KEY POINTS:
No scissors allowed. At first that sounds like a strange rule for the owner of Auckland's newest hair salon to set. But then you find out Jenny Aitken is the owner of the appropriately named Hue salon. It all started because, Aitken says, "I used to get my hair cut only about four times a year. But with the grey, I'd be getting my hair coloured all the time. So I'd either do it myself at home or else I would go to a salon and pay a fortune."
Aitken didn't think either option was particularly appealing to the average, busy, modern women - which is why she started Hue. The first salon, which opened in Mt Eden last month, offers something in between, giving clients a hair colour or treatment by skilled colourists from around $45.
What's your guilty pleasure?
A Schwarzkopf hair treatment at Hue of course. And a colour for the greys - but that's a necessity not a luxury. Also I do love to dress up and go out to dinner with friends, although admittedly that rarely happens with three kids.
Who inspires you?
Women who get up and get on, despite obstacles in the way. And single parents - you're honestly fabulous.
Your favourite accessory?
A big bag to carry everything in, although it is a little like toting around a black hole; some things never emerge again.
Best fashion bargain?
A great little jacket on Trade Me. Oh, and a really great belt buckle.
What's the one thing everyone should have in their wardrobe?
A pair of black boots.
What endures throughout the seasons?
Jewellery. You can't go wrong with a few great pieces.
What do you really want this winter?
World peace - at least in my little corner of it.
Your favourite shop elsewhere?
Ballantynes in Christchurch. That place is an institution, yet it continues to evolve. It's still focused on great service and I always find way too many things I want. I could never go to Christchurch and not visit. I love it there.
Your best beauty tip?
A teaspoon of baking soda in Cetaphil for a facial scrub.
What can't you live without?
Sophie, Krystal and Rene, and the rest of my family and friends. Everything else will come and go.
How do you define the word fashionable?
Someone who knows what suits, references trends and has a unique quality to their look.
Is there anything you'd never wear?
Anything that I knew was made by children or sweatshop labour.
What do you wear to work?
I'm rushing around a lot during the day, between running Hue and looking after kids, so I find it easiest to throw on clothes and accessories I have pre-organised, and hung together. That way when I'm asked where the homework book is, or the dog has just chewed through something, I don't have to think.
What is the biggest fashion mistake you've made?
I think it would be trying to dress for the latest fashion versus what suits me. Some of those lessons are a long time learning.
Any style icons?
My Mum. She always looks fabulous.
Favourite T-shirt slogan?
Recently I saw a Tee that said "NY Loves Me", which was a nice change from the over-worn "I Heart NY" version.
When I was in high school I wore?
Nomads. I know, I know!
