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Parlour Salon
Categories: Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Beauty and Spas Nail Salons Hair Salons, Nail Salons [Edit]
1522 U St NWWashington, DC 20010
Neighborhood: U Street Corridor
(202) 986-0080
- Nearest Transit:
-
U Street Metro Station (Green, Yellow)
- Hours:
Tue-Thu 10 am - 8 pm
Fri 10 am - 7:30 pm
Sat 10 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Kids:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
100 reviews for Parlour Salon
100 reviews in English
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Review from Jason M.
Arlington, VA
1/12/2012
I can pretty much always get in, Chris does a great job - I don't believe women do great things to men's hair (at least, that's been my personal experience), and it's not outrageously priced. What more can you want?
I stop in every 5-6 weeks for a cut, and with hair issues beyond probably any other reviewer, I very much appreciate his knack for literally helping me live a better life. He is the co-owner and a couple times my cut has been rushed (probably because he has a trillion things on his mind! I don't blame him one bit) but on those rare 1-2 occasions if I want to come back for a touch up its no problem at all. -
Review from Jessica B.
Washington, DC
12/4/2011
DISCLAIMER: Most of you should take this review with a grain of salt.
1. I give this place 4 stars for the experience, but only 3 stars for the actual cut. Like everyone else has said, Parlour is a lovely, upscale salon full of all the usual upscale-salon perks. They take your coat; they offer you tea, water, etc (I wasn't offered champagne, as other reviewers have mentioned , but then again, it was 11 a.m.). My stylist wasn't my first choice (I'll get to that in a moment) but she was delightful. Very sweet and accommodating. She gave me a nice long scalp massage (#winning!) and was perfectly attentive and conversational.
But in the end, I'm less than satisfied. Why?
2. It's not you, it's me. Look at my profile pic. My hair's pretty amazing. This is not hubris or conceit. It just is. I have tiny, springy, Shirley Temple-esque corkscrew curls. Men love them. Women want them. Babies can't stop grabbing them. Thus and therefore, I'm picky about who gets to wield, you know, scissors and other Weapons of Hair Destruction around them.
I'll admit, I'm a Ouidad aficionado. For those of you with straight hair who aren't in the curly know, Ouidad is a salon that serves ONLY women (people?) with curly hair...amazing! They have a patented carving and slicing technique that does wonders for making curls look fabulous. The flagship is in NYC and that's where I've been getting my hair cut for the last few years -- with head-turning (literally) results. Sadly, when I moved back to DC, I discovered that there are no Ouidad-certified salons in the district, only in the outskirts of the DMV. Which is what led me to Parlour.
The Yelp reviews seemed pretty good; other curlies have gotten cut here and seemed pleased with the results so I figured I'd take the plunge. I was quite skeptical about this whole Deva Cut thing but a curly friend said she'd had one and it turned out to be the fiercest cut she's ever gotten. So, doubts assuaged. Somewhat.
Well, after my stylist was done snipping, I had neither the volume and body I asked for, nor the well-defined shape I requested. I'd even showed her a pic of my hair from my last great cut at the outset of my appointment, so that she had some visual guidance. Well, my hair is much shorter than I wanted and the whole cut is just unbalanced.
Perhaps if Roosevelt -- the in-house curly expert, it seems -- was available to cut my hair that day, I'd be happier. Who knows. Will I even bother to come back again? I'm not sure. In a stroke of curious timing, the day I booked my Parlour appointment, I received an email from Ouidad thanking me for serving me as a hair model and offering a discount on my next cut. A similar experience (cut and deep conditioning) at Ouidad costs about twice what it does at Parlour but I'll happily hand over that money if I'm going to love the results.
Looks like I'll be heading to NYC for future cuts. Carve me and slice me, baby. -
Review from Neha S.
11/10/2011
5 starts for Q at Parlour salon! Before I continue, let me mention that there are two qualities I consider most important in a hairdresser:
- Inventiveness: If I want to change it up, I'd like them to be able to take that risk and try something new.
- Consistency: I've tried a couple of hair salons in DC. They have all been good, but not consistent. One day you get a great cut with tons of attention to detail, the next time the hairdresser is running late and does a slap dash job and you are in and out of there in 30 minutes.
Now let me turn to Q. When it comes to short bobs - curly, coarse or straight, she is the bomb. Her dry cutting skills are amazing. My hair is quite thick, so she cuts it for length first and then dry cuts it into a style, not just a cut. She is a total perfectionist. She tinkers with my cut to the very end until she is completely 100% satisfied.
I've now been to her twice and I have been given the same time and attention during both visits. I decided to change the length on my second visit and Q was totally on board. I walked out with another fabulous cut.
I would not hesitate to recommend Q to anyone who wants a cut that makes a statement. -
Review from Maria C.
Washington, DC
2/9/2012
Stephanie and Billy rock! I have been coming to Parlour since I moved to DC a year and a half ago. I left a stylist in Chicago that I loved (miss you Ricky!!), so I was afraid I wouldn't find someone like him in DC. I dye my dark brown hair blond (with highlights) and not everyone can make it look natural. I found Parlour after much online research and reading the Yelp reviews. I was paired up with Stephanie and I'm so happy they did. She took her time to consult with me on what I liked and how I wanted the color to look. She was able to match the color perfectly! I always get compliments on both the color and cut. I started seeing Billy while Stephanie was away and he is just as great! Now I have 2 great stylist to go to! The only downside, it's hard to get an appointment with them (which, of course, tells you how good they are!).
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Review from Jen s.
Washington, DC
9/12/2011
Yay! I found my salon in DC! After going to a few places (Bubbles, PR at Partners, etc...) I decided to try Parlour after seeing such positive reviews. When I first walked in the door I was greeted with friendly faces, and once I signed in they called my stylist right away. They offered me refreshments while I waited for him to come up front and fetch me. My appointment was with Roosevelt. He is AWESOME! He's very sweet and listens to what you want with your hair.
I had a cut and dye that day. He doesn't start cutting right away, he meticulously observes your hair and it kind of looks like he's thinking about your suggestions and his "vision". He's very personable and friendly. Same can be said about the other stylists. They were chatting with their clients too, and they even commented on how my hair too.
Roosevelt also gave great tips about how to care fo rmy curly hair. He showed me how to dry my hair and suggested some products to help with my dry hair. He didn't pressure me into buying anything either, which I appreciate. In the end, my hair turned out just how I wanted. I find the price appropriate for what I got, and being DC I've definitely overpaid for some trims. They money I spent was well worth it. I'll definitely be coming back to this place! -
Review from Aisha S.
1/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
After hearing good things about Parlour Salon, I went for a curly Devachan-style cut and got paired up with Meredith. She is one of the friendliest stylists I've been to and she knew what she was talking about when it came to curly hair. She even told me how she loved curly hair and always wanted it herself, which is not something I've ever heard in a salon! She seemed to really enjoy what she does which was refreshing. I brought in a picture of a style I liked and unlike some stylists who don't pay attention to pictures, she was actually excited I brought it and tried to do a version of the cut suited to me. She did a great job on the cut and also showed me how I can style it at home. It took me some time to get it right and I will probably never be able to perfectly duplicate it because I'm pathetically inept at doing my own hair, but it's close enough. I'd say this was the best salon experience I've had to date.
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Review from LIz L.
Washington, DC
12/28/2011
I just had the worst hair cut ever there by Jenna. She seriously has no clue what she is doing. I asked for a trendy inverted bob and came out with what looks like she put a bowl on top of my head and cut around it. No shape or style. I have an appoitment at another salon today to FIX what she did. I have posted a picture so that everyone could see it and stay away from that place!!! The price is more what you would expect at a high end salon but the cut was worse than hair cuttery. I can tell Jenna hasn't had any recent classes which I'm sure is mandatory to keep up the license. I'm just trying to spare others from wasting their time and $ 75. I'm praying the other hair salon will be able to somehow fix what she did.
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Review from Amber W.
Washington, DC
8/10/2011
I usually make my appointments with Nicole and she's as good as they come! I can't vouch for her short hair cuts, but she does amazing things with my long, thick, sometimes curly, sometimes straight hair. The way she cuts my layers, even after they grow out, they still fall nicely.
Nicole will always ask if you want it a little shorter or choppier or different somehow (once she's finished). I always make the mistake of saying I want more done. Really-- Just trust Nicole, She gets it right on the first try always.
You will look fabulous after leaving Parlour! -
Review from j c.
Washington, DC
6/22/2011
Ok, I don't look like those fabulous photos posted for this salon, but I can say that Parlour Salon totally rocks! I saw Maricel(sp?) and she did the best job ever. I have a quite a bit of hair and it's slightly thick and wavy. I've never received so many compliments for my haircut until I went to Parlour. More than 10 separate people at work complimented me on the cut. It was probably more than that because I lost track! That has never happened and I've been to my share of salons in DC over the past 11 years that I've lived here, even one that's highly rated here on yelp (ok, I know it's all depends on the stylist, not the salon). Without any prompting, my husband even loved the cut when I came home!! He was pretty stunned and pleased.
With her Edward Scissorhands, Maricel tamed my hair into a cute bob, and not a Kate Gosselin butchered chop! Marvelous Maricel, you're fantastic! -
Review from Tucker W.
Washington, DC
6/30/2011
I just moved to DC from NYC, where I've been seeing the same amazing hair dresser for 10 years. I tried another spot in Dupont a few months ago and hated the outcome, so I was a little nervous about trying someone else.
My appointment was with Nicole and she was amazing. Not only do I love the haircut, but I love her. She had a really good energy and was super fun to talk to. I will for sure be back -
Review from Tara M.
Washington, DC
4/14/2011
Roosevelt, Roosevelt, Roosevelt!!! He is my new stylist, and I am so happy. I have course, wavy, difficult hair, and have been disappointed by soooo many stylists who supposedly specialized in non-straight hair in DC (Bang...Salon Revive...Fiddleheads...I've had my fuzzy-haired heart broken at each of these places).
Roosevelt was meticulous in his approach. My highlights are the perfect width (tiny) and color (natural-looking blonde), and he was great about checking on the process regularly so they didn't get over done. They didn't squeeze any other customer's haircut in between my color and cut, which was a first for me in DC. I hate when places do that, it always adds another half hour to the process.The cut he gave me was simple, well done and exactly what I needed. Plus, he took the time to do the whole "curly-girl" drying and styling method, which a lot of places won't take the time to do, or they just don't know how to do properly. If you have curly hair and have never had a stylist do this for you, try it, you will love it.
The cherry on top was the two glasses of decent white wine. I'm a sucker for these pleasant little extras. Highly recommended overall! Best salon experience I have found in DC. -
Review from Brooklyn B.
Washington, DC
4/9/2011
Wow! I came here to get my hair fixed after they f-cked it up at Bang. Maricel was amazing at giving me a cute cut. I asked her to get me out of the soccer mom 'do that I had without taking off too many inches and I love my hair! This is sans picture, mind you. I've received so many compliments on it!
Parlour is hip, affordable, friendly, and they know what I want. Not pretentious at all. And to top it all off, I got some coupons for being a new client!
I've definitely been sold! I moved to DC from NYC over 2 years ago and I've been trying to find a decent stylist. Sad that it took so long, but now I'm set. -
Review from Catherine R.
Manhattan, NY
3/15/2011
The Great Stylist Search of 2010 has officially come to an end. Parlour Salon, specifically the gorgeous and talented Q, has satisfied my nitpicky salon requirements: affordable, funky, precise, friendly, and ability to read my mind. It's that last one that I always have such trouble with...
Other salons have performed admirably, but no one gave me such a good haircut at a reasonable price, such good customer service, such great insight into how to make my hair look awesome, and such good product recommendations.
I got my hair trimmed the first time into an awesome angular bob and the second time into a chin length straight bob. Both times the cut was precise and super stylish. Q asks detailed questions about what you want, how your hair performs, and what kind of hair maintenance you do/are willing to do. Both times my hair has looked ahhhhhmazing.
Tips are in cash only. Bring your cash; you'll want to tip.Listed in: A Well-Groomed Girl is a…
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Review from Jennifer T.
Washington D.C., DC
1/28/2011
I stopped in one day after work with the intention of just making an appointment, but the receptionist managed to fit me in after only a 20 minute wait.
Q was my stylist and she was amazing! After a thorough wash, she really listened to what I wanted, asked me about my morning routine, and promised that my hair would be glamorous. We decided to create edgy layers and the haircut took a little more than an hour; I was badly in need of a haircut (and I have a lot of hair!).
The salon was closing, but Q spent her time going through and making sure that I had layers going throughout. After, she really took her time blow-drying and styling my hair. Even though it was getting late and I was only going home after, I really appreciated the time she spent. And she was right, my hair did look awesome!
I scheduled follow-up appointments with her right when I paid because I knew I would be coming back.
Tip:
-Bring cash! They only accept cash tips. -
Review from Bekah W.
9/23/2011
After I got a bad color job at Bang Verizon-- my friend who sees Abbey at Parlour recommended I head their way. Chris at parlour was nice enough to take me in right away and fix the icky-too dark color. I was nearly in tears when I made my way over there, but left with a smile and a great head of hair again! Thanks Parlour! You guys rock!
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Review from Hadas G.
Washington, DC
5/13/2011
After 5 years I have finally found my go to place for haircuts. After reading yelp I decided to book an appointment and they had one the next day with Stephanie (first plus). I got a call about an hour before my appointment telling me Stephanie got stuck in traffic and was going to be late. Ok, no big deal at least they called ahead.
I arrive and am immediately greeted by the very nice receptionist who offer to take my coat as Stephanie is walking out. Stephanie was super cute and nice and we sat down and discussed what I wanted. I was very open and she made some suggestions asked how I felt about them. Oh and they offer water and coffee a nice touch. The assistants were also great always lurking in the background to sweep, bring drinks, assist in anyway.
As Stephanie was cutting my hair she explained every technique and product she used, why she was doing so and different ways for me to do it at home. She even styled my hair a second time to show me a cool technique with the curling iron. Plus, we had a great conversation, chatting and laughing through the appointment. My cut cost $65, the same that I pay back home for my first love stylist which I consider pretty normal for D.C., especially U Street area.
The salon doesn't do tips on credit cards but I was willing to walk 3 blocks to an ATM so that I could tip Stephanie.
In short, Parlour is awesome. Stephanie is awesome. My hair looks awesome and I have found my permanent stylist in D.C. -
Review from Thomas F.
Washington, DC
1/22/2011
There are a lot of women posting about how great Parlour Salon is, but I wanted to chip and say that it's also a great place for the guys, too. I've been having my hair cut by Chris for nearly a year now and he's fantastic. He had my hair a little on the short side during the summer and then helped me let it grow out for the fall and winter. He somehow balances understanding what I'm looking for with interjecting great suggestions of his own that I wouldn't even have thought of. I love the way my classic Mad Men haircut looks when I walk out. And the nice thing, too, is that haircuts from Chris continue to look good for a longer period of time, as well.
Altogether, Parlour is a great experience. Everyone is friendly and pleasant, from the front desk to the hair washing. Can't recommend it enough. -
Review from Anne G.
Washington, DC
9/25/2010
I was out of town on business and walked in as a blonde to a very reputable Atlanta salon. My request? "I'd like to be blonder." $220 later, I walked out with dirt brown hair and tears in my eyes.
Fast forward later in the week to me randomly meeting a well-coiffed, gorgeous man in my neighborhood - I started talking to him about his hair and he said that he is a hair stylist at Parlour on U Street. I told him of my recent fiasco and he told me to come visit him. I was in his chair two days later and walked out a gorgeous, healthy haired BLONDE (as G-d should have made me, but Billy had to instead).
Billy is phenomenal at colour and made my hair that had been coloured twice in one week look and feel healthy and glossy. Loved the products (Bumble and Bumble with Redken colour) and the Moroccan Oil that has helped my hair stay healthy ever since. I HIGHLY recommend Billy at Parlour - what a wonderful experience! -
Review from Beth A.
Washington, DC
10/14/2010
I heart Parlour Salon.
I was really nervous when I moved here from Boston (where I had finally found an amazing hairstylist in Jenny at Pure Hair Design) and was worried I would never find someone who could handle my hair in DC. My hair is incredibly thick, curly, and never wants to do what most stylists want. Generally they end up chopping it off, which makes me a very unhappy camper with Christmas tree hair.
However, I've been going to Abby for a while now, and I have to echo all the previous reviews. She never chops more of your hair off than you ask for, and she's extremely responsive to what you ask her to do. She doesn't push products, and the one she recommended to me (Mixed Chicks leave in conditioner) has really, truly, been awesome for my hair. Abby's also introduced me to semi-permanent haircolor that doesn't damage your hair but lasts longer than out-of-the-box color.
I love the salon as well. It's not stuck up, and everyone has been very friendly. I always manage to show up at hair salons looking like I've been hit by a car, so I appreciate it when I don't get judge-y looks from hipster fashionistas.
All in all - I will be coming back for a long time. -
Review from Stephanie H.
Washington, DC
7/24/2010
I was one of those girls who searched my whole lifetime for that ideal salon:
* Western Mass- admittedly not the most fashion forward of places;
* London- oh yes, i had some delicious cuts... and some botch jobs.
* NYC- While good cuts at the uber hip places, they had quite an air of artiface... you know, that air: even if you're andy warhol, we're too artsy for you.
In my post NYC daze, I thought I would never find another fresh hair cut; I was resigned to merely decent hair cuts and a friendly suburban salon.
That is, until i met Parlour Salon.
It was about a year ago that i stumbled into this oasis in DC: a friend, who is blind, and I decided we needed to get some styles goin on a few months prior to her wedding.
My appointment was with Abby; hers with Stephanie. I remember being instantly charmed by the interior- and the warmth of the staff.
Everytime we leave, we both are re-enchanted: our hair cuts always make us feel elegant, edgy, and fantastic.
We both are impressed with Abby and Stephanie's style: they're very low-key and extremely attentive. If you're playing it safe, they're able to keep it safe and stylin'- if you want to take it up a notch- from my experience, they consistently take it to just that perfect risk level. In fact, I confess: i love both their personal styles and love how they both are able to give the hair a subtle but definite edge.
Another thing: they will never cut off even a centimeter more than you are comfortable with, and they will never push unnecessary products on you! In fact- Abby's cuts and then asks if you want it shorter. You also so often have to ask them which products they recommend!
I also must say: In a culture that has some anxiety around people with disabilities, particularly blind individuals, the salon has impressed me with how naturally the staff all- particularly stephanie- have accepted my friend, who is blind, with such natural warmth and just are as chatty and friendly with her as anyone else- and are so willing to make everything accessible!
I should also say, that Stephanie does everything perfectly for my friend- including the most beautiful subtle blonde coulour- and she now only trusts Stephanie to cut her hair!
In conclusion: Parlour is brooklyn edginess without the pretentiousness. It is doubly enchanting- the entire staff is genuinely warm, and the cuts are works of staggering genius.
If you have curly hair: Parlour is the Place!
If you want to freshen your office 'do: Parlour is the PLACE!
If you want punky hair: Parlour is the PLACE!
If you want a subtle but edgy cut: Parlour is the PLACE! -
Review from Joel P.
Fort Washington, MD
Great and friendly staff. Very professional and courteous. They do great jobs with the hairstyles that I would see walking out of the store. I'm a guy so I just get a basic haircut but the women always look glamorous. The receptionists, Samantha & MIchele are absolute DOLLS as well as Q, Marciel, Billy, Chris, Veronika, Stephanie, Roosevelt... heck, just all of them are great and a blast to be around!
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Review from Elizabeth D.
Washington, DC
12/15/2010
Had a conditioning treatment and cut + style during the Yelp discount week promotion.
The receptionist - who has awesome Rhiana hair - is very nice and immediately made me feel welcome
My hair was cut by the very professional Miss Q who took time to talk though what my daily wash/shampoo/style routines are and how I could improve them (however, she was not doing a "hard sell" on products at all - I hate when salon's do that and she deff did not).
I really like my hair cut - I have very fine thin hair and Q found ways to make it look more full!
I got a great deal with the Yelp Promotion, but otherwise it could be a bit pricey.
I would recommend Q and Parlour Salon :) -
Review from Alicia W.
Washington, DC
6/30/2010 3 Check-ins Here
I must be the luckiest curly haired girl ever. After calling my usual place, Trim, I find out that Heather has moved to NY. As much as I loved her driving there was not an option. The only other girl that I heard was good with curly hair had also moved. So began my yelp search for someone who could stand up to my hair.
After reading tons of reviews I decided on Parlour Salon. I spoke with the receptionist and it sounded like mostly everyone there had some skill with the curls. I was scheduled with Nicole and then I could do nothing but wait.
Note: There is no parking except for metered out front. 2 hours max
The salon is trendy looking and the receptionist was welcoming. The first thing Nicole did was sit me down to talk. She wanted to understand what I was looking for and what my experiences have been. It wasn't a tell me what you want and I will do whatever I want kind of thing. She really wanted to make sure that we were on the same page. She cut my hair dry as most people who do curly hair know you are supposed to do. There was another girl there who was in training who was watching from the other side of the room so Nicole invited her over so that she could really see how the cut was going. Not only was she explaining to me everything she was doing, therefore calming my nerves, she was explaining the minor technical aspects to the apprentice, even quizzing her on how she would place the color for what I wanted.
After the cut and placement of the color, which was only a small streak on the left side that is slightly longer than the right, wash and styling she then recut my hair a bit more to make sure the shape was right.
Overall, a great experience. I have been saved of having to go through multiple people to try and find someone who can do curly hair. I will be going back. Also, there are a few stylists there with curly hair. They carry the mixed chicks line, which the deep conditioner is amazing. -
Review from Lisa S.
Washington, DC
5/6/2010
I have to disagree with these positive reviews and put out a warning for those thinking of coming to Parlour.
I had a job interview and needed a cut and color asap, but my usual stylist at Bang was unavailable, which led me to Parlour (and it's in my neighborhood). After reading all the positive Yelps I decided to give it a try.
I had an appointment with Stephanie at 12. I explained that I wanted a professional cut and for my color to match my natural color, the color of my roots. I usually go a bit blonder, but for the interview and winter I wanted to go to my natural light brown.
What happened next was a disaster. She decided I needed an overall color and highlights. After an hour and a half of highlighting and coloring and processing, I was shocked to find that my hair was not my natural light brown, but orange! I think my face went pale and she went on to say that she would tone it down. After getting shampooed again she applied the toner and had it sit for awhile, all the while I was feeling awful. After that, it was still pretty orange and the roots and the rest of my hair were now different shades of orange, so she toned it again.
In the meantime, she had her stylist friend come explain to me about color and how it was normal to look like that with the hair follicle blah blah, basically coming up with some kind of reason for why the dye job went so bad. I've had my hair colored enough times in enough places to know how this works, and this was not right.
Finally, my hair comes out a little darker, reddish, not really brown, but I can deal because by this time I've had 4 rounds of dye and I was just thankful my hair didn't fall out.
She finished it off with a very average haircut. I left 4 hours after I came in, with bad color, an average hair cut, and a ruined rest of my day.
No apologies, no discounts, no explanations whatsoever.
I will never go back.
I will say that in the 4 hours I was there countless people came and went with good haircuts from the other stylists, but what happened to me was BAD. -
Review from Max A.
Washington, DC
12/18/2011
I love Parlour. I've always felt like I'm in competent hands when I go there- My hair has a funny whorl pattern in it that causes less proficient haircutters to make my hair look weird and bad. In the case, they always get it right and my hair always has that extra pizazz every time I leave. I've come to think of Parlour as the one DC institution I'll miss the most when I eventually leave this city. Everyone who works there is super friendly, and it's the kind of place where people don't feel afraid to start spontaneous conversations in the waiting room. The interior design is great too- I know not everyone cares about this, but for me it's what adds the fifth star. : ) They also saved me during my first week or so of living in DC when another haircutter gave me a terrible haircut earlier that same day. I came in, really unhappy with the frightening bowl cut that she gave me, and Billy fixed me up. To this day he's the only person I have let cut my hair.
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Review from Juliet S.
11/6/2010
I have curls. Big curls. Unruly curls. Curls that don't listen to me no matter what I do to them. For my latest haircut, I figured I should upgrade myself to a nicer place that had real curl know-how. Thank goodness for Hot on Yelp week and introducing me (along with a great deal) to Parlour Salon!
When a business gives a client five star treatment, they deserve a five star ranking. Parlour Salon is top notch in terms of quality of service, care, and atmosphere. I walked in for my 4:45 appointment after a loooong day with my 8th grade students, and was greeted by two smiley gals who took my coat, checked me in, and then asked if I would care for a drink. "Water, coffee, tea, or wine?" Wine please! What an excellent beginning...
Now, onto the hair. My stylist, Stephanie, was just fabulous from start to finish. Like the rest of the staff at Parlour, she had a great demeanor and was all about making it fun and relaxing. I was immediately put at ease and felt like I was in great hands. As for my hair, I basically told her: 1) I have crazy curls I can't control 2) I want long layers 3) I didn't want to take off more than the damaged ends...and left everything else to her.
After my deep conditioning treatment, she started a-snippin'. Along the way, she told me exactly what she was doing and why. I love that I came away with an actual education on how to take care of my curls better. (For example, I never knew not to use terry cloth towels on curls and to use a jersey t-shirt instead!! or to only shampoo at the roots. or to shake my hair - like a rockstar - to help separate the curls) And, at the very end, she filled out a "cheat sheet" for me to refer to about caring for my hair - steps from shampooing to conditioning to drying and styling. So thorough.
With the Hot On Yelp Week deal, I got the Deva Cut and conditioning treatment (usually $100) for $50. Women's cuts begin at $65. This place may be pricier than others (certainly more than other places I've been in DC), but it is worth every penny.Listed in: Beautification a la DC
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Review from Kristin S.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 5/5/2010
So I have learned never to write a review of a salon as soon as I get home from having my hair done. 1. I feel like I am on a high from having a fresh haircut and 2. It doesn't give me time to really examine my haircut.
You know that feeling when the ends of your hair snag more readily and you know it is time to get a haircut and cut off all those dead ends and such. You know that wonderful silky feeling you get when you run your fingers through your hair the few days after having your coif freshly trimmed? I didn't have that. Despite specific instructions to cut off as much as he needed to to keep my hair healthy and silky (my hair is pretty long so cutting off almost a full inch isn't a huge deal) I still had nasty easily tangled ends when I brushed my hair the next day. :(
So I have been trying a few more salons in the area. I just recently went to Salon Revive which is definitely more reasonably priced than Parlour, although not quite as posh inside. I may come back and give Chris another chance if the next couple of salons I try don't wow me. All I can say about all these salon reviews that I have been doing since I moved here is that I really, really miss Charles Ifergan in Chicago :(Listed in: Salons I've Tried in the DC…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/5/2009
I just moved to DC about a week ago from Chicago and was really nervous about finding a new hair… Read more »
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Review from Morgan W.
7/9/2008
Let's start by saying that, if I could give this salon more than 5 stars, I would. It's really that good.
I found Parlour through an ad in the City Paper. Being a sucker for good advertising, I checked out their website and decided to give them a try. I called hoping that I would manage to get an appointment sometime this week; I managed to get one the same day I called (score!). For some crazy reason, I decided a few months ago that I wanted long hair...no, I don't. After letting my hair get to a disastrous point (seriously...the ends were looking BAD), I faced up to the reality that I am a short-haired girl. By the time I walked into the salon, I was ready to cut the grossness off myself. Instead, I found Chris waiting for me in a lovely little salon on U St. Let me tell you, the man can work a miracle.
I came in with a photo of what I was looking for in a cut. I wanted something that was very versatile, yet easy to maintain. After spending a good deal of time discussing what I wanted from the cut, Chris added his own vision for my hair. Since he's a trained professional, I trusted his judgment. As he started cutting, it became very obvious that he deeply cared how it would turn out. He spent a lot of time making sure that the layers were just so, that they would work in many different ways, and that my bangs could be worn in a few different directions. Besides caring about my hair, Chris was also very adept at keeping the conversation going and making me feel comfortable the entire time I was there. Actually, the entire staff was really nice and made me feel very welcome as soon as I walked into the salon. No snottiness! What a concept!
If you're looking for a new salon, or are just wanting to change things up a bit, I highly recommend Parlour. Their prices are relatively normal for DC, but the quality of the cut and the professionalism of the staff is superb. You will not be disappointed. (PS-Bring cash for tipping) -
Review from G E.
Washington, DC
12/20/2008
I went to this salon based on the great reviews here and left with nothing but good things to say. I asked for either Rebecca or Nicole. They both had openings at the time I selected so I asked if either specialized in curly or wavy hair and the person that answered the phone kindly let me know that while both stylist are great, Rebecca has naturally curly hair. I decided to try her out.
From the moment I walked in everyone was friendly and helpful. Rebecca gave me a great consultation; she was attentive, receptive and genuine. I went from hair down my back to a short angled bob (translation: huge change) and she made me feel completely comfortable with it every step of the way. I love my hair and highly recommend Rebecca and the salon.
I also want to mention that Nicole was cutting right next to me and it looked great as well.
Thanks, Parlour, for being unpretentious and having great talent. -
Review from Kyle B.
Washington, DC
1/22/2011 ROTD 11/7/2011
Um. I only have 5 words for my experience.
My haircut got me laid.
Hopefully this is indicative of a pattern. -
Review from David D.
Somerville, MA
8/19/2008
I got up this morning and looked at my shaggy hair, and decided that I wasn't going to put it off any longer and would get that haircut.
The only question was where to go. I am sick of the Hair Cuttery, demoralized by randomly choosing barbers, and not a usual salon-goer. Luckily, Yelpers had already yelped with joy about Parlour Salon, and, damn, do I agree.
It was a hot Tuesday afternoon and I was able to walk-in and be seen right away. I discovered half-way through the haircut that my stylist was the owner of the business, a revelation I found particularly encouraging because of his great demeanor, attention to detail, and knowledgeability.
The final price (before tip) was $45, and, in my opinion, the experience was well worth the extra $10-$15 I may have spent over other places. Definitely plan on going back. -
Review from Andrea M.
Washington D.C., DC
9/13/2011
I received the worst haircut of my life at this salon last Friday. And that's saying something because I have naturally curly hair and grew up in the Midwest. Abigail, a stylist that allegedly "loves" curly hair, cut half a foot off of hair that I explicitly told her to "leave as much length as possible" on. I will be wearing my hair in a ponytail for months because of her not listening to me. I was in shock as I left the salon and tied what's left of my hair back right away. It looks absolutely horrible. When I called to complain, the manager told me he would call me back. Four days later, I have heard nothing. I'm furious and mortified. I will NEVER be going back.
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Review from Elizabeth M.
Washington, DC
Updated - 5/9/2010
I went 5 months without a hair cut after seeing Nicole. Usually, my layers get nasty and I need a cut within 2 months but frankly, they still looked great after 5 months but my ends were getting a bit dry so it was time to go back. Nicole was booked for another 9 days so I got in with Abbey two days later on a Saturday. She's so cute! And she also did a fantastic job. My hair looks much healthier.
I will say that the cut she gave me is by no means a big change, this salon is fairly conservative and I can't see them recommending a pixie cut from long lengths, even if it would look better. At the same time, you don't have to worry about them screwing up your hair. It will look healthy, professional and it will grow out in a nice way.2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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1/16/2010
Maybe Nicole IS Jesus after all. I've never had this many compliments on my hair. More importantly,… Read more »
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Review from J O.
Washington, DC
12/22/2008
Parlour is wonderful. Everyone is really friendly and polite, the space is very aesthetically appealing, and they play great music.
I went to Vivian for a cut and color. The cut was a good trim of my current style, and I love what she did with my color. I've always been a light blonde, but I went darker with a caramel glaze, and a few hand painted highlights. She was friendly, easy going, and provided good suggestions.
It definitely was on the high end of what I'm willing to spend ($195, w/o tip), but worth it.
I'll be going back in a few months. -
Review from Katie F.
Alexandria, VA
8/31/2009
Woohoo! Very accurately describes my reaction after this haircut.
I've got super curly dirty blonde hair. Therefore, haircuts always make me anxious. After searching Yelp for positive reviews I settled on Parlour with stylist Abbey and hoped for the best.
I only started embracing "expensive" haircuts a few years ago living in NYC when I treated myself to a cut at Arte Salon. I figure you wear your hair everyday, so it's a worthy investment. I haven't been able to duplicate that NYC experience at Trim or Mak Salon (Alexandria). Abbey at Parlour restored my faith in hair cutting!
She started cutting my hair dry. Friday was rainy and humid so my attempts at showing up at the salon with my hair looking super curly were thwarted so I was concerned she wouldn't have the right idea of what my hair is capable of. She pointed out to me that she likes to tease out curly hair and see how it "poofs" because then she cuts it to prevent it. No triangles here!
After that preliminary dry cut, it was washed gently and then meticulously shaken/drip/scrunched dry with paper towels. I've had that method once before when I was in NYC - guessing it might be Deva-inspired? Anyways, I was put under a slow rotating dryer for a spell and then Abbey did final touches. My curls have never looked that good!
The true test was that last night I tried to replicate the styling and considering I didn't have the exact fancy products or drying machine, it still turned out fantastic. I've found a new fabulous stylist! Someday I'd like to take the plunge with a short haircut and I'd be confident that Abbey could handle it.
Overall, the salon was neat and clean. I had read the reviews and knew to bring cash for the tip. My 4:15 Friday appointment was right on time and despite the laborious haircut/drying/trimming process, I was done within an hour. -
Review from Shella B.
Washington, DC
7/31/2009
I just moved to DC and had to find someone to cut my mop of naturally curly hair ASAP. With the start of a brand new job 3 days away and being maid of honor in two weddings in the next 3 weeks, I also didn't want to compromise on the quality. Based on yelp reviews, I thought I would pop into Parlour as I was exploring the furniture shops of U Street just to see if by chance they had any walk-ins or cancellations. As luck would have it, Abby was taking her lunch out front and jumped at the chance to help me.
It was my first dry cut, and she did a fantastic job, adding just enough texture and layers to take the weight out of my hair, while still leaving the length. I have found my DC hair person, and will definitely be back. I would only advice to bring cash for tip. I lost my debit card a couple days prior, and will be sending in my tip just as soon as I can. -
Review from D C.
Los Angeles, CA
10/6/2011
Had a great haircut with Q while I was in town. My hair is normally flat and hair dressers have problems layering in a way that it doesn't look too thin in order to gain volume. Q did a fantastic job and of she were in my hometown, I'd definitely go back.
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Review from Jessica M.
Washington, DC
9/14/2010
I've had many a bad haircut in DC. It's not that the people I saw were lacking in skill, but they would never listen to what I said I wanted. I checked Yelp and found all the glowing recommendations for Parlour-- for which I am grateful.
I've been seeing Stephanie for over a year. She does a fantastic job and is great with people-- so much so that the one negative review on here that mentions her confounds me. Every time I see her, I get amazing color and a fantastic cut (not to mentions tons of compliments on how nice my hair looks). She can perfectly execute an idea I come in with, or create a style that I totally love when I'm fresh out of ideas.
Best of all, for those who have a low maintenance beauty routine like me, she always takes into consideration the fact that I am a wash/comb/dry kinda girl in giving me a new style. This is hard for me to find anywhere.
I will admit that for a while, there was something going on with the reception staff-- I wouldn't get reminders about appointments, or the time was different when i got the reminder phone call. However, I think they got rid of whoever was clowning around at the desk, because those issues have stopped completely.
Despite the reception snafus and the fact that a cut+color is a pricier than I'm comfortable with, I keep on going back to Parlour. I sincerely believe you won't be disappointed by the work done here. -
Review from Jeannie O.
Washington, DC
5/2/2009
I am adding to the chorus of praise for Vivian.Late yesterday afternoon, upon finding out that I have a job interview monday, I called Parlour hoping that they'd squeeze me in last minute (today is busy salon saturday). The super-nice receptionist put me on hold for a sec & then came back on to tell me sure they could. Of course I had read all the rave reviews on Yelp, and my hair was suffering from my previous bad cut plus the DC humidity...Anyway, I couldn't have been happier with my visit to Parlour on their one-year anniversary (for which they were serving mimosas & pastries to celebrate, what a nice touch).
The place is cute, clean, favors Bumble & Bumble products, and is run by a professional, welcoming staff. The focus is on quality and it shows-from the personable receptionists, shampoo assistants, to the stylists of course. I have short, fine hair that is difficult to manage and it desparately needed "fixing".Vivian listened (too few hairstylists do this), and asked me to check it out several times during the cut to make sure that I liked what I was seeing.In short, I love my new cut. And will return to try some color as well. I'm so glad I found Parlour! -
Review from Reina N.
Washington, DC
7/14/2008
There's not a single bad thing I could say about Parlour.
I went here for my first attempt at getting extensions - and let me tell you, Billy did an absolutely fabulous job. He only comes down to DC several times a month but if you book with him you will NOT be dissappointed.
I love all the staff there - from Kendell to Rebecca, Chris and Billy - from my consultation to my cut, I had everyone at the salon help me out and I was really happy I chose this salon to have it done!
I can't wait to come back next month :)
