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

3 days agoEdited 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

What I asked for vs What I got
These were my birthday nails and I lovedddd them!! #birthdaynailinspo #birthdaynails #nails #nailideas #acrylicnails
Charisma 🩵

Charisma 🩵

3888 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

3416 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

1680 likes

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

Courtney

1275 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

1162 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

3129 likes

A close-up of two hands displaying manicured nails with a clear base. Some nails feature bright yellow French tips, while others have a pattern of small white and yellow daisy flowers. The text "WHAT I ASKED FOR..." is overlaid on the image.
What I asked for vs what I got
Did they do me dirty? #should i keep the nails #gotmynaildone #nails #NailArt
Trace

Trace

928 likes

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

KK1964

518 likes

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

Kaidenwood11

4568 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

3459 likes

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

Savvy Sonya Xo 💋

1107 likes

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

YT: Janasia Starsheona 🎀

1125 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

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. 🍓

3146 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 🌹

1948 likes

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

1544 likes

What I asked for -vs- What I got
#nails #nailinspo #naildesigns #nailsoftheday
Marketa Dashea🖤

Marketa Dashea🖤

637 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

1563 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

1538 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✨

1143 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

945 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

1560 likes

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

Alaina :)

815 likes

What I asked for vs. what I got
Pink and white ombré Coffin shape Medium length #nailinspo #whatiaskedforvswhatigot #ombrenails
MeganSchmidt

MeganSchmidt

537 likes

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 🦋

552 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~

2945 likes

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

Tink

1145 likes

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

Kimmy Lou

1045 likes

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

Brooks 💙

1598 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

697 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

387 likes

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

TeeDaWarrior

737 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

1653 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

766 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

702 likes

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

Nataly🧚🏼‍♀️✨

724 likes

what i asked for vs what i got!
yall already know i had to get my valentines set so i asked for these but changed a few things like the shape, bows and the french but ny nail tech understood the assignment 😫 her insta is: nailsbyali.210 if u wanna check her out and show some love 💕 #nails #valentine nails #vdaynails #nail
abriana

abriana

5156 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

579 likes

What she asked for vs what she got
#gettoknowme #beautiful nails swipe 👉🏻 #nailstoocute #gorgeousnails💅💅 #nailsoflemon8
britaanny_

britaanny_

3322 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
#lemon8diarychallenge This was one of my favorite sets! I didn’t want that same blue in the 1st pic and I think they turned out perfect 🤩 #nailedit💅🏾 #unfiltered #nailinspo
W Benson

W Benson

941 likes

What I asked for VS what I got
I just love my nail tech 💛
Golden Her ⭐️

Golden Her ⭐️

332 likes

What I asked for VS What I got
I switched it up a bit but this is the inspiration picture I gave them. What do yall think? #nailinspo💅🏾 #nailedit💅🏾 #nailideas #squarenailideas #squarenailshape
Lad blue✨

Lad blue✨

709 likes

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

8747 likes

What I asked for -vs- what I got
My nail tech did what was needed to be done. I love it and it’s different for me. #nailedit💅🏾 #nailsthatlast #got my nails done 💅
Ms.Trish

Ms.Trish

233 likes

A hand displays French tip nails with an 8-ball and a silver star design, holding black keychains including an 8-ball and a peace sign. This is the inspiration image for the first nail set.
A hand shows French tip nails with an 8-ball design and a silver star, along with a silver ring. This is the result of the first nail set, described as 'supa cute' despite disappointment with the 8-ball.
A hand displays white nails with red heart and 'A' playing card designs, and one nail with a red French tip. This is the inspiration image for the second nail set.
What I asked for vs. What I got: Nail edition
Hi, I am new and am unsure what to post but I will be doing a get to know me. #Lemon8Diary #fashionfinds #shareyourthoughts
Tionna Griffin

Tionna Griffin

3783 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
I’m such the exotic nail girly now I use too be a plain Jane almond French tip girly
PrettyGangCeo

PrettyGangCeo

878 likes

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

Saige

1254 likes

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

J.Mila

727 likes

What I asked for vs what I got
#lemon8diarychallenge #nails #pretty #cute #aesthetic #acrylic
Raiya ♡

Raiya ♡

3040 likes

A close-up of two hands displaying long, square-shaped acrylic nails with pink French tips, leopard print accents, and 3D pink flower embellishments. The image is labeled 'What I Wanted VS'.
What I asked for VS What I got 🌸
Obsessed is an understatement! I am in love with my nails! They came out perfect ✨ it’s been 5 years since I’ve had acrylic nails & this was perfect for the first time in awhile 🎀 #nailinspo💅🏻 #acrylicnailinspo #nails #nailsideas #summernails
Rain 🎀

Rain 🎀

368 likes

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

Strawberry cake

1673 likes

what i asked for vs what i got!
all i have to say is killed it!! @/jilliantats on insta! #tattooedonme #tattoos #americantraditional #unfiltered
Nikki

Nikki

496 likes

What I asked for vs. what I got
Thoughts? #should i keep the nails #NailArt #nails #whatiaskedforvswhatigot #floralaesthetic #floral #onwednesdayswewearpink
Kat Williams

Kat Williams

333 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
@PolishedOnPurpose will get me right ALL the time! And you too. 😏🔥 #mynailtechbetterthanyours😝💅🏽
Golden Her ⭐️

Golden Her ⭐️

538 likes

What I asked for vs. What I got
All he kept saying was mmm hmmm I got you . I cried ..... Oh I cried !!!! #whatiaskedforvswhatigot #beautyfinds #NailArt #nailcam
Sandra

Sandra

645 likes

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

💖Timmie 💖

1279 likes

What I asked for vs. what I got.
Honestly I got some ugly fingers lol but I think she did a great job 👏🏽 y’all be honest 😅
Jen

Jen

513 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

331 likes

See more