History of hairstyles captured in photos of top Dundee salon McIntyres going back 25 years.

McIntyres, Dundee’s top salon, is commemorating 25 years of style, so we’ve taken a look back at some memorable hairstyles.

Gayle Ritchie From curtain fringe and chunky highlights to curly mullets and jagged shags, hairstyles have changed dramatically over the last 25 years.

And, undoubtedly, the early 2000s were an exciting period to be in the hair industry. McIntyres, Dundee’s finest salon, was there in the middle of the action, opening its award-winning Union Street salon in 2000.

As the salon celebrates its 25th anniversary, we’ve combed through our own and McIntyres’ archives to locate photographs highlighting former hair styles.

Fashions in a flash

Kay McIntyre, the salon owner, has seen hair trends come and go in a flash over the past 25 years.

“In the early 2000s, we were seeing strong pop culture influences,” she told me.

“Think massive highlights, poker-straight styles, and thickly layered cuts inspired by the Spice Girls and ‘The Rachel’, a trend popularised by American actress Jennifer Aniston.

“The focus was on shine, structure, and statement colour.”

According to Kay, styles got more “polished and effortless” as we entered the decade of 2010.

“Balayage and delicate, glossy blow-dries ruled. “It was all about healthy, touchable hair that looked natural.”

Mullets – reinvented

Styles that were popular in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s have recently returned to vogue.

“The mullet has made a huge comeback, but it’s been reinvented for today,” Kay added. “It’s softer, more textured, and welcoming, frequently flowing into shags and wolf cuts.

“It represents individualism, which is just where hair trends are right now. It’s all about celebrating individuality.”

Kay stated that clients are embracing texture, waves, curls, and natural movement while still seeking a premium, glossy finish.

“It’s about striking the perfect balance between effortless and luxurious,” she told me.

An exciting journey

In reflecting on the McIntyres’ fascinating adventure, Kay McIntyre stated that opening the Dundee Union Street salon was a massive expenditure that went much over budget.

Their Perth Road salon had debuted seven years before, in 1993. However, it was so busy, and as staff and clientele grew, they required a second, much larger salon.

In terms of highlights, she stated receiving the renowned title of Scottish Hairdresser of the Year in 2000, the year the salon launched, was a particular favourite, describing it as a “mix of joy and relief”.

Kay went on to win the award two more times, earning a spot in hairdressing’s coveted Hall of Fame in 2012.

David Walliams, an actor and comedian, hosted the glittering event at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel.

Loyal clients

Kay is also proud of the salon’s many loyal clientele who have been with it from its inception, as well as the outstanding stylists and teams she has developed, trained, and mentored, many of whom have gone on to win salon accolades.

“Our current team always feels unique, but I couldn’t have done it alone, so I’d like to thank everyone who has been a part of the trip, both past and present.

“Anyone who knows me will know it’s always about the team.”

Glowing reports

Justine Anderson has been a client at the Perth Road salon since it began 32 years ago.

“I genuinely look forward to every visit,” she told me. “Kay always gives me great advice, the staff are so friendly, and the attention to detail is amazing.”

Meanwhile, Susan Campbell was appreciative for Kay’s help when chemotherapy caused hair loss.

“Luck was most definitely in my corner when I had the experience of Kay looking after me during such a turbulent time,” according to her.

“She was discreet and professional at all times, yet she demonstrated great dedication by giving me with the finest options available and genuinely caring about the outcome.

“She made an impact on me as a hairdresser but also as a person.”

Lauren Stuart, another client, stated that McIntyres team goes above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience.

“I walked in on my 30th birthday to a banner and a bunch of flowers!” she recalled.

What sets McIntyres apart?

According to Kay, McIntyres distinguishes itself from other salons by balancing “creativity, expertise, and authenticity”.

“The salon has established a reputation for providing quality, fashion-forward hair that is uniquely suited to each client.

“Education is key to all we do, ensuring that the team keeps on top of the latest trends and practices.

“We continue to set standards within the UK hairdressing industry rather than follow them.”

Pampering for all

Over the years, McIntyres teams have raised “tens of thousands” for local charity.

They also make Little Princess Trust patients feel more welcome by providing unique pamper sessions.

Accolades galore

In October, the McIntyres team won the renowned Wella Professionals TrendVision Awards for 2025.

Meanwhile, Kay, who judged this year’s British Hairdressing Awards, noticed McIntyres being shortlisted in three categories at the British Hairdressing Business Awards in July.

“That felt special because it was current and shows our Dundee salons can still compete creatively and in business with the very best London salons,” she told me.

Up there with the best

Kay is the only Dundee hairdresser who has won Scottish Hairdresser of the Year three times and been admitted into the British Hairdressing Hall of Fame.

Celebrate with an upgrade

To commemorate the salon’s 25th anniversary, the reception and shop areas have been beautifully upgraded, with additional improvements taking place throughout the salon.

Read more on Straightwinfortoday.com