RECOVERY CLIENTS ARE HAIR-DRESSED FOR SUCCESS COURTESY OF THE NORTH COUNTY TIMES

BY: JEFF FRANK - STAFF WRITER

ESCONDIDO - A group of women getting a new start got new looks as well on Monday.

The owner and staff of The Loft Hair Design in down-town Escondido hosted a make over event for 26 women soon to graduate from the North County Serenity House substance-abuse recovery program. The salon workers gave haircuts and coloring, makeup tips and clothing to the Serenity House residents.

Every chair in the Grand Avenue salon was filled as the clients moved from station to station for the various treatments, or took turns selecting and trying on some of the many work outfits that were donated over the past six weeks by some of The Loft's regular customers.

The day at the salon began with breakfast sponsored by Mission Pools and Vincent's Sirino's restaurant. The women dined on eggs, quiche and Danish as they awaited their turns in front of the mirrors.

"It's wonderful what they've done for me today. There are no words to describe it," said Vernita, a recovering drug user who was showing off her new black work suit. "Feeling beautiful is not something I'm used to. It gives you self-esteem and confidence and makes you hold your head up high."

Redken donated hair coloring for the make over. Loft employees offered their services for free on a day when the salon is usually closed.