Comments on: At Clapton Beauty Parlour

By: Elizabeth S Mellen

Elizabeth S Mellen — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 15:33:41 +0000

How lovely to see Marcia Manning and the Beauty Parlour recorded for posterity. I was attracted to the shop’s genteel tone and retro charm when I first lived in Clapton, in 1984, and then was one of the first customers for the sunbeds in the 80’s. I had previously used Enid’s Hair Salon, round the corner, which claimed to be one of the first black hairdressers. Once while having an x-ray in Homerton Hospital, I noticed a fish tank in the waiting area. It was dedicated to the memory of a girl who had worked in the Beauty Parlour; this touching gesture seemed so typical of Marcia’s concern for her girls and the friendly atmosphere among the staff at the salon.

By: Hilda Kean

Hilda Kean — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 11:18:15 +0000

I used to have my hair cut here as a child. The Clapton beauty parlour was responsible for giving me an unasked for fringe. Apparently my hair was so messy that they thought I had had one before. Interesting that such an ordinary place has now become a rare physical trace of a particular C20th past in Hackney.

By: Emma Matthews

Emma Matthews — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 08:57:25 +0000

I am new to your website gentle author but am enchanted. What a brilliant piece. My hairdresser who I have been going to for over 22 years is my friend, mentor and psychologist. I agree with Marcia about that. To a woman, her hairdresser is one of the most important people in her life because a visit to her makes everything wonderful! Lisa Whiteman built the business from scratch and is a brave and clever businesswoman, mother and creative genius. Three Cheers for hairdressers. If you cannot get to Clapton go to Webster Whiteman in Pollen Street W1.

By: John Barrett

John Barrett — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 08:18:26 +0000

This is a super presentation of a typical London core business, lots of ups and downs. The owner’s shut up shop during World War 2 and the gentleman co owner did war service on the civilian front-line. He was wounded during his time in the Auxiliary Fire Service. London during this war period, was under massive air attacks by the Luftwaffe; that is another story. I am sure our salon gentleman would have qualified for the Defence Medal 1939-45. Its still a good strong business thanks to Marcia and now Dawn, long may it continue. John