Hairbrained conversations

Hair brained conversations with Elena Lavagni

Earlier last month Elena Lavagni, co-owner of London based Salon Neville Hair and Beauty and “service provider” to the world's one and only Amazon Salon featured on Gordon Miller's podcast Hairbrained conversations. In this episode Elena makes a strong case for proactive evolution of how salons think about business and technology to remain competitive in a fast-changing world – and shares learnings from her experience working with Amazon and with her own Neville team over the course of the pandemic.

Spring Colour Collection

Spring Colour Collection

Spring has sprung at Neville Hair & Beauty

Philip Martin’s colour ambassador Domenico Casella unveils three new colour looks created at Belgravia’s flagship salon

Hailing from Florence, Domenico Casella has brought over his amazing Italian flair to the world of colour. Domenico, who has worked in the industry for almost 15 years, has pioneered his “Hybrid Hair” also known as Shatush; a free hand technique exclusive to Neville and Philip Martin’s using only a cone and his hands; which colours only the hair which would naturally be ‘kissed’ by the sun. Similar to balayage, Shatush is extremely soft and creates the subtlest results. Domenico has created the perfect colour service for those wishing to add dimension to their hair.

With a passion for organic colouring techniques and organic treatments for hair care, Domenico only uses the best quality products, which is why he has partnered with Philip Martin’s to be one of their Global Colour ambassadors and create these three new Spring Colour looks exclusive to Neville Hair & Beauty, available now. Casella says of the new looks; “the inspiration of the looks has arrived after a long research about the trends of the moments, the best trends of the past, and trying to predict what people will like and what our Clients would wear, as a classy, modern and effortless look.”

Peach Bellini:

Fashionable, more youthful but very sophisticated, Peach Bellini celebrates individuality and self-expression. The look combines the updated shag haircut of the 70’s with a Peach coloured rinse for a new and updated shade of blonde. To achieve the look Domenico starts by using his free hand Shatush technique, adding dimension and subtle sun-kissed colour, but the results are softer and more subtle. The foil-free shatush technique is used to add dimension to the hair and frame with a brighter and lighter colour. After the hair has lifted, Domenico washes the hair before applying the new pigment by Philip Martin’s called Colour Split. This is left on for ten minutes before being rinsed in cold water for extra shine. The look is styled to appear lived in.

Classic Renaissance:

The classic Renaissance look exclusive to Neville Hair and Beauty developed by Domenico Casella for Philip Martin’s is a luxurious copper tone. The hue frequently found in nature represents the need to take a more natural approach to beauty just like the natural henna colour used to achieve this look. To create the copper tone Domenico starts by face framing the face using his foil free Shatush technique. After a good rinse and shampoo, he applies the copper coloured Colour Split to the roots for added depth. He then without rinsing, applies a mixture of different Philip Martin’s Henna tones to the roots, lengths and ends for 30 minutes. Henna is a natural colour service that tones, purifies, moisturizes, volumizes and offers the best re-pigmentation to faded and brittle hair. The treatment, created with dyeing herbs based on Lawsonia Inermis (in nature Intense Copper) and other herbal blends, allows the creation of a wide range of reflections.

Money piece:

The low-key Money Piece look by Domenico Casella for Philip Martin’s, which was inspired by Elena Lavagni, the owner of Neville Hair and Beauty, consists in very strategically placed colour that creates a soft pop at the front. Designed for international women on the go who are seeking a refined, comfortable and manageable look it was achieved by weaving in highlights delicately around the face to frame your facial features, using the foil free Shatush technique. Domenico then tones the hair with Philip Martin’s new pigment Colour slide and glosses the look with Henna for a vibrant, natural looking and high shine effect.

Protective Hairstyles

Protective Hairstyles

Lockdown generated a worldwide awakening when it comes to hair health and that is a general consensus for all hair types. But while majority of treatments, cuts and haircare advice are targeted to hair type 1, 2 and 3, less frequently is advice offered to those with type 4 hair. At Neville Hair and Beauty, we are aware of this discrepancy and have turned to textured hair specialist Kashif Bishop to get his advice on protective hairstyles, and essential part of healthy hair care for those who wish to embrace natural hair.

Protective hairstyles as the name suggests, are a range of hairstyles destined to minimise manipulation, manage length retention and keep the ends of the hair tucked away for recovery. This type of styling protects hair from daily aggressors such as sun, heat and bad weather. Wearing such hairstyles makes hair less prone to knotting and snagging on clothes or accessories but also protects the lengths and ends of the hair. Protective styling also proves beneficial for the roots and hairline, as the various styling options shift the places of tension on the scalp.

When it comes to determining which protective styling is right for you, Kash says that trial and error is unfortunately the only way to figure out the most comfortable style for you. Each protective style has its own life span and varies from style to style. Braids and twists for example could be worn between 2 weeks to a month, depending on how well the style is protected. These can be protected with either a braid spray, leave in conditioner in addition to silk scarves and pillow slips. Buns on the other hand, can be changed daily depending on how comfortable you are with styling your own hair, however this can be rather time consuming. If buns are your go-to protective style, the use of silk scrunchies or hair ties is recommended to avoid any breakage.

Kash, who also personally wears protective hairstyles, tends to prefer twists due to their low maintenance aspect. Once done you don’t really have to think about the style any longer until it’s time to change. Another favourite of his are single plaits as they are really versatile, and you can push the boat out and be creative by adding coloured extensions.

If protective hair styling is of interest to you, you should be aware that it does require some prep work to fully reap the protective benefits says Kash. It is important to ensure that your hair is not too brittle and dry but equally not drenched with product. Kash therefore recommends heading to your stylist for a consultation prior to making any big decisions. Curly hair types have a tendency of knotting so it’s very important to ensure your hair is untangled. This can be achieved by using your fingers as a rake or by using a wide tooth comb or Neville Paddle Brush. Your stylist will then be able to assess your exact curl pattern and get your hair in top shape before styling you hair in its new protective style.

Once your protective style of choice is in, Kash recommends wearing a silk scarf or turban at bedtime to avoid unwanted friction. Then during the day, you can embellish your style with gems to give it a modern edge.

For more information call us on 0207 235 3654 or Email Info@nevillehairandbeauty.net

Power Hair Cut 2021

Strength and resilience is so often shown through hair. Power hairstyles have been created through the centuries, for example the Victory Roll post World War Two. Neville Salon predict the return of the Chanel power Cut. An investment cut that shouts 'we will not be thwarted post pandemic.’

Elena Lavagni, Director of Neville says, 'Coco Chanel once said post World War 1.‘ The first world war made me, I woke up in 1919 famous’. Already the phone is off the hook at Neville Salon since yesterday’s announcement. We all deserve to look and feel fabulous after this tricky year and at Neville that is what we are all about - spoiling our clients.’

Whether you're looking for something soft and short, a choppy Pixie crop or just lifting your bob a few inches to lobe-length, lopping the lot away can feel utterly liberating – like shaking off the weight of a heavy year (we're speaking about you, 2020). This cut is everything that represents a strong spirit in a woman. The jaw defined by the chin length hair with a very blunt fringe. Super sophisticated and classy.

Both long-term converts and new-comers can benefit from something more drastic, since short cuts are as versatile as they are easy to maintain. Plus, they're easier to pull off than you'd think, once you find the right shape for you... In fact, there's nothing like pruning back layers of hair to help open up your face and make the most of your features – hello there, cheekbones.

Ahead of the hairdressers reopening, it's well worth considering all your options and getting an idea of the type of crop that could work for you. You could dip your toe in with a slightly longer length chop – like a lob, or the short (but not too-short) collar bone bob.

If you want to take it up a notch, you could take the French bob we've been eyeing up all summer for a spin. It's short, it's flirty and oozes serious style and says ‘I've invested in my hair’. What is sure is that this power cut has resurrected itself post pandemic.

Book in Dec 2nd for your Post Pandemic Power Cut

Call us on 0207 235 3654 or Email Info@nevillehairandbeauty.net

Introducing the S.O.S treatment

Introducing the S.O.S treatment

The treatment spearheaded by senior stylist Aytac Ozbay gives instant results and is suitable for all hair types.

S.O.S protects the hair, making it resistant to corrosive effects, and instantly re-structures stressed hair, making it stronger, healthier and shinier.

The Elimain® technology restores moisture and amino acids to weak, stressed or brittle hair, prevents wear during chemical procedures and repairs stressed hair from the inside out.

To start your journey to healthier hair with Aytac, click the link below:

Henna Hair Dye

Henna Hair Dye

At Neville Hair and Beauty, we have re-discovered Henna a natural powder that lifts hair and nourishes it at the same time. An organic highlighter powder derived from the native henna tree that is not only kind to hair but also kind to the environment. Sustainability becoming a focal point for the salon has meant we are continuously on the lookout for friendlier more natural products. Philip Martin’s does just that as the brand combines nature and science in innovative, patented and certified plant formulas.

Henna is packed with vitamins and nutrients and also aids scalp circulation. By using Henna, you are helping your scalp get some much-needed pampering. Research has shown that by turning to henna it will help eliminate split ends.

This organic and 100% plant-based colour is almost a semi-permanent colour, it will give a soft shade and tone to white hair, without lifting the natural base colour. The white hair, coated in henna pigment, will give subtle movement to your colour and a delicious depth without lifting the natural base colour.

The end result is micro lights. This toner works wonders on ladies gracefully going grey but desire a three-dimensional vibrant look. A 100% plant-based pigment that adds colour to the shaft of each hair, so that the hair also feels fuller. Rather than a bleach-based colour that strips and thins your hair.

We firmly believe you cannot recreate a beautiful salon colour from home so have researched the kindest ingredients that a salon can offer clients. Wellbeing, hair health has led to the new Henna Hair.

For more information call us on 0207 235 3654 or Email Info@nevillehairandbeauty.net

Face Focus

Sana - Face Focus

The change of season calls for a Face Focus as it is more important than ever to look after our skin.

To help you get underway, beauty therapist Sana creates 3 bespoke packages to get you looking and feeling your best.

Sana - Face Focus

Silk & Pure

Relax and unwind with this 90-minute well-being package. The Silk and Pure bundle boasts health benefits that are sure to prepare you for a busy, festive season. Starting with a back, neck, and shoulder massage to help relax muscles in the areas that hold the most tension using pressure tailored to your needs. The treatment is then followed with a hydro dermabrasion facial designed to deep clean, leaving your skin feeling hydrated, smooth and supple whilst providing a natural glow.

90 mins - £255

Sana - Face Focus

Rejuvenation

The Rejuvenation package combines ancient treatments with modern technology. Our highly skilled therapist can boost immunity, release tension and energise your whole body by targeting pressure on your hands and feet. By improving the circulation in your body, reflexology can help to balance your mind and rid the body of toxins. Following this massage, enjoy an oxygen facial aimed at nourishing skin and promote collagen growth using the latest technology in aesthetic treatments.

90 mins - £275

Sparkling eyes

Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or you want to take the effort out of your morning make-up routine, the Sparkling Eye package is for you. A combination of a lash lift and eyebrow shaping, this long-lasting treatment promises to brighten and define the eyes, resulting in a more youthful and awake appearance.

NB: This treatment requires a patch test.

90 mins - £135

For more information call us on 0207 235 3654 or Email Info@nevillehairandbeauty.net

Neville welcomes Body Therapist Sana

Neville Hair and Beauty Body Therapist Sana

Neville Hair and Beauty has a new talent, Body Therapist Sana who has been toning the ladies of London for 20 years. Her edge is her body layering approach and knowledge of the holistic, which she entwines with Venus Freeze and cutting edge Endospheres to perform a ‘workout’ for the skin.

Anyone suffering from quilted skin tone, skin laxity around the torso and arms, fluid retention, heavy legs, unsightly veins - these are medical conditions that we shouldn’t suffer from. Certain technologies, especially ones that suck/pull the skin, can improve patients’ cellulite but, at the same time, they aggravate any superficial vascular lesions, known as varicose veins or spider veins. With Sana’s holistic knowledge, she has created a unique combination to heal skin back to its healthiest, fittest state.

Kick starting with the warming Venus Freeze that involves radio frequency and magnetic pulses. Likened closely to a hot stone massage, it stimulates collagen and elastin fibres from inside out works on smoothing and tightening skin. Then Sana moves onto the Endsopheres. She is one of the first therapists in London to work with Endospehres.

This system is being recognised for its incredible results with Superficial venous insufficiency, which is a chronic and progressive illness that affects around 20% of Western adults. Endospheres Therapy is a treatment that uses a Compressive Micro-vibration system to improve lymphatic drainage, increase blood circulation and help restructure connective tissue.

The treatment uses a roller device composed of 55 silicon spheres that generate low-frequency mechanical vibrations and it used to improve the appearance of cellulite, skin tone and laxity as well as reduce fluid retention. It can be used on the face and the body. The most popular areas for Endospheres treatments are the thighs, buttocks and upper arms.

To polish off this incredible treatment, Sana turns to her powerful hands with her manual movement massage heightened by her Peppermint Oil to infuse sluggish skin.

Many clients are referred to Sana post-surgery, strokes, vascular problems, lymphedema and liposuction. Sana devotes her knowledge to clients' health and improving body skin tone. She has legions of clients who follow her around London and now is being flown to clients' summer holiday dwellings, so they keep the fit skin she has manually created post a Rosado filled night!

For more information call us on 0207 235 3654 or Email Info@nevillehairandbeauty.net

Endo Freeze

Endo Freeze with Sana at Neville Hair & Beauty

The Neville Beauty Floor has a new talent, Body Therapist Sana, who has been toning the ladies of London for 20 years. Her edge is her body layering approach and knowledge of the holistic, which she entwines with Venus Freeze and cutting edge Endospheres to perform a ‘workout’ for the skin.

Anyone suffering from quilted skin tone, skin laxity around the torso and arms, fluid retention, heavy legs, unsightly veins - these are medical conditions that we shouldn’t suffer from. Certain technologies, especially ones that suck/pull the skin, can improve patients’ cellulite but, they aggravate any superficial vascular lesions, known as varicose veins or spider veins. With Sana’s holistic knowledge, she has created a unique combination to heal skin back to its healthiest, fittest state.

Kick starting with the warming Venus Freeze that involves radio frequency and magnetic pulses. Likened closely to a hot stone massage, it stimulates collagen and elastin fibres from inside out, works on smoothing and tightening skin. Then Sana moves onto the Endsopheres. She is one of the first therapists in London to work with Endospehres.

This system is being recognised for its incredible results with superficial venous insufficiency, which is a chronic and progressive illness that affects around 20% of Western adults. Endospheres Therapy is a treatment that uses a Compressive Micro-vibration system to improve lymphatic drainage, increase blood circulation and help restructure connective tissue.

The treatment uses a roller device composed of 55 silicon spheres that generate low-frequency mechanical vibrations and is used to improve the appearance of cellulite, skin tone and laxity as well as reduce fluid retention. It can be used on the face and the body. The most popular areas for Endospheres treatments are the thighs, buttocks and upper arms.

To polish off this incredible treatment, Sana turns to her powerful hands with her manual movement massage heightened by her Peppermint Oil to infuse sluggish skin.

Many clients are referred to Sana post-surgery, strokes, vascular problems, lymphedema, and liposuction. Sana devotes her knowledge to the client’s health and improving body skin tone. She has legions of clients who follow her around London and now is being flown to clients' Summer holiday dwellings, so they keep the fit skin she has manually created.

For more information call us on 0207 235 3654 or Email Info@nevillehairandbeauty.net

Jack Merrick Thirlway heads the WHITE SHOW 2022

CENTRAL SAINT MARTINS – the WHITE SHOW 2022

The White Show is an annual showcase in December where each first-year fashion design student at Central Saint Martin’s creates a single look in white fabric. A greatly anticipated event of the first term, it is one of the longest running projects on BA Fashion at the college and is conceived, organised and promoted by first year students on BA Fashion Journalism & Communication. This year the theme was @theplayground_22J (experimental, sensory, surreal, playful, strange, graphical)

L’Oréal Professionnel Paris have an ongoing partnership with Central Saint Martin’s supporting creative young design talent, and this year invited hairstylist Jack Merrick-ThirlwayJ at Neville Hair & Beauty to create the hair looks and lead the @lorealproJ hair-team to style the hair for all 140 students who each modelled one look. The team included three @lorealpro ID Artists who take part in a two-year education and development program for talented hairstylists.

  • Jack Merrick-Thirlway/Neville Hair & Beauty
  • Amelia Circale/Yoke the Salon
  • Alex Anfield/Linton & Mac
  • Elisa Doherty/Sally Montague
  • Gokhan Berber/Neville Hair & Beauty
  • Phoebe Carraro/Seanhanna
  • Samantha Thacker/Mack Hairdressing
  • Stephen Campbell/Hair & Co
  • Vishali Visavadia/Georges Hairdressing

Lead stylist Jack Merrick-Thirlway shares how to get the look:
As the theme was the Playground we had a combination of some simple looks with a strong parting and gelled back at the sides to compliment more complex garments, and more abstract graphic shapes to enhance simple garments, with multiple little knots, looped ponytails and gelled tendrils.

For the simpler look, put in a strong centre parting slick back the sides using L’Oréal Professionnel Techni.Art Fix Design. For models with longer hair, spray Techni.Art Full Volume Mousse through the lengths and brush well and diffuse to keep the texture and shape. For those with natural texture, spritz with Curl Expression curl reviver and style to enhance the shape and use Curl Expression 10 in One mousse to smooth back around the face.

For the boys, we kept the strong centre parting and gelled back the hair to give a clean slightly quirky silhouette

For the more graphic updos, spritz the hair with water and put in a strong centre parting. Then spray the sides with Tecni.art Fix Design and Techni.Art Full Volume mousse through the lengths. Brush it back into a smooth ponytail and secure with elastic. Straighten the lengths and flatten using tongs, then loop the lengths around and secure with elastic so the ends are facing up, spray and tong the ends to give a spikey finish. Alternatively divide the hair into sections, brush up and secure each section with elastic and twist the length into a little knot and secure to create multiple little knots.

Shorter hair can be worn slicked back, following the contour and shape of each model’s face, with some fringe pieces pulled across the forehead.

@lorealpro @theplayground_22 @jmthair1
@bafcsm @nevillehairandbeauty #centralsaintmartins #lorealprouk