In need of a new look, LOUISE LOCK tried Trimmings, the new salon at Loewen Gardens. Here’s her verdict.

I was a hairstylist’s dream. One of those ubiquitous reality-TV makeover shows would’ve had a field day with me. With long, neglected tresses that hadn’t seen a colourist for years, nor a pair of scissors for months, I was a blank canvas begging to be made into a better, trendier, more colourful version of myself. Alvin, style director at the new Trimmings @ Loewen Gardens salon, played his part to perfection.

Jane Ong, new owner and manager of The Spa @ Loewen Gardens in Tanglin Village, saw a gap in the market and established a hair salon next to her beauty therapy business. Loewen Gardens is already home to a range of charming and successful businesses including Design Intervention, The Pantry, The Children’s Showcase, Body Temple and others.

Trimmings has a modern, airy, slightly bohemian décor that suits the ambience of this retail enclave in a patch of Singapore jungle. Parking is easy and free.

Alvin believes that close consultation with clients throughout the various stages of a treatment ensures a happy and successful outcome. He therefore listened at length to the description (or should that be lament?) I gave of my lifestyle – two kids under two; joyous but exhausting – and guided me in the direction of a fresh new ’do.

First up was a scissor cut ($50) to tame the flyaway frizz that my last haircut, an ill-judged razor cut, had cursed me with. Then it was on to highlights, using the most popular technique of the 2009 season, a combination of Vidal Sassoon and Toni & Guy methodologies.

Alvin talked me through each step and recommended both highlights and lowlights ($250) to create interest and movement in my blockish, heavy mass of hair. These highlights, particularly around the face, have been subtle yet effective in lightening my appearance and I wonder why it’s taken me so long to appreciate the power of a good colourist.

The final step in my hair salvation was a multi-stage Redken specialist treatment ($130) that left my hair softer, silkier and shinier than I think it’s ever been.

I tried to avoid swimming for a few days after my visit to Trimmings so as to prolong the bouncy, just-stepped-out-of-the-salon look, knowing that any blow-drying I did myself could only be disappointing after Alvin’s prowess.

It’s not so bad, though – Alvin’s cut falls well and doesn’t need much attention. There could be hope for me yet!

Trimmings @ Loewen Gardens is at 75E Loewen Road.
Call +65 6471 1922 for an appointment or visit
www.trimmings.com.sg.