Things are always popping up in New York City -- startup companies, the newest beauty treatments, fashion trends, the list goes on. A lot of amazing things have their beginnings in New York City. The upside to this, of course, is that a New Yorker's ever-evolving town creates unlimited options. There's always an amazing new spot to eat, drink, or get pampered. The downside? Too many options can mean it's next to impossible to make a choice. And when it comes to finding a beauty salon, this is especially true. To help you find the real gems, we've put together this guide to the best beauty salons in New York City. We've been to many of them, and we've reviewed hundreds (even thousands!) of Yelp reviews for you so you can navigate the always-changing New York City beauty salon scene and find the spot you'll love most.
1. Soho -- Devachan Salon
This Soho salon is known for its expertise with curly-headed clients. The salon was founded by Lorraine Massey, best-selling author of "Curly Girl," a how-to manifesto for girls with curly hair. She has developed a line of products for curls, and her salon has a structured approach to curly hair, called the Devacurl. Their policy is to cut hair dry and curly, as the spring of the curl can be altered when wet. Outside of creating gorgeous naturally curly haircuts and styles, they offer a multitude of spa services, including facials, massages, waxing, and makeup.
Address: 560 Broadway, New York, NY 10012
Phone: (212) 274-8686
Insider Tip: They've just opened up another salon in Culver City, California, a plus if you're bicoastal.
2. Flatiron -- Marie Robinson Salon
Have you ever told your hair stylist you'd like some golden highlights, only to have them come out completely orange? What's more, did your stylist attempt to argue with you over the distinct orange-brassy shade she's dyed it? That won't happen at Marie Robinson Salon. And, if it happened somewhere else, you can go to Marie Robinson to have them correct it. While it's not cheap, you can be sure your hair is in good hands with these celebrity stylists.
Address: 155 5th Ave, 4th Fl, New York, NY 10010
Phone: (212) 358-7780
Insider Tip: Marie Robinson recently took Anne Hathaway from the dark brunette to the bright blonde she debuted at the Met Ball.
3. Midtown -- Rita Hazan Salon
If you've had the same haircut since the 6th grade and need an update, the Rita Hazan Salon is the place to go. Not only do they give great cuts, they specialize in natural-looking color. Rita is stylist to pop stars like Britney Spears, Jessica Simpson, Katy Perry, and Beyonce, to name a few. If she can take Katy from a brunette to pink, to blonde, to blue, to purple, she can take you from blonde to red...or whatever else you have in mind. The transformation will be costly, but you get what you pay for, right?
Address: 720 5th Ave, 11th Fl, New York, NY 10019
Phone: (212) 586-4343
Insider Tip: Rita has recently launched Pop Color, a new line of products used to add streaks, tips, or all-over color to your hair without using harmful chemicals. Pop Color is available in pink, purple, and blue. Katy Perry for Halloween, anyone?
4. East Village -- Styles on B
Styles on B has been featured in the New York Times, Glamour Magazine, and several New York bridal blogs for being one of the best beauty salons in New York City for brides. While this team specializes in Bridal 'dos, they also give awesome cuts and color. Salon owner Stacy works out of an apartment-turned-salon, which is cozy and cute and makes you feel like you're getting your hair done by a girlfriend. Styles on B is also affordable -- a no-frills cut will only run you about $50, and a wedding hairstyle ranges from $110-300, depending on how many people in your bridal party also want their hair done.
Address: 30 Ave B, New York, NY 10009
Phone: (646) 233-2125
Insider Tip: Free bang trims between appointments.
5. Chelsea -- Suite 303
Located in the Hotel Chelsea, Suite 303 has an artsy, relaxed vibe that will make you feel right at home. If you're looking for a pick-me-up after, say, a bad breakup, the stylists at Suite 303 will help you feel wonderful about yourself again. Prices are fairly reasonable, starting at $85 for a cut and style.
Address: 222 W 23rd Street, New York, NY 10011
Phone: (212) 633-1011
Insider Tip: If you're a musician, bring in your music. The stylists will formulate a look to suit your style.
The best salons in New York City, while diverse and unique, all have one thing in common: skilled stylists who want to make you happy. Bring them your damaged, your fried, your frizzy, and you'll walk out feeling like the newest thing to hit New York City.