We’re beyond proud to share that NOCO Hair has been named a finalist for Educator of the Year at this year’s British Hairdressing Business Awards, hosted by HJ.
Out of salons from across the UK, we’re one of just six to make the shortlist in a category that celebrates real commitment to education, skill development, and inspiring the next generation of stylists.
This recognition means the world to us. Education has always been at the heart of everything we do – not just for our clients, but for our team too. We’ve spent years building a culture where learning never stops, support is part of the job, and every stylist is encouraged to become the best version of themselves.
“To be recognised on a national stage like this is huge for us,” said Noel Halligan, co-founder of NOCO Hair. “Our team works so hard to create an environment where people can truly grow, and this feels like a celebration of that vision.”
Backed by our training academy, partnerships with L’Oréal and GHD, and our internal development programme, we’re proud to have created a space where stylists thrive — whether they’re just starting out or stepping into leadership roles.
The British Hairdressing Business Awards are now in their 27th year, shining a spotlight on the people and teams pushing the industry forward through creativity, professionalism, and resilience. The winners will be announced on Monday 7th July at the Royal Lancaster in London — and we’ll be there in our best outfits, cheering on everyone in the room!
Thank you to our team, our clients, and our partners for being part of this journey. We’re just getting started.
Happy Halloween from NOCO Hair! 🎃 We had an incredible time celebrating with you all at the NOCO Nights Halloween Ball.
Thank you to everyone who came out in style—your costumes, energy, and Halloween spirit truly made the night unforgettable! Held at the salon, the evening was a perfect mix of fun and flair, with the ideal space to let our hair down together.
Watch our video for highlights from this special night, and keep an eye out for more events to come!
Here are some photos from a very spooky night…
As the leaves turn golden and the nights grow cooler, it’s the perfect time to refresh your look and embrace the cozy vibes of autumn! Whether you’re ready to dive into a new hair style, fancy trying out a new colour, or simply looking for ways to keep your locks healthy as the season changes, we’ve got you covered! Check out our top autumnal hair inspo and essential tips to keep your hair looking fabulous all season long!
AUTUMN HAIR COLOUR TRENDS
Copper Tones – The Pumpkin Spice Latte of Hair Colours
Fall is all about rich, warm hues and copper tones are taking center stage this season. Inspired by the vibrant colors of autumn leaves and your favorite pumpkin spice latte, copper shades offer a fiery, eye-catching look that’s perfect for the cooler months. Whether you opt for a full copper transformation or just add some copper highlights, this colour palette will add a warm glow to your appearance.
Autumn Hair For Brunettes
Copper Highlights: If you’re unsure of going full copper or red, why not add some warmth to your natural color with copper / red highlights that catch the light beautifully.
Autumnal Balayage: Not a fan of highlights? Why not try some subtle ribbons of colour through the mid lengths and ends of your hair. Or if you already have a balayage you can add pops of colour to add richness and an autumnal glow to your existing colour.
Full Head Colour: For a bold change, go for a full head colour! Root to tip of rich copper or auburn tones. Be sure to consult with your stylist to find the perfect shade for your skin tone, whether it’s a strawberry blonde, cowboy copper, or a cherry brown we can formulate a tone that’s right for you.
Autumn Hair For Blondes
Blondes aren’t left out of the autumn trend! This season, blondes can choose to embrace warmer tones or go super icy! Opting to tone down their bright summer hues with a seasonal refresh that’s right on trend. Here’s how to transition your blonde for autumn:
Low Lights & Lived In Looks: Add depth to your existing blonde and tone it down for autumn by adding lowlights through your hair. This is a great way to break up your bright summer blonde and introduce depth and richness. Add more depth at the root with a soft blend toner to blend seamlessly with your natural hair colour. Whether you prefer warmer or cooler tones, this is a great way to transition into an autumn/winter look.
Added Warmth: Change up the tone of your hair by trying out a warmer toner, whether it’s a soft buttery blonde or a hint of apricot, a toner can be a great way to add warmth to your existing blonde hair. This will give your blonde a warm, radiant glow that’s perfect for fall. Toners are also temporary and will fade away over time so this is a great way for blondes to try a hint of copper without the commitment!
Keep It Cool: Prefer a cooler look? Why not transition to an ash blonde for a chic, icy tone. This cool shade works well for a more muted autumnal look. Incorporate a hint of silver into your platinum blonde for a sleek, modern edge. This adds a subtle shimmer that still feels crisp and fresh.
AUTUMN HAIR CUT TRENDS
Bobs: Sleek, Textured & Everything in Between
The bob is a perennial favorite that continues to evolve, offering something for everyone. In 2024, expect to see these modern variations of the classic bob:
Classic Bob: The classic bob remains a staple with its clean, jaw-length cut. This style is perfect for a polished and timeless look. To give it a 2024 twist, consider incorporating subtle waves or volume with texturising products.
Textured Bob: For those who love a bit of edge, the textured bob is a standout choice. This cut features choppy layers and movement, adding a casual, effortless vibe. It’s ideal for creating a relaxed yet stylish appearance that works well with both straight and wavy hair.
Curly Bob: Embrace your natural curls with a curly bob, which highlights and enhances your natural texture. This playful cut can range from chin-length to shoulder-length and works beautifully with defined curls or soft waves.
Fringes: A Great Way To Change Up Your Style This Season
Fringes are making a major comeback in 2024, offering a range of styles to frame your face and add a touch of personality to your haircut. Here’s how to rock fringes this year:
Curtain Bangs: Curtain bangs continue to be a popular choice, offering a soft, face-framing effect. These long, parted bangs are versatile and can be styled to suit various hair lengths and textures.
Blunt Bangs: For a more striking appearance, blunt bangs are back in full force. Cut straight across the forehead, this style provides a bold contrast and adds a dramatic flair to your haircut. It pairs well with both sleek bobs and longer styles.
Wispy Bangs: Wispy bangs offer a lighter, more subtle option. These soft, feathered bangs blend seamlessly with your hair and can be styled to enhance both casual and formal looks. They’re great for adding a touch of femininity and playfulness.
AUTUMN HAIR CARE ESSESNTIALS
As the weather changes, so does the way we need to care for our hair. Keep your locks healthy and shiny with these autumnal hair care tips:
Moisturise Is Key: Cooler air and indoor heating can dry out your hair. Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to maintain moisture. Our favourite products are Masquintense Riche from the Kerastase Nutritive range and Loreals Absolut Repair Masque. These are deep nourishing masks that help to put moisture back into the hair. Using serums and oils are also a great way to look after your hair, our favourites are Kerastase Elixir Ultime Oil, Nutri-Supplement Split End Serum and the 8 hour magic Night Serum to help keep your hair well hydrated this season.
Protect From The Elements: Wear a hat or scarf to shield your hair from the elements, which can prevent damage and split ends. We aware that windy weather can cause your hair to tangle, take care when brushing to avoid damage. Our top tip is to always work your way through tangles from the ends towards the root.
Adjust Your Products: Switch to a hydrating or anti frizz shampoo and conditioner to combat seasonal dryness and keep your hair smooth. Our most popular ranges this time of year are Kerastase Nutritive & Discipline ranges for nourishment anti frizz.
Seasonal Shedding: It’s also shedding season! Noticed more hair fall when you’re brushing or washing your hair? Don’t panic! Did you know we lose 80-100 strands every day? As the seasons change and the temperature shifts its can put stress on the scalp and hair follicles, leading to the strands falling out faster than usual. Kerastase Genesis range is a great way to combat this, designed to fight hair fall and protect the hair.
Trim Regularly: Regular trims will help keep your hair looking fresh and prevent split ends from getting worse over time.
Maintain Your Colour: Coppers and reds can fade quickly, so use color-safe shampoos and conditioners to keep your color vibrant – our favorites are the Kerastase Chroma Absolut range!
Embrace the season with these autumnal hair trends and tips. Whether you’re adding warm copper tones, updating your blonde, trying out a trendy bob or fringe, or simply focusing on fall hair care, these suggestions will ensure your hair looks stunning throughout the season. 🍁💇♀️
We get asked this more than you might think. Not just by older clients, but by anyone who has ever felt that a particular salon was not quite for them. Too trendy. Too young. Too intimidating. The honest answer is no, you are not too old. And the question itself tells us something important about what salons have often got wrong.
NOCO is a consultation-led salon. That means before we do anything, we sit down and understand your hair, your life and what you actually want. The result is always personal to you, not to what is trending on Instagram this week.
What age has to do with hair
Hair changes as we get older. It gets finer. It loses density. Grey comes in. The texture shifts. These are real changes and they affect what works and what does not. But none of them mean you should stop caring about your hair or stop coming to a salon. They just mean the conversation needs to be more informed.
A good stylist understands how ageing affects hair and works with it rather than against it. The right cut for finer hair is different from the right cut for thick hair. The right colour approach for someone with a lot of grey is different from someone with a dark base. None of this is complicated once you understand the principles.
What we actually do for clients as hair changes
Who comes to NOCO
Our clients range from students to grandparents. We have people in their twenties coming in for their first proper colour consultation and people in their seventies coming in for a cut they have never quite been able to get right anywhere else. The common thread is not age. It is that they want to understand their hair and leave feeling better than when they arrived.
A selection of results from across our client base at NOCO Hair Bristol.
The question behind the question
When someone asks if they are too old for our salon, what they are usually really asking is: will I feel welcome here? Will someone take my hair seriously? Will I leave feeling like myself, or will I leave with something that does not suit me?
The answer to all of those is yes, yes and no. We take every client seriously regardless of age. The consultation is the same whether you are twenty-five or seventy-five. We diagnose before we design. We listen before we cut. And we do not hand you a style that works for someone else and hope for the best.
We always say clients arrive in a taxi and leave in a limo. That idea — of taking someone somewhere better than where they started — has been at the heart of NOCO from the beginning. So when BBC’s Interior Design Masters came calling and asked to transform our salon on Whiteladies Road, eventually saying yes felt right. Getting to that yes was the harder part.
The road to yes
We opened NOCO Hair in 2018. Within ten months, we won Best New Independent Salon in the UK at the British Hairdressing Business Awards. Ten months. It felt like the beginning of something significant.
Three months later, lockdown hit. What followed was one of the hardest periods of our business life. No revenue, an uncertain future, and a team we were determined to protect. We came through it, but it took everything we had.
The designer
Being part of the semi-final meant the standard was high. We found out we were working with Jack Kinsey, a Fine Art graduate who had produced some of the most memorable spaces in the series — a stunning 1930s beach hut for the NHS, a maximalist Scottish hotel room. We were in good hands.
Noel and Corey with Jack Kinsey at the start of the process.
The brief — and what Jack did with it
The conversation Jack had with us at the start was not dissimilar to the conversation we have with every client. He sat down and asked what we wanted the experience to feel like. What was the client journey? What did we want people to feel when they walked in?
We had one word: Scandi. That was genuinely all I knew about interior design. We wanted something clean, calm, natural. Something that felt Zen inside a bustling salon.
Jack took that brief and went somewhere more interesting. He combined the Scandinavian influence with a Japanese aesthetic and called it Japandi. Not what we were expecting. Completely right.
The result
Over two days, Jack and a team of builders and decorators transformed every part of the salon, with particular focus on the Welcome Area and the Relaxation Zone. The tradespeople were exceptional. They stayed behind for four additional days after filming to make the salon client-ready before it was TV-ready.
What they left us with: yellows, navy and burnt orange introduced throughout. Live plants bringing the space to life. Rattan lamps and a sunset-coloured mural in the welcome area. An abstract mountain effect at the entrance. And in the Relaxation Zone — a ceiling-to-wall bamboo and tree mural that transforms the wash area into something genuinely meditative.
The salon after the Japandi transformation. Left: the new colour palette throughout. Right: the welcome area with the sunset mural.
The reception and the Relaxation Zone. The bamboo ceiling mural is genuinely something to experience in person.
The judges and the reaction
The judges were Michelle Ogundehin and Mary Portas. Mary awarded Jack first place in the grand finale for a design she called upmarket and chic. The social response when the episode aired was immediate.
With Alan Carr during filming. Not a bad day at the office.
What it means now
The episode was delayed three months by the Qatar World Cup. We took a punt, sat on it, and waited. When it aired, it was everything. The salon today is essentially the same as Jack left it. We have made some small adjustments, but the core of what he created is still there every day.
More than the design, what the experience gave us was a clearer sense of what NOCO stands for. The brief Jack responded to was the same brief we give every client: tell me what you want it to feel like. He heard Scandi and made Japandi. We hear one thing and design something better. That is the job.
Are you considering changing your hair colour but unsure which service to choose? We understand that choosing the right colour service can be a tough decision, which is why we’re here to help.
Here at NOCO, we offer a range of colour services including root touch ups, all over colours, white hair coverage and blending, balayage (top up, classic & transformation), highlights (partial, half, full & super full), scalp bleach, colour correction, creative colour, toners and our signature soft blend.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the benefits of each service and provide tips for selecting the right one based on your hair type, lifestyle, and maintenance preferences. By the end of this post, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision about a hair colour that suits you. Let’s get started!
Balayage
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance hair colour option, balayage might be the perfect choice for you. Balayage is a French word that means “to sweep,” and this hair colouring technique involves painting the hair with a sweeping motion to create a sun-kissed, subtle effect.
Balayage is a hair colouring technique that has gained popularity in recent years and for good reason. One of the main benefits of balayage is its versatility – it can be tailored to suit different hair types, lengths, and skin tones. Whether you’re looking for a subtle change or a more dramatic transformation, balayage can deliver the perfect result.
Another advantage of balayage is that it’s easy to care for. Unlike other colouring techniques like classic foils or all-over colour, balayage requires less frequent touch-ups. Balayage generally is blended up towards the root meaning it grows out more naturally, which means you can enjoy the results for longer without worrying about unsightly roots or harsh lines.
Balayage can also add dimension and depth to the hair without looking too over-the-top. It can be used to create a range of effects, from sun-kissed highlights to more dramatic, high-contrast looks. Balayage is also a great option for someone who wants to experiment with dyeing their hair without committing to a full head of colour.
We have 3 service options for balayage. Along with a classic balayage, we also offer a “Balayage Top Up” which is a 1-hour lightning session to concentrate on applying the ribbons of colour where you need them, often brightening around the face. As well as this, we offer a “Balayage Transformation” service which is an extended appointment for more dramatic changes to your colour.
Highlights
If you’re looking for a way to add dimension and brightness to your hair, or achieve a lighter look overall, highlights could be the perfect way to achieve your hair goals.
Highlights are a popular colouring technique that involves lightening certain sections of the hair to create contrast and depth or achieve maximum lightness. We offer 4 highlighting services: partial, half, full and super full.
Partial Highlights:
Partial highlights involve lightening only specific sections of the hair, typically around the face, along the parting, and at the crown.
This technique is great for someone who wants a subtle change, to add some face framing, to top up between full highlighting appointments, and for shorter hair where a scattering of highlights through the top will work better to complement their haircut. A partial highlight can also be distributed throughout the entire head to add minimal lightness throughout the hair.
Half Head of Highlights:
A half head of highlights is generally the top half of the head from ear to ear. This is a common service to top up colour in between full highlight appointments. It’s also a good option if you only want to see lightness through the top of your hair. As with a partial highlight, a “half head” can be distributed throughout the hair for a more balanced look.
Full Highlights:
Full highlights cover the whole head. This is best suited for someone who wants to achieve a lighter overall look.
Super Full Highlights:
A super full highlight still covers the whole head, but we put many more foils in to create maximum lightness and a more dramatic transformation.
One of the key benefits of highlights is that they can add dimension and brightness to the hair without requiring complete coverage. This makes them a great option for someone who wants a change but isn’t ready to commit to a major transformation. Plus, highlights can be customised to suit different hair types and skin tones, so they’re a versatile option for many people.
In addition, highlights can help to create the illusion of volume and thickness in the hair. This is especially true for fine or thinning hair, as highlights can add texture and depth.
With all highlighting services, we have the option to add colour in between the foils. This is great if you want to change your natural hair colour in between the highlights, cover or camouflage greys, blend away harsh demarcation lines from exiting colour, or add depth back into your hair.
Highlights for Grey Hair
Highlights for grey hair are a specialised colouring technique that involves adding highlights to grey hair to create a blended, effect that helps to mask the appearance of grey hair.
One of the key benefits of highlights for grey hair is that they can help to blend grey hair with natural hair colour, creating a more even, cohesive look. By adding highlights, the grey hair can be seamlessly blended with the natural hair colour for a more flattering look. It can also help to create a softer transition if you are looking to embrace your natural colour as it becomes greyer.
Another benefit of highlights for grey hair is that they can be a low-maintenance way to manage grey hair. Rather than having to touch up your roots every few weeks, highlights can be strategically placed to help mask the appearance of grey hair and create a more natural look.
At NOCO Hair we have a range of colour products. Our most popular for grey hair blending is Dialight which is an acidic colour so that we can add depth back into your hair where needed without affecting your natural hair colour. This is a great option if your natural hair is more “salt & pepper” as we can blend the darker areas of your hair between the highlights.
This technique can deliver a glamorous look that will leave you feeling confident and refreshed.
Toner & Soft Blend
Toner is a colouring service used to neutralise the tone of the hair. It can also be used to darken previously lightened hair to create a more vibrant, healthy-looking result.
It differs from other colour services as a toner is not designed to change your natural hair colour. It is typically used after the hair has been lightened, to help neutralise any brassy or yellow tones that may have appeared during the lightening process. Toners can also be used to add warmth to the hair such as copper and red. They can also be used to create a temporary creative colour such as rose gold, pink, lilac, etc.
Toners are a great way to top up your colour in between full colour appointments. If you’ve recently lightened your hair and notice that it has faded to a brassy or yellow tone, a toner can be used to help neutralise these tones and create a more neutral / ash result.
Likewise, if your copper or brunette colour has faded and you wish to refresh it, a gloss toner is an easy, time efficient and affordable way to do this. Adding a toner to your haircut can refresh your colour and add shine.
This can be especially important for someone who wants to achieve a specific hair colour or look, as unwanted tones can detract from the overall result. For high maintenance colours such as ash blonde and vivid reds, regular toners are a must to keep the colour looking at its best.
Our Signature Soft Blend is a toning technique where a darker shade, more similar to your natural colour, is applied to the root area and melted into the target shade. This is a great way to blend highlights with your natural hair colour, giving a really soft transition as your natural colour grows through.
Scalp Bleach
Along with our other colour services, our salon also offers scalp bleaching. While this service may not be for everyone, it can be a great option for those looking to make a bold statement with their hair.
Scalp bleach is a service where pre lightener is applied globally to your hair, either root to ends or just on the regrowth depending on existing colour.
Who it’s good for…
Scalp bleach can be a good option for shorter styles that is too short to place foils to achieve a lighter look overall. It can alternatively be used to create a canvas for more creative colour work.
It’s advised that this service is maintained at the salon every 6 weeks to avoid “banding”, which can occur as the hair becomes keratinised as it grows from the scalp.
Even more than other colour services, the longer-term results of scalp bleaching depend on maintaining high quality haircare at home, so make sure to consider this before booking.
Who it’s not suitable for…
Scalp Bleaching is the highest maintenance colour service as the demarcation line can be quite harsh, especially for darker bases.
If your hair is particularly fine or delicate this may be too harsh for your hair to handle, so we do not recommend this service for those with these hair types.
How to Select the Right Colour Service for You
Now that you know more about the colour services available here at NOCO, you may be wondering how to choose the right one for you.
Here are our tips to help you make the right decision:
- Consider your hair type: Some colour services may work better on certain hair types than others. For example, if you have fine or curly hair, balayage or partial highlights may be the best option for you as they can help to create the illusion of more volume and depth.
- Think about your lifestyle: Are you someone who likes to change up your hair colour frequently, or are you looking for a low-maintenance option? Balayage or highlights with a soft blend may be a good choice for someone who wants a low-maintenance colour option, while someone who likes to change their hair frequently may prefer full highlights and a creative toner.
- Factor in your maintenance needs: Some colour services require more maintenance than others. Balayage highlights for grey hair and highlight with a soft blend, typically require less maintenance than full highlights, all over colours, or scalp bleach. This is because they grow out more naturally and don’t create an obvious line of demarcation between new and old growth.
Ultimately, the best way to select the right colour service for you is to schedule a colour consultation with one of our expert stylists. Colour consultations are complimentary and recommended for all new colour clients.
During your consultation, we can discuss your hair goals, preferences, suitability, and lifestyle, and recommend the colour service that will work best for you. We can also answer any questions you may have about the process and help you to achieve the beautiful, results you desire.
Discover Your Perfect Colour Service
Choosing the right colour service can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By considering your hair type, lifestyle, and maintenance needs, you can select a service that will make you feel confident and beautiful. Whether you opt for balayage, highlights, highlights for grey hair, or toner, each service has its unique benefits and can help you achieve the look you desire.
Here at NOCO, our team of colour experts are ready and raring to bring your dream colour to life. So, don’t be afraid to book an appointment and take the first step towards achieving your dream hair colour. Get in contact today, we look forward to helping you transform your locks and unleash your inner confidence!
Are you ready to spice up your hair game with some dimension and texture? Look no further than balayage hair! This popular hair colouring technique has been taking the beauty world by storm with its natural-looking highlights and low-maintenance upkeep.
But once you’ve got your gorgeous balayage locks, what’s next? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some fun and easy styling ideas to take your hair to the next level. Get ready to rock your sun-kissed strands with confidence!
Whether you’re looking for hair ideas for your blonde balayage or deciding if a caramel blonde balayage is right for you, this blog post will provide you with the knowledge and inspiration you need to rock your balayage hair. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of balayage hair styling!
Understanding Balayage Hair
Balayage is a French word that means “sweeping” or “painting”. In the context of hair colouring, balayage is a technique that involves hand-painting highlights onto the hair to create a natural, graduated effect.
Foil highlights, although known for creating a more uniform look, can still provide a beautiful and eye-catching result. However, if you’re looking for a softer and more natural look that mimics the way hair naturally lightens in the sun, then balayage might be the perfect choice for you!
One of the key benefits of balayage is that it can add dimension and texture to hair. By using a hand-painting technique, hair colourists can create a range of tones and hues that blend seamlessly together, creating a multi-dimensional effect. This can make hair look fuller and more voluminous, and can also help to hide grey hairs or regrowth.
Another benefit of balayage is that it can work on different hair types, including blonde, brown, and dark hair. Balayage can be adapted to suit different styles and lengths and can be used to create a variety of effects, from subtle and natural-looking highlights to bold and dramatic colour contrasts. Balayage can also be customised based on skin tone and natural hair colour, making it a versatile choice for anyone looking to enhance their hair.
Styling Balayage Hair
Now that you understand what balayage is and how it can work on different hair types, let’s talk about how to style balayage hair. Balayage hair can be styled in a variety of ways, from choppy bobs to loose waves. Here are some hair styling ideas to help you make the most of your balayage hair:
Choppy Bobs
A choppy bob is a great way to show off your balayage hair. The uneven layers and textured ends can add depth and dimension to your hair, while the bob length can help to frame your face and accentuate your features.
Face-Framing Layers
Face-framing layers can help to highlight your balayage hair and draw attention to your face. By adding layers around your face, you can create a soft, natural-looking effect that can enhance your overall appearance.
Loose Waves
Loose waves are a great way to showcase the different tones and hues in your balayage hair. Whether you have blonde balayage or chocolate brown balayage, these waves can add volume and movement to your hair, creating a soft, romantic look.
Braids
Braids can be a fun and playful way to style your balayage hair. Try a loose, messy braid to showcase your colour and add some texture. Alternatively, you can create a braided updo for a more formal look.
Half-Up Half-Down
A half-up half-down style is a great option for those who want to showcase their balayage hair while keeping their hair out of their face. To really make this style pop, you can add some volume to the crown of your head by teasing the hair before pulling it back.
When it comes to maintaining your balayage hair, it’s important to use the right hair products. Shampoos and conditioners that are formulated for colour-treated hair can help to keep your hair looking vibrant and healthy. You may also want to use a colour-enhancing treatment or gloss to keep your balayage hair looking fresh and shiny.
Finally, when styling different hair types with balayage, it’s important to consider the natural hair colour and skin tone. For example, if you have dark hair, you may want to opt for a caramel blonde balayage. If you have light hair, you may want to choose a darker base colour to create a more dramatic effect. By customising your balayage to suit your hair type and skin tone, you can create a look that’s uniquely yours.
Tips for Styling Different Hair Types with Balayage
Blonde Balayage: Blonde balayage hair looks great when styled in loose waves or with a messy bun. To keep your blonde balayage looking vibrant, use a purple shampoo to prevent brassy tones.
Chocolate Brown Balayage: Chocolate brown balayage hair can be styled in a sleek, straight look or with bouncy curls. To add some volume to your hair, use a volumising mousse or spray.
Caramel Blonde Balayage: Caramel blonde balayage hair looks great when styled in beachy waves or with a braided updo. To keep your caramel blonde balayage looking shiny and healthy, use a leave-in conditioner to protect your hair from heat damage.
Benefits of Balayage Hair Colouring Technique
Balayage hair colouring technique has gained immense popularity over the years for several reasons. Let’s take a look at some of its benefits:
Natural Look: Balayage involves the selection of specific strands of hair and blending them with the natural base. The result is a soft and natural-looking hair colour that is different from traditional foil highlights that have obvious lines of demarcation.
Low-Maintenance: Balayage is a low-maintenance technique that allows for more time between appointments. The lightened strokes are painted softly, leaving no trace of harsh or blunt lines or obvious regrowth.
Less Damage: The balayage technique does not involve saturating the entire head of hair in bleach, as is the case with the double process. Therefore, less bleach is used, resulting in a lighter look with significantly less damage to your hair.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Beauty of Balayage
In summary, balayage is a versatile hair colouring technique that adds dimension and texture to different hair types. It looks more natural than traditional foil highlights and requires less maintenance, making it a great option for those who want to experiment with new hair colours without committing to frequent touch-ups.
We hope this article has given you some inspiration and ideas for how to style your beautiful balayage hair. Don’t be afraid to try out different styling techniques, such as choppy bobs, face-framing layers, and loose waves, to showcase your unique and stunning hair. And if you’re looking to get your own balayage hair done, our team of expert stylists at NOCO would be thrilled to help you achieve the perfect look. Book your appointment with us today and let us help you unleash your inner balayage goddess!
Choosing a hair colour that actually suits you is not about following trends. It is about understanding two things: your natural base colour and your eye colour. Once you know those, the right direction becomes much clearer and the wrong ones are easy to avoid.
We use a simple framework at NOCO to have this conversation with clients. It cuts through the noise and gets us to the right answer quickly. Are you a blender or a contrastor?
Blenders and contrastors
These are the two natural colour types we work with. Understanding which one you are is the starting point for every colour conversation.
Why eye colour matters more than people think
Eye colour is one of the most reliable indicators of what will work on your hair. Light eyes create natural contrast against darker features. That contrast gives the face a lift and means the hair can carry lighter tones without looking flat or washed out.
I went grey at around fifteen years old. Dark natural base, light eyes. For years I coloured my hair. But when I eventually had more salt than pepper, something clicked. The light eyes balanced the lighter hair. It worked because the contrast was natural, not forced. That is exactly what we are looking for when we sit down with a client.
Natural balayage at NOCO Hair Bristol. Colour placed to work with, not against, the client’s natural base.
What happens when you push too far
When a blender, someone with dark hair and dark eyes, goes dramatically lighter, the result tends to look disconnected. The hair and the face stop speaking to each other. The colour draws attention to itself rather than enhancing the person wearing it.
The way around this, if a client with a darker base wants lighter tones, is to keep some depth around the hairline and face. Darker pieces framing the face maintain the natural connection between the hair colour and the person’s features. Lighter pieces can then come through the lengths and ends without the whole result looking wrong.
The hair colour level scale
Hair colour is measured on a scale of 1 to 10. Level 1 is the deepest black. Level 10 is the lightest blonde. Understanding where you naturally sit on this scale, and how far a colour direction moves from that point, is the foundation of every colour decision we make.
Real colour results at NOCO
Every result below started with understanding the client’s natural base and eye colour first. The colour was designed to work with their colouring, not against it.
What we look at in a consultation
Before we recommend any colour direction, we assess your natural base shade, your eye colour, your skin tone and your colour history. We look at what your hair can safely achieve and what would actually suit you rather than just what is popular right now.
The consultation is where colour goes right. Skipping it is where colour goes wrong. A colour that suits someone else’s colouring is not automatically right for yours. The diagnosis has to come before the design.
How often you should get your hair cut depends on your hair length, texture, how much heat or chemical processing it goes through, and what you are trying to achieve. For most people, somewhere between every six and twelve weeks is the right range, but the right answer for you sits within that depending on your specific situation.
The most important reason to keep up with regular cuts is not style. It is health. Split ends left unchecked travel up the hair shaft, causing frizz, breakage and dullness that no product can fully reverse.
Why haircut timing matters
Hair grows roughly half an inch a month. For short or layered styles, that growth quickly changes the shape and balance of the cut. For longer hair, the ends are the oldest and most vulnerable part of the hair shaft, and they accumulate damage over time from heat, styling and environmental exposure.
A regular cut removes that damage before it spreads. It also keeps your style looking intentional rather than grown out.
How often by hair type and length
Precision cuts maintained regularly always look intentional.
What about fringes?
Most people trim their fringe roughly every four weeks, or whenever it reaches a length that bothers them. Because the fringe sits directly in the line of sight, it is easier to spot when it needs attention than the ends of the rest of your hair. Many clients manage this themselves between appointments, which is perfectly fine with the right scissors and a steady hand.
What if you are growing your hair out?
Trimming while growing your hair is not counterproductive. It feels that way, but leaving split ends to travel up the shaft costs you more length than the trim does. Even when growing, having a small amount taken off every three months keeps the ends healthy and means the length you are growing is retained rather than breaking off.
Ask your stylist specifically to maintain the length while removing damage. A good stylist will take the minimum necessary to keep the ends healthy without sacrificing length unnecessarily.
A precise cut maintained regularly always looks intentional.
For most women, your wedding day will be one of the most important days of your life. Whether you have been planning your big day since you were a little girl or have been planning for a few months, everyone deserves to feel like a queen on their big day!
Wedding planning can be a very stressful and time-consuming job. In the whirlwind of venues, buffets, and guest lists, tasks like choosing your hairstyle can be one of the last things on your agenda.
With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. But look no further, in this post we will go through everything you need to know when choosing a hairstyle for your wedding day.
Ways to help choose your hairstyle
Choosing a hairdo for your big day is almost as important as the dress. Finding a hairstyle that goes with your dress and wedding aesthetic whilst ensuring your chosen do matches your personality can be a difficult task and knowing where to start can be challenging. Here are a few ideas to figure out the best style for you!
Inspiration board
A good idea to kickstart your hairdo ideas is by creating an inspiration board. Simply going on Pinterest and starting a wedding hairstyle board will help inspire you and give you different ideas for any styles you might like.
Hair trial
On your big day you want to ensure everything runs smoothly, and the last thing you want is your hair not going to plan at the last minute. To avoid this happening, book a hair trial before your wedding day. Going through possible looks with your hairdresser will give you peace of mind knowing that your style is exactly how you want it.
Be sure to turn up to your hair trial as prepared as possible, have photos of your dress, accessories, and your Pinterest inspiration ready. This will help your stylist achieve the perfect hair for you.
The Dress!
The star of the show… Your wedding dress is a great place to start when choosing your hairstyle. Looking at how the model styled the dress and the editorial photos, will help spark inspiration for what suits your dress.
For example, having a dress with a detailed back, it is a good idea to focus on updos to show the back off. If it is a dress with a high neckline you will benefit from high updos that will elongate the neck. Strapless dresses best suit long luscious locks falling over the shoulder. Research the different hairstyles best suited to your dress.
Think about the Veil
If you have a veil or a headpiece it is important to factor these in when deciding your chosen hairstyle. Ensure the style you pick can work with your chosen headpiece.
Just do you
The best advice for your big day is to just do you! People look the best when they feel the best, choosing a style you don’t feel yourself in can make you feel unconfident for your special day. Listen to your gut and go with whatever feels natural for you.
Types of wedding hairstyles
Once you have some inspiration for your wedding hairstyle, picking the actual do can feel overwhelming due to the never-ending list of possible hairstyles for your big day! However, here are a few of the most popular hairstyles to think about.
Updos
When choosing a hairstyle, most brides will look into updos due to the vast amount of variations available. Almost every updo can be adjusted to fit almost any face shape, not to mention you can get creative with it!
Some of the different options for updos could be:
- Sleek bun
- Messy bun
- Braids and twists
- Ponytail
- Chignon / low bun
- Fishtail braid
If your wedding is taking place in those hot summer months, an updo may be your best friend. Having an updo will keep your hair off your neck helping you stay cool, as well as it being a sure way to stop the frizz!
Down styles
Simple down dos are very popular for brides. Most say wearing your hair down gives the most confidence as it feels the most natural.
Some styles to think about for a down do could be:
- Sleek and straight
- Bouncy curls
- Beachy waves
- Side swept
- Polished blowout
- Pin up
Down dos can look effortlessly romantic as well as looking gorgeous with or without a veil.
Keep it natural
Natural hairstyles are just as versatile as any other wedding hairdo. Having more natural texture to the hair can create beautiful updos, down dos, half ups, and half downs.
A few natural ideas could be:
- Floral fro
- Braids
- Natural curls
- Messy bun
- Chignon
- Top knot
- Deep side part
Curls
Curls are a very popular and versatile hairstyle for brides. With many different curls to choose from they often draw brides in.
A few different ways to style your curls could be:
- Big, Bouncy curls
- Tight ringlets
- Pin curls
- Curly loose bun
- Half up half down
- Messy waves
- Curly ponytail
- Loose waves
- Soft waves
Half-up, Half- down
If you are stuck between that updo or letting your luscious locks flow, a half-up, half-down look could be for you. Have the top section tied into a bun or a ponytail which then leaves you with plenty of unrestrained tresses to style how you like.
Having a half-up half-down do, gives you the safety of having your hair down whilst also pinning back the hair from your face.
Hair accessories
Sometimes a simple braid or a chignon isn’t enough, why not go the extra mile on your special day and add a hair accessory. There are many hair accessories available. From hair pins to flower crowns, accessories can truly tie your bridal look together.
Do your wedding in style
It is important for everything to run smoothly for your big day, don’t let your hair get you down! Put your trust in us, here at NOCO, we have many services available to get you feeling and looking your best for your special day.