There is a huge marital rift going on in my home; an argument of such monumental proportions, that sometimes, we even raise our voices slightly to indicate emphasis. My lovely and talented wife believes that our boys should get their hair cut and I could not disagree more. Her argument is that the twins get too sweaty and that they are scratching at their heads because they feel hot (I’ve checked, no head lice). Her logic here is sound, and my rebuttal at first blush may sound flimsy, but I contend that to cut their hair would be a travesty to all that is adorably cute. Nay, kittens everywhere cringe at the mere thought of it and puppies wee uncontrollably. Okay, puppies are always doing that, but you get my point.

Aside from their cuteness, I have one piece of evidence that I feel is damning to her overall contention – our daughter. Despite suffering through three oppressive summers and an ayi who’s mission in winter was to overdress our daughter whenever we were not looking, Reina’s hair was not cut until she was well into her third year, and only then because it was starting to sweep the floor whenever she sat down. If it is alright to keep a girl’s hair long for the sake of looks, can’t a pair of boys have floppy hair when they look so darn adorable?

I submit our case to the court of public opinion – you be the judge.

Photos courtesy of Christopher Lay

Finding it hard to keep your hair nice and smooth in this hot, smoggy summer? This week, we are giving away two vouchers valued at RMB 150 each from Toni & Guy Hilton Beijing.

RMB 150 gets you one free haircut per person, so you can take your spouse or a friend! 

To win, simply comment below with the answer to the question: What’s a haircut that you’ve always wanted, but was too afraid to get?

The most creative answer wins!

Contest ends on July 16, 11am.

Photo courtesy of qianshou.com

A common inquiry in the Shunyi area, primarily among women, is where – nearby – to go for a good haircut or color. If you don’t want to venture to the city, options can be limited and you roll the dice with your tresses. Too often you hear the horror stories of color-gone-bad, or hatchet jobs sold as a trendy new style.  A good hairdresser is like a life-long friend.  When you have one, hold on for dear life.  So, where to go?

Dennis and Sam, co-owners of West Hair Salon, are opening a brand new location in Euro Plaza (they are currently at the Crowne Plaza Hotel). Top Shanghai stylists with more than 11 years of experience, they specialize in Western and Asian hair styles. Both are experts in blond highlights and hair coloring, as is King, another stylist that works closely with them. The salon uses Paul Mitchell hair care and color products for all services.

To celebrate their new salon, they’re throwing an opening party on Wednesday, December 1 at their 5th floor Euro Plaza location from 10am-7pm. Guests will meet the stylists while enjoying finger food, wine tasting and music, and everyone will also receive a 50 percent off coupon for a first hair service visit. School teachers, listen up! You will always receive 20 percent off all regular prices for hair services.

No more chasing the perfect haircut and color! Come see for yourself if this might be the last salon you’ll have to check out.

West Hair Salon. L505, 5/F, Euro Plaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Shunyi District