ootdfashionEvery January, I feel this itch for a new hairstyle—a different cut, a vibrant color, something that makes me look completely transformed. It’s strange because I’m content with just maintaining my hair throughout the rest of the year. However, the new year brings a desire for change. After my children were born and even after my dad passed, these moments sparked similar cravings for drastic hair changes, but that’s a different story.
There’s something about the new year—a fresh start, the opportunity to reinvent yourself. When I planned a special trip to London for a haircut and color, I wanted it to be worthwhile, to leave the salon looking fresh and new. But at Josh Wood Atelier, a major makeover wasn’t in the cards for me. I’m grateful to Melanie, my colorist, and Kat, my stylist, for steering me away from anything too extreme.
Instead, they offered a “no-verhaul”—a gentle update rather than a complete transformation. Melanie explained that seasonal changes could be subtle, rather than a dramatic overhaul that might require constant upkeep. Kat echoed this sentiment, suggesting minor adjustments to keep things fresh. She joked about “nibbling” at the ends of my hair, which amused me as I imagined her like a mouse at my hair. The secret to letting hair grow out, she said, was using intensive hair masks to keep it healthy, minimizing how much needs trimming.
My anticipated hair overhaul turned into a no-verhaul, and though the changes were subtle, the effect was uplifting. I avoided the awkward phase of an unfamiliar cut and dealing with a high-maintenance color. A no-verhaul doesn’t mean just a routine trip; it’s about consciously improving what you have without going for drastic changes. It’s choosing to enhance with minimal adjustments.
The folks at Josh Wood Atelier even offered a chance for one UK reader to experience a Hair No-verhaul, including a cut, color, and lunch at their Holland Park salon. To enter, readers need to leave a comment on the blog by a specified date and provide their email for contact.
In the end, I’m thrilled with my no-verhaul results. Kat sharpened my hair’s shape at the back, and Mel incorporated lowlights close to my natural shade for a balayage effect. This reduced the maintenance associated with a full head of highlights. She also used a technique called “sporadic foil placement” with blonde for brightness and a “dropped root” to minimize visible regrowth, creating the low-maintenance look I desire.
I’m inclined to keep growing my hair, enjoying the natural waves and kinks that form without much styling effort. But stay tuned—I might consider a blunt fringe or a bold black elfin crop in a few months. The staff at Josh Wood Atelier take great care of my hair, and I truly appreciate their expertise.
