As I stepped into Gary Ingham's salon I was surprised by how airy and light it was. Tucked down a side street in suburban Hampstead I'd mistakenly though it might be cramped but it's a huge place, with large comfy chairs, magazine stands on wheels and a wide selection of products on offer. I was greeted by Gary, a charming man, whose previous roles included being director at Trevor Sorbie, Covent Garden, famous hands indeed.
I was booked in for a cut and colour as I'd decided to get my hair extensions cut down, and was worried I'd be a difficult client- extensions are notoriously time heavy. He sat me down and we discussed my options, and opted to keep a lot of the length but create a softer more natural look to the hair, by adding lots of layers and framing my face, We were going to keep the color the same, and I was worried that would be tricky, as it would have to be applied to the roots around the extensions but Gary assured me it was no problem.
A pleasant hour later I was having my hair shampooed, ready for the cut. I was very impressed with the massaging chair I sat in, as the shiatsu setting really kneaded out my aches and pains, and I liked how the time I spent there was wholly with Gary, as he dyed, washed and then cut my hair, making me feel very special.
It was a relief to see the hair fall to the floor in blonde tresses- when you have extension you're not as freaked out by haircuts! I could already see the style taking shape and as he blow-dried it I was thrilled to see how natural my hair looked. the layers added depth to the hair, and contoured it, giving the impression that it was all mine, and the style really suited me, as he worked with my features rather than against.
I left the salon with a bounce on my step, marvelling at how soft my hair felt and how he'd matched up the roots perfectly. Thumbs up all round!
Gary Ingham, 9 Perrin's Court, Hampstead, London, NW3 1QS, Tel: 020 7431 0777 A cut and finish strats from £50 with a stylist and £80 with the director.
Related: Verlocke Zip & Go hair extensions: No heat or glue needed!