Why Word of Mouth Isn’t Always the Best Way to Find Your Next Hairstylist (And What to Do Instead)
Why Word of Mouth Isn’t Always the Best Way to Find Your Next Hairstylist (And What to Do Instead)
Okay, so your friend swears by her stylist. “She’s amazing,” she says. “You have to go to her.” You smile, nod, maybe even book the appointment… and then walk out wondering how your face somehow ended up under someone else’s bangs.
We’ve all been there.
Word of mouth can be helpful, sure—but it’s not always the golden ticket when it comes to finding the right stylist for you. Because your hair? It’s personal. Like, soulmate-level personal. Here’s why leaning solely on recs might lead you astray—and better ways to find the stylist who’s actually your perfect match.
We All Like Different Things
Let’s Talk Taste
What your bestie considers a hair masterpiece might make you want to wear a hat for a week. And that’s not because she’s wrong—it’s because style is so subjective.
Her dream stylist might be a wizard with edgy, asymmetrical cuts, while you’re team soft layers and timeless chic.
Her 10/10 experience is filtered through her own preferences, her own vibe, her own everything—not yours.
It’s like ordering your friend’s favorite coffee and realizing… you hate oat milk and cinnamon syrup.
And Our Hair Isn’t the Same
Even if you love your friend’s look, your hair might not cooperate the same way.
A stylist who slays curls might not have the same finesse with fine, pin-straight strands.
If you’ve got damage, color-treated hair, or thinning spots, you need someone with those very specific skills.
It’s not about who's “good” or “bad”—it’s about what works for you.
A Few Opinions Don’t Tell the Whole Story
Small Circle, Small Data
When you rely on word of mouth, you’re hearing from a pretty tiny sample size.
A couple glowing reviews don’t guarantee you’ll get the same results.
And a not-so-great experience? It might’ve just been an off day (we all have them).
It’s like judging a whole Netflix series based on the first five minutes of one episode your friend watched while multitasking.
Missing the Good Stuff
Most word-of-mouth recs don’t give you the full download.
Does the stylist do dry cuts? Use clean beauty products? Know their way around color correction?
What’s the salon vibe? Chill and cozy or high-energy glam?
You won’t know unless you ask 100 follow-up questions—and let’s be real, who’s doing all that?
Bias Is Real (Even When It’s Well-Meaning)
“You Have to See My Girl” Energy
Sometimes, the hype isn’t even about the hair.
Your friend might be close with the stylist and want to show support.
Or maybe they get the VIP treatment you wouldn’t necessarily get as a new client.
It’s sweet, but it doesn’t always translate to your experience.
Expectations Can Clash
What’s “amazing service” to one person might be a little “meh” to another.
Your friend’s okay with waiting 20 minutes past her appointment time. You’re not.
She loves chatty stylists. You’d rather vibe in peace with a podcast.
We all have different definitions of a great salon experience. And that’s totally valid.
So… What Should You Do Instead?
Read the Reviews (But Really Read Them)
Dive into Google, Yelp, or even salon-specific platforms. But go past the stars.
Look for detailed reviews that talk about technique, vibe, and results.
Bonus points for photos and mentions of things you care about—like curly hair, balayage, or color correction.
Book a Consultation
Think of it like a first date for your hair.
Talk through your goals and hair history.
Get a feel for the stylist’s communication, attention to detail, and energy.
It’s low-stakes but super revealing.
Search by Specialty (and Brand)
You wouldn’t go to a general doctor for a skin concern—you’d see a dermatologist. Same idea here.
Look for stylists who specialize in your needs, whether that’s blonding, extensions, or natural textures.
Some haircare brands list certified pros who are trained in their products and techniques—check their sites!
Instagram Is Your Friend
Stylists are visual artists. And their social media? It’s basically their portfolio.
Scroll through their work. Does their style align with yours?
Do you see consistency and versatility? Real client photos? Transformation shots?
That grid tells you so much.
TL;DR: Word of Mouth Is Cute, But You Deserve More
We love a good rec from a friend—but your hair deserves more than “she’s nice and I liked her.” It deserves intention. Research. And a stylist who really sees you.
So go beyond the buzz. Read the reviews, book the consult, stalk the Insta. And when you’re ready to meet your match? Bob & Pixie is here to help you find a stylist who checks every single box—on your terms.
Because when your hair feels right, everything feels right.
