August 19th, 2021
Here at Warpaint we are big fans of award winning, top British hairdresser Errol Douglas, MBE so we were thrilled when an invite to his prestigious London salon hit our inbox. We jumped at the chance to have a signature blow dry, along with a manicure from Lady Showbiz who currently have a pop up there, showcasing their gel-finish nail polishes.
Errol Douglas MBE
Not only is Errol a regular in the world of fashion editorials, he is also the man behind Naomi Campbell’s iconic locks and was awarded an MBE by the Queen in 2008 for education and services to the hairdressing industry. Widely considered to be one of the most influential hairdressers in the world, his salon is unique in that it is accredited with International Technical Excellence meaning his team are able to work with European, Afro and International hair at the very highest level of creative and technical ability.
Manchester-based ethical beauty brand Lady Showbiz are dedicated to creating innovative nail polish which is 100% cruelty-free, vegan and 12 free. If you’re looking for natural nails or just want a detox from acrylic or gel formulations, their Luxury Gel Effect Nail Polish will give a fabulous glossy finish. You can even cure under a lamp for 2-3 weeks of wear. 20% of the brand’s profits are donated to charities who improve the lives of people and animals in the UK and around the world. The brand have taken over at Errol Douglas and his nail technicians are using Lady Showbiz products rather than their usual ones.
Errol’s London salon has been in Belgravia for 23 years. I took a short walk from Victoria Station through leafy Eaton Square and Belgrave Square, spotting all the various Embassies in the beautiful properties that surround the green spaces, just a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace.
Exterior of Errol Douglas London
Motcomb Street is a pedestrian thoroughfare, flanked by Georgian buildings housing a range of luxury boutiques and restaurants, decorated with flowers and bunting. Errol’s salon opens onto the street, with large windows and welcoming planting. At the back it overlooks a relaxing square filled with seating and sculptures, serviced by cafes and restaurants. I was a little early so took time to just soak up the atmosphere.
Rabbitgirl and Dogman sculptures in the square behind the salon.
The salon itself is light and airy, despite the Covid-screens that are a current necessity, and the staff friendly and welcoming. I was introduced to Anna Baker, one of the salon’s senior stylists and also a wedding hair expert. We discussed my colour, cut and the current condition of my hair to determine the best products to use and how I’d like it blow dried.
The man himself was in the salon so Anna made an introduction and we had quick chat. I hadn’t expected to see him during my visit, so it was a lovely surprise to make the acquaintance of the very charming and down-to-earth Mr Douglas.
I was then taken to the basins by Amy for a hairwash – and a fabulous head massage! Such a treat. It was also prime position to see many of Error’s awards, tucked away on shelves around the hair wash area.
Some of Errol’s awards
Back to my chair with Anna for my blow dry – and also to meet Janice Stevens who is their brilliant nail technician. She kindly agreed to give me a pedicure – my first since the UK’s initial lockdown, so I didn’t envy her the task.
The most difficult thing for me was deciding which of the wide range of Lady Showbiz nail colours I wanted on my toes! I definitely had the better end of the deal. I opted for Audrey a high shine dark sumptuous burgundy, named for screen legend Audrey Hepburn, from the brand’s recent release, inspired by 1960s starlets.
Anna and Janice worked brilliantly at the same time – like the pros they are – negotiating the space and making sure I was relaxed and comfortable all the way through. The speed at which Janice can do an immaculate pedicure was incredible.
The finishing touch for my hair was Kérastase Oleo-Relax – a very lightweight serum that worked wonders on my fine, flyaway hair, keeping it under control and looking fabulous.
with Senior Stylist Anna Baker
After they finished – ensuring I was completely happy with both my hair and my toes – they left me to relax and wait for my nails to be completely dry before putting my shoes back on and heading out into the afternoon sunshine to show off my newly shiny, glamorous locks.
Janice at work
I would definitely recommend a visit to the salon – for a cut, colour or restyle or for a blow dry treat before a night out. And remember to get your nails done while you’re there!
The finished look
Follow Errol Douglas London on Instagram.
Find Lady Showbiz on Instagram
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