The trainee used toy scissors on my hair and was told never to use them again. My haircut was very strange with one side as short as my ear and the other long. When I complained the nasty looking instructor was annoyed and told me that I should not complain because these were students. The student was very skittish and nervous. The finished job was terrible and when I told her she needed to use finishing product on my hair she searched for some and came back with a little drop. The instructor was heavy and nasty looking so I didn't expect any good to come from this woman. Aveda products are awful too. read more

I dyed my hair blond last montth and I love it.!!!!! Makaing a neew appoibtmentt today.

I will never pay for another haircut or dye job again. Ever. One of my sorority sisters tipped me off that Aveda Academy had a new cut and color class where they needed volunteers to get cut and colored. Duh. I went in and the instructors are basically the bomb; they go around and make sure that the Aveda professional cutting your hair is using new techniques properly and making suggestions as to how they can do it better. It takes a bit longer than a regular trip to the salon bc of all the explanation, but I got two shampoos (my favorite part) and it was awesome. Don't go if all you want is a trim and you're going to be obstinate about it. But if you're open to a little change, they ask you how much length you're willing to lose and they don't try to give you a mohawk or dye it purple. Unless you ask for it, of course. My hair rocks. And best of all, it was FREE! read more

Hmm, I'm not sure how the reviewer below me got her treatment for free. I paid for my service--not much, but I did pay. I normally go to the Aveda on West Broadway, but as they were booked that night, I tried another one nearby. I didn't realize until I got there that this was the academy, but since I was just looking for a simple haircut and nothing tricky, I didn't mind. The haircut was fine, but it did take a bit longer than usual. Once your stylist is done, an instructor has to review his or her work, usually making a few modifications. The blow-out I got was sub-par; my hair was oddly straight instead of looking naturally straight as it typically does following a professional blow-out, and it was also a bit frizzy. Because I wasn't too happy with the way I looked at that point, I decided to forego the complementary makeup application. But the cut itself was good, and for $50 including tip as well as shampoo and conditioner, it can't be beat! read more

So, this is going to be a long one... This review is regarding a perm I got about 3, maybe 3 1/2 months ago from Tom that is long over due. I wanted to write the review for two reasons; A. Tom was professional, detail oriented, friendly and most importantly talented! And B. because there are no damn perm reviews online (except digital perms), like seriously none! Now, I know it's 2014 and perms for the most part still have the reputation of making you look like a poodle. But, for ladies with fine hair that just hangs down, doing nothing for your face, you should seriously consider getting a perm! As a veg, I was displeased to learn that perms not only contain animal ingredients but are also tested on animals. Luckily for me, Aveda produces they're own unique animal free perming solutions. When I called the VanDam location Tom was recommended to me as a seasoned perm stylist so I booked a consultation with him. Now, just a warning the perm was pricey, $75 an hour. But, I thought that perhaps the perm would end up taking around 2 hours but actually totaled 4.5 hours. I'll admit, although Tom was friendly and professional, I debated weather or not the perm should actually take that long. Well, my mind was put at ease when few days later I decided to call Tom to ask about a few 'curls' which I was not pleased with. I myself am a perfectionist and I was not happy with some of the straight locks of hair amongst the curls. He was very concerned, and we scheduled a follow up appointment. He ended up re-perming a few sections of hair which took about 2.5-3 hours, all for free. Not only that, he also had me come in the following week to check and style my curls, also for free! So after the entire perming process was completed I was left very happy with the time and money I put into the perm. My curls were tight, natural, and full of body! I am absolutely thrilled with the results! I highly recommend curls for lady's/gents with flat and/or fine hair like myself. Now 3 months later my curls have tamed somewhat, they hang softer but are still shapely and full of body. I will definitely be scheduling a follow up perm in about 9 months or so, when there is a significant amount of grow out. Sooooo happy I invested in my perm! read more

I've now visited the academy twice and will definitely not be going back or recommending this school to anyone. My first visit was for a super light trim and an overall color to cover a few scattered greys. I specifically asked for my color to be completely natural and match the color of my hair, just wanted to cover my greys. My color came out SUPER dark at which time I was told "it will fade" - well here I am 6 months later and people who I haven't seen for a while still say "your hair looks really dark". So much for fading. I went back again the other day for another simple trim and to get bangs cut. After a painful 2 hours with an "almost graduated" stylist, I knew I was getting a terrible cut. I have very straight easy to deal with hair just past my shoulders and was asking for a trim and bangs. The instructor came over 3 different times and had to give the stylist more instruction and kept telling her that the haircut was uneven. The bangs were as well cut terribly. Very blunt and awkwardly chunky and uneven when I had asked for feathered side swept bangs. I asked the instructor to fix the bangs saying I felt they were too chunky, so she did a little trimming. They were still terrible. On top of the bad haircut, the sales pitch of Aveda product here is uncomfortably awkward. The instructor audibly scolded the student in front of me for not trying to sell me additional products and services. AWKWARD!!! I then proceeded to Salon 13 in the East Village to get my cut fixed (Angie did an amazing job!!!) - when I told her that I had gotten the cut at Aveda, she could not believe that an instructor had signed off on such a terrible job. If you want to put your head of hair in the hands of an inexperienced stylist and instructors who sign off on crummy work, then proceed to the Aveda academy. Otherwise, shell out the money and go to a real salon. read more

Peter is amazing! I am so lucky a friend recommended him. I have short curly/wavy hair and he truly understands how to cut it. I've had my share of bad haircuts, as some people just don't know how to cut short, curly hair. Peter has mastered it!! I'm a little particular & sometimes timid to try new styles. I feel so confident with Peter's abilities that I look forward to trying new variations/styles of my short cut. He always makes it fresh and exciting. Can't tell you how many times strangers stop me and ask, "Where did you get your haircut." Love that and it always makes me feel good and smile!!! Furthermore, everyone at Aveda Vandam is truly helpful and friendly. The staff is professional and considerate. I always feel super comfortable visiting the salon. read more

I became a metrosexual when I started to come here :) Top rate service, massage, hair wash, hair cut with a side of tea.... Can't beat the experience or that fact that super trendy people will figure out what is right for your hair that you will like. Ask for Jon! read more

I think a couple of reviewers have mistaken the Academy for the Institute. The Institute takes a little while and your hair is done by students who don't have a license yet and then reviewed by instructors. The Aveda Academy is right behind the Institute and there's only 5 in the world. Only the best of the best can work here! Everyone here is great! I have my hair cut by Peter & coloured by Caroll & I get compliments EVERY day on my hair. Literally. The last time Peter cut my hair, the Technical Director for all Aveda styling, Ricardo, came by and they had an INTENSE conversation about my hair and how it would affect my face, even my shoulders! They even wanted to look at my glasses to make sure my hair would compliment them! They truely use design philosophies to restructure your face. Ricardo even told me where I should part my hair to widen the narrowest parts of my face and bring more balance to it. I've even had friends ask me if I lost weight after I got my hair done! And nothing is better than an Aveda salon. All their products are botanical and more importantly, very environmentally friendly! Everything is even made with wind power & is paraben free. They even have 4 PETA awards! At this location, many of the fixtures are even recycled or reclaimed and its super open and extremely relaxing. I love it here! read more

Jimmy Keaton at Aveda Vandam is a hair GOD!! His color and cuts are artistry at it's finest. Magic happens in this Master Stylist's chair. For over 13 years my hair has gone all around the color map with this man ... and it has been an amazing and beautiful ride. What is it like to go weeks on end without ever hearing a hair complement, you ask? Thanks to Jimmy Keaton, I wouldn't know. Whatever your hair needs or wants might be, he's got you covered. Also, the Vandam salon provides a beautiful setting with super knowledgeable and welcoming staff. This man ... and this fabulous salon ... ROCK. read more

This is an academy where professional stylists receive further education from esteemed hair specialist, and they use your head for free. I got goo-goo, gaw-gawed over for 5 hours. Hair color, highlights, a beautiful cut, a wash and a head massage. Oh, and make-up too. All for free. I never felt so beautiful. Aveda, you gained a special place in my heart, and so did Cecilia, who beautified me and listened to me talk about my love life. I'm coming back. read more

Not anymore ... it's time has passed. I've gone here for years, and today's trip will probably be my last. 99% of the place is populated with '80s dressed and styled punkers. Honestly, it's quite difficult to trust my hair coloring and hair cut to this style of individual(s) ... yes, most everyone on the floor on my last visit, and again on this visit, had spikes coming out of their chins (and other body parts), and oddly dyed hair looking as though it was cut with a lawn mower and a gerbil nested in it. ALL OF THEM!!! Could be OK if you're looking for this style ... not for anyone looking to walk out looking or feeling beautiful. Cheap yes, not beautiful. Too bad ... read more

I go to Jennifer here, who is one of the masters who teach at the academy, so I pay normal NYC prices for my cuts and colors. I don't trust anyone else anymore! Jenn also did my hair for my wedding and it looked gorgeous. She's a master colorist -- my hair is this gorgeous copper color right now -- and her haircuts kick a** too. Definitely an A+! read more

I had a haircut with Jennifer. I have no words to describe how clueless she was. While she sounded very confident, she failed to deliver anything remotely resembling a haircut. She literally gave me a staright blunt cut at the bottom and for the bangs, not even once did she ask me if my bangs are too long (they were in my eyes). The blow out was even more painful and left me lookign like a puffy poodle. Good thing - she did so little I went and got it recut the next day. Strange thing - how can somebody with allegedly 15 years of experience be so clueless. I think supercuts would do a better job. Aveda shoudl know better than call somebody like that "a master" read more

The West Broadway Salon merged with the aveda Advanced Academy and it is the way an aveda salon should be.... The space is huge and uses recycled materials as well as scraps of wood as the decor. With awsome images flashing on flat screens and amazing music. Really good vibe - if you love Aveda you should definately book with the Aveda Advanced Academy Wed-Sats @ 212 473 0280 read more

Amazing colorist. I love Carol

Jimmy Keaton. That is all! LOL :) I've been coloring my hair with Jimmy since 2009 - and I refuse to let anyone else touch it! As a Master Colorist for Aveda, Jimmy KNOWSSSS what he's doing and the best of it is that he's great with textured hair. Every single time I have my color done people are constantly asking "Where did you get your hair colored?". Over the years I have sent him many clients who have all raved about him and have loved him all the same. Even when he's over booked (I mean, everyone wants him for the same thing! ) I hold tight and fight the crazy urge to box-dye my hair (*gasp*) or go into somewhere else....nope! Instead, I hold out and rock my roots as best as possible. Jimmy is amazing and has become such a great friend over the years. He is wonderful at what he does. The location is amazing and very relaxing and the staff is exceptionally knowledgeable. I seriously hate going to salons of all sorts because I hate waiting, hate sitting still, it all irks me but going into this Aveda location is nothing but a treat! read more

Can't recommend it highly enough. Fantastic staff, great haircuts.

I came here because I had a groupon to use and I am so glad I did. I am a girl on a budget (aka a grad student), but my straight, fine hair really needs a good cut or else it looks flat and lifeless. I agree with the previous reviewers in the sense that this cut took longer than usual, but I was delighted with the results. I left with a short and stylish cut that really suited my hair type and bone structure. I was also really impressed by the space itself--huge and open, and a truly professional atmosphere. If you are like me, and don't want to spend the money, but don't want to sacrifice your style, then the Aveda Institute is a must. Also, I would recommend trying if you are open to something new--it had been a long time since my last cut so I was really open to let the student use his imagination. I will definitely go back for another cut, and next time I might check out the spa too! read more

If you want an amazing stylist & colorist - - Jimmy at the Vandam salon is absolutely the best. He truly understands hair, he's very experienced, and is up to date on fashion and style, and has great advice. I have long thick, course, curly hair and it's very challenging to cut well and in a way that grows out well. Over the years Jimmy's cuts have been consistently awesome and make a curly-haired girl like me SO THANKFUL to have found someone like him!!! I'm writing this review now because after years of being Jimmy's client, I went back to graduate school, which meant my budget got tight so I figured I'd cut out the expense and try other stylists. Well, that was a huge mistake. During this hiatus my hair became a hot mess. I knew there was only one person in this city who could fix my hair and make me look hot again. So last week I returned to Jimmy who cut my hair just days before I was to attend a wedding, and wow - instantly the best decision I've ever made! Jimmy is truly performing a service to the curly hair community - and in this city, I know I've got sisters out there who can use this advice. If you've got wavy or curly hair, this is your guy. Worth every penny and then some. Love you Jimmy!!! read more

Why would you go to any other place. I go here for spa all the time. Aveda products, aveda method, super affordable prices. Whist the ambience maybe a little of the teaching side (curtains instead of walls, you can hear people speak and doors slam etc), I found therapist were always very good. Be prepared it may take longer than you expect it to though read more

I've been going to Jimmy Keaton at Aveda since 2010 and my hair has seriously never looked better. Thanks to him, my hair is extremely healthy and always very stylish which I've never really had with anyone else in the past. The colors he blends are fantastic (he's one of the Master Colorists) and the cuts he does are innovative and artistic. Not only is Jimmy professional and friendly, he keeps communication open (I want a stylist who not only has a vision but is willing to really hear what I want!) and he is by far the nicest and funnest people I've met. Highly recommended!!! read more

Worst haircut of my entire life. Even the blowout sucked. Seriously, I wasn't expecting salon quality service. But I did expect my instructions followed to what I wanted at least. I figured I'd help a student and pay not much for a cut and besides, its just a few layers and trim on the bottom what can go wrong? I walked in with long hair and asked for long layers and to cut 1 inch - 1 1/2 inches off the bottom. She cut 3-4 inches off the length so I no longer had long hair. I was pissed , but I let it slide after all she's a student. Then she started to do the layers - she had absolutely no clue what she was doing, none. She literally cut by hair at ear length straight across about 3 inches in and was continuing until I yelled "what - are you - doing?!!" Then she said, "I made a mistake! I'll go get my instructor". Then the instructor said "we'll soften it after (it wasn't able to be softened-after some BS snips with a shear the instructor said it will grow out nicely. Of course , when it grows back it will look nicer I thought)". I decided to not let her cut the back since I couldn't see what she was doing, and I knew she's mess it up anyway. The other side she put layers in was sloppy- how can anyone mess up doing layers?? . After she did a couple I said that was enough. Then the instructor comes over and says "it looks good!" I gave her a positive rating on her "eval" only because I didn't want to discourage her (The eval should of been read back to the student with the instructor present- no idea why I had to read to with her for at least that way the instructor can see what hat student needs or re-tailor the way they are instructing if its the same complaint) but, set aside her mistakes, she was really bad in terms of, " she didn't listen to what I wanted". I asked for long layers. DUH! How could I have long layers after you cut my hair short?? You could literally tell that she had "very few" hours cutting hair. Honestly, I could have done a better job at home by myself. My hair will take over a year to grow back. No more long beachy waves for me for a while. NEVER again will I go there and I highly DO NOT recommend them. Their students are too lacking of a grasp on the basics. There are a quite a few places you can get a cheap cut at if that's your goal. read more

I've been seeing my girl for almost 10 years now and I followed her to the W. Broadway location. She is now at the Aveda academy and I love the space. I'd follow her anywhere. Ask for Jennifer C. I, too, fell off my chair when I leaned over but was fine and laughed it off. And Jen made sure I was ok. I love Aveda and especially love this new space. read more

I gonna give you the most honest review you're gonna get here online!! If you're undecided about choosing which school you wanna go to READ THIS whether your here for cosmetology or esthesiology. I enrolled in the Aveda institute in soho about 3 weeks ago and I decided to leave this school for some hefty reasons. We had so many different teachers coming in and out which was not very good and they were all saying how wonderful Aveda is and how positive and great this school is. The hole time I was thinking what are they talking about? ?? I haven't felt any of that here. It just seemed like a big show don't get me wrong I love aveda products but definitely not the teachers or the director Kevin. I was impressed when I walked into the school cause of the way it looked and the outter appearance but I'm telling you don't be DEVEIVED!!! Bonny a teacher was so incredible rude one time pressuring us to give her the answers that she wanted. She started the class out with saying "THIS IS GOING TO BE WAR LADIES" and laughed hysterically. Then she Devided the class into 2 groups and for the first time in our classroom it started getting really competitive, she completely encouraged that behavior. She saw what was happening and continued. My group couldn't get the answers as quickly as the other group and Bonny kept on saying what are you guys doing, are you not looking? What's wrong with you guys? Meanwhile we were trying really hard and also started getting quite humiliated, it was a real negative vibe. No joke. The girls next to me started getting upset and didn't wanna play the game anymore. I felt belittled and it was not helpful whatsoever I felt like I learned nothing. And that was not the only incident. There were a couple more like this. I went home completely drained from this negative environment that I was in all day and then I had to force myself to study for a test the next day. I was really upset and stressed out and couldn't believe that I was paying for a school that was being so unprofessional and rude making this journey so much harder then it had to be. I spoke to the director the next day that I'm choosing to withdraw cause I don't wanna be subjected to this. He kept on trying to convince me to stay and when I spoke to him today on the phone after receiving a bill of over $4,500 he was like, well we trying to help you and make you stay but you choose not to so you have to PAY THAT PRICE. They were not willing meet me half way, give me a discount givin the situation nothing at all. THE MONEY WAS MORE IMPORTANT TO THiS INSTITUE THAN DOING The RiGHT THING! I only went to school 2 weeks, was mistreated and subjected to some unprofessional, unnecessary none sense and then on top of that I had to pay a high price. It did seem to me that they were Trying to teach us valuable skills I do want to be entirely honest with you and they also have a great looking location but those are not the only things that are important.Aveda is the kind of institute that is extremely focused on being the best but disregards situations like this. It was a very negative, pressureful environment that really did not feel like an adult education! They smile in your face and do what is in their best interest. Don't forget the The Aveda Institute is a Business at the end of the day. And buissness wanna make money. If I can just keep one girl or guy from choosing this school then I've done my part. It was such a negative experience I don't want that to happen to anyone else. Even if it's just 4 month it's just not worth it. day. Feel free to message me directly if I can be of any help. I'm starting at Christine valmey in a week and I'm happy to give you honest feedback with any of these schools. You can reach me at sunimitch@gmail.com Do yourself a favor and DON'T CHOOSE AVEDA! read more

My appointment was today @12:30. I got there around 12:20. Greeted two ladies at a reception and walked up. He was already available. I wore a black kimono and sat on a chair. He asked me if I wanted to use Diane color or Amanda as both did color on me before. I was not sure which one was which one, so I said the darker color that one of them used. He asked me again the same way...Diane or Amanda...I mean...he does not get I don't remember? But I kind let that go. Then he look at my hair just removed rubber band. He said OMG you need a haircut. I mean...I just had a haircut with Amanda. Yes my hairs are damaged and look very buff...but he does not need to tell me like that. Then he turned the chair putting color. I told him I like looking at myself in a mirror. He asked if I minded. So I just answered his question saying yes I mined. Then he got upset and he started telling he could not do his job. He put some color paste on my left side hair. We got heated. Then he said "as soon as you came up this stairs, I felt a negative energy from you" ?!!!!!! I mean...what do you mean? I came in from a hot humid outside but I was not in a bad mood or anything. That is totally not acceptable for any service to say to customers. I have NEVER NEVER NEVER received such a poor service in my life. There are so many better and wonderful salon in NYC. So find another place. read more

the products are amazing -they work and Aveda is the best smelling line - all natural, with the kind of scent that soothes you at night and makes you happy in the am. and the people who work there are truly : GREAT! from the lady who asks you if you want a hand massage ... just because (no; she is not selling you product!] to the manager that tells you how much he appreciates your shopping there. fantastic.! and the facials and spa treatments at a farction of the cost of uptwon; utterly worth it. No: it is not the lap of luxury in the back - and the music is always too loud and generally horrible. but you can't beat the pampering and the quality of the services at that price... read more

DO NOT EVER GO HERE! This place is wildly unprofessional and you will be a guinea pig for a bunch of clueless people. I went for grey root touch up, which I usually do at home, and 4 1/1 hours & 5 treatments later emerging with a burning scalp (still hurts) and red clown-colored hair. I asked for natural color to match mine over & over and I look like a teenager who was experimenting at home. This is the WORST salon experience I have had in my life. They refused to correct it and now I have to spend hundred of dolors with a PROFESSIONAL to look somewhat like I looked before. Truly, I look ridiculous. They also promised me a refund but when I spoke to the woman later on the phone to get it (the school and the registers had closed by the time I left) she said that she couldn't give it to me. 2 more phone calls later I got it - or she just took my credit card information and is using it, obviously I wouldn't put it past them. PLEASE DO NOT go I wish I read this before I took this risk. read more

I didn't pick any stars but, if I could have, I would have highlighted a skull and crossbones. I made the appointment figuring, how bad can it be if it's an Aveda stylist. Well, much worse than I imagined! The "stylist" told me, half way through a 5 hour dye job, that she really is the floor sweeper in her salon somewhere in the burbs of Boston. All that processing and my hair actually fell out in the front. I have this weird inverse widow's peack and patches of extremely dry skin all over my scalp. I tried to get someone at Aveda to at least give me a hair cut to cut out the resulting white blond bottoms of my hair that contrasted so sharply with the newly dyed sh*t brown tops, but they told me I signed a contract and nothing they could do....completely disinterested and unsympathetic. And I could see the faces of the instructors grimacing as my formerly healthy and thick hair was pretty much destroyed but they didn't come to my rescue. I've sincehad to cut off 6 inches on the bottom to get that peroxide look out but I'm still stuck with the shoe polish, balding middle-aged man look on top. AVOID THIS PLACE! read more