Beauty Bible Loves... John Frieda's Aldford Street salon

The John Frieda ‘family’, photographed by **Carly Michael** (who took all these photos)

Jo refers to John Frieda’s Aldford Street as her ‘second home’. We’ve both been fans for more than 30 years, which is one heck of a stretch in hairdressing fidelity. And last week, Jo went to the most wonderful celebration of 50 years of this Mayfair salon, which really brought home why it’s so, so special.

Not just because of the haircutting and styling – although arrayed around the room was the most incredible portfolio of ground-breaking styles created over the years by John himself. NB They could have filled the salon five times over, with the subsequent editorial from the John Frieda team, who of course also include Nicola Clarke, who – originally backed by John – has her own ‘sister’ salon on Margaret Street, mecca for some of the world’s most famous blondes, in particular. (As well as Jo, who goes there to the brilliant Caroline O’Brien, for her blonditude.)

This is a place that not only offers amazing cut and colour and styling – Jo variously has her hair done by Jake, Kevin, Kiki, Lesley and most often, nowadays, the super-talented Eugene Smith – but also, the salon puts the ‘care’ in haircare. They’re all just incredibly nice, but also, amazingly bonded as a team. It really is family. Kevin (Moss), it turns out, has worked there for 42 years! Man and boy!

Over the years, we have recommended many people to John Frieda salons for styling and colour, and many of them are now equally dedicated. Sure, it’s an investment, and more expensive than many salons. (Though less expensive than some.) But we reckon: we wear our hair every darned day, and would rather invest in that than new clothes or accessories, frankly.

We got to know John well when he was building his incredible haircare empire (now part of Kao), over the years, and are huge admirers on every count.

The salon was packed with longstanding clients and fans – and John’s whole family. His entire life must have flashed before him. There were speeches by Jordan Frieda, his successful restauranteur son, as well as John himself, and his daughters and son Jackson.

And then his ex-wife (and very good friend) Lulu got up on the podium, singing – as she is so wont to do. ‘It’s A Family Affair’, was the refrain – and honestly, we reckon every single person in that room has been humming it, ever since. Because that’s what it feels like, as a John Frieda regular.

As Lulu concluded, ‘People say to me, “Gosh, you’re very loyal, still having your hair done at John Frieda after all these years.” But it’s not just loyalty,’ she said. ‘Everyone just floats out of here.’

We really do. And we look forward to doing so, for many years to come. But meanwhile, Happy Birthday, to our lovely #fam at John Frieda!

4 Aldford Street, London W1L 2AE/020-7491 0840

johnfriedamayfair.com