As with every year, January 1st came with lots of promises and resolutions about all the things I am going to change in 2012. After over-indulging on chocolate, wine and turkey over the festive period- diets and getting fit are all at the top of my list- but an incentive was required to kick-start my new lifestyle regime.

Then came the idea of a new hairstyle. I hadn't had a hair cut in about 3 years and getting a fabulous new look felt like the perfect way to start 2012.

As I am embracing change this year, Zuni Hair's brand new premises at the corner of Botanic and University Avenue seemed like the perfect place to start! The multi-award winning Zuni team moved from their 1st floor salon overlooking Botanic Ave to their new red-bricked abode, literally a skip around the corner, just seven weeks ago- so I booked an appointment with expert stylist Zara Colhoun for January, 4th in the hope that new hair would encourage more change throughout the year.

The new Zuni salon is gorgeous- very clean and minimalistic, but with a touch of girlie prettiness that I love. Drop-ins and a book full of appointments creates a real atmosphere in the salon and being on street level means you can watch the world go by as you enjoy the Zuni experience.

Having my hair washed while I lay back in an electric reclining leather chair felt very luxurious and the head massage almost sent me to sleep!

After a colour patch test 48 hours previously, I was all set to go for my cut and colour. As a previous winner of the Northern Ireland L'Oreal Colour Trophy, Zuni is filled with specialists when it comes to colour and Zara spent time with me choosing the perfect shade and style for my skin tone and face shape.

We decided on 'Chocolate' from Zuni's L'Oreal Dia Colour Richesse chart- and a long fringe with quite a simple cut to frame my face. The Chocolate shade is extremely popular with Zuni clients and its subtle copper tinge adds great depth to the hair colour.

By the time Zara was finished, after about an hour-and-a-half, I had very shiny and healthy looking chocolate brown locks with a brand new fringe which completely changes my look (for the better!).

I now feel fresh and ready to face all my New Year resolutions with my fabulous new hair- so when I'm fit and healthy in a few months time, I'll have Zara at Zuni to thank!

For more information on Zuni, visit their website or facebook page, and to book an appointment, call 02890332345.

Photos: Top Left- Stylist Zara Colhoun working her magic

Middle Right- Claire Before

Bottom Left- Claire After