In a lament over the imminent departure of a cherished hairdresser, the Copenhagen community is grappling with the loss of a skilled professional who, unfortunately, represents a broader issue faced by individuals with non-typical Northern European hair. The departure of this particular stylist, described vividly as a “heartless harlot,” marks a significant blow to a community that has long struggled to find hairdressers adept at handling diverse hair types.
The stylist’s relocation to Shanghai to open an upscale salon, characterized by both its size and opulence, underscores a trend of talented Asian professionals returning to Asia. This departure, while reflective of personal aspirations, resonates as a profound loss for those who have relied on her expertise in Copenhagen.
For individuals with non-Northern European hair residing in Copenhagen, the struggle to find proficient stylists is a familiar tale. The writer emphasizes that many local hairdressers consider working with Asian hair a formidable challenge. Even those willing to exert their best efforts often fall short due to a lack of regular exposure to different types of Asian hair.
Acknowledging that it’s not entirely the fault of the stylists, the writer recounts years of hearing various complaints from Copenhagen hairdressers about the complexities of cutting, styling, coloring, and perming Asian hair. Despite hefty expenses on hair services, the results were consistently subpar, prompting the writer to share a personal experience of resorting to shaving their head for a more satisfying look.
The struggle continued until the discovery of an exceptional hairdresser, who, unfortunately, also bid farewell to the city. Now, facing the departure of the current stylist, the writer reflects on the support received from Asian friends who suggested solutions ranging from frequent international flights for hair care to adopting a specific hairstyle.
The writer humorously describes the conflicting advice received, including a suggestion to shave the head again, with one friend remarking it made them look like a poet. However, in navigating the world of English short story writing, the writer is guided by the standards set by successful female fiction writers, leaning towards maintaining a more conventional hairstyle.
Acknowledging the role of personal charm, the writer humorously notes the importance of hair in projecting charm, citing the influence of a Chinese agent who prioritizes salon treatments for hair and scalp. Ultimately, London is chosen as a potential solution to the hairstyling dilemma, aligning with the writer’s need for both hairstyling and Marks and Spencer socks. The decision to opt for London encapsulates the writer’s humorous take on the challenges of finding a suitable stylist in Copenhagen.
