what i asked for vs what i got

i went to a new hair stylist for the first time in a long time.

not because i wanted to.

because my two regular stylists were fully booked, and i told myself to stop being so weird about trying new people. like… it’s just hair, right?

i showed her exactly what i wanted.

soft chocolate, caramel balayage. dimension. warmth. movement.

she nodded. said “yeah, we can do that.”

and then she turned my chair away from the mirror.

the ENTIRE appointment.

i didn’t think much of it at first. i figured maybe it was just how she worked. maybe i was overthinking. so i sat there, trusting the process, trying to be normal about it.

but something felt off.

you know that feeling when you can’t see what’s happening but you can feel it’s not right?

that’s exactly what it felt like?

i kept telling myself, don’t be dramatic. she’s the professional.

it’ll come together at the end. and then she spun me around.

& i didn’t recognize myself.

no dimension.

no chocolate.

just flat, red-brown hair.

blunt. heavy. one color.

nothing like what i asked for.

i just sat there. literally staring at myself, trying to process it in real time.

and the worst part? i didn’t say anything.

not because i liked it.

but because i was in shock.

i kept thinking maybe i was overreacting. maybe it wasn’t that bad. maybe if i just sat with it, it would grow on me. wellllll….. it didn’t. i hate it.

i left, got in my car, and just stared at myself again and ever since then, i haven’t wanted to go anywhere like i’m so embarrassed

because it’s not even just about the hair.

it’s the trust. the TRUSSSTTTT

i already struggle trusting new stylists. and i gave someone a chance anyway. and somehow, this is exactly why i don’t!

so yeah. what i asked for vs what i got.

#hairdecisions #badhaircutstories #trustissues #chopped #haircolorjourney

4/7 Edited to

... Read moreTrying a new hairstylist can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially when you have a specific look in mind like a soft chocolate caramel balayage with dimension and warmth. Unfortunately, not every experience goes as planned. I remember once putting my trust in a stylist who assured me she could deliver exactly what I wanted, but instead, I was left with a flat, red-brown color that lacked any of the depth or movement I hoped for. What added to the frustration was the stylist turning my chair away from the mirror throughout the appointment. This left me feeling helpless and uneasy, unable to see the progress and unsure if she was truly following the plan. For anyone who's ever been in this situation, it can seriously shake your confidence—not just in your hairstylist but in yourself. From my experience, clear communication and visibility during the process are key. I learned that without being able to see your hair as it’s being worked on, it’s tough to provide feedback or catch issues early. After my disappointing appointment, I realized how important it is to advocate for yourself, even if it feels awkward to speak up when something doesn’t look right. Dealing with a bad hair color or cut can impact your mood and self-esteem more than you expect. It’s not merely about vanity; it’s about feeling comfortable and confident. If you find yourself in this situation, remember it’s okay to seek fixes from other professionals, and sometimes, temporary styling tricks can help until your next appointment. Lastly, this kind of experience also teaches valuable lessons about trust. It’s natural to hesitate before trying new stylists, especially after a bad experience. But every stylist is different, and with research, clear communication, and maybe bringing reference photos, you can find someone who understands your vision and respects it. Remember, hair grows back and there’s always a chance to turn your hair journey into a positive story, even after a disappointing start.

Related posts

A hand displays long, coffin-shaped acrylic nails with a clear base and gold framing. Some nails feature small star embellishments. The hand wears multiple gold rings and has a spiderweb tattoo, representing the desired nail design.
What I asked for vs What I got
These were my birthday nails and I lovedddd them!! #birthdaynailinspo #birthdaynails #nails #nailideas #acrylicnails
Charisma 🩵

Charisma 🩵

3911 likes

A hand displays long, almond-shaped nails with nude bases. Some tips are gold textured, others have leopard print. Two nails feature pink ovals with red outlines, one with a 3D pink flower, and another with a gold starburst. Text overlay reads "What I asked for."
A hand displays long, almond-shaped nails with nude bases. Some tips are gold textured, others have leopard print. Two nails feature pink ovals with red outlines, one with a 3D pink flower, and another with a gold starburst. Text overlay reads "What I got!".
A close-up of a hand shows long, almond-shaped nails. Designs include nude bases, gold textured tips, leopard print tips, and two accent nails with pink ovals, red outlines, a 3D pink flower, and a gold starburst.
Nails: what I asked for vs. what I got 🌸
What do you think?! Also, how much do you think I paid for these 👀💅🏼 | nails by: @Samantha🧚‍♀️ #nailinspo💅 #unfiltered #fallnails #NailArt #whatiaskedforvswhatigot #lemon8beauty #glowup
Kenzie Mariano

Kenzie Mariano

3442 likes

What I asked for vs. what I got
As soon as I showed the nail tech what I was looking for he said “I can try” 😬 and he really did I’m such a people pleaser and could see him really trying but then again I’m so OCD and don’t think they give the same vibe. Over all, before tip was $85. I still think they’re cute, but not
Monica Rose

Monica Rose

2466 likes

What I asked for vs. What I got
#nails #mynails2026 #mynails
katseyeee_yoonchae🐚...

katseyeee_yoonchae🐚...

453 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
New nail therapy session
KK1964

KK1964

754 likes

what i asked for vs. what i got…
I honestly think mine are better 🫣 Let me know what you think!! 💭 #whatiwantedvswhatigot #expectationvsreality #nails #nailinspiration #nailinspo #fallnails #nailsoflemon8 #NailArtIdeas #nailtech #almondnails
kenna | nail tech

kenna | nail tech

1168 likes

A close-up of a hand with long, pointed pink and white French tip nails, featuring leopard print accents and a pink bow design. The text "What I asked for vs what I got ..." is overlaid.
What I asked for vs what I got …
#got my nails done 💅 #unfiltered #nailinspo
Alyssa Hernande

Alyssa Hernande

3382 likes

What I asked for VS what I got ♥️💅
#NailInspo #RedNails #StilettoNails #redstilettos #whatiaskvswhatigot
Jenn Allen

Jenn Allen

483 likes

A close-up of hands displaying various strawberry-themed nail designs, featuring red and clear bases with strawberry patterns and white tips. The image has text overlays 'WHAT I ASKED FOR WHAT I GOT' and 'Swipe for Nail Inspo!'.
A hand with long, almond-shaped nails featuring clear bases, white French tips, and detailed red strawberry designs. The hand wears a gold bracelet, and the image has a 'what i got' text overlay.
Two hands showcasing almond-shaped nails with clear bases and a gradient green French tip, adorned with small gold stars and rhinestones. The image includes a 'what i asked for' text overlay.
what i asked for vs. what i got
i think i can safely say i found a good nail tech that works in an actual salon 😮‍💨 #nailinspo💅 #whatiaskedforvswhatigot #nails #nailinspo #NailArt #nailideas #Lemon8Diary #lemon8beauty #whatiaskedfor
𝐣𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐞. 🍓

𝐣𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐞. 🍓

3193 likes

what I asked for Vs what I got
nails💌 Brand:RiemLi #nailart #nails #blacknailtechconnect
Tink

Tink

1317 likes

What I asked for vs What I Got!
Happy Mother's Day ladies #motherdaynails #Nails inspo
prettyblackjewel10

prettyblackjewel10

305 likes

What I asked for vs. what I got
#short nail inspo
Tanika Hooker

Tanika Hooker

314 likes

What I asked for vs What I got
Added a little Razzle Dazzle #whatiaskedforvswhatigot #frenchchromenails #nailinspo #metallicnails #NailArt #nailoflemon8 #nailideas #selfcare #softblackgirl
Coshiaa

Coshiaa

3470 likes

What i asked for vs. what i got
#nailinspo #naildesign #nails #nailideas #gelxnails
Courtney

Courtney

1276 likes

What I asked for VS What I got
#nailinspo #whatiwantedvswhatigot 💚💅🏾
Mocha

Mocha

286 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
This was my graduation set!!! #graduationnails #nails #GirlTalk
Kaidenwood11

Kaidenwood11

4608 likes

What I asked for Vs what I got, nailed it.
#Nail #NailArt #fypシ゚viral
Jennifer Morr

Jennifer Morr

3176 likes

What I Asked For Vs What I Got...
Nails 💅🏾 #nailsinspo #nailideas #lemon8beauty #fyp #nails
Savvy Sonya Xo 💋

Savvy Sonya Xo 💋

1116 likes

What I asked for vs What I got
I’m in love with my new nails 😍😍 And if they ain’t long I don’t want em #these nails are everything #Lemon8Diary #nailinpo2024
Bri Babyy

Bri Babyy

1591 likes

What I asked for vs What I got
Honestly super happy with the outcome! Loving my new tattoo inspired by #fourthwing If you’re in San Antonio, TX hit Jeremy at Soft Revolution Tattoo
Yezel Guzmán

Yezel Guzmán

958 likes

A hand displays long, pointed nails with an alternating design of solid red and pink ombre with red tips. The image is labeled "WHAT I ASKED FOR VS...." and includes nail brand information.
What I asked for vs what I got!
I think she nailed it!!❤️ #nailsinspo #nails💅 #almondnails #naildesignideas #rednail
Jess✨

Jess✨

1156 likes

A close-up of hands with long, almond-shaped nails featuring a nude base, gold swirls, gold outlines, and brown leopard-print designs with gold studs. The text "WHAT I ASKED FOR VS. WHAT I GOT" is overlaid, indicating this is the "what I got" result.
A close-up of hands with long, almond-shaped nails. The design includes a nude base, gold swirls, gold outlines, 3D white flowers, and light blue ombre on the pinky nails, representing the "what I asked for" reference.
A close-up of hands with long, almond-shaped nails. The design includes a nude base, gold swirls, gold outlines, 3D white flowers, and light blue ombre on the pinky nails, representing the "what I asked for" reference.
What I asked for vs. what I got
I think my nail tech did so good!! lmk ur thoughts? #nailinspo💅🏻 #nailtech #Lemon8 #nails #nailedit💅🏾
Briana

Briana

1559 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
Absolutely love these #nails #nailinspo #manicure #valentinesnails
Brooks 💙

Brooks 💙

1600 likes

What I asked for vs. What I got 😍
John at Nails Vibe in Fort Smith, Ar is such an amazing artist! I got these #gelxnails for the first time! I am in love with this set! #arkansasnailtech #NailArt #nailinspo #nwa
Tj

Tj

438 likes

What I asked for vs. what I got
I’m so in love with my nails. These are literally perfect to me! Nude on nude frenchies! 😍🥰 #prettygirlaesthetic #unfiltered #Lemon8Diary #healthylifestyle2024 #beautyfinds #blackgirlcreator #blackgirllifestyle #blackgirllemon8 #nude french acrylic nails
Key 🌹

Key 🌹

1955 likes

What I asked forVs.What I got
Loved the design but wanted a different color #bluenails #insponails #whatiaskedforvswhatigot #silver #nailsideas
Dace W

Dace W

698 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
My tech did flawless on this pedi! #pedi #pedicureideas #manicureandpedicureideas #pedicureinspiration #manicure and pedicure #lemon8diarychallenge
Trace

Trace

1541 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
#nails #should i keep the nails #nailinspo
Strawberry cake

Strawberry cake

1700 likes

WHAT I ASKED FOR VS WHAT I GOT
My nail tech never disappoints 🤭🔥 #nailsinspo #whatiaskedforvswhatigot
YT: Janasia Starsheona 🎀

YT: Janasia Starsheona 🎀

1231 likes

A collage of four different nail art designs, showcasing long, almond-shaped nails with iridescent, pastel colors, and intricate 3D embellishments like shells, pearls, and flowers, representing desired nail styles.
what i asked for vs what i got 💅🏻🐚🎀
Summer Glow Up Series👙🌴🧖🏻‍♀️ 🫧🌺 nail appointment 🌺🫧 I love my new nails 💗 I’ve been seeing these nail sets everywhere so I decided to get them. My nail tech was so attentive to detail and told me that she’s passionate about doing complex designs. I don’t usually get my nails done because I w
rêves de ju

rêves de ju

1671 likes

What asked for Vs What I got
#nails #nailinspo #1sttimeposting #waitingonsummer #lemon8dairy
J.Mila

J.Mila

732 likes

What I asked for VS what I got
#nailedit💅🏾 #nailinspo💅🏾 #nails #lemon8beauty Tennessee
Kimmy Lou

Kimmy Lou

1079 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
My nails look great but i changed the shape of them. Not bad for doing chrome for the first time #selfcare
Clarissa

Clarissa

1562 likes

A hand displays long, pointed green and nude nails with gold outlines and star/clover designs. Text reads "Boujee and green WHAT I ASKED FOR," indicating the desired nail style.
Two hands show long, pointed green and nude nails with gold accents and star/clover designs. Text reads "Swipe it" and "WHAT I GOT!!", presenting the received nail set.
Two hands display long, pointed green and nude nails featuring gold outlines and star/clover embellishments. The image includes the nail tech's Instagram handle "@sleekandshinenails".
What I asked for vs what I got
My nail tech always eats with the designs What I asked for vs what I got follow her on Instagram @sleekandshinenails LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS SET 💚 #nails #green nails #nailinspo #trendynails #acrylicnails
Melonie 🦋

Melonie 🦋

562 likes

A close-up of a hand displaying square-shaped nails with a nude base and metallic gold French tips. The image is labeled "What I asked for...".
A hand with oval-shaped nails featuring a nude base and metallic gold French tips, wearing a ring and bracelet. The background shows shelves of perfume bottles. The image is labeled "What I got!".
A close-up of a hand with oval-shaped nails, nude base, and metallic gold French tips. Infinity symbols are drawn on the fingers, and perfume bottles are blurred in the background.
What I asked for vs. what I got! 🤩
#nails #nailinspo #buildergelnails #hardgelnails #russianmanicure #frenchtipnails #lemon8diarychallenge
jadealycebod

jadealycebod

6532 likes

What I Asked For vs What I Got
Ooooo this one hits right. Love This Set 💙💙💙 What I Asked For vs What I Got ⭐️Overall rating: 10/10 #BLUE #nails #nailinspo #elegant #Lemon8
Mandii G aka Blue

Mandii G aka Blue

293 likes

A hand displays long, pink aura nails with rhinestones, gold rings, and a hand chain, against a white fluffy background. The image is captioned "WHAT i ASKED FOR: VS."
WHAT I ASKED FOR VS WHAT I GOT
what i asked for: 💖🎀🌷✨👛 what i got: 💜✨🔮🪩🌙 i loooveeee aura nails - these are done with the airbrush! i showed them the inspiration picture and told them i wanted that but in purple instead! both my ring fingers and pointer fingers have 3 rhinestones evenly spaced down the center 💎 ‼️ REMINDE
halle peterson

halle peterson

582 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
Absolutely obsessed with this set✨✨ #nailedit💅🏻 #nailinspo
Nataly🧚🏼‍♀️✨

Nataly🧚🏼‍♀️✨

726 likes

What i asked for vs what i got..
#tattoo #tattooinspo #whatiaskedforvswhatigot
Saige

Saige

1268 likes

What I asked for VS What I got
#nails #nailinspo💅🏾 #nailinspo #2025
TeeDaWarrior

TeeDaWarrior

737 likes

What I asked for vs what I got 🩷
Nail inspo
Jessiejai

Jessiejai

929 likes

A close-up of a hand showcasing square-shaped nails with nude bases and French tips. Some tips are white, one is yellow, and two nails feature Spongebob and Patrick Star character designs. The image is labeled 'WHAT I ASKED FOR..'.
What I asked for VS. what I got
I love these sooo much!! My nail tech is truly a blessing!! #nails #nailinspo #spongebob #spongebobnails #whatiwantedvswhatigot
~Samantha~

~Samantha~

2950 likes

What I asked for Vs What I got
#nailnspo #nails #nailsinspiration #almondnails #frenchtips
Alaina :)

Alaina :)

815 likes

A woman with wavy, medium-length blonde hair featuring a bright money piece, darker roots, and balayage highlights, representing a desired hair style.
A woman with long, wavy blonde hair, dark roots, and prominent face-framing highlights, serving as a hair inspiration photo.
A woman with wavy, light blonde hair, darker roots, and a balayage blend, shown as a hair style reference.
What I asked for vs what I got
I’ve been going blonder and blonder for the past 8 years and now I couldn’t love my new lived in/bronde any more 🤎 I showed my hairstylist these pics and we talked about what I liked and didn’t like. We decided on a bright money piece and bright ends with a blendy balayage at my roots! I’ll prob
Molly Ann

Molly Ann

1684 likes

A hand displays a nail design reference image with natural base, white tips, and drawn-on yellow lines indicating desired gold accents. Text overlays read "Gold lines" and "What I asked for vs...".
what I asked for vs what I got
I am extremely happy with these nails. I took a picture from the last time and just kinda drew on the extras. Fav nails I’ve got so far! #nailinspo💅🏻 #fav
Brylee Roam

Brylee Roam

8797 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
Love love love the way these turned out. #whatiaskedforvswhatigot #Nail #nails #nails2024 #nailsforfall2024 #fallnails
Libbi Susan

Libbi Susan

335 likes

What I asked for vs. what I got
I ended up changing the shade of pink last minute #nails #whatiaskedforvswhatigot #nailinspo #cherries
Shanyce

Shanyce

686 likes

What I asked for vs What I got ✨
#whatiaskedforvswhatigot #nailsinspo #hotpink #inspiration #nailsideas
💖Timmie 💖

💖Timmie 💖

1298 likes

What I asked for vs What I got
😍🤩 homegirl nailed it! Houston Purchased from: Secret Escape Nail Lounge Nailtek: Ann #nails #pretty #nye #2025
TeeDaWarrior

TeeDaWarrior

776 likes

A close-up of long, coffin-shaped nails featuring a nude and white marbled design with gold foil flakes and gold heart charms. Text overlays indicate 'Swipe for Nail Inspo!'
What I asked for vs What I got
They make it happen every time #nails #lemon8diarychallenge
Teeks

Teeks

712 likes

A close-up of two hands showcasing long, almond-shaped nails with a nude base, gold outlines, and green gem accents. Gold rings are worn on both hands.
A hand with almond-shaped nails featuring gold tips, outlines, and green star-shaped gems, held against a dark, blurry outdoor background.
A hand displaying almond-shaped nails with gold accents and green star gems, illuminated by a bright, round lamp in the background.
What I asked for vs, What I Got
They grown on me ngl ! #nails #nails💅 #nailsideas #lemon8beautycrew #nailedit💅🏾
Lali.marti

Lali.marti

500 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
I absolutely love what I got. I did the rhinestones myself 🥰💙✨️ #blueacrylics #nails #whatiaskedforvswhatigot #fyp
Belinda

Belinda

626 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
There are my wedding nails. My wedding is in 3 days and I’m obsessed!!!!
Taylor Payne (Weber)

Taylor Payne (Weber)

741 likes

A close-up of a hand displaying fall-themed nail inspiration. The coffin-shaped nails feature burnt orange and light beige polish, adorned with intricate designs of pumpkins and autumn leaves, highlighted with glitter details. The text "NAIL INSPO" is overlaid.
What I asked for vs. What i got
I like the coffin shape and wanted a burnt orange . For me she “nailed” this design. Fall is in the air 🍂 #fallnaildesign #fallnailinspiration #nails2024
Stephanie Davis

Stephanie Davis

386 likes

What I asked for VS What I got
@PolishedOnPurpose will get me right ALL the time! And you too. 😏🔥 #mynailtechbetterthanyours😝💅🏽
Golden Her ⭐️

Golden Her ⭐️

562 likes

What I asked for vs what I got💌
#inspo #lousianahairstylist #blackgirlhair #bob #Hair I went to a stylist located in Baton Rouge,La📍 Stylist: @laidbytia on Instagram I love the way she does hair and she has an amazing personality!! 10000/10 recommend!!! My bob is FIYAA🔥😍
NyiaMonea

NyiaMonea

375 likes

A close-up of hands displaying short, square-shaped nails with a nude base and black dripping or melting designs, along with some solid black nails. The image is labeled "What I asked for."
What I asked for vs what I got! 🥰
#naildesign #nailinspo #newtolemon8 #Lemon8Diary
Lovable Tiffany

Lovable Tiffany

2971 likes

See more