The Shear Truth

Insider Hair Secrets & Expert Tips—Straight from the Chair.

Welcome to The Shear Truth, where great hair begins! Whether you’re looking for expert advice on balayage, hair extensions, or seasonal hair trends, we’ve got you covered. Our blog is filled with insider tips, styling secrets, and pro recommendations straight from behind the chair at award-winning Thomas West Salon, located inside Chicago’s historic Merchandise Mart.

Want to refresh your look? Explore our latest posts & book your next appointment today!

Why Glosses and Toners Are Summer Hair’s Secret Weapon
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Why Glosses and Toners Are Summer Hair’s Secret Weapon

You’ve got the color. You’ve got the cut. But a few weeks in, things start to shift—your blonde feels a little dull, your brunette’s looking brassy, and your hair just isn’t hitting like it did when you left the salon.

Enter: the gloss and toner—two low-commitment, high-impact services that can refresh your color, boost shine, and keep your hair looking salon-fresh all summer long.

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Summer Hair Color Trends in Chicago (2025 Edition)
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Summer Hair Color Trends in Chicago (2025 Edition)

The sun is out, rooftop season is in full swing, and there’s no better time to refresh your look. Whether you're craving something bold or just a subtle seasonal shift, summer is the perfect time to play with color—and this year’s trends are all about lived-in dimension, warmth, and shine.

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What Is a Platinum Card—and Do I Need One?
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What Is a Platinum Card—and Do I Need One?

If you’ve ever dreamed of going all-over blonde in one go—or fixing a patchy, uneven bleach job—you’ve probably heard the term “platinum card.” But what is it, exactly? And how do you know if it’s right for your hair?

At Thomas West Salon in downtown Chicago, Allen Wiggs specializes in color transformations, and platinum card services are one of the most powerful tools in his kit. Here’s what you need to know before booking.

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5 Signs It’s Time to Change Your Hairstylist
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5 Signs It’s Time to Change Your Hairstylist

A great hairstylist is more than someone who cuts and colors your hair—they’re a trusted partner in how you show up in the world. Your stylist gets to know your preferences, your lifestyle, even your nervous habits with a curling iron. That relationship matters—and when it’s working, it can feel like magic.

But sometimes, even long-term relationships stop serving us the way they used to. If you’ve been feeling unsure, dissatisfied, or just a little off after salon visits lately, it might be time to explore something new.

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Festival Season Hair: How to Keep It Cute (and Protected) All Summer Long
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Festival Season Hair: How to Keep It Cute (and Protected) All Summer Long

Festival season is officially here—kicked off in full force by Sueños this past weekend! Whether you're dancing in Grant Park or vibing at neighborhood block parties, Chicago’s summer lineup is packed with events that call for fun, photo-ready hair. But with all the sun, sweat, and styling, how do you keep your hair looking fresh and feeling healthy?

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Your New Go-To Hair Stylist in Downtown Chicago
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Your New Go-To Hair Stylist in Downtown Chicago

Big news! Allen Wiggs is now styling out of Thomas West Salon, a gorgeous space in the historic Merchandise Martright on the Chicago River. Whether you work downtown, live nearby, or just love a luxe salon experience in the heart of the city, Allen’s chair is officially open—and ready to deliver your next hair transformation.

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How to Protect Your Hair & Extensions While on Spring Break
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How to Protect Your Hair & Extensions While on Spring Break

Spring break is here, which means sun, sand, and saltwater—a dream for your vacation, but a potential nightmare for your hair! Between UV rays, chlorine, and ocean water, your color, extensions, and overall hair health need a little extra TLC while you're relaxing on the beach.

Whether you're heading to a tropical destination or just planning a sunny getaway, here’s how to keep your hair looking flawless throughout your trip.

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Balayage in Chicago: The Ultimate Hair Color Trend That Never Goes Out of Style
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Balayage in Chicago: The Ultimate Hair Color Trend That Never Goes Out of Style

Balayage isn’t just a trend—it’s a hair color revolution that’s here to stay. This low-maintenance, sun-kissed techniquehas been dominating the beauty world for years, and in a style-savvy city like Chicago, it’s more popular than ever.

But what makes balayage different from traditional highlights? And more importantly, is it right for you? Let’s break it all down.

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The Ultimate Guide to Hair Extensions: Which One is Right for You?
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The Ultimate Guide to Hair Extensions: Which One is Right for You?

Thinking about hair extensions but not sure which type is best for you? With so many options—hand-tied, tape-in, clip-in, and keratin bonds—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

At 707 Hair Studios in Old Town, Chicago, we specialize in hand-tied extensions, and for good reason: they look natural, last longer, and are healthier for your hair. Let’s break down each type of extension and help you decide which is right for your hair goals!

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I think that the most important thing a woman can have next to talent, of course, is her hairdresser.
— Joan Crawford