Tried & Tested: Cheating on my hairdresser at Catwalk

Words by Tess Marsden

We’ve all had that moment. You catch a glimpse in the mirror and suddenly your roots are shouting louder than your group chat. Or your once-cool cut is growing out in all the wrong directions. You’re not quite ready to cheat on your regular hairdresser, but you need something closer. This is where Catwalk Salon in Gladesville stepped up to the plate. It’s the local gem you wish you’d found sooner. 

A secret hideaway above the hustle 

Catwalk sits right on Victoria Road, so you'd think traffic, noise and chaos, right? 

Surprisingly not! Step through a tiny foyer, up a flight of stairs, and you’re suddenly in this peaceful, apartment-style salon that feels like a little escape. It’s all original trims, big windows and crown moulding – basically a heritage terrace that’s been reimagined as a beauty haven. Cosy, calm and kind of charming. 

First impressions? My stylist Julia greeted me with warmth. No awkward “Hi, I think I have a booking” moment. They knew the name, the time and exactly who to expect. A warm welcome, a glass of water and straight to your seat. Easy, smooth, zero stress. 

Colour with a side of consultation 

This booking was a half head of foils and a haircut, but Catwalk doesn’t just dive in and hope for the best. There’s a proper consult. You talk about what you’ve had done in the past, show a few pics, and then comes the best bit – the stylist brings out the hair colour swatch book. 

Instead of drowning in choices, she recommends three shades based on your inspo. Then you pick the winner. It’s not guesswork. It’s teamwork. A cool, wintery blonde was the goal, and that’s exactly what came out. Personalised, polished, and still feeling like you – just fresher. 

Let’s not gloss over the basin experience. That head massage? A genuine 10 out of 10. The kind that makes you forget where you are for a second. Not even kidding. 

Did we mention it's dog friendly? 

Here’s the kicker. When you come back into the main salon after your wash, you might spot a very relaxed cavoodle curled up in the corner. Catwalk is a dog-friendly salon. If you're in for a long appointment and can't leave your pup at home, bring them along. It’s thoughtful, it’s wholesome, and honestly, it makes the whole vibe even better. 

Other items on the beauty menu for your new local 

Catwalk doesn’t stop at cuts and colour. They’ve got separate rooms for brows, waxing and piercings, plus lash lifts if your eyes need a little lift. There’s also a package called Catwalk Backstage – a wash, blow dry and makeup all in one session. Perfect for events, last-minute plans or just when you want to feel put together without the stress. 

Even if you’ve got a great thing going with your usual stylist, sometimes you need a reliable plan B. Grown-out fringe? Emergency root rescue? Or maybe you just want something closer to home? Catwalk is there. Friendly, experienced, flexible and right across the road (for me anyway). 

A solid option for upkeep, touch-ups or a whole new look. And who knows – it might just become your new go-to.