On Friday morning I set off for my weekend in Manchester with Mr MC. The first part of it involved me travelling down early to attempt a bit of a makeover session. To this end, I’d booked at David Rozman, the hairdressers in Manchester who repeatedly win national awards.

I couldn’t have looked much worse when I arrived. I’d been soaked through in the playground earlier that morning and then blow-dried by a howling gale as I made my way to the station. I’m cringing as I do this – but in the manner of all before and after features – here’s a before selfie:

100 miles for a haircut

 

Looks like it’s going to take more than a haircut!

The salon experience was great  – as you’d expect, charming people, gorgeous interiors, fab products – Pureology (a new sulphate free range by L’Oreal) – if you haven’t tried it before do – it smells amazing.

hydrate_system

I won’t go on too much about all that other than to say it was the first time for ages that I feel a stylist (Gareth) has truly listened to me and taken account of what I wanted. He also spent time talking about what would (and wouldn’t) suit my features. After an hour and a half cutting and this was the result:

Nikki Garnett

Strangely it’s very like the hairstyle I had when I first got together with Mr MC (which ironically was in Manchester because we were launching Selfridges in the Trafford Centre). So was it worth it? Well definitely for the wistful smile I got when my husband saw me. It also struck me how long it’s been since I’ve been pampered or had that level of attention paid to me. I think everyone needs it once in a while.

So, in the pic we were just heading off to see Miranda at the MEN Arena – such fun! It wasn’t the sort of thing you glam up for but I’m wearing:

  • Denim Shirt – Gap – £12.99 yes really, bought that afternoon – it’s that price in stores now but here on the website it’s £24.99
  • Metallic jumper – Mango – Winter 2013 but still available here
  • Necklace – Accessorize – Winter 2013
  • Relaxed skinny jeans – Next – £26

Next post to cover the odd thing I acquired on my full day of shopping indulgence – there are so many sales on at the moment it was hard to resist. Just giving you a quick heads up because things were disappearing fast – there are enormous half price bargains to be found at Warehouse, Gap, M&S and Jack Wills and don’t forget the Whistles Grazia 25% deal runs out tomorrow.