Gerald Solomons

30 September 2024 12:15 pm Views - 165

The Visionary Behind Chagall Salon

In contrast, his generation learned the trade through rigorous training under seasoned professionals, a path he believes is essential to maintaining the quality of the industry. 

Gerald Solomons, the owner of Chagall Salon in Colombo, is a name synonymous with the highest standards of hairstyling in Sri Lanka. With a career that spans decades and multiple continents, Gerald’s journey in the beauty industry is nothing short of inspiring. His natural affinity for the craft was sparked by the influence of his grandmother, Gladys Gauder Goodchild. A true multi-talented artiste, she practiced hairdressing, dressmaking, cooking, and even owned a sweet shop, where traditional treats were made with her hands. Gerald fondly recalls the bustling environment she created at home, where friends and clients would come for perms or new dresses, making it a hub of creativity and inspiration. From a young age, he was captivated by this dynamic world of beauty, food, and artistry, which ultimately led him to pursue hairdressing.

Gerald’s formal entry into the beauty industry began with a position at Moira’s Salon. This first step opened the door to a lifelong career that would take him from Sri Lanka to Australia and New Zealand. It was during his time in Sydney, while working for the prestigious Carita Salon in Double Bay, that Gerald’s big break arrived. He was offered the opportunity to be a hairstylist for the production of Hair, a musical being staged in New Zealand after a successful run in Australia. This job led him to relocate to New Zealand, where his skills as a Senior Hairstylist were in high demand.

In New Zealand, Gerald honed his craft, working in several top-tier salons before opening his own, which he co-founded with a friend named René. The salon, named Chagall, marked the beginning of a legacy. After René’s departure, Gerald expanded the business, opening a second Chagall location in Auckland. Over time, the salons flourished, employing more than 30 hairdressers and beauticians. However, after years of success, Gerald began to feel disillusioned with the rigid lifestyle in the West. Selling his salons in New Zealand, he returned to Australia, where he once again opened a Chagall Salon in Sydney. After a decade in Australia, the pull of home proved too strong, and Gerald returned to Sri Lanka, where he has been running Chagall Colombo for over 13 years.

As a hairstylist, Gerald’s work has been heavily influenced by industry legends like Vidal Sassoon, Alexander of Paris, and the Carita sisters. Sassoon, in particular, made a lasting impression on him, revolutionizing the way hair was cut and styled. Gerald’s approach has always been rooted in this tradition of innovation and artistry. His philosophy is straightforward yet effective: rather than simply giving clients what they ask for, he advises them on what will truly suit them. His personalized approach has been the key to creating great looks for his clients, ensuring that each person leaves his salon with a style that enhances their natural beauty.

Looking ahead, Gerald has big plans for the future of hairstyling in Sri Lanka. His dream is to open a school, not just to train hairstylists in the technical aspects of the craft, but also to teach essential hairdressing etiquette, a factor he believes is crucial to client satisfaction. 

While he has performed countless hair transformations, Gerald finds the most rewarding moments to be when husbands call him to compliment their wives’ new looks. It’s a testament to the power of his work and the joy it brings to his clients' lives. He also maintains a strong commitment to staying current with the latest trends and techniques, continuously watching videos, travelling overseas, and learning from other professionals. However, he always puts his own spin on trends, combining them with his unique style, which his clients have come to adore—so much so that one regular requests "Gerry's magic fingers" whenever she visits.

Running a high-profile salon in Sri Lanka comes with its challenges, particularly in terms of staffing. Gerald laments the lack of discipline and commitment among many young stylists today, noting that too many people are focused on quick financial gains rather than honing their craft. In contrast, his generation learned the trade through rigorous training under seasoned professionals, a path he believes is essential to maintaining the quality of the industry. Additionally, Gerald has concerns about the proliferation of substandard salons, many of which are opened by individuals who have completed only basic courses without the requisite experience.

Despite these challenges, Chagall remains a cut above the rest, known for its professionalism, attention to detail, and the use of top-tier products. Gerald ensures that his salon adheres to the highest standards, refusing to compromise on quality even when inferior products flood the market. His clientele includes high-profile figures and celebrities, though he finds them to be some of his easiest clients, as they are accustomed to working with professionals. Occasionally, he encounters difficult clients, but overall, he thrives under the pressure that comes with his work.

Looking ahead, Gerald has big plans for the future of hairstyling in Sri Lanka. His dream is to open a school, not just to train hairstylists in the technical aspects of the craft, but also to teach essential hairdressing etiquette, a factor he believes is crucial to client satisfaction. He envisions himself continuing to work, teaching the next generation of hairstylists, and maintaining the high standards that have defined his career. His advice to young stylists is simple: only pursue hairdressing if it is a true passion. According to Gerald, hairdressing is not just a job—it’s a calling, a craft that requires love, dedication, and a deep-seated passion to succeed.

Gerald Solomons remains a towering figure in the Sri Lankan beauty industry, with Chagall standing as a testament to his professionalism, creativity, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

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Photos by Nisal Baduge

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