Tomoko Shima HAIR Salon
Elegant Yet Personal: A Style for Every Bride
Tomoko Shima Hair Salon on the Upper East Side is becoming increasingly popular thanks to its young and creative hair stylist and owner, Tomoko Shima. She’s become especially well-known for her beautiful hair designs for weddings.
Q: What are this year’s trends in hair?
A: Last year, perhaps because of Victoria Beckham’s stunning look, the short style with long asymmetric bangs was very popular. Too popular, in a sense. This year, I think the trend goes toward more variety of styles, and many women feel the need to try something new. So, I’d propose medium-length hair with bangs.
Q: Do you use different styling approaches for Japanese and American customers?
A: Our customers are 30% Japanese, 30% Asian, and 40% non-Asian American. We are able to adjust the styling for any type of hair. The characteristics of each customer’s hair and skin determine our approaches. Japanese customers seem to know exactly how they want their hair to look and bring in their favorite style clips from the fashion magazines. On the other hand, American customers prefer to discuss styles at the salon. One common trend is that they seek comfort and relaxation at our salon. So we think it is most important to keep an intimate atmosphere while styling.
Q: What is your signature look?
A: Elegant and feminine. Accordingly, we are known for bridal styling. Last year we had many, many wedding appointments. We have three stylists. Two of them can do both hair and makeup design. We offer consultations in advance of the big day, of course.
Q: What went on during the spectacular hair show you held downtown last year?
A:It was a private show with more than 200 guests. We presented extremely fantastic hairdos and makeup, expressing “ecology”. I wanted to show how far we could go in design. While Japanese stylists have high standards of technique, Americans are more advanced at designing. We wanted to challenge ourselves more in the design aspect.
—Bridal MakeOver Trial—
Today, Tomoko demonstrates her talent by making over our reader-model Laura Stinger. Laura is a stage actress who loves to explore new styles. Her everyday look is casual and sporty with a touch of street style. Tomoko first assesses Laura’s current style and asks her to describe her favorite wedding hairdo. Laura selects a couple of classic, elegant looks. Soon, Tomoko starts working on a trial style to determine the final design. After a few minutes, she decides on a style and trims Laura’s bangs. Then, she makes two chignons and lets the rest of the hair surround them, adding lots of volume. In less than an hour, the hairdo is beautifully constructed. While Tomoko is working on Laura’s hair, Cathy Satouchi works on her makeup. Strategically subdued makeup is the perfect complement to the bride’s elegant hair. Gazing into the mirror, Laura sighs, “It’s wonderful.”
Laura Stinger is a member of The Theatre of A Two-Headed Calf. They specialize in avant-garde and experimental theatre performance often adapting Japanese techniques.
Tomoko Shima Hair Salon
After five years of rigorous work experience in Japan, Tomoko moved to New York and began working at a downtown salon. In 2005, she opened her own salon in a cozy Upper East Side neighborhood.
171 E. 92nd St (bet. Lexington and 3rd Aves.)
New York, NY 10128
TEL: 212-722-8828 www.tomokoshima.com
Tue-Sun: 10am-9pm, Appointment suggested.
"J-Culture" Strikes!
