kitchen and placing yourself in the skilled and gentle hands of proprietor/hairstylist Lisa Fiorentino.
That’s exactly what I did one Thursday afternoon. Lisa greeted me at the door of her in-home salon wearing a simple, yet elegant Vivienne Tam dress and Louis Vuitton slingbacks. (What else would you expect a girl from Bensonhurst to be wearing?) We sat on her vintage couch and talked about what would work best for me. She exuded such knowledge and confidence about style and color that I went along wholeheartedly with her recommendation.
I was going “blonde/brown” instead of my usual one-tone brownish-red color, since it would be easier to blend in those stubborn grays as my hair grew out. And I could go longer between colorings, saving my precious hair follicles and wallet from additional damage. Imagine, a hairstylist actually suggesting ways to save money without compromising style.
During my 2-hour transformation, I got the scoop on Lisa: She stays current on upcoming trends by people watching—everywhere. Right now, Lisa says the fall/winter influence is rich, deep hair color and cleaner-lined haircuts for the professional woman. Think sexy silent screen star Clara Bow meets sultry R&B singer Amy Winehouse. And if you’re looking for hipster glam, it’s Bridget Bardot bed head with a 50’s twist.
Here are Lisa’s tips to update your look right now: -1- Scarlet lip color; -2- Dark smoky eyeliner; and -3- Splurge on headbands for extra drama.
