Colorist
Jenn Jones at Akasa
Few colorists can create a classic blonde just as well as funky red-hot tips, so book early to snag Jenn Jones at tranquil Akasa Salon. The accomplished stylist is well worth the wait. She can follow a client’s instructions to a T, but will step in and suggest new ideas if you’re feeling unsure. FYI: First-time clients must also book a $55 blowout so Jones can check how your hair takes the color (you can skip it during future appointments). 593 Edgewood Avenue, akasasalon.com; jennjoneshair.com
Kids Salon
Salon Red Kids Decatur
Even the most haircut-averse child won’t be able to resist this downtown Decatur salon once they get a peek of the huge selection of toys and retro candy for sale, chairs shaped like mini race cars, and kid-friendly videos on tap. Haircuts start at $20; there’s also fancy French braiding ($15) and funky temporary hair color ($7) on the menu for those who want a little extra coiffing. 123 East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Decatur, salonred.com
Blowout
Drybar
This well-oiled machine that offers nothing but drying and styling is a winner for its easy online booking, friendly customer service, and consistent results. But what really takes the cake: a price tag that’s $5 less than top competitors. We even enjoy the “bar”-themed line of quality products (new releases include blonde ale brightening cream). Multiple locations, thedrybar.com
For Curly Hair
Ambrosia Salon
At this busy, light-filled salon in Underwood Hills, put your frizz, waves, or spirals in the hands of co-owner/master stylist Christine Verikas and her protégé, Brenda Tatum. Both have trained in the DevaCurl dry-cutting technique—no more surprises when that one-inch trim ends up looking more like three once your hair springs back up—to create soft, layered styles that are never bushy or boxy. 1750 Howell Mill Road, ambrosiasalon.com
For African American Hair
Loop Salon
This cozy two-year-old shop (think pink couch, candles,
antiqued mirrors), gets A marks for their solid customer service and top-notch products like Phyto and Ouidad. Our natural hair tester (and self-proclaimed plain Jane) met with Jameela for a shampoo/heat/style ($55) and was happy to leave sporting a fun and funky fauxhawk. 537 Ponce de Leon Avenue, loopsalonatl.com
For Asian Hair
Hair Capital
This Asian Square salon packs in customers, who come for sharp styles ranging from buzz cuts and angled bobs to straight perms and club-kid-phase Bieber ’dos. In the back, a separate spa area offers some of the best beauty deals in the city, including permanent makeup (from $200) and ultrasonic eye treatments (from $35). 5150 Buford Highway, Doraville, haircapitalbeautysalon.com
Men’s Salon
Roosters
The Buckhead/Sandy Springs outpost of Roosters, which has 76 franchise locations nationwide (including four in metro Atlanta), is masculine but not bro-y, with plush barber chairs and complimentary cups of coffee. Even with a combo cut and seven-step shave (worth the $54 price tag), you can expect to be in and out in an hour—without feeling rushed. 4969 Roswell Road, roostersatl.com
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This article originally appeared in our November 2015 issue.
