Let’s be honest — we’ve all been there. You’ve saved the perfect hair inspo photo on your phone… but what actually comes out after your appointment doesn’t always match the picture.

Good news: getting the look you want is easier than you think. You just need to know what to say, what to bring, and how to communicate clearly with your stylist.

Here’s your step‑by‑step guide to making sure you and your stylist are on the same page — so you walk out feeling confident, refreshed, and totally in love with your new hair.



1. Bring 2–5 Photos (Not Just One)


One single photo can be misleading — lighting, editing, hair texture and styling can dramatically change the look.


What to do:

  • Bring multiple photos of the same look from different angles.

  • Include one photo of what you like and one photo of what you don’t like.

    This gives your stylist context and helps us understand your style better.



2. Be Honest About Your Hair History


Your hair’s past matters — colour, smoothing treatments, bleach, box dye, and even heat damage affect how closely we can match the photo.


Tell us:

  • If your hair has been coloured in the last 2–3 years

  • If you’ve used any box dye

  • If you have breakage or dryness

  • If you use heat often


The more we know, the more accurately we can plan (and avoid damage).



3. Describe What You Like in the Photo — Not Just “The Whole Thing”


Stylists love detail! Instead of “I want this,” try explaining what exactly you like about the picture.

Examples:

  • “I love how soft the face-framing pieces are.”

  • “I like the brightness around the ends but not the roots.”

  • “I like the volume at the crown.”

  • “I love the blended highlight, not chunky streaks.”


This helps us customise the look for your face, hair type and lifestyle.



4. Talk About Your Daily Routine


The photos you bring may be professionally styled — so we need to know how you actually style your hair day to day.


Tell your stylist:

  • How long you spend on your hair each morning

  • Whether you blow-dry or air-dry

  • If you use hot tools

  • What products you’re comfortable using


This lets us tailor the cut or colour so it fits your real life — not the salon’s lighting.



5. Be Realistic About Maintenance


Some hairstyles look amazing because they require regular trims, toner appointments, or styling.


Share your expectations honestly:

  • “I can come in every 6–8 weeks”

  • “I want something low-maintenance”

  • “I’m okay with regular toners but not long appointments”


Your stylist can then offer alternatives that still look beautiful and fit your schedule.



6. Ask About What’s Possible With Your Hair Type


Your inspiration photo may be from someone with thicker, curlier, straighter or finer hair than yours — and that’s okay!


Ask your stylist:

  • “How will this look on my hair texture?”

  • “Will this colour be achievable in one appointment?”

  • “What tweaks would you recommend for my thickness/density?”


This ensures the result flatters you — not just the model in the picture.



7. Bring Up Your Long-Term Hair Goals


Sometimes achieving “the picture” is a journey, not a single session.


Tell your stylist:

  • If you're growing your hair

  • If you're transitioning from dark to blonde

  • If you're moving toward low-maintenance colour

  • If you’ve had breakage or damage before


We can create a plan that keeps your hair healthy at every step.



8. Ask Your Stylist to Recap the Plan


Before we begin, ask:
“Can you talk me through what we’re doing today?”


This ensures:

  • Your expectations match reality

  • You understand timing and cost

  • You feel confident and informed


Clear communication = dream hair achieved.



9. Discuss Styling + Products for Maintaining the Look


Professional looks need the right at-home routine.


Ask your stylist:

  • “What products will help me get this look at home?”

  • “How do I style the front pieces like this?”

  • “How often should I blow-dry to maintain this shape?”


We’re always happy to show you step-by-step!



10. And the most important… Speak up if you’re unsure


We love questions. Truly.
If anything doesn’t feel clear, just ask.

Good stylists want you to feel excited, informed and confident — not confused or nervous.


Ready to Get a Look You Love? Book Your Appointment


If you want personalised advice, expert guidance and a beautiful result that suits your face, your hair and your lifestyle, we’d love to help.


✨ Book your appointment at Kerry Ann’s Hairdressers or Kerry Ann’s Beauty today.
Let’s bring your dream hair to life — beautifully, safely and realistically.

 

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