Getting a haircut is the easiest way to update one’s look or image. As hairstylist Jing Monis said, “Everyone wants to look famous.”
Monis gave Judy Ann Santos a fresh, flowy look. He also styled Sarah Geronimo’s pop-star locks and Anne Curtis’ full, sexy waves. These are just some of the hairstyles women want to have after stepping out of a salon.
This aspiration to look fab and popular is the vision behind Famous Salon, the salon counterpart of clothing brand Folded & Hung. The mid-range salon is conveniently located in Robinson’s Place Manila, and it promises the combo of quality and affordability that Folded & Hung has become known for.
“People who go to Folded & Hung for clothes can easily identify with the salon,” said Alan D. Vianzon, marketing VP for Adenip Inc., which manages F&H. Other salon branches are expected to open where Folded & Hung is available.
Services
Monis, who put up his own Jing Monis Salon with branches in Makati and Alabang, is the executive creative director for Famous. He is in charge of training the team.
“We held an audition for hairstylists, who were then trained for two months,” he explained during a recent interview in the salon. “They received the same training as the Jing Monis Salon stylists.”
Famous also uses the same products used in Jing Monis Salons, such as Schwarzkopf, Wella and Clairol. Since the opening in September, Famous has attracted a number of yuppies and students from nearby colleges and universities. The price range is the main come-on.
A haircut at Famous starts at P250 for a senior stylist, P350 for lead stylist and P450 for a creative stylist. Kid’s haircut starts at P200.
Another popular service is hair coloring, with your choice of Permanent, Semipermanent or Organic. One may also avail of perming, in either Traditional Curls or Digital Wave.
According to Monis, Filipino women are still particular about straight hair, so Famous gives them a range of straightening options: Relaxing, Rebonding, Hair Therapy, Keratin treatment and Brazilian Blowout. Recovery and moisturizing treatments are also offered.
The hairstylists are well-versed in suggesting the proper cut and color for one’s features, skin tone and budget.
For nail care, manicure is priced at P150 and pedicure at P200. Hair and makeup can be done by schedule for events, even weddings.
Private room
Monis said that for the holidays, waves are still in for women, with side bangs, while men may get an updated clean cut.
Glammed-up images of Folded & Hung endorsers Angel Locsin, Sam Milby, Elmo Magalona and Matteo Guidicelli greet you as you enter the salon. One is then ushered into a comfortable seat in front of a mirror framed by yellow bulbs—very celebrity chic.
The interiors have a playful pop-art vibe, complete with iconic images of Marilyn Monroe, The Beatles, Blur and other rock acts.
The treatments may be done in private in the Jing Monis Room—a white spacious area with a plush couch with sequined and feathered throw pillows, and some framed images as wall accents.
Monis said privacy is something people can be assured of in Famous. “People can get their hair or nails done while reading a magazine or book, without anyone bothering them.” The staff is instructed to give clients an undisturbed “me time,” pretty much like being in a spa.
Famous Kitchen
Wi-Fi is free, and you can even have a snack. A corner of the salon is dedicated to Famous Kitchen, a kiosk that serves light food items and drinks. On the menu are crostini with spinach, pasta cups such as lasagna and baked macaroni, and popcorn. Several pastries are also available, to go with your choice of coffee.
“We noticed that clients, especially those having time-consuming services, get hungry,” Vianzon explained. “Now they could have a warm snack, get their hair done and just relax.”
Famous Salon is at 3/F, Adriatico Wing, Robinson’s Place Manila. Call 3533102; visit www.foldedandhungsalon.com.
PHOTOS BY ALANAH TORRALBA
