There are a couple of options I can see:

1. If you think she can do it, you could have this lady cut your hair in your new and funky style. This would of course require you to be extra vigilant when she cuts it the first time, and Not At All hesitant to say, ‘No, I think that’s a little too much, maybe take less off’ or whatever, or ‘No, that colour is not quite right, maybe this one?’ But unless you have a very clear idea of what you want and what colours and shapes look good on you, and lots of pictures of it, this may not work.

2. You could go to the new salon, have a proper consultation, get your hair cut once with them, and then go to your current hairdresser to keep it maintained, going back to the posh salon (I bet it’s more expensive) maybe once a year or so to have it updated a bit. Though I picked that number out of my head, so take it with a pinch of salt.

Of course, there’s always

3. Go to the posh salon, keep going to the posh salon, and only go to your current lady for the odd blow-dry as your budget allows.

Which may be the best option in the end. But it’s up to you in the end. You know her best, and you know if she could cope with a new and edgy cut which makes you look like the funky gal you are, or if you will have to make the jump to somewhere new.

Good luck!

I am catching up on past posts.

I am struggling over whether to, or how to, leave a long-time hair dresser. She is a middle-aged woman who is totally supporting herself with her business. Customers have faded away in recent years. I am the last person in my family to remain with her — out of “loyalty” and a (misplaced?) sense of compassion that she needs the business.

However, since becoming a reader of your blog, I have wanted to update my look and as part of that would love to try a haircut at a more up-to-date establishment.

HOw to communicate this to my current hair person? I don’t want to just disappear and not talk about it. I have avoided the conversation, however, and am still keeping the appts. with her.

Thanks, Jane Roeschley

That said, I have one question that has long perplexed me: how much ought one be tipping at the salon? I really have no idea what is appropriate. I usually tip about $5 on a $35 shampoo, cut and blowdry, is that enough? too much? is there a good rule of thumb for this? What about other services – a manicure for example? Help! [I tip 20% for good service and less for less-than-good service!- PB]