The 10 Best Hair Salons In Chicago, Hands Down

Finding a hair salon that corresponds to your needs can be a long and difficult process–from scouring the internet for reviews to scrolling through social media for photographs of recent clients. At Byrdie, we have done the heavy lifting for you. Chicago is home to a variety of options, whether you are looking for your new go-to salon or want to do a full transformation. From top-rated salons specializing in blonding services to celebrity stylists and Latinx-owned businesses, we have top-rated recommendations for you. Keep reading for our list of the best Chicago hair salons, no matter your hair goals or texture.

How much should you tip?

It is customary to tip 20% for all hair services. Some stylists prefer being tipped via Venmo or Zelle. Ask your stylist how they want to be tipped during your next appointment.

Sine Qua Non Salons

Sine Qua Non Salons has been open since the 1990s and includes three locations sprawled across the city. Services include color ($65+), cuts ($70+), updos ($70+), as well as brow tinting and shaping ($24+). Booking color services three to four weeks in advance is recommended.

Location: 2038 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago / 3417 N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago / 5057 N. Clark Street, Chicago

Van Cleef Hair Studio

This multicultural salon offers services such as braids ($125+), loc retwists ($125+), silk presses ($125+), color ($55+) and more. The owner of Van Cleef Hair Studio, Rahni Flowers, recently retired and used to be Michelle Obama and her family’s hairstylist since the 1980s.

Location: 1255 S Halsted, Chicago

The Hair Loft Ltd.

The Hair Loft recently celebrated its 44-year anniversary. It specializes in blonding services and color. Prices for a balayage start at $170. Services also include cuts ($70+), extensions, as well as manicures ($28+) and massages ($55+).

Location: 217 W. Huron St., Chicago

Essence VIP Hair Designers

This Black-owned hair salon specializes in multi-textured hair and offers services such as locs ($85+), relaxers ($125+), weaves ($225+) and color ($50+). Services at Essence VIP Hair Designers also include scalp treatments with vitamins C and E for people with concerns such as alopecia and eczema.

Location: 2551 N. Clark St, Chicago

RMCM Salon

Specialized in colors ($100+) and styling, RMCM Salon also offers keratin and scalp treatments. RMCM Salon was founded by colorist Cristina and hair stylist Rosemary with the aim of keeping diversity in mind while creating a space that feels like home.

Location: 314 West Institute Place, Unit 3R, Chicago

Ponte Catrina

This Latina-owned salon was inspired by Mexico’s elegant women and rich culture, according to its founder Claudia Martinez. Ponte Catrina specializes in makeovers (color and balayage for $325) and offers a variety of color and cut services.

Location: Lacuna Lofts, 5th floor, 2150 S. Canalport St., Chicago

Arsova Salon

Arsova Salon specializes in balayage ($165+) and offers services such as cuts ($90+) and extensions ($150+). The owner, Anita Arsova, can be booked for cuts ($130+).

Location: 375 W Erie St #101C, Chicago

S&M Salon

This Asian-owned salon specializes in cuts ($43+) and balayage ($350+). S&M Hair Salon uses products from Japan and Scotland and offers services such as straightening perms ($200+) and keratin treatments ($180+).

Location: 2298 S Archer Ave, Chicago

Coleman Hair Company

This Black-woman owned salon offers a variety of services from color ($185+) to silk presses ($95+) and sew ins ($325+). Teresa Coleman also founded her own luxury extensions company, which offers organically sourced bundles in their natural state. Complimentary drinks are offered upon entering Coleman Hair Company Salon.

Location: 977 N. Roselle Rd., Hoffman Estates

Anthony Cristiano Hair Salon

Anthony Cristiano has worked with a variety of clients, from Mariah Carey and Kim Kardashian to publications such as InStyle and Sports Illustrated. The salon offers cuts with Cristiano for $395 or other artists for $100+. Services at Anthony Cristiano Salon also include color ($65+), as well as bridal hair and makeup ($250+).

Location: 401 N Wabash Avenue Level 1M Suite B, Chicago

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