REVIEW: My ‘old money’ hair glow up at Rainbow Room Uddingston for A/W 2024
Walking into Rainbow Room International in Uddingston, I was excited but also a little nervous. Trusting someone with your hair isn’t a small thing—it’s personal.
But when that someone is Diana Carson, a finalist for Scottish Hairdresser of the Year at HJ’s 2024 British Hairdressing Awards, you know you’re in expert hands.
From the moment I met Diana, I could see why she’s in the running for one of the most prestigious titles in hairdressing. Her warm personality instantly put me at ease, and her professionalism shone as we talked through what I was hoping to achieve with my hair.
I wanted a fresh, glossy look for autumn and winter, and asked for a take on the ‘old money brunette’ trend, complemented with subtle highlights. It was the perfect mix of classic elegance and modern sophistication.
Diana explained her philosophy, saying: “I don’t believe in chasing trends for the sake of it. It’s all about what works best for the individual—their hair type, lifestyle, and unique features. That said, I’m often inspired by the colours of the season. Right now, it’s all about rich, warm tones that reflect the autumn leaves.”
Her creative approach is no surprise given her success this year, from winning awards at Rainbow Room International’s Annual Congress to being shortlisted for the Scottish Hairdresser of the Year title.
The process itself was seamless. Diana’s skill was apparent in every brushstroke of color and every perfectly placed foil. She worked with precision, blending subtle highlights into my natural brunette base to create a multidimensional effect. Her attention to detail was incredible, and as the colour developed, I could already see the transformation on my tresses taking shape.
When Diana revealed the final look, I was genuinely blown away. My hair was glossier than it had ever been, with a richness and depth that made it look effortlessly expensive. She spent hours working on the subtle highlights, which added a touch of brightness that framed my face beautifully. It was chic, radiant, and exactly what I had envisioned—if not better.
As Diana styled my hair into loose, polished waves, she said, “Hair is about unique expression. I love creating looks that not only enhance someone’s appearance but also make them feel confident. When the colours and textures reflect who they are, it’s magic.”
She wasn’t wrong. As I left the salon, I couldn’t stop admiring my hair in every reflective surface I passed. The compliments started immediately, with friends describing my hair as “glowing” and “straight out of a luxury campaign.”
Diana Carson is a true artist and more than deserving of her place as a finalist in the HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards. Her work speaks for itself, and the passion she brings to her craft is inspiring. If you’re looking for someone who can transform your hair while celebrating your individuality, Diana is the stylist to see.
It’s no wonder the industry is watching her so closely. And if this experience is anything to go by, she’s already crowned the best in my book.
