We are excited to kick off the second season of YLF Book Club with Vidal Sassoon The Movie. This wonderful documentary offers a look into the public and private life of the legendary hairdresser who is said to have changed the world with a pair of scissors. He was a self-made man who pioneered in the 1960s with his “wash and wear” philosophy and turned his Bond Street shop into a hugely successful business empire. Be sure to drop by the Book Club forum to join the discussion.

While watching the footage of the very talented Mr. Sassoon interacting with his clients, I suddenly remembered this article about “getting therapy at the salon”. It claims that many people feel more comfortable discussing emotional problems and personal issues with their hairdresser than with a therapist. There is just something about this specific dynamic with both parties facing the mirror that invites personal confidences. I too believe that hitting it off with your stylist not only increases your chances of getting a fab haircut, but also makes for a more pleasant pampering experience. And yes, after a session with Ilse, my stylist, I always walk out the door feeling positive and more relaxed. We are about the same age and we both love fashion. Last time we chatted about our Fall purchases and swooned over her new loot: an amazing pair of bright green knee-high boots and the most splendid ink blue leather biker jacket. But we also talk about less light-hearted topics, from family problems and health issues to how to cope with aging parents. I feel at home with her and her team, and that’s definitely one of the reasons why I’ve become a loyal customer.

How about you? Do you and your stylist chat about more than haircuts alone? Have you ever switched salons because you just didn’t get along with the person doing your hair? And, conversely, is it harder to leave a salon when you are no longer happy with their services but really like your hairdresser?

New in YLF Books

Budget fashionista extraordinaire, Kathryn Finney, has been writing about how to be stylish without breaking the bank since 2003. Her first book, How to Be a Budget Fashionista – The Ultimate Guide to Looking Fabulous for Less, has been called “the bible of being stylish on a budget”, and is currently in its sixth print. It is filled with smart budgeting tricks, money-saving shopping tips, down-to-earth style advice for all sizes and fashion personas, and suggestions on how to become an expert in the art of bargain hunting. Her motto: being frugal and looking fabulous are not mutually exclusive. 

Quick reminder: On the Book Club page you can find the schedule of previous, current and future Book Club titles.