Charlie Miller 50+ Years Together

50
YEARS
TOGETHER

We believe great
hairdressing has the
power to transform.
It’s about you, your hair
and so much more.

Fifty years ago passion sparked a legend and set the hairdressing
world alight. Through decades of growth and achievement,
that passion has been a constant, inspiring every aspect of the
Charlie Miller brand loved and respected by clients and industry
colleagues today.
Along the way there have been exciting changes, new salons,
global recognition and prestigious awards. Equally passionate
people have joined founders Charlie and Janet Miller, sharing
their vision and dedication. From day one, quality has been a
crucial part of the company’s DNA, with the team striving to be
the best in everything it does from showcasing runway glamour to
creating real-life styles.
In a world that rarely stands still or catches its breath, it is a business
built on personal relationships and taking time to listen and
nurture. Genuineness, empathy and warmth have always been key
values at the heart of the Charlie Miller philosophy. They continue
to guide the company as it celebrates a dazzling past and looks to
an equally bright future.
Half a century since the first salon opened, self-awareness and
continuous analysis help the company stay true to its values,
reflect on its strengths, improve performance and provide a strong
foundation for moving forward.
The road before was solid silver. Ahead lies pure gold.
Charlie Miller Hairdressing remains restless as ever.

from 1979

to 2015

1965
Charlie and Janet Miller
open their first hairdressing
salon, His Hair in Prestonfield
on the outskirts of Edinburgh,
with Scottish football legend
John Greig cutting the ribbon.
Customers beat a path to
the door every day, queuing
outside for hours to sit in the
hot seats.
1971
The salon moves to 24a
Stafford Street in Edinburgh’s
West End with a new name,
Charlie Miller Hairdressing.
The interior’s minimalist
design created by Janet and
Charlie featured felt walls and
Bauhaus tiles.
The salon’s first photo shoot
showcases the growing team’s
creative and technical skills.
The first Charlie Miller
hair show, held at Tiffany’s
nightclub, Edinburgh.
1967
His Hair moves to Rose Street,
Edinburgh’s answer to Carnaby
Street. Customers become
clients and appointments
become the norm, with
advance bookings essential for
Saturdays thanks to the salon’s
growing popularity.
Inspired by Janet’s stylish hair,
women ask Charlie to do the
same for them and His Hair
gradually becomes a unisex
salon with precision cuts and
blow-drying all the rage.
Janet does the salon’s first
male perm and the first in
Edinburgh, with client Bobby
Readie the bold trendsetter.
1973
Ian Blyth, joins the Charlie
Miller family. A railway telecoms
engineer apprentice by day,
after work Ian shadowed
Charlie learning how to cut hair.
Within a year he had gained
the skills to switch careers.

1976
Invited by Renato Brunas to do
their first London hair show at
Salon International, the Charlie
Miller team represents the
country in a line-up called The
Superscots, which includes
Brian Drumm, Irvine Rusk and
Sam McAllister. Compered by
TV’s Michael Parkinson, they
raise Scotland’s hairdressing
profile and launch the Charlie
Miller name globally.
1979
Long-term team member
Mori Neill joins as a
receptionist then trains to
become a hairdresser.
1982
Jason Miller, Charlie and
Janet’s eldest son, joins the
family business.
The salon relocates to
13 Stafford Street, a lucky
move with the business and
its reputation continuing
to flourish.
1985
India Miller joins the salon.
1987 \ Jason Miller wins Newcomer of the
Year at the British Hairdressing Awards.
1986
The Charlie Miller artistic team
designs hairstyles inspired by
the Commonwealth Games.
1988
The team is appointed
International Artistic Directors
for Redken Laboratories
and embarks on a threeyear
programme of US visits
with shows, seminars and
workshops in over 17 cities
coast to coast.
First of three annual ITV
telethons with Charlie Miller
stylists taking part in 24 hours
of relay hairdressing to raise
money for local charities.
1988 \ India Miller wins Best British
Newcomer at the British Hairdressing Awards.
1989
Josh Miller, the company’s
co-managing director, joins his
family in nurturing the growth
of the business.
India creates The Crochet, her
acclaimed style and technique
inspired by chain mail.
1989 \ Charlie awarded Fellow of Honours
by the Fellowship of British Hairdressing
and inducted into the British Hairdressing
Awards Hall of Fame, one of hairdressing’s
highest accolades, for winning Northern
Stylist of the Year three times in 1986,
1988 and 1989.

1990
Charlie wins British Avant-Garde
Hairdresser of the Year and is nominated
for British Hairdresser of the Year for his
visionary Collector’s Portfolio.
Stylist Julie McGuire wins Newcomer of the
Year at the British Hairdressing Awards.
1997
Hair magazine names India
one of the UK’s top six stylists.
Jason and India produce their
first photo shoot together, with
India creating her signature
technique The Stitch. The photo
session for the new style is shot
in London by industry icon
Robert Lobetta in The Hempel,
the first time the five-star
boutique hotel is used as
a location.
1998
Charlie lays down his scissors
professionally to focus on
promoting and expanding the
company.
1991
L’Oréal Professional UK invites
Charlie Miller to present
shows and seminars to the
hairdressing industry nationally.
1994 \ Charlie awarded Fellow of Distinction
by the Fellowship of British Hairdressing and
receives the National Hairdressers Federation
title, Hairdresser of the Year.
1995 \ Charlie awarded World Master of the
Craft, New York.
1995
Ian Blyth becomes a company
director with the opening of
a second salon at South St
Andrew Street, which he runs.
The artistic team presents a
seminar and catwalk show
during BBC’s Clothes Show Live
held in Glasgow and hosted by
star presenters Jeff Banks and
Caryn Franklin.
1999 \ Jason and India crowned Scottish
Hairdressers of the Year for the second
time, the sixth award the Charlie Miller
family won in the competition’s 15-year
history and a rare achievement.
1999
Jason and India continue to
participate in high profile
events, including the annual
Mondial Coiffure Beauté
exposition in Paris.
Terri Robertson-Kirkwood
becomes a company director
with the opening of the
Frederick Street salon.
2000 \ The inaugural Charlie Miller
Achievement Awards take place in
Edinburgh, created to recognise individual
excellence in the team.
2002 \ Jason and India awarded the AIPP
Grand Trophy and the AIPP Best Avant-
Garde Fashion Collection.
2003 / Ian Blyth wins Scottish Hairdresser of
the Year at the British Hairdressing Awards.
Jason and India inducted into the British
Hairdressing Awards Hall of Fame.
2003
Beginning an enduring annual
relationship, eight top Charlie
Miller stylists turn heads
at the MTV Europe Music
Awards in Edinburgh,
working their magic to ensure
performers and presenters
are camera ready from the red
carpet to centre stage.
2004 \ Charlie receives a Lifetime
Achievement Award from The Guild of
Hairdressers.

2005
Opening of Ocean Terminal
salon, currently led by salon
manager Cat Nicholson.
2006
Charlie Miller chosen as the
official partner of the inaugural
Scottish Fashion Awards.
Model of Year is international
supermodel Kirsty Hume, who
as a schoolgirl in Ayrshire was
booked by India for a hair
photo shoot.
2008 \ Young artistic team wins the
inaugural L’Oréal Talent Spotting Junior
Art Team award.
2008
Jason styles the hair of sporting
legends, supermodels and
Hollywood stars at the annual
Laureus World Sports Awards
in St Petersburg, Russia.
2010
Sir Tom Farmer invites Charlie
on his North Pole expedition
and officially becomes the
company’s coolest client when
Charlie cuts his hair for the
Teenage Cancer Trust. The
super quick trim at -35c is a
world first.
The company opens its fifth
salon at Holy Corner, led by
salon manager Amber Swift,
and realises its dream of
launching a training academy
for industry peers.
In Montreal, Jason andIndia
present 1001 Nights into the
Future, the longest running
hair show produced by L’Oréal.
Over the next 18 months, they
take the show to Berlin, Sydney,
Johannesburg and Mumbai.
2012
Charlie awarded Order of
the British Empire by HM
The Queen for services to
hairdressing.
2015
The Charlie Miller artistic
team present Interface to
celebrate the 60th anniversary
of the L’Oréal Professional
Colour Trophy.

Charlie & Janet
The couple behind the brand
Back when he was weighing up his career options, 15-year
old Charlie Miller had a desire to be a drummer. In the end,
drumming’s loss was hairdressing’s gain. After leaving school
and a four-month search for work as a ladies hairdresser,
Charlie’s luck turned when he was given an apprenticeship
at his favourite barber’s, Bob’s. With the West Port based
barber challenging the traditional, rigid looks of the day in
the shape of Tony Curtis, Perry Como or flat-top cuts, it
proved inspiring training.
Five years later, the newly married Mr and Mrs Miller opened
their first salon, His Hair, which eventually took root and grew
into Charlie Miller Hairdressing. Five salons later, Charlie
and Janet can look back on fifty years of outstanding
achievements and industry firsts. So what’s their secret?

“Everyone has an inner haircut they want,” believes Charlie.
“Our job is to interpret and articulate even the vaguest notion
and create a style that’s appropriate for the client. It’s not about
the stylist imposing their ego. We’re here to make a client look
and feel good. It’s about clients feeling a total yes!”
From the beginning, Janet has played a crucial part in the
business, from pinpointing the perfect location for the flagship
salon at Stafford Street, to helping showcase Charlie Miller
hairdressing to industry peers globally and managing the
company’s finances and administration for 35 years. As Charlie
has often said, “There have been a vast number of times over
the years when she would say, ‘Why don’t you try it this way?’
and I would, and then get all the credit.”
After fifty years together in life and in business, for Charlie
and Janet success is part of the journey, not a destination.
“Our plan and our focus have always been driven by quality,”
admits Charlie. “We have a creative way of working and have
grown organically, knowing when to move to the next dynamic.
We’ve always been restless to move forward and make a
positive impact.”

GRANT ROSS
“ I’m treated with respect
and as a friend and always
feel all the better for the
experience when I leave. ”
JOHN JOHNSTONE
“ Because of the consistently
excellent standards I have
never gone anywhere else.
Always pleasurable, fun and
full of friendship. ”
GEORGE MCBEAN
“ Family and friends always
noticed when Charlie cut my
hair. We became friends from
the day of my first haircut. ”
BOBBY CHALMERS
“ I’m in with the bricks. I
was a twice-a-week client,
usually Wednesdays but
always Fridays. ”
ALISTAIR BOLLER
“ I’m welcomed as a friend
not just a client. The care,
attention and service are
second to none. ”
PETER LEES
“ I was about 16 or 17 years
old, before Jason and Joshua
were born. It’s always been
a great place to come. I
couldn’t go anywhere else. ”
RON LANCASHIRE
“ In the beginning it was
clear that getting a haircut
by Charlie Miller was not like
going to anyone else. It still
isn’t after 49 years! ”
DENNIS WATSON
“ Good hairdressing over
the many years. I enjoy
the friendly atmosphere
and chat. ”
PETER SCOTT
“ I keep coming back
because Charlie’s a
marvellous guy who has built
up a marvellous business. ”
Photograph by David Frederick Avery

JAMES SIMPSON
“ I’ve often been
complimented on the
quality of my haircuts,
even by strangers keen to
know where it was done
and by whom. ”
TREVOR DAVIES
“ I started with Charlie in
Rose Street. Now Ian does it
right every time. ”
GORDON JONES
“ I’ve been getting my haircut
at Charlie’s since I was 12
years old. Charlie told me
before he retired that I was
his youngest oldest customer,
if that makes sense. ”
RICHARD F MACKAY
“ My father liked early
morning appointments so
he would drive Charlie
to Prestonfield. Today
Jason cuts my hair, a rich
experience where laughter
and fun meet business
conversation and wise
counsel. ”
JOHN MILLER
“ I was in a hairdresser
wilderness until I walked into
Charlie’s shop at Prestonfield.
Ian in the South St Andrew
Street salon has followed on
from the master. ”
ALAN COLLINS
“ I was a client of Charlie’s
when he was at Bob’s. It’s
not only about the haircut;
it’s the banter and the
experience. ”
BILL PATON
“ Charlie cut my hair when
he was at Bob’s, then I
followed him to his first shop
in Prestonfield Avenue. ”
CHARLIE
MILLER
PETER DE VINK
“ I’ve only had my haircut
twice elsewhere since Rose
Street days, and both times I
was overseas! ”
ROBERT SMITH
“ Everyone in the salon has
the skills and personality to
turn each visit into not just
a haircut but a hair cutting
experience with top results. ”
DR GEORGE KERR CBE
“ I first met Charlie sweeping
the floor at Bob’s in 1964 and
he has been a friend ever since.
I enjoy the experience from the
best in the business.”
The originals
Nineteen men, fifty years and literally thousands of haircuts. Some of the core clients who put their heads in Charlie’s hands
way back in the beginning celebrate their unique place in the company’s history and share what keeps them coming back.
Shot at Prestonfield House, Edinburgh, close to the location of Charlie’s first salon.

Comme
As the
le père,
father is, so
telle est
is the son.
le fils.
There is a French proverb: ‘As the father is, so is the son’. Really, of
course, this old proverb not only applies to Jason and Joshua, but to
Janet and India and the whole extended Charlie Miller family.
Today, all over the world they promote the Charlie Miller brand, with
Jason and India effortlessly following the path carved out by Charlie.
They have their own individual personalities, and their personal
interpretation of creativity. But, like Charlie before them, they continue
to push the boundaries of hairdressing, constantly producing fantastic
work and always with style and elegance.
I compare the Charlie Miller brand to a famous couture brand such as
Chanel: the head designer may change but the brand fundamentally
does not. It is however this next generation of talent that will keep a
brand modern and energised. Jason, Joshua and India are the driving
force of the future of Charlie Miller Hairdressing.
They are a huge success story internationally and L’Oréal Professional
is very proud to have worked in collaboration with such outstanding
talent for so long. Congratulations on celebrating fifty years together.
I look forward to seeing what the future brings.
MICHEL CLAIRE / DIRECTOR
INTERNATIONAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT L’ORÉAL 1997-2012

In a relationship that spans over 40 years, L’Oréal Professional
Products has been proud and privileged to have worked hand
in hand with the world renowned hairdressing force that is
Charlie Miller. A true credit to the industry today, not only
does the company lead by example, it consistently surpasses
all expectations. Unrivalled artistry, elegance, acute sense of
aesthetics, passion and creativity - the list of credentials
is endless.
Charlie Miller’s formidable business acumen coupled with an
impeccable visionary eye keeps the company as relevant today
as when it broke the mould and its pioneering brand was born.
L’Oréal Professional Products is thrilled to be part of your story.
You truly are leading lights. It has been an honour to travel
together on the Charlie Miller journey so far. Congratulations.
We look forward to the next fifty years and beyond.
OMAR HAJERI
MANAGING DIRECTOR
L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS
Alchemy
The unique consistency that runs throughout L’Oréal is key to
the relationship we enjoy together. The marriage of people and
product that fulfils their commitment to innovation echoes our
own restless vision, while the outstanding quality of the L’Oréal
range enables us to offer our clients beautiful hair and vibrant
colour in the best possible condition.
Education has long played an important role in our creative
dynamic. Developing hairdressers through world-class
training lies at the heart of our relationship, from our artistic
team travelling the globe for shows and seminars, to L’Oréal
educating our newest colourists and the growth of the Charlie
Miller Academy to inspire other L’Oréal clients. Across all our
activities the reality is doing business together. The magic is
that it’s transcended by friendships that cover decades and
fuel our continuing relationship.
JOSH MILLER
JOINT MANAGING DIRECTOR
CHARLIE MILLER

© Archives L’Oréal / DR pour Jean-Claude

In
2009, India was commissioned by
the Financial Times How to Spend
It magazine to style the models’ hair
for an underwater fashion shoot
featuring couture gowns by Dior,
Versace and Ralph Lauren. India
created a series of intricate hairpieces
weeks in advance of the shoot, then
on the day wove the crocheted pieces
into each siren’s hair to create texture
and visual impact. The underwater
odyssey was styled by the magazine’s
fashion director Damian Foxe and
captured by photographer Zena
Holloway. Truly breathtaking!

Untitled / Jason Miller 2014

my inspiration
JASON MILLER
JOINT MANAGING DIRECTOR
I’ve got a hunger to search out and go to different countries and cities.
Throughout my career I’ve been lucky enough to travel. Art, spaces and
places all inspire me. It’s often architecture and interiors, like a shop or
a store, and I love gardens too. I suppose it’s the inner desire to create
an external space that appeals to me, or the desire to keep getting
excited about form, which is a big part of my work.
For me it’s about seeking out what people have manifested and made
happen, then believing you can do it too on some level or other.
There’s so much that inspires me. It’s continual, never ending. Because
I paint, recently I really enjoyed the Mark Rothko exhibition in The
Hague. What I love about his work is the depth of colour. There’s an
underlying spirituality that draws me in. It makes me feel that there’s a
lot more going on than what we see on the surface.
That really inspires my painting.

1960 1967
1970
1982
1996
2003
2011
2015
From runway to real life, over the past
fifty years the Charlie Miller team has
created classic styles that have captured
the look of an era and the mood of the
moment. The iconic and enduring bob,
first unveiled over a century ago in Paris,
has been interpreted and reimagined
time and again with stunning results.

My first client & me
IAN BLYTH
COMPANY DIRECTOR
Mary’s good fun. She’s always the
same, upbeat, never flat. We have a
laugh when she comes in. I admire her.
She’s always busy and travelling. She’s
a very kind person and does a lot to
help other people. Mary usually comes
in every six weeks. The conversation
usually takes off where we left off, we
never talk about her hair anymore. She
likes to be able to wash it and leave it.
She likes to keep her hair short, and
a little bit shorter than usual if she’s
going off on one of her sailing trips.
MARY SCOTT
A friend recommended Ian. I’m pretty
sure it was in 1975. Apart from a
couple of years when I was living in
New Zealand, I’ve been going to him
ever since. He knows what suits me.
I used to get perms in the 80s, but
we stopped all that nonsense. We’ve
developed a chatty relationship, but
one thing I like about Ian is he doesn’t
force a conversation. Dependable
sounds boring, but he is - dependable
not boring. It’s always a good cut.
People still comment on my hair.

FIONA CANT
ROSSLYN ORR
SALON DIRECTOR/
ASSISTANT MANAGER
When I moved from another salon,
Fiona followed me and came on my
first day at Charlie Miller. We both
know many of the same people so
we’ve got a strong connection. There
are some clients you can’t wait to
share things with and Fiona’s like that.
I remember sharing my engagement
with her. Now we talk about raising
kids and she’s given me amazing
tips. She’s very gifted and has a good
outlook on life. She’s always happy
and laid back. Having Fiona in my
chair is always a great experience.
My hair’s very thick and curly.
I needed someone who could
handle it and another hairdresser
recommended Rosslyn. She’s
rescued my hair many times and
cuts it in a way I can manage. I trust
her suggestions and she’s amazing
at doing colour. Over the years, I’ve
seen Rosslyn grow into a woman,
get married and have children. We
know about each other’s family. We’ve
become friends in a way. It’s important
to me that I’ve found someone who
can make my hair look great.
She’s fabulous.

Charlie Miller elevated hair photography
to a work of art with a set of experimental
images to celebrate the salon’s 25th
anniversary. The limited edition Collector’s
Portfolio featured seven dramatic styles,
inspired by qualities such as strength
and abundance, and shot against specially
commissioned backdrops featuring
ancient runes. Top fashion photographer
Nick Price captured the images. Charlie’s
aim in creating the unique collection
was to challenge and extend the
boundaries of hair photography. With only
50 sets designed and produced by Colin
Marr, the beautifully presented portfolio
was launched at a press breakfast in Joe’s
Cafe in London, a popular venue for 1990s
fashion industry movers and shakers.

Across
continents and time zones the eyes of the world are often on Charlie Miller.
For over 25 years, the company’s artistic team has presented its fabulous fusion
of couture hair, fashion, make up and staging at high profile industry shows,
events and seminars in Europe, North America, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and
China. Working with top brands such as L’Oréal and Redken, the top billing team
now led by Jason and India Miller has created signature techniques, styles and
looks that have inspired and influenced generations of hairdressers globally.
The first overseas tour, produced and directed by Charlie & Janet Miller,
launched in 1987. The team, which included Jason & India Miller, Ian Blyth
and Terri Robertson-Kirkwood, presented 45 one-hour shows for Redken to
thousands of hairdressers and industry peers throughout the USA, launching
Charlie Miller hairdressing on the international circuit during an exciting 36-week
schedule over three years.

Helping celebrities get ready for their close up is all in a day’s
work for the Charlie Miller team. 2014 marked the 12th
consecutive year of being appointed official hair stylists at
the MTV Europe Music Awards, held that year in Glasgow.
While the glitz, glamour and excitement reached a crescendo
in the auditorium, Jason, India and their team of stylists were
busy backstage, working their magic on hundreds of stars,
presenters and performers and adding last minute finishing
touches before they stepped into the spotlight. With everyone
from mega names to troupes of backing dancers to look after
against a ticking clock, the pace and turnaround is relentlessly
fast, especially during the show.
Closer to home, the team is a favourite choice for many famous
people attending the Edinburgh International Film Festival,
held annually in June. But while looking after musicians and
movie stars is exciting, the team never lets it go to their heads.
As a far as Jason, India and their stylists are concerned, the real
stars in their eyes are the clients who visit their salons every day
when the pace is far less hectic but just as much fun.

ANNAWINTOUR TILDASWINTON JOELY
AMERICAFERRERA MINNIEDRIVER BRIAN
ELIZABETHROHM DAVIDHASSELHOFF A
SNOOKI & JWOWW IRINASHAYK B
SIR SEANCONNERY AMYBERG ELISHAC
ALGORE ASHLEYJENSEN MATTHEWRHYS
ADAMLAMBERT DAVIDGUETTA BLACK E
GAILPORTER LESLIENEILSON THE DAR
NAME DROP. SOME OF THE DENNI
STYLE GURUS, MODELS, ACTORS J
POLITICIANS, TV PERSONALITIES MONI
MOVIE STARS, SPORTING LEGENDS, S
MUSICIANS & WRITERS WHO CHARLIE LIL
MILLER HAVE BEEN PRIVILEGED ARCHIE
TO LOOK AFTER. SOPHIEKENNEDYCLARK JA
RUTHNEGGA GRETAGERWIG KATEDICKIE
LORENZAIZZO ELIROTH REDFOO JENNIFAL
IAINGRAY SKYLARGREY NADIACOMANECI
AVIDMERRION GRAEMESOUNESS SUSA
THE BELLA TWINS FREYAMAVOR REBECC
CAMILLEO’SULLIVAN KATEMARA SCARLET
CHERIEBLAIR ARUNGANDHI LEO
KATIEJARVIS JOHARTLEY EMI

RICHARDSON KIRSTYHUME JODIEKIDD
COX ROBSONGREEN CHARLIZETHERON
DRIANBRODY DOLLYWELLS DAISYLOWE
ARREFAELI JESSICABROWN-FINDLAY
UTHBERT RORYBREMNER DONNAKARAN
SANDITHOM THETING TINGS JAREDLETO
YED PEAS DANIELLANARDINI APL.DE.AP
KNESS JULIEWALTERS DANNIMINOGUE
SHOPPER BACK STREET BOYS DAVEGROHL
OCELYNTOWNE SIMONHELBERG
CALEWINSKY EDWINACURRIE SELENAGOMEZ
AMANTHACAMERON CHENRAN NINAHOSS
YSINGH SHARMANMCDONALDAUBREYPLAZA
PANJABI KARENGILLAN DARRENFLETCHER
IMEWINSTONE EMILYWATSON KERRYFOX
JOANNAVANDERDAM BRIGITTEBARDOT
CONER EDITHBOWMAN KIERSTONWAREING
DAVIDSOUL JULIETTELEWIS SAMTORRANCE
NNAHYORK EDDIEIZZARD BRITTEKLAND
AMILLER SACHAHORLER JULIETTASICHEL
THOMAS JENAMALONE ENRIQUEIGLESIAS
NORACRICHLOW ELISALASOWSKI
LYMORTIMER JANESEYMOUR

JASON & INDIA MILLER
2015 marked the 60th anniversary of the L’Oréal Colour Trophy, one
of the most prestigious events in the UK hairdressing calendar. It was
a huge honour for Jason and India to be asked to present Interface,
their inspiring vision of couture hair to 1500 industry peers during the
annual must-see for hairdressing professionals. On the night, finalists
from salons throughout the UK competed in six categories.
Interface celebrated the crossing point between hair and fashion,
showcasing intricate hairstyles, elegant gowns and dynamic
presentation. The stunning show, specially devised by Jason and India
for the anniversary event in London, marked an important milestone in
the history of the L’Oréal Colour Trophy, making it the longest running
live hairdressing competition in the world.

From start to finish Interface was an opportunity to capture imaginations
and inspire. No pressure then. But after years in the spotlight, Jason,
India and their team of stylists thrive on being put on the spot to
perform during an event, reaching new heights of innovation and
originality with stunning effect. The creative colour palette and
masterful blend of tones, textures and dramatic styles presented during
the show did justice to the gala occasion and was an affirmation of the
talent nurtured in Charlie Miller salons.

My first client & me
AILSA FORTUNE
CAT NICHOLSON
SALON DIRECTOR/
MANAGER
Ailsa came with me when I moved to
Charlie Miller from another salon. We
had struck up an instant connection.
She’s been coming every eight weeks
since then. She’s very stylish and
has a fantastic head of hair so it’s
easy to make her look great. Ailsa’s
very interested in young people and
that’s one of our hot topics when she
comes. She gives me great guidance
and passes on pearls of wisdom that
help me train my staff and bring them
on, which is a big part of my work. Her
ideas and style keep her timeless.
I really disliked going to the
hairdresser and getting my hair cut,
which had stuck with me from my
childhood. Then one day Cat cut my
hair and there was just something
about her that clicked. When I got
married for the second time there
was no one else who was going to do
my hair. The following year my oldest
daughter got married too, so we all
trotted off to the salon. Cat meeting
both my daughters was part of our
relationship that was really rather nice.
Exceptional, that’s Cat. She’s made
going to the hairdresser a pleasure.

AMBER SWIFT
SALON DIRECTOR/
MANAGER
Arabella was my first client on my first
day working at Charlie Miller, then
she became my first regular client.
Every time she was up from London
she would come in for a blow dry.
Then she started living in Edinburgh
and now I cut and colour her hair. She
always makes me laugh. Her wedding
day was the first time I’d been to
someone’s house to do their hair. It
was lots of fun to be part of the build
up. Arabella’s a real inspiration and
always such a breath of fresh air. I truly
look forward to her walking through
the door.
ARABELLA HUNTER
The first time I went to the salon I
was so well looked after by Amber
and everyone, I’ve never gone
anywhere else. Charlie Miller’s a great
place. I love it. This time 14 years
ago, Amber was doing my hair for my
wedding. She had to persuade me to
get into my wedding dress because I
wasn’t sure about it. Now she cuts my
kids hair too. She’s creative, consistent
and reliable. I totally trust her. She’s
amazing, a great girl. Our relationship
has strengthened. She’s become
my friend.

my inspiration
INDIA MILLER
COMPANY DIRECTOR
My toolbox helps me to bring to life whatever has inspired me. It’s my
mini tool kit and allows me to instantly create what I have in my head,
which often comes from things I’ve seen in pictures or fashion shoots.
I’ve gathered all these unusual bits and bobs, collections of things that
are precious to me, like vintage hairpins in various shapes and sizes.
My whole tool kit would fit into a suitcase, what with the hairdryers and
all the other equipment, but this is my signature box. I like to keep it
handy and very tidy, which I get endlessly teased about. It’s been lots
of places with me. Wherever I am, I can open it up and start to work
creating something. It’s my version of an artist’s box. Instead of paints
and brushes, it has all my little knick knacks that are dear to me.

EFFIE ALEXANDER
Lorraine is an excellent hairdresser.
Wherever I go people always ask me
who does my hair. All my memories
are so good I can’t pick just one. She
is an artist. When she is working she
produces a work of art. I used to go
to the salon every day. For me it’s
like going home. The whole salon is
like my family. They have been with
me through all of the things that are
part of my life. I love Lorraine very
much. We have been like mother and
daughter. I only ever want Lorraine, no
one else.
LORRAINE Mc DIARMID
SENIOR HEAD STYLIST
Another stylist who was leaving to get
married decided I would be the best
person to do Effie’s hair. With wild
titian red curly hair and amazing blue
eyes, she was über-glamorous, really
fashionable. I was in awe of her. She
liked her hair blow-dried smooth, very
groomed, sort of Sophia Loren. Effie’s
blonder now but she still knows exactly
what she likes. It has to be perfect. We
joke that every hair is a prisoner. I love
Effie. She’s not just a client to me, she’s
a massive part of my life.

My first client & me
CLARE MEREDITH
I had young children at the time,
so having my hair cut was a bit of a
luxury. The fact that Jason was a junior
stylist back then was a bonus! He
always makes me feel comfortable.
Everyone’s like that in the salon. It’s
very inclusive and non-judgmental.
Jason’s a wonderful people person
and wise beyond his years. I love the
fact that I get more than a haircut
when I visit. I get a view on life and the
universe. He influences me in all sorts
of ways. He gave me the confidence
not to colour my hair.
JASON MILLER
JOINT MANAGING
DIRECTOR
Clare must have come in during my
first week as a stylist. She restores
paintings and has won top awards
in her field, so we always have really
interesting conversations. When I
picked up the courage to tell her
I paint she gave me an amazing
book about pigment and how artists
make paint. She was so encouraging
as I was starting to dabble, which
epitomises her kindness and interest
in others. She has recommended me
to friends and colleagues and they all
adore her too. People like Clare really
enrich your career.

my inspiration
JOSH MILLER
JOINT MANAGING DIRECTOR
As the Charlie Miller business has developed, my role has evolved
and has for a long time included the development of our team. When
someone feels happy, confident and strong, it puts them in a better
position to add something to their client’s life, and to their own.
The connection I have with people who have guided me through my
life is where my inspiration comes from. The moment you receive the
knowledge they are sharing, or the moment I am able to pass it on,
that’s when the magic happens. These moments, the ones that make
the difference, the ones where we grow as people are what matters.
My parents, Eric Boesch my school teacher, Richard Thomson, David
Douglas and many others have taught and guided me throughout my
life. Different teachings at different stages of life, and still even now a
conversation with one of them can be inspiring.
Now that I’m older, and hopefully wiser, it’s an honour to sometimes
be able to say something that can be helpful to them.

With a reputation fifty years in the making, Charlie Miller is recognised
nationally and internationally as one of the UK’s leading hairdressing brands.
The salon’s friendly, experienced team continually delivers the highest
standards in all its work. Hairdressing is a craft, learning it can’t be rushed.
It takes time to be the best.
Raising talent
The company has an ongoing commitment to the professional and
personal development of every member of the team throughout every
stage of their career. From trainees and young people coming up through
the ranks to colourists honing their skills and senior stylists creating cuts
and styles to suit each client and their life, there is a constant quest to pass
on knowledge from group to group and generation to generation.
Being restless means never compromising on quality. Regular training
in techniques, advances and new products is led and supervised by the
company’s directors, artistic team and salon managers.
Striving to improve, believing there are always better ways of doing what
the company does best, sharing unrivalled expertise with colleagues and
industry peers, the bar has always been set high at Charlie Miller. Styles,
trends and looks may come and go, but here where it all began some
things will never change.

By educating, nurturing,
caring & respecting,
we remain authentic in
everything we do.

my inspiration
NATALIE COLE
SALON DIRECTOR/ASSISTANT MANAGER
Being able to travel and see different parts of the world always inspires
me. It complements my work as a stylist. I love going to other countries
and seeing how people dress, what their hair is like, how they talk. It’s
great to experience it and compare the differences. I’m originally from
New Zealand. Now that I’m settled in Edinburgh, if I’m on holiday I’m
exploring, immersing myself in other cultures and all kinds of locations,
not just cities, and all year round.
The world is getting smaller. We don’t need to dream about going to
the other side of it. We can do it and do it well. Travel encourages me
to think outside the box and stops me from becoming stale in my work,
or run the risk of boring my clients by not being able to offer a change.
Wherever I go, it’s good to bring something back.
I like to push boundaries.

my inspiration
TAMMY NEILLINGS
CHARLIE MILLER
OUTSTANDING HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR 2014-15
I’m passionate about music, all kinds of genres from rockabilly through
punk to ska and reggae. Everything works better for me when it’s set to
a soundtrack. I studied fashion promotion at university before I got into
hairdressing. It’s the relationship between fashion and music that filters
down into how I see things and work. When I’m listening to music it’s
the style that runs alongside the sound that inspires me and creates a
look in my mind. Fashion allows me to see the music.
Over the years I’ve been most inspired by the relationship between ska
and reggae because the styles are so opposing. When I go to hear a
band, seeing the fans whose look is synonymous with a specific type of
music is usually inspirational. I don’t fall into any one sub-culture, so I
don’t assume my clients will either.
A look can be distilled into something more mainstream.

My first client & me
MORI NEILL
SENIOR HEAD STYLIST
Debbie is such a lovely person, kind
inside and out. She’d be there in a
heartbeat for anyone, including me.
Her hair has always been long, with
a bit of variation over the years. She
sticks with what works for her and it
hasn’t dated. I’ve cut her mother’s
hair and her son and daughter’s hair
too. Debbie’s very genuine. She
puts a positive spin on things. When
I see her name in my column, I look
forward to her appointment. I enjoy
her vibrancy. We always have a laugh
together. She’s a lot of fun.
I felt an instant connection at my
first appointment with Mori. Our
relationship has changed over the
years and we have become good
friends. We’ve shared each other’s
lives, the good and the bad. We’ve
supported and confided in each other
through difficult times, laughed and
cried together. I am amazed at Mori’s
ability to effortlessly cut and style my
hair throughout all of these chats,
always ensuring I leave the salon
delighted. She always knows what
my hair needs. One word to describe
Mori - irreplaceable!
DEBBIE TELFORD

SOPHIE TULLOCH
I used to get my hair cut in London
but I had this fringe that was driving
me crazy. I walked into Stafford Street
and got an appointment with India.
She’d just become engaged to Jason
and was starting out in her career.
I thought she was one of the nicest
people I’d met and she completely
got what I needed. We’ve tried
different things over the years. I trust
her implicitly. She’s professional and
friendly, not at all intimidating. I’ve
been to different Charlie Miller salons
with her. If India moves, I follow.
INDIA MILLER
COMPANY DIRECTOR
Sophie has been a really easy
person to know as a client. We
immediately clicked from the very
first appointment. We have a comfy,
flexible relationship. In a way we’ve
grown up together. We’ve gone
through the birth and parenting of
our children together. Now there’s
an unspoken friendship and care
for each other. Sophie’s very natural
and open, and incredibly honest and
caring. She’s very relaxed about her
hair. We always have a good giggle
whenever she comes into the salon.
She’s like a lovely hug.

50 years
5 salons
22 awards
120 team
1 O.B.E.
In 2012, in recognition of services to hairdressing, Charlie Miller
became the first Scottish hairdresser to be honoured with an
Order of the British Empire.
“I am deeply grateful to have received this honour for my contribution
in such a creative and innovative industry. It has been a fulfilling career
with many opportunities to share my skill and knowledge with industry
peers throughout the world. This award is shared with my talented and
supportive family and the many wonderful people with whom I have
worked during the journey.”
CHARLIE MILLER

Giving back
Charlie Miller never wears its
success lightly. With it comes the
responsibility to put something back.
Over the years, the company has
supported hundreds of charities,
fundraising events and community
initiatives to help all ages and a vast
range of projects.
During 2015 alone, the company
helped the work of almost 200 local,
national and international charities
and charitable activities.
A charity particularly close to the
Charlie Miller team is the Teenage
Cancer Trust. In 2007, after chairing a
discussion group responsible for the
pioneering Hair 4 U project, Charlie
teamed up with the TCT to provide
free, real hair wigs to young people
affected by cancer. The discussion
group brought together teenagers
who had experienced cancer, parents
of teenagers who still had cancer,
NHS Cancer Nurse Specialists, a TCT
representative, a volunteer fundraiser
and wig supplier A&A Wigs
who provide wigs for the project at
wholesale price.
Since then Charlie has personally
invited a select group of hairdressers
in 28 salons throughout the UK to
support the project and ensure that
everyone aged 13 to 24 with cancer
under the care of a TCT unit has the
chance to have a real hair wig cut
in a style that is right for them. In
2012, Charlie handed over the reins
to Jason, who now styles wigs on a
regular basis and continues to work
closely with the TCT on the project.

Shine on
Now in their 16th year, the Charlie Miller Achievement Awards were
created to recognise the team’s successes and achievements during
the previous year. A night of glitz, glamour and camaraderie, it’s a
chance for the entire company to get together and celebrate individual
contribution, commitment and hard work - and let their hair down!

Thank you
We would not be celebrating fifty years together without our
wonderful clients who have visited our salons over the years. Many,
we are proud to say, still visit regularly. We would love to include you
all in this record of our golden years but there aren’t enough pages!
Thank you to all our clients for sharing our journey. We hope you have
enjoyed it as much as we have. We look forward to continuing to care
for you for many years to come.
To our collaborators who have shared the essence of
Charlie Miller - the photographers, clothes stylists, make-up artists,
show producers, video producers and journalists - we thank you all. We
look forward to continuing to work together in the years ahead.
For each of us, past and present, it has been an exciting and fulfilling
journey, one with many different voices speaking in harmony.
It has always been the same. It was there at the start half a
century ago, it exists today and it always will.
We look forward to our future together.
EVERYONE AT CHARLIE MILLER
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13 STAFFORD STREET
8 SOUTH ST. ANDREW STREET
39 FREDERICK STREET
1ST FLOOR, OCEAN TERMINAL
HOLY CORNER, BRUNTSFIELD