Christel Barron-Hough has been hailed as London’s go-to girl for the iconic ‘Scandinavian Blonde’ aesthetic and has a loyal clientele featuring actors, musicians and creatives, who only trust Christel’s with their cool blonde locks. She is a walking advertisement with her own poker-straight cool, blonde hair.
I was intrigued with what Christel would do with my dark brown and unruly curls when I visited her chic salon in Chelsea. Little did I know, I was in for a treat. Christel’s fingertips are full to the brim with magic. She transformed my flat brown hair into a glossy raven mane, full of movement, in cool almost-black hues and a heavy 1970s waterfall fringe and heavy layers that perfectly framed my face. I felt a million bucks.
Not only was I thrilled with the final result but I actually had fun. STIL was the best salon experience I have ever had. Christel is a ray of sunshine, she is knowledgeable and kind but also talks to you with the warmth of a friend. You can’t help but feel at home in her chair.
Here, the Queen of Scandinavian Blonde reveals all about the little luxuries in her life…
- When I need to reset, I always… go walking in nature.
- To make ordinary tasks feel special, I… always take them on with a positive attitude.
- The ritual that helps me feel connected to myself is… yoga and meditation.
- A piece of art that inspires me… anything by Pierre Bonnard.
- My room service order is… chicken salad with chips on the side.
- When I’m travelling I always treat myself to… local food.
- When I have time to myself, I love to… spend it with my husband and our two dogs in nature.
- I feel most connected to others when I… do what I love which is hair.
- My favourite scent is… vanilla and oud.
- I love collecting… anything that inspires me, fashion pics, fabrics, beauty products.
- A song that brings me joy… Everywhere by Fleetwood Mac.
- My skincare routine isn’t complete without… SkinCeuticals Serum 10 and La Roche-Posay Toleriane.
- I feel the most beautiful when I… have rested and cleared my to do list and can enjoy life.
- To celebrate, I treat myself to… all things health, food and beauty. Nails, facials, great food and acupuncture.
- A city with a special place in my heart… Stockholm.
- My favourite food in the world is served… in E Baldi in LA.
- On a Sunday morning you can find me… either in nature or roaming around London for an art and inspiration top up.
- If I was given £1,000,000, I would… have more rescue dogs, travel the world, donate to charity and develop a product range for STIL.
STIL Salon, 99-103 Fulham Road, London, SW3 6RH