by Elizabeth Crane

Created on: August 28, 2009

Your hair defines your look and plays a large part in people's first impression of you. This crowning glory tells a great deal about your character. First appearances can tell people whether you are conservative, daring, meticulous, or chaotic.

In essence your haircut depends on your hair stylist. Even if you bring in a photo of the exact style you want the fact is your hair stylist might not even come close. Choosing a hair stylist is a daunting task. We have all tried numerous times till we find the ideal match for our personal hair needs. Discovering the right hair stylist requires some investigation, searching and sometimes even trial by error. Let's break it down to a few different ways to find the perfect hair stylist for that perfect hair cut.

Investigate on-line. Do a simple Google search. For example, try googleing "St. Louis hair stylist". Look for a salon that has client reviews in Yelp, Kudzu or Citysearch. You can tell a lot by what others say about their experience with a particular salon and particular stylist. You'll probably see good and bad reviews so take them all with a grain of salt and look for someone or somewhere that appears to suit your needs. These personal assessments will give you the clues you need to make a choice that will meet your expectations.

Go people watching at the mall. Take a seat, relax and look for that person with a hairstyle you love. Stop them and tell them you love their hair and wonder who cuts it. Don't be shy. The person will more than likely be thrilled and feel complimented that you noticed their fabulous haircut. It's a surefire way to get some stylists names to start your journey to the perfect haircut.

Go to a salon and check out the stylists. If you are young and hip and the stylists have old-fashioned hair like your grandmother wears, run like the wind. This is not the place for you. Presentation speaks volumes. Look for someone whose tastes are similar to yours. Avoid disaster by choosing someone like you with a similar style and fashion sense. Most reputable hair stylists will give you a free consultation to analyze and determine who you are, what you want and how to get it.

Let's not put this completely on the shoulders of the hair stylist. If you have thin, straight hair and want a hair cut like Sarah Jessica Parker, don't expect your hair stylist to perform a miracle. Be realistic and work with what you have to get the look that is perfect for you. Consider ease of styling, product use, hair type, facial structure and coloring.

Your new, perfect haircut and crowning glory will give you confidence, poise and self-assurance. Your first impression will wow any new acquaintances and you just might make a new and improved impression on your friends, family and business associates. It's easier than you think; now go out there and define yourself with that perfect haircut.

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