We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info. Sitting at a wooden table in his white-walled office hidden in the eaves above his luxurious salon in central London, Charles Worthington is reeling off a list of the famous tresses he has tended to over the years.
Charles, 58, who lives in Chelsea with his partner Allan Peters, is celebrating 30 years since he opened his first salon. From the initial concept to the products actually going on the shelf, it was approximately a two-year period.
This involved developing the products, developing fine fragrances and creating unique packaging. We initially launched the products in Boots exclusively , which was a huge success. After which, we followed this up with launches in America, Australia, the Far East and other international markets. People were initially enticed by the unique and stylish elliptical-shaped packaging.
Then, they flipped open the lid to smell the beautiful and unique fine fragrances we used in all of our products. We kept the price point competitive and affordable, so once they tried any of the products, they were hooked. My skill is visualising someone with a different look: I can look at a face and see at once what it needs to improve it.
Atmosphere is very important in a salon. I designed mine so they are not intimidating. I don't have a reception desk at the front, instead there's a welcoming burning fire and lovely sofas and chairs. You get out of life what you put into it and I believe every negative can be turned into a positive. I would see a difficult client as a personal challenge, someone to win over. I'm passionate about cooking and have friends over in the evening but I like to be in bed by 11pm.
I need seven or eight hours' sleep to function properly. It is also important that I have memories around me: there are obelisks from a trip to Paris, silver lights from India; nods to several countries and times.
I love listening to the rumble of the King's Road just past my door. It has an energy to it, which is what makes London so exciting. This area is full of creative people, and there are several model agencies nearby so you constantly see beautiful people with fabulous clothes and hair, which is very inspirational.
It's pretty perfect here, with Partridges deli down the road and shops for every purpose on my doorstep. Some days I think I'll go elsewhere, but then I walk outside, browse a little, have a coffee, and find the day just goes. Chelsea has a great sense of community, a cosiness to it — without ever being boring. There isn't a day when I take this house for granted.
Every morning I wake up and think how lucky I am. He lives in Chelsea with his partner, Allan Peters, and their dog, Baxter. He has four salons and his hair-care products are available nationwide www. Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies. Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
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