Snow is falling...

Snow, snow and more snow, when will it end?! This weather has caused chaos across Edinburgh and I, for one, haven’t dared to venture out in it. But at this crucial time in preparation for the party season, we must battle on and glamourise ladies!

To add some vibrancy and cheer to your winter, why not take the plunge and opt for a bright red shade a la Rihanna on Saturday’s The X Factor, how stunning was she!? It’s such an on trend shade at the moment and really makes a statement. There is a variation and shade for all skin tones so speak to one of the Medusa team for a consultation.

Big hair is so in right now, and Medusa are offering so many beautiful gift sets and vouchers to ensure you can treat your loved ones this Christmas. The GHD Midnight Deluxe Gift Set includes the GHD styler, limited edition hairdryer, mirror, heatmat, sectioning clips and luxury travel case – everything you need to look party perfect this season. All for only £149.99.

I thought I would let you have a sneak peek of my humble Christmas wish list this year just in case anyone is feeling especially flush…

Dear Santa,

As I have been a very good French bulldog this year, please may I have:

A Wella SP Alchemy Treatment and blow dry

The Shellac two week pedicure (in rose bud please)

A GHD Midnight Deluxe Gift Set

A diamond collar.

Coco xx

I am so super excited about the wedding bells that are ringing across Britain! A royal wedding at last! William and Kate looked so happy during their official interview and Kate looked so glamorous yet sophisticated!

Her understated blue Issa dress and flawless hair, gave us a sneaky peek of what the bride might have planned for the big day. So many people have called the salon today and asked how Kate achieved those glam locks so our top stylist Hannah Crerar has put together a ‘How to’ for all you wannabe princesses.

The easiest way to achieve this look is by using TheO by Cloud 9 (£199.95 available in the Medusa Salons). TheO is an amazing, revolutionary piece of technology; these incredible heated rollers are wound into the hair whilst they are cool and actually heat up in the hair in seconds. They then cool down and set the hair into a beautiful curl. With different roller sizes available, you can create everything from a gorgeous curl to a big bouncy blow dry a la Cheryl Cole. Finish with a spritz of Wella SP Perfect Hold hairspray to ensure your style lasts but still looks soft and shiny.

Pop into your local Medusa Salon now to find out more information about Cloud 9 TheO.

I’m off to buy my hat…

Coco x

Trendspotting

I consider myself a fashionista and love to spend my weekends spotting trends and seeing who is top of the style stakes.

This week, I have just spotted Scarlett Johannsen’s new crop and I adore it! I love that she has been daring enough to lose the big blonde curls and I think the messy grunge style this gives her such an edge. The crop really frames her face and shows off her pretty features as well.

Kate Moss has also been seen with a new fringe and it’s a hit. The supermodel is always reinventing herself and this is such a lovely winter look. She has kept it messy and dishevelled to suit her boho style, which is a top tip when trying a new look. Always remember to adapt it to your own style to make sure you don’t just become a celebrity copycat.

The X Factor has taken over my Saturday nights but I must say I am not impressed with Cheryl’s new colour. The red shade is really overpowering and her hair extensions are looking really dated. I preferred her long bob and gorgeous caramel shades, however I do love a girl that is daring and I commend her for experimenting!

Must dash, I’m having my nails done at the Bread Street nail bar today. You have got to try the new Shellac nail treatment; it goes on like a polish, dries in seconds and lasts for 2 weeks! There are loads of shades to choose from but my favourite is this gorgeous Girlie Pink shade.

Coco x

Things have been so busy around the Medusa Salons lately, as well as buzzing salons Colin has just won Silver at the Wella Trendvision finals and has been in Dundee organising educational seminars and fashion shows – the whole team are so proud of him!

But I am absolutely exhausted and in need of some pampering and relaxation before my busy Christmas social calendar commences.

At this time of year it is so important to start looking after the condition of your hair and really protect it against the cold, harsh Scottish winter; central heating can really dehydrate your hair and leave it dry and frizzy – not a good look!

With all of the Christmas parties coming up, having great conditioned hair will make such a difference when going for all of those glam styles and up dos. The Medusa Salons offer a fabulously indulgent conditioning treatment called Wella SP Alchemy, and one of the super friendly team will actually match it to the needs of your own hair type to ensure it really gets to work.

The treatment only costs £15 and turns a cut and blow dry into a really pampering treat. Call one of the newly revamped salons today to make an appointment; I’ll see you there!

Coco x

Medusa Salons:

6/7 Teviot Place t:0131 225 6627

26 Bread Street t: 0131 622 7277

22 High Street, Musselburgh t: 0131 665 1199

Does you hair have the X Factor?

Hi Guys,

Thank goodness those X Factor auditions are over! I couldn't stand another Saturday night cringing at some of the awful singers!

But have you noticed the judges' hairstyles? (The girls', not Simon and Louis!). Competitive hairdressing at its best. From Cheryl's big bouncy curls to Pixie Lott's beachy waves or Nicole's sleek and sultry mane. Each week we are treated to a gorgeous, new style. Now, one thing these girls do have in common is beautiful, glossy locks but don't be fooled. Those pop starlets have as much colouring and straightening as their hair can possible handle; they do know a good conditioning treatment when they see one though.

So, start preparing you locks for the harsh Winter months and book in for a conditioning treatment now. I love Wella SP Alchemy Treatment. Your stylist will match a treatment to your unique hair type to ensure fabulous results (choose from Smoothen, Hydrate, Repair, Volumise, Color Save, Shine Define, Clear Scalp and Balance Scalp masks) and will mix with an infusion (Repair, Volumise, Color Save, Smoothen, Hydrate), giving fabulous results. Call your local Medusa Salon today and book in! Treatments cost only £15.00 so there is no excuse!

I'm off for a pampering session in the Medusa Salon today!

Coco xoxo

Celebrity Two - Tone Hair

Hi Guys

Brrrr…it isn’t half getting cold outside. It seems like the Summer is now over and it’s time to swap gladiator sandals for wellies. I am so jealous when I flick through my copy of Hello magazine and see all those celebrities sunning themselves in glamorous California.

But fear not, there is a new hair trend for Autumn which gives us all a little bit of Californication in our lives. Two – tone hair is so LA; it doesn’t look too try-hard and is very relaxed. A gradual dip dye effect looks classy yet edgy and will take you from Summer to Autumn with style.

You can be as daring as you like with this trend; from a graduating praline brown to honey blonde as seen on Drew Barrymore to vibrant rainbow colours like Lady Gaga – the world is your oyster.

Just remember to use a shampoo and conditioner that is kind to coloured hair to ensure your locks remain vibrant and healthy. My absolute favourite is the Sebastian Professional range that is totally colour safe and is suitable for all hair types. Pop into your local Medusa salon and say Coco sent you, the team will be happy to give you more information!

Coco xxx

Medusa - Edinburgh's Top Celebrity Salon

Hi Guys!

I have some super exciting news for you all!

During the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Medusa became the premier spot for celeb spotting! Celebrities from all over the world popped in to get their colour freshened up or for a quick cut! After all that hard partying, we all need a little help looking our best and the fabulous Medusa team were on hand to ensure everyone was looking glamorous.

My favourite has to be Ruby Wax, who visited the Teviot Place salon to have her vibrant signature locks coloured. She loved the buzzing salon atmosphere, and absolutely loved me - of course, who doesn't!

Check out the photo we took of Ruby and our top stylist Carol- Ann!

Coco xxx

Nicole Richie's new look...

Hi Guys!

Wow, what a transformation!

Nicole Richie has just tweeted a photo of her new style. She has chopped off her long, brown tresses and opted for a blonde, messy bob! Nicole loves to change her look and reinvent herself every few months to make sure she stays ahead of the fashion pack. I think it so important to constantly change your look, I mean who wants to see me in the same collar every week!?

I love her new style, it's so young, funky and fresh and suits her boho, hippy style.

She has inspired me to make a change, but what will it be...any suggestions?


Coco xxx

A few snaps of me...

Hi guys,

I thought it had been a little too long since I shared some posing photos with you. So, here goes. Some of you may have seen these before but you must admit, they are oh so cute.

I'm also now a bit of an Edinburgh celebrity, particularly as the city gets into the swing of the festival. This week I have been admired by so many people. Everyone loves me!

Coco xxx

Taylor Before Her Grunge Glam Days

So we all know that 'grunge glam' is fast becoming the trend to follow. However we spotted an old image of Taylor Momsen when she was younger . . not quite so smokey eyed and trashy here is she? We can't decide which style suits her best?

Hero Products

So, how's your summer going? I've been so busy helping with all the salon makeovers. Have you been in to check them out? They are looking super sleek!

We always get asked what our hero products are, so I thought I'd share with you what the hottest products are and how to recreate that A list look.

Volupt Spray – Olivia Palermo

The New York socialite may not be the sweetest person on the planet but her hair and wardrobe are to die for. Use Sebastian’s Volupt Spray to give your hair Palermo’s body and bounce.

The cushion particle technology will add volume and movement, yet leave your hair sexy and touchable. Spray onto damp hair then blow-dry with a large round barrel brush for extra body.

Taming Elixr – Kylie Minogue

This weightless smoothing cream gives control and this season’s must have – texture, while taming the frizz. Perfect to smooth and define curls and waves.

Soft curls and waves are huge right now but the unpredictable British weather makes frizz an almost daily occurrence. We all know that frizz is not cool and Sebastian's Taming Elixr is here to save the day. After washing apply a few drops through the mid lengths and ends, then blow dry or allow to dry naturally for a smoother finish with light definition and frizz control.

Craft Clay – Robert Pattinson

R-Patz. Need I say more? His brooding looks have made him an international heartthrob and his messy, bed head hairstyle remains a huge trend for guys. Craft Clay is formulated with Earth minerals to separate and give added texture with a touchable matte-finish. It’s non greasy formula makes it idea for the messy look.

Halo Mist – Katy Perry

From wacky to wonderful, Katy Perry has had a few hairstyles since she burst onto the pop scene. One thing her locks never lack is bags of shine. Her deep chocolate hair looks always full, glossy and healthy.

Sebastian’s Halo Mist is a super surface shine for your hair. Mist onto damp hair and blow-dry for a sparkling smooth finish. For even more shine, spritz a very fine mist onto your finished style.

For an appointment please call:

Bread Street - 0131 662 7277

Teviot - 0131 225 6627

Musselburgh - 0131 665 1199

or visit www.medusahair.co.uk

Image from celebritygossip

And the winner is...

Amazing success at the 2010 Medusa Fantastic Hairdresser Awards. We came, we saw, we laughed and we danced the night away.

Edinburgh’s decadent venue the Voodoo Rooms played host to the annual Medusa Fantastic Hairdresser Awards. The evening saw company Director Colin McAndrew reward and recognise his team for excellence in performance, retailing and training. Colin handed out a total of 15 awards for Fantastic Manager, Fantastic Assistant, Fantastic Colourist, Most Wanted Stylist and more.

The stylish and striking location provided the perfect setting for the event, which is now in its third year. In his opening speech, Colin talked about how Medusa has come through the recession stronger than ever. He praised his team for their commitment and dedication to Medusa and thanked them for being such a fantastic team.

Colin said: “Tonight is about acknowledging those who are consistently fantastic and those who constantly go the extra mile for their clients and their team members alike. Every one of you are winners and I am proud to have such a dedicated team. It has been a record year for Medusa and we continue to grow on a daily basis.”

A selection of Medusa’s creative images and pictures from a recent artistic assistants show created the backdrop for the stage while guests enjoyed pink champagne and took to their seats for the awards to begin. The beautiful room was lit with a thousand twinkling stars and the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement.

Bread Street Salon Manager Kym Wyser took home the top award of Fantastic Hairdresser of the Year as well as Most Wanted Stylist for the third year in a row, said: “I am completely lost for words – it is such an amazing feeling. It’s been a brilliant year, from finalising for Scottish Hairdresser of the Year to making over the salons and working with some fantastic teammates. I love my job, I love my team and I love my clients! This is the icing on the cake.”

The awards were based on a variety of factors including salon figures, growth and personal improvement. The winners were rewarded with spectacular glass trophies and prizes on the night including an expenses paid holiday and Champagne.

Edinburgh DJ and panto star Grant Stott compered the evening and introduced the entertainment – the UK’s best George Michael impersonator. After being stalked paparazzi style on his way to the venue, George performed hits including Faith, Wake Me Up Before Your Go Go and Flawless. The team danced the evening away celebrating their hard work and success.

As Colin wrapped his speech up he added, “The hard work for next year starts now.” and it was clear from the resounding cheers that the team are definitely ready to get back behind the chair and beat their already outstanding achievements.

Look out for pics soon! xxx

The Ponytail - the summer style we heart

Ponytails are back. Yes ladies, they are not only acceptable for the gym, housework or those lazy Sundays anymore. The ponytail is a chic summer style that is here to stay.

From super sleek to naturally messy, here is a guide to ways to wear yours.

Jennifer Aniston's naturally wavy ponytail is loosely pulled back and looks effortless (the secret is that it's not completely effortless). Recreate this look by leaving the hair to dry naturally or scrunch with some Whipped Cream by Sebastian then dry with a diffuser. Loosely pull hair back and secure using a covered hair band. Don't be afraid of any bumps or stray strands. This style is supposed to look undone. Finish with some Shine and Define by Sebastian to bring out natural wave in the ponytail yet still give a polished finish.

If you want to create a sleek, pulled back look like Kim Kardashian – blow dry hair smooth using Flat Iron Spray by Wella High Hair then run some Cloud 9 Straightening Irons over it for an extra smooth finish.

Slick the hair back into a high ponytail and secure tightly. To add extra gloss and smooth any flyaway hairs then apply Wella's Gloss On for extra diamond shine.

Queen of Boho Nicole Ritchie has gone for a cute side sweeping pony. To recreate this beachy style, after blow drying with a round brush to achieve volume, part the hair to the side using your Cloud 9 irons, add a wave to the mid lengths and ends. (Ask you stylist for tips on how to do this next time you are in the salon).

If you want extra volume through the crown, gently backcomb this area then sweep hair over to the side and secure with a covered hair band. Then take a small section of hair and wrap around the hair band. Pin this at the back and finish with a spritz of Halo Mist by Sebastian for hold and shine.

Bread Street 0131 622 7277

Teviot 0131 225 6627

Musselburgh 0131 665 1199

www.medusahair.co.uk

Medusa Fantastic Hairdresser Awards

I just wanted to let you all know that this weekend is the big one - the Medusa Fantastic Hairdresser Awards! I am so excited for all my team mates. They want to know who the winners are but I'm not telling. They have all worked tremendously hard the past year and are looking forward to a night of fun.

The 2010 awards are going to be even bigger and better than last year... watch this space! x

Summer Styles

WITH summer finally here it’s time to revamp your style and what better way than with a new hairstyle for the season.

A new hair cut, hair style or colour is as important as a new wardrobe at this time of year for making you feel fresh and ready to face the year ahead.

But with so many options it’s hard to know where to start when planning a new style. It’s important to do your homework and speak to your hairdresser who can advise on what will work well with your type of hair, your skin tone and your face shape. Don’t rush into a radical change until you have had a consultation with the experts.

Here Colin our Creative Director guides us through this year’s hottest hair trends for summer and it seems straighteners are consigned to the drawer for another season as waves and texture take the place of ironed out hair.

Colin said: “Take the lead from the catwalks this summer and embrace your hair’s natural texture. It’s all about that laid back, undone look with lots of texture and not so much product. Festival chic leads the way.“

Here’s his guide to getting an on-trend new look.

Short hair
Colin said: “Shorter hairstyles are full of contradictions this season, with a mixture of soft and sharp making the foundations for the styles of Spring /Summer. Hair should be kept shorter on the sides and longer throughout the top with lots of texture and disconnection.
“Undercuts are still huge and style icons to look to for inspiration are Rihanna, Pixie Lott and Dannii Minogue. Sweeping fringes add a delicate finish to an edgy look.”

Midi length
Colin said: “When tv presenter and fashion trailblazer Alexa Chung chopped off her locks she instantly developed a whole new shade of sophistication. The shaggy, midi bob, with lots of texture and an effortless finish is here to stay. This style can be worn smooth for versatility, but the choppy and relaxed look is perfect to take you from day to night.”

Long hair
Colin said: “For those with long hair, the same principle applies – wear it loose and relaxed with long tumbling waves. Curls and waves are beachy, with that classic model look of centre partings remaining popular. Think Gossip Girl Blake Lively, Jennifer Aniston, Lauren Conrad and the Olsen Twins with their glamorous and slightly messy styles.

“To get this look if your hair is already straight, roughly blow dry your hair and section it before twisting your hair into ringlets. Then secure them with hair clips and allow to cool. Remove the grips and gently run your fingers through the curls to reveal flowing waves.”

Pretty Plaits
Colin said: “As seen on the catwalk at Alexander Wang, the messy side plait is a huge trend for spring/summer. Jessica Alba, Cheryl Cole and Lauren Conrad are all fans of this simple yet stylish look. This look is easy to wear and even easier to create. Apply a small amount of a texturising product such as Sebastian’s Thickefy Foam (£18.25) to create volume and movement.

“Then simply sweep the hair to one side and loosely plait. Don’t worry about shorter bits falling out in fact, once you have secured at the bottom with a natural coloured band, run your fingers over the plait and tease it out even more. This gives it a messy and earthy finish that’s straight off the runway.”

Relaxed updo - Chic Bun
Colin said: “Gone are the days when the classic bun was seen as a prim and proper style. High, low, loose or sleek, the bun is an adaptable and feminine style.
“The loose and sexy, carefree bun is the style to go for this spring and summer, with Chanel showing us how it’s done. And stars like Kate Bosworth, Cameron Diaz and Lily Cole have all cottoned on.

“To recreate this style, buy a hair donut from a good chemist or dance shop. This will help pad out your bun and give it a good shape. Start by pulling your hair into a ponytail (be daring and go for a high ponytail) and secure with a covered elastic band.
“Again the theme is all about hair being undone so don’t try to make it perfect. Messy is good for once.

“ Thread the hair through the donut and wrap the ponytail around it. Then secure the hair with a few grips.”

For an appointment with Colin or a stylist at Medusa please call the salons on the numbers below.

Bread Street 0131 622 7277

Teviot 0131 225 6627

Musselburgh 0131 665 1199

www.medusahair.co.uk

Gaga Goes Grey

So, what do you make of Lady Gaga's latest look - long, grey waves? I think this lady can just about pull of ANYTHING she chooses. This pastel grey tone is a big look with the fashion set at the moment with Pixie Geldof, Kelly Osbourne and other social butterflies rocking the trend.

Gaga loves a wig to keep her look ever changing but why not try something new and fun with your colour? Ask your colourist at Medusa for some advice on the latest trends in colour and go for a new summer shade.

Placement colour, highlights or a full head shade can completely update your look.

Bread Street 0131 622 7277

Teviot 0131 225 6627

Musselburgh 0131 665 1199

www.medusahair.co.uk

images celebritgossip.net

Pole Dance Yourself Fit

Back by popular demand! Our resident pole dance and exercise expert Kate Hutchinson is starting a weekly drop in class at Studio Below. Every Saturday from 11am - 12pm you can learn moves like the Goddess, the Seated Lady and many more. Get fit, have fun and learn some amazing routines.

The class is informal and relaxed so you will feel completely at ease (trust me, after 5 minutes, you'll be showing off!).

Get involved - you know you want to!

Studio Below, Medusa, 26 Bread Street, 0131 622 7277

£6.50 per person

Little Minx

Minx is the hottest nail service to hit the UK in a long time and yes, Medusa was the first in the city to bring them to your fingertips.

Katy Perry, Blake Lively, Gaga and Beyonce are just a few of the stylish celebs that are rocking the high gloss nail coverings. Katy Perry even had a custom design made of her cat, Kitty Purry and posted the pics on her Twitter page!

With the sun shining in Edinburgh it is definitely time to prepare your toes for those sandals you're buying on payday!

Claire and Zara stock a whole range of gorgeous metallics, polka dots, fishnet and loads more. 

Minx from £30 (includes cuticle tidy, buff and shape)

Bread Street 0131 622 7277

www.medusahair.co.uk

Katy Perry's Minx in metallic leopard

Streak of Genius

So we've seen it on the runway at Proenza Schouler, on several of Gaga's wacky look and of course, on the kooky Olsens, now we're seeing it on the streets of Edinburgh. Pastel tones are key for summer in shades of lilac, pink and aqua. Ask your colourist for flashes of pastel tones to be sprinkled throughout your hair, on the lower layers for a subtle peek-a-boo effect.

Bread Street 0131 622 7277

Teviot 0131 225 6627

Musselburgh 0131 665 1199

www.medusahair.co.uk

Images celebrity-gossip.net

Nu Wave

Sexy waves are key for summer, loose and long, or short and choppy. Creative Director Colin McAndrew said: “When tv presenter and fashion trailblazer Alexa Chung chopped off her locks she instantly developed a whole new shade of sophistication. The shaggy bob with lots of texture and an effortless finish is here to stay. This style can be worn smooth for versatility, but the choppy and relaxed look is perfect to take you from day to night.

If you like to keep it long, Colin said: “For those with long hair, the same principle applies – wear it loose and relaxed with long tumbling waves. Curls and waves are beachy, with that classic model look of centre partings remaining popular. Think Gossip Girl Blake Lively, Jennifer Aniston, Lauren Conrad and the Olsen Twins with their glamorous and slightly messy styles."

GET THE LOOK

To get this look if your hair is already straight, roughly blow dry your hair and section it before twisting your hair into ringlets. Then secure them with hair clips and allow to cool. Remove the grips and gently run your fingers through the curls to reveal flowing waves. Finish with some Sebastian Re-Shaper Hairspray for strong multi blend hold. This multi tasking product will also capture the movement and keep it in place from day to night.

Bread Street 0131 622 7277

Teviot 0131 225 6627

Musselburgh 0131 665 1199

www.medusahair.co.uk