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Blue Velvet Salon
Category: Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Hair Salons [Edit]
4222 Lankershim BlvdNorth Hollywood, CA 91602
(818) 766-8867
- Hours:
Tue 11 am - 4 pm
Wed 10 am - 7 pm
Thu 10 am - 9 pm
Fri 11 am - 7 pm
Sat 9 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot, Valet
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Hair Types Specialized In:
- Coloring, Extensions, Curly Hair, Kids' Hair, Perms, Asian Hair
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
44 reviews for Blue Velvet Salon
44 reviews in English
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Review from Stacey N.
Burbank, CA
I LOVE this place! They recently moved from a location in Studio City on Ventura Blvd. to one on Lankershim, but there is still that same funky, cool vibe they set up at the previous location. Katrina, the owner, has a fixation on Elvis Presley, hence the name of the salon, and the place has lots of edgy artwork. There is always an eclectic mix of music piping through the salon which is super cool.
The ladies who work here are so cool and friendly. I have been going to Anna for years, first just to get my brows waxed, then had her cover my grays and was blown away by her artistry with color, blowouts, flatironing, styling, and cuts. She is the BOMB!! I also look forward to seeing her so we can chat about life. I will be sad when she goes on maternity leave but I know that one of the other ladies will take good care of me.
Thumbs up on this place! -
Review from Cassie F.
Malibu, CA
I was looking on YELP to find a salon that does great highlights and Blue Velvet came up so I decided to get it a try. I am so happy I did! I made an appointment with Katrina (the owner) who did my highlights...she did them super fast and for the first time ever they came out perfect!
They also carry an amazing line of hair products by Kevin Murphy!
Thanks Katrina! -
Review from Betsy M.
Burbank, CA
I came to Blue Velvet back in August when I needed a haircut before starting my new job. I was looking for a place nearby that was open on Sunday. I looked through Yelp and found Blue Velvet: Great reviews, great prices, within walking distance of my bf's condo, and I can text for a last minute appointment. Perfect! I was able to get in with Ali within the next hour and a half.
When I arrived, the place was empty except for me and Ali. A little odd and a little quiet, but understandable for the middle of a Sunday.
Ali did an excellent job on my cut and highlights, even taking me to the back computer to look up a cut that she thought would be great for me. She was chatty, but not too chatty, which I appreciate. We talked about how I was going for massages with my bf after, which brings me to my first qualm. I mentioned that we had an appointment in WeHo at 4:30pm for massages. Even though Ali knew this, and even though I thought a 1pm appointment would give me plenty of time, she took over 3 hours to do my hair, sending me out the door at 4:20 saying "now get to that massage!" Really? You just gave me 10 minutes to get to WeHo?
I know part of what took so long was that she did my highlights multi-process, which I thought was strange. I've never been to a salon that doesn't just throw the color on and put me under the dryer. I also got charged for toner for the highlights, which I wasn't expecting at all.
When I was given my bill, I had to remind Ali of Blue Velvet's new client offer. She had to call someone to verify it, even though I assured her it was still posted on their website. She also went through all of my charges with the person on the phone and it seemed like they weren't entirely on the same page about prices.
My bill had a separate charge for a blow dry, but I was pretty sure I had seen them tell someone on their FB page that a blow dry is included with highlights. Unfortunately, I was in such a rush to get to my next appointment, and since I had already brought up one issue, I accepted it and left.
I double checked FB later and found that I was right. I commented about it, but never got a response.
Which brings me to today. I need a haircut. desperately. I haven't had one in way too long. Should I go back to Blue Velvet? I would like to, because I really liked my cut and color, but I'm afraid of getting overcharged again. So I email for an appointment and while I'm at it, I ask for a clarification of their prices. I was told that if you get a color service alone, a blow dry is included. But if you tack on a hair cut, suddenly you pay for the blow dry. Wait, what? I'm being penalized for getting additional services? I was offered a free blow dry at my next appointment for the confusion, so I did appreciate that gesture, but the system still seems skewed.
I was also told that Ali's not there anymore, but someone else could take me. I had asked for something later in the afternoon but was offered an 11:30am, and then told that she could take me later, but earlier is better so she has time to do the services I want. Huh? You close at 7pm and even though you imply your schedule is wide open, I need to come in at noonish to leave plenty of time? I would've thought a 3pm would leave plenty of time, but if it's inconvenient for you, then I guess it isn't going to work out.
I would really like to go back to Blue Velvet for all the reasons I listed at the top, but I just can't with deceptive pricing, disorganization, and confusing time issues. -
Review from Kodee W.
Canoga Park, CA
I came to get my hair done here after purchasing a living social deal. I was really nervous bc I know people working places that offer deals are not always fans of getting appointments with people that havecoupons.
Parking was horrible... There were a few spots on the side of the salon, but one person doing a bad parking job messes it all up. Getting there 15 min early to find parking is probably a good idea. The salon itself is a cute shop and I loved the decor.
The hairstylist I got was not friendly at all. She was definitely more interested in talking to the other stylists than me which made me pretty nervous to have her do my hair. In the end, my hair did look really good. I got partial highlights and a trim, and she curled it for me... Which I loved.
Overall I give my experience 4 stars... The customer service definitely wasn't the best, but she did a good job on my hair,.. Which is the important thing :) -
Review from Lisa C.
Sherman Oaks, CA
Unfortunately I don't remember the name of the woman that cut my hair, but I had a groupon coupon for a cut and blow dry and that was THE BEST hair cut I've ever had! Even now, over a month later, my hair still looks great! I highly recommend this salon for hair cuts!
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Review from Candice K.
North Hollywood, CA
Used my living social deal for a brazillian and eyebrow wax. Gwen immediately took a look down below and suggested I wait a week till the hair was longer so it didn't grown back as fast. I was a little annoyed to go without a wax for another week, but I appreciated her integrity. So, a week later I come back and she gets the job done. Was a little unsure about my eyebrows after getting home, but I actually really like what she did.
Gwen's great guys. Our conversation really helped distract me from all the pain. Just be friendly and people are usually friendly back. :)
Meter parking.
Regular price is a bit steep for me at $58 but I'll be back for sure, since she threw in another eyebrow wax with my next brazillian. -
Review from Nicole B.
Sunland, CA
Okay, I'll be the first to admit that my initial impression of Blue Velvet was not favorable.
I purchased a waxing special through Living Social, and when I first scheduled my appointment to use it, I arrived only to discover that the appointment I had called in and scheduled two weeks before (for a special occasion, no less) was not on the books. Apparently they had been having computer scheduling system issues. Having made a special trip, and having other things I could have been spending my time on that afternoon, I was pretty peeved by this. After much bitching on my part (not one of my prettier moments, I must admit), the woman at the front desk was kind enough to offer me a certificate for a free waxing appointment. I was mollified, but still not thrilled.
So, what with the holidays, things got busy and I didn't get around to rescheduling my appointment until the last minute. Luckily, they had extended the Living Social deal, due to the fact that many of us had waited until the last minute, and I got in just in the nick of time. I was very grateful they had been accommodating enough to extend the deal.
Much to my chagrin, it turned out that Gwen, the esthetician, was also the woman who had been working the front desk during my first ill-fated appointment. You really don't want to have the person waxing your privates to think you're a major bitch, so I apologized. She was very understanding, very warm and friendly, and made the Brazilian experience quite comfortable. Going in for a first appointment with an unknown esthetician is always a little nervous-making, but Gwen put me at ease and did a great job. I'll definitely be going back. -
Review from Joyhan S.
CA
Shame there isn't a separate entry for the skin care services offered at this salon, and a poor review could unfairly reflect upon the services of the many hair stylists there.
Got a great offer through one of the coupon sites and made an appt via VMs. On the day of, PARKING SUCKED MOLDY CHEEZY ASS. None in front and none in the back. Took me effin FOREVER to find a spot and it was hike back to the salon.
I enter and about 5 staffers turned their heads to look at me, but said nothing. There was one staffer sitting near the reception desk and after we made eye contact I introduce myself and my purpose.
She stands, unsmilingly approaches me and says tersely, "You're late."
I apologize and tell her about my horrible luck with the parking.
"Well, it is Ventura Blvd, you know." Wow. Snarky and sarcastic, thinly veiling her irritation, possibly implying a lack of common sense on my part. Like I said, WOW.
I tell her that actually, I don't know about Ventura Blvd, as I've recently moved down to SoCal, thusly am still unfamiliar with LA, especially most points north.
"OK, well, I'm Gwen adn I'll be the one taking care of you today, so please fill out this form,...(blah blah blah)..."
Fucking Angelenos, I thought. But, again, to label the whole based on the one would be unfair.
Some minutes pass, and as Gwen led me to her room, she apologized twice and explained that she doesn't like to run behind on her apointments. "It just messes up my day," she concluded.
As if such singular concerns were an excuse to condescendingly sharpen her tongue on clients, I thought to myself. (- **)
It's just too bad I didn't catch her on one of her "on" days.
After that, she was actually very congenial and offered some tips on post care. Her procedure was clean, attentive to my requests, quick, and relatively painless. (+ **)
She introduced me to a specific skin product she whole-heartedly believed in without being too pushy (+ *)
She also offered another discount for next time (+ *)
Apparently, it's rumored that many of her clients find boyfriends after getting waxed by her. Something akin to Engagement Chicken? (star rating TBD)Comment from Katrina R. of Blue Velvet Salon 1/31/2011
Thank you so much for your review. We apologize that your… More » -
Review from terra d.
Los Angeles, CA
*Please note: after I replied to the manager's comment, she re-wrote her original reply and edited her comments attacking me.
Reply to Manager's Comment:
I was certainly not confused about which salon I went to. I did not mention anything about not getting a desired appointment time. Even if that were the case, it would not effect my review. In fact, my appointment was made about one month in advance. I was in pain for a good two days after this service and the area waxed was not thoroughly done.
I wrote an honest, unbiased review about my experience but perhaps the salon owner, Katrina, is just not happy with the negative reviews the salon has been receiving lately.
Katrina did not bother to contact me or apologize but simply wrote a disclaimer about my experience at her salon. Perhaps she should be looking at her staff and not blame the customers (and the multiple negative reviews). Yelp was not created to attack the patrons who write honest reviews about their experiences.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/27/2011
oh no! one of the worst wax jobs ever! gwen rewaxed the same area over and over (and double-dipped… Read more »
Comment from Katrina R. of Blue Velvet Salon 1/31/2011
Blue Velvet ran a LIving Social campaign in Sept. of 2010… More » -
1/27/2011
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Review from Ken P.
Sherman Oaks, CA
I felt at home immediately when i walked into the salon, Its a hip and warm environment. And everyone in the salon was super friendly. I could tell my stylist Aleksandra was a little tired but i told her exactly what i wanted which was a full work up (color, Hi Lights, cut and Brazilian blow out) and she got right to work, she was very talkative and made me feel right at home. The end result turned out to be exactly what i wanted, and she was very clear about what i needed to do to take care of the blow out i got. Aleksandra is absolutely AMAZING!
P.S for the transplants get there a little early just so you have time to find parking, ventura blvd is crazy busy! -
Review from Katherine P.
Glendale, CA
Thank goodness for living social! I saw Gwen, the waxing guru at Blue Velvet Salon approximately 3 weeks ago. It took me this long to write the review because I wanted to give myself time to like my eyebrows.
When I first came in, I was nervous! Not because I was gonna be 1/2 naked for a brazilian wax with a complete stranger but because I get terrible anxiety when a new person touches my brows. Now, as for the brazilian - one word: THOROUGH! The brazilian itself was quick and trust me, after years of getting 'em I can vouch for painful ones but this was so NOT the case with Gwen. What I can appreciate more is that Gwen was friendly, there was no awkward creeperness. She conversed throughout the entire process making it less awkward and of course, it took my mind off the actual waxing process! Definite plus.
When it came time for her to do my brows, she asked what I wanted. I told her about my terrible past with eyebrow ladies who messed em up good. She really took the time to listen. When she was done though, I wasn't sure if I liked em but now, I'm loving their shape. They're not too thick - not too thin - and I don't look like I'm angry all the time. I do plan on going back! I appreciate that Gwen took the time to really listen to my requests.
I am giving Blue Velvet Salon 4/5 stars not because the services weren't great but because their appointment girl told me to come into the salon on a day when Gwen wasn't there. I drove 20 minutes to get to the salon only to find out I wasn't even booked for that day! Not cool! Overlooking that, please see Gwen for your waxing needs.
P.S. Parking is in the back of the salon. -
Review from jaclyn g.
New York, NY
Upon even further review and helpful feedback from another Blue Velvet customer and the owner, I believe I was confused and did my math wrong. I'm the first to admit when I make a mistake, and there it is!
I appreciate the follow up from the Blue Velvet staff! Next time I'm in Los Angeles, I will definitely come back to the studio. Thanks again to Heather for fab color and to Katrina and Emily for clearly explaining the situation.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/16/2010
As an avid Yelper, I use Yelp for everything, so finding a I would have given this place 5 stars,… Read more »
Comment from Katrina R. of Blue Velvet Salon 11/21/2010
Hi! Thank you so much for your review. We may not have… More » -
11/16/2010
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Review from Rachel B.
Los Angeles, CA
This was the first salon I went to after I moved up to LA about 4 years ago. I noticed a friend of mine had highlights added to her hair, and I thought it was the best highlights I had seen. When I complimented her, she referred me to Heather and I've been sold ever since!
Heather is an excellent colorist and understands my hair needs- whatever shade of blonde or brown I decide I want to be, Heather makes it look stunning!
I love the atmosphere of the salon- it's a homey rockabilly vibe. Everyone is very friendly. I've referred a few friends here, and they all love it too! -
Review from Wendy B.
Valley Village, CA
Gwen at Blue Velvet is a SUPER PRO waxer!
I just got back from my first visit to this cute salon on Ventura Blvd in Studio City and had the pleasure of seeing their in house aesthetician Gwen for waxing services. The Brazilian was not very painful at all - rare to be able to say that and Gwen's personality is great. I highly recommend Gwen for your waxing needs. -
Review from Jessica K.
Los Angeles, CA
I was referred by a friend who has blonde hair to see Bryan Cummins. i just love the freshness of her blonde color so I couldn't wait to check this stylist and place out. Lets just say that im very picky about my blonde hair and i would only get my hair done when i would fly back to Texas (i did that for over a year) because i couldn't find anyone out here in LA that was either in my price range or that i liked - well finally i have found someone that i love locally. THANK YOU GOD!
Here are the things I just love about Bryan Cummins:
He did my hair quickly and accurately and didn't just do half of my hair like a lot of other stylists do because they are lazy.
Did my highlights all the way to the roots.
He gave me the exact color I asked for.
Very friendly and gave great advice on hair products and styling that i asked about without being pushy and over the top.
I know some of this sounds ridiculously cheesy but its true - What more could a girl ask for? Highly Recommend :) -
Review from Cristen W.
Canyon Country, CA
I've been going here since it was first opened. Chris has been going to Katrina since even before that.
It's a little off beat, but the girls are great. They really take the time to talk with you and find out what you like and what works for you.
Christina is my girl. She always does a good job. I've never been disappointed. I've had quite a lot of hair issues the past few years, but she can work with anything.
There's a tiny room in the back for waxing, facials and massage. I haven't used those, though.
If you give them your email address, they'll send you reminders and invites to events. -
Review from Jeni N.
Pacifica, CA
I've been searching for a place that would do my hair the way I want without being incredibly expensive for the past 5 years. I've finally found it!
The last 3 hairdressers I tried I asked to go red from my regular blonde. Every one of them said "OK.. but it might be a bit much" then didn't do red! A couple red highlights or something that washed out in a week.
The stylist (Heather) listened to my needs, and my wish for red and made some suggestions, while advising against some of my crazier ideas. A couple hours later I walked out a red head! I can't say how pleased I am with both the cut and the color.
A couple days later I was in a drug store, and a girl stopped me to say how much she loved my hair. I've never had people compliment me so much on my hair!
It's now just over a month later, and the color is still vibrant and amazing. I can't wait to go back again! -
Review from Libby H.
Studio City, CA
Unprofessional and rude staff! (this review only covers the appointment desk)
I bought a Living Social waxing discount service and although I tried to redeem it multiple times, I never got a call back. When I finally got through to an actual person she was unprofessional and rude.
She said her waxer was booked for the next 3 weeks (which is fitting since the expiration date is 2 weeks away!). I asked if I could make an appointment for her next available opening and if she would still honor the coupon but she rudely cut me off and raised her voice to remind me that the coupon will be expired by then. I kept my cool but asked if she'd make an exception since I've left multiple messages, one just a few days ago, but never received a return call and she started on a tirade about the rules of Living Social.
The bitch was rude from the get-go and I will not be going to that salon- EVER! Why would I risk my lady bits at a Salon where the service is unprofessional and the front desk bitch is known to be in a perpetual bad mood? My vajayjay deserves better and so do you!Comment from Katrina R. of Blue Velvet Salon 1/31/2011
It is Blue Velvet's best interest to service every single… More » -
Review from Sunny M.
Orlando, FL
I hate paying to get my hair cut. HATE IT! Part of that is because I went to cosmetology school and I'm too aware of how often stylists act like they're listening as you detail for them your ideal hairstyle, only to whatever they want in the end. There's little that infuriates me more than spending what little money I make on having someone trash my hair because they needed a guinea pig for the latest cut they learned. So when I was gifted a haircut with Katrina at Blue Velvet, I was skeptical, to say the least.
I am ecstatic to say that not only was I pleasantly surprised, but I finally found someone I can trust. Katrina is exceptionally skilled at her craft. You can show her a photo of your ideal cut and she'll give you the straight dope about whether or not you can pull it off, how much upkeep it might take, if your hair is the right heft or wave for the style and if you both agree to go for it, she'll give you the cut you wanted. All of those traits are highly underrated in the beauty industry and I'm grateful to have found someone that is creative and up on the latest, but doesn't consider their ego to be bigger than your wishes.
The salon, which doubles as an art gallery, is cool and comfortable. Parking can be a little scant, but that's the only complaint I could conjure.
There's always plenty of great product to choose from (most of my styling product came from Blue Velvet - which is also rare for me), everyone is friendly and professional. After three years, I can happily say I have never been disappointed and neither have the friends I've sent to Katrina. Now that I'm moving away, all I can think is, "I'm going to have to save up enough to fly back for haircuts!" Seriously. -
Review from Kay B.
Studio City, CA
Totally flakey!
The website says open weekends. In a total jam I need to book an appointment for Sunday as I have a business trip this week.
I called and the receptionist says they aren't open Sundays or Mondays. Umm....ok.
Then I cal back to mention that the website says differently and another woman on the phone says that the "Sunday stylist" took the day off!
Wow....took the day off to close the shop? Only one stylist on Sunday?
Maybe this is a blessing in disguise. I don't think I want these folks touching my hair. -
Review from Sarah D.
Glendale, CA
This place was referred to me by a model. I figured someone who makes their living by looking good wouldn't lead me astray. And she didn't!
The place is very close to me. The parking (which I was afraid of) was super easy and right in the back. I scheduled my appointment by email. Tina's responses were super quick.
Gwen did my eyebrows and I was SO pleased. She gave me the arch I've been waiting for after visiting many other salons. She was friendly and sweet and I look forward to my next appointment. -
Review from Donna D.
Los Angeles, CA
Finding an aesthetician is like finding your soulmate: You may kiss some toads along the way, but you know when you've found the one. I've had some great waxers that have moved away and have had some horrid experiences (and mangled brows) trying to find someone to tend to my brows and (ahem) girly parts.
Gwen is definitely the one!
She was charming, meticulous and practically pain free. Most importantly, she listened and gave me EXACTLY what I wanted.
Blue Velvet has a cool, kitchy rockabilly vibe that made me miss the old Bar Deluxe days. I've passed the salon countless time and thought it looked adorable inside. I was happy to come across the Living Social promo, as that gave an excuse to try the salon. Even without a discount, I will be back.
Plus, I am super fair-- borderline ghostly-- and extremeny sensitive. Not only did I have minimal irritation ( mostly due to the massive consumption of Stella at a karaoke joint the night before), but Gwen gave me an amazing trick to cut down the redness for my next session... which I am sure she will share with future clients.
Yay Gwen! -
Review from Jenn y.
Los Angeles, CA
I've explored several salons in the last few years, and one day I just decided to pop into Blue Velvet. I always thought this place was really cute when I passed by so one day I looked online at their website and decided to go in for a shot. I thought to myself, whats the worse that can happen? Come out bald?! YIKES! OK,well I guess that IS probably one of the worse thing that can happen!!!! haha But I took my chances.
I remembered seeing a stylist with extremely blond hair (Heather).... since I wanted white blond hair myself, I thought she would be the best stylist for me - assuming that since she didn't burn her head bald by going blond, that my precious head will be safe in her little hands.
Well since that day, this has been my salon for the past 2 years and Heather is my girl! She's awesome. She has taken my hair to extremes when I wanted it and toned it down when I was over it. The stylist I went to before at a different salon was too afraid to take risks. That might suit some people, but not for me. Blue Velvet is great and if Heather ever decides to move to another salon for any reason, I am following her!
Btw... The owners dog Andy is so adorable. Every so often I have the pleasure to see that little guy there. -
Review from Brenda G.
North Hollywood, CA
I was referred to this place by one of my co workers and I couldn't have been happier with the end result. I knew I wanted to switch my long hair for a medium length choppy cut with bangs. Ana took care of it and not only listened but she also gave me feedback on what would look right. Now I get compliments on my hair all the time! parking is hell though. It took me close to 20 min to find a spot since its right on Ventura blvd. U can forget about their mini back parking lot. It's totally worth it though. Highly recommend this spot!
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Review from Jenny J.
Gwen is the best! She is fast, friendly, and a funny character. Even though I am terrible at being up to date on appointments, Gwen is the first to make me somewhat of a regular. I first came in because of the Living Social deal, and Gwen gave me a discount on my next appointment. When I came in again, she gave me another discount on my next appointment! I'm usually in and out of there with a brazillian in 15 minutes! I will be back in the salon as soon as I get back to LA after winter break :)
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Review from Sarah L.
Los Angeles, CA
I'm giving 5 stars to Blue Velvet Salon, but I'm really giving the recommendation to Bryan Cummins.
The salon itself is nice enough and convenient to where I live (just make sure to park in the back), but I would honestly follow Bryan anywhere in the city. Maybe even to Orange County. Yes, that's how much I love him.
Bryan is the reason why people think I'm a blonde. He gives the most GORGEOUS highlights and makes my dirty dishwater blonde hair sunny and beautiful. No one realizes that I get it highlighted, and I get compliments all the time. He also gives a great cut. And he's sweet and easy to talk to, to boot! True love, people.
I've also convinced my fiance, who has curly, difficult hair that has been BUTCHERED countless times by less competent stylists (I'm looking at you, Rudy's employees), to start going to Bryan, and his hair looks great.
Bryan, you are amazing!! -
Review from Lindiwe S.
Altadena, CA
I love Gwen! She is the best. I've never been to the same person for a Brazilian twice, until I went to Gwen. I'm sure no one wants the dirty details, but let's just say it was awesome even weeks later.
Thanks Gwen! -
Review from Jackie F.
Alhambra, CA
Okay, so I'm writing this about an hour before my appointment today because I've realized that I have yet to post up my review, which I should've done since my first appt with Gwen! I've been happy with Blue Velvet since then... I bought a Living Social Deal, and the process went smoothly, maybe because I used it in time, and didn't wait until the last week like many people.
I had never got a brazilian or bikini wax before, and was definitely nervous.. but Gwen made it all better. She made me feel comfortable, at ease, no problems. Being my first time, it hurt a lil, not b/c she didn't do it correctly, just did. No stinging or weird pain afterwards. Very thorough, sweet sweet chick! talks to you throughout so you're not awkwardly sitting there half naked in silence. I've been back about 4 or 5 times already, and will continue to. Maybe TMI, but i'll let the hair grow, and underarms too, until I can get in and see her! Definitely recommend, and actually taking the hubby in today for a hair cut, cuz those ladies seemed great too. :-)
Jackie -
Review from carrie y.
Los Angeles, CA
Blue Velvet is a nice salon with a cool atmosphere, but the reason I go there is Bryan.
I have been going to Bryan for years, following him around from salon to salon. I've never walked out unhappy and I'm constantly getting compliments on his work.
He does a wonderful job with cut and he's a color genius--he's especially good with blond and highlights. If you know exactly what you want, he'll listen to you and deliver what you asked. If you're not sure, he'll come up with something fabulous that flatters you. You can have as much or as little control as you want, but I recommend taking his advice--the cuts/colors he chooses for me are consistently better than what I pick myself.
Before I found Bryan, I tried other stylists and paid much more for less-than-impressive results. He's not just showing up and doing a job; you can tell he enjoys what he does and wants you to look good when you leave.
I can't say enough good things. Just go see him. You'll be glad you did. -
Review from Sandra C.
La Crescenta, CA
Thank you Living Social, for allowing me to discover this hidden gem! Gwen, along with the rest of the BV staff, are the best! Simply put, she's made my waxing experience rather an enjoyable one :) She is super sweet, super considerate, & needless to say, just dang good--it didn't hurt at all! They are constantly having various promo so go and check it out!
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Review from katie r.
Los Angeles, CA
Heather- you make people jealous of my blonde luxe locks. Seriously. She is amazing- and really well priced. I have referred my sister and her hair looks amazing. Natural, sexy, and she always makes it a cool shade. (I hate warm shades). Thanks Heather! :) xoxo
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Review from Laurie B.
West Hollywood, CA
I discovered Blue Velvet Salon from my Social living deal and I was so pleased with the service. Gwen who did my wax was so sweet and welcoming and there is really nothing better than some fun chit chat to lighten the mood when you are about to go through a painful wax. bikini waxes are never fun but at least there's great energy and some laughs to get you through it. Plus. My eyebrows are killer. Gwen has Amazing shaping technique! I'm definitely going back!
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Review from Mary O.
Tarzana, CA
I almost don't want to refer you to Anna to do your color because you will make her too busy to accept my always last-minute appointments. She's excellent. She's cool. And she makes me get compliments. She does highlights and lowlights for me and some day...someday I might just let her do Magenta because I know for a fact she'd make it look good. The parking can be tricky, there's spaces in the back or there are meter spaces on Ventura - but I just have to remember to get there a little early. No Amex, but they take Visa.
Shoot, don't make Anna too busy! -
Review from Judith V.
Los Angeles, CA
I wish I would've read these reviews before I went here. I decided to give this place a try, since I desperately needed a haircut and Rudy's was booked, like usual. To begin with there were only 2 people working there at the time, one of which was the receptionist, because no one had come in for their shift, and the girl who cut my hair was the hair color person. She didn't know what the hell I wanted, I ended up sitting there for like an 1 1/2 guiding her through the MY haircut, the haircut I was about to pay $65 bucks for, and still no where near what I had in mind. She was nice though, I was just really annoyed by the whole situation. I should've just canceled the appointment, but you figure if your paying $65 bucks, someone should know what they're doing. Thumbs down, I'll wait around for Rudy's next time.
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Review from Rachel T.
Huntsville, AL
when I go to Blue Velvet I see Heather, and she is awesome...she's creative and unique...same goes for the salon itself.
The stylists display their own personal art work on the walls...totally killer vibes...all the ladies are way talented (not to mention personable and friendly).
I'm always a happy gal when I leave Blue Velvet!
(minus one star for being over the hill...stupid rush hour on the canyon!) -
Review from Tina A.
San Francisco, CA
Now that I can no longer go there, I'm not afraid giving it good reviews and having it get crowded.
No clue how it got a bad rap....well ok yes they do not always answer the phone. But they have awesome evening hours for real people who have to work for a living, and fight traffic. and there is just a mellow vibe, that i don't expect around this part of the city.
I went there for about a year, when my regular hair dresser left. I had been pretty happy with the set up. They referred me to Heather I was nervous at first, turning my hair over to some one new. But i could not have been happier with the results. My hair is almost black, with tons of gray. The other girl always kept me one the browner side, when i asked for some red. Heather went for it completely. We always talked about what i wanted, she never assumed it would be the same, unless i asked, and she'd make really good recommendations if there was a different shade she wanted to try. She even taught me how to do some of her tricks for when i went home.
She is an awesome colorist, and stylist. and just a cool person to be around. If you're gonna spend as much time in that chair as i do you better like the company. I had so many compliments when I went to her. I even tried to keep when i moved to san francisco, scheduled appointments around visits.
I still haven't found a sastifying replacement. -
Review from J C.
Orlando, FL
I want to start by saying that the hairdressers are very talented here, but I felt taken advantage of when I got my hair done 3 months ago. I came in for a highlight and the price sheet on their website says $80 for a partial highlight. I had been there before with Erin who is now gone and I'm sad. She always charged that amount. This time I had someone different who I won't name, but when I came to pay she said it would be $140!!!!! What??!!!! I didn't ask for anything extra nor did she say she was going anything extra and ask me first. When I was getting my hair washed she mentioned "I'm putting on a semi-permanent color toner"....okay. I hope I wasn't charged for that since she said "I'm putting it on" and she DID NOT ask me. I was horrified by the price of my hair and won't return.
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Review from Denise W.
Chatsworth, CA
I called to schedule an appointment days before my Living Social certificate expired and apparently many others did the same. My bad, I had months to schedule an appointment. The receptionist explained that they were booked solid but they would apply what I paid to Living Social to whatever treatment I wanted at a later date. I said fine as this was my fault, not theirs. She also told me she would place me on a waiting list. She asked me when I was available and because I am self-employed I said whenever. We hung up and within two minutes she called me back with an appointment. She told me that she had been yelled at by so many women who,like me, had waited until the day before the extended expiration so she gave me the next available appointment. This is how I came to meet the very warm Gwen. I went in for a bikini wax and within minutes I felt I was dishing with an old friend. The only problem is parking. If you are lucky enough to find a spot in back it is a nightmare to get in and out. I have another appointment with Gwen tomorrow, I hope the little lot is open! I am now thinking of trying Bryan for some color.
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Review from Sarah B.
Valley Glen, CA
very cool place with good hair colorists (Katrina ***) -- a very well-kept secret right on Ventura Blvd!
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Review from Lindsey V.
North Hollywood, CA
I see Bryan at Blue Velvet and I'm glad I found him. I've only been once but I'm going back. He works FAST which I love. My last person in Santa Monica, who was great, took minimum 3 hours to cut and highlight and add a drive to and from the valley and it was an all day excursion. This is much more convenient and most importantly, I like my hair! I also like this place b/c the hours are flexible. My first appt. was at 7:30 pm and my next one is at 8AM. That's great for my crazy schedule. Price is very competitive, ESPECIALLY for being on Ventura Blvd. in Studio City. There's also free parking. I mean, come on!
If you're looking to try a new salon, try here first and try Bryan.
