I have been trying to get vibrant color streaks in my dark hair that last for ages. Well, call me slow, but I just figured out that it is really extensions that I was looking for all along. A friends daughter had an extension and recommended Timmony at Barberella. I went in for 12 a few months ago. Not only do they last forever and cost about the same as dying, it doesn't take as long. The whole staff was quite lovely. I committed a bad when I had to cancel my first appointment at the last minute because I was ill. They rescheduled with me and were able to rebook that time. Since I am a beginner to extensions, they walked me through my different options and colors. I was thrilled with the results. More than 2 months later, they are still doing well. They said that I would be addicted and I think they are right. When I have to take them out, I will miss them and will probably go in for new colors. Awesome! read more

This place was absolutely phenomenal! I have very long, curly, thick hair and Sophia was my stylist. Having curly hair, I am always a bit nervous trying salons out because so many stylists will pull my hair straight and cut it way too short because once it dries, it kinks up. Sophia was very diligent and made sure that I didn't have that experience. She was constantly checking to make sure my curl wouldn't go too short and listened to my struggles with my hair, offering suggestions and tips along the way. The owners of the salon were very kind, warm, and welcoming as well. I got to chat with both of them and they made me feel very comfortable and relaxed while I was there. Would HIGHLY recommend these amazing people and their business to anyone in the Bay Area. read more

Mitzi rocks!!! Barberella is a really colorful, open salon; the vibe is great! Mitzi has an awesome mix of the qualities a stylist needs - - insightful & creative of her own right, but also a great listener & intent on hearing her clients requests. I have short curly hair, she helped me find the perfect red and gave me a great cut. This was the third shop I went to before finding a red that I loved!! I recommend Mitzi for anyone who wants an investment for a long term stylist - - she's invested in her work (you!) and what better way to 'get yer hair did', but by someone who sees you as her work of art. Run, don't walk, to Barberella!!! read more

Made an appt with Heather and although I wasn't sure about the color just yet she was amazing at figuring out what could work or couldnt! I got a two tone color done and some fun color at the tips as well as a very thorough cut and wash! The peppermint oil and head massage was a great touch! Heather has been doing my sisters hair forever and all ive heard and seen is amazing work! Heather was SUPER sweet and attentive and I will definitely have her do my hair from now on! PLUS, the 25% off color with Heather for checkin in on Yelp was pretty sweet too! DEFINITELY GO SEE HER! read more

Sophie did an amazing job. I came in with long hair, wanting a short 'do but, never having had short hair, I had no idea what looked good on me. I also refuse to blow dry or use product. Plus, I have a bit of a chubby face which is also limiting for certain short styles. She took all of these preconditions and crafted the perfect, very flattering, no-maintenance hair do. I didn't expect a hair stylist to perform magic, but Sophie could! To make things even better, her prices are lower than most of the hip salons that I've ever been to. read more

I did it!! I drove over the Bay Bridge - after many many many months of avoiding the East Bay, I finally succumbed to the magic that is MICHELLE! Lucky for me, someone bailed on a 10a Saturday haircut appointment seconds before I called. So 2 weeks later, I drove my heavy mop of hair over to Barberella. After a quick consult, the layers started coming off. And yet, Michelle, as discussed, the length remained. "My hair moves!" were the first words when my friends asked how the haircut looked; quickly followed by, "ROCK STAR!" There are only a few reasons why I'd ever go to the East Bay willingly, and a FANTASTIC HAIR EXPERIENCE certainly makes it into my top 3. P.S. Do NOT be fooled by the Barberella on Cortland, as I nearly was. It's just not the same! read more

Rachel does the best eyebrows around! I have been to other places for waxing but now I will only go to see Rachel. This is a great place for waxing, skin care and the coolest hair colors and cuts. read more

After a year of not cutting my hair and YEARS of not dyeing my hair, I decided to make a change-- some would say drastic; others would say not so much. My hair is purple now. =) Timmony was my stylist. She's very good with layering. She does great bangs, which is appropriate given that her last name is La Bang. Funny, right? She also colored my hair and gave me hair extensions. My overall experience was great. My stylist is very friendly and personable. I would highly recommend this salon for those wanting an alternative hairstyle. They seem to specialize in ultra chic, modern cuts and funky colors. Stop in and take a look at their photo album. See the magic that they can do and get inspired to try something new. Minus 1 star because of the cost. I'm just not sure if I can afford to be a regular here. I do love that they don't pressure you to buy any of their products. That is so very refreshing for a high-end salon. read more

I followed Rachel here from her last place and I am glad I did because I can support her as a first-time entrepreneur. Rachel is excellent with the brows! My 74 year old mother and 50! year old sister (rubbing that in) are loyal customers of Rachel too! And she was trusted with giving my niece her first facial too! Michelle cuts my hair now and I love the cut, my new color and the overall experience. I would let anyone there cut my hair after watching them in action. They are a dynamic bunch of women and its always entertaining there. Last time I was there is was flower clothing day and they were even more colorful than usual. read more

Lovely Ladies of Barbarella!! Thank you for being awesome! I have been going to this salon for about 4 years now, maybe going on 5. All the ladies are fabulous - my regular stylist is Timmony who is a sweetheart and totally amazing to boot!! Tracy is always great about fitting me in when I need a quick fix and mixing my colors perfectly. Thanks ladies for constantly keeping my hair looking cute and being such inspirations with general fun-ness with hair!! I've never had a bad haircut or bad extensions here - Timmony puts them in just how I like them and is always meticulous about the cut. You have to book early but just be prepared! I wouldn't think of going anywhere else!! read more

I have been seeing Shiori for the last 5 years and I wouldn't let anyone else touch my hair. She is simply one of the best. In fact, all of those who work at Barbarella are incredible. I have never seen one haircut that wasn't just fabulous. Why I love Shiori's cuts: I only get a cut every 6-8 months She has a great eye My haircuts always garner great reviews.... from complete strangers even My hair gets compliments 5 -7 months AFTER the cut Shiroi listens to what you want and need ( I don't like to fuss too much with my hair and it looks great with just air drying) Why I love Barbarella: Fun environment Great energy Mitzy ( receptionist) is super sweet Lovely art read more

Timiny rocks my locks! No pretentious snobs, music is always good, they don't push products, good art, good tea, good people! read more

Shiori gave me an amazing haircut! It's been more than 3 weeks, but I still get compliments. My hair looks great either curled or straightened. I already made next appt. with Shiori. The receptionist (Mitssy. SP?) is so sweet and adorable. read more

I love Barbarella! I am in the field of Education, but when I go to Barbarella I want to go to beauty school so I can work there and be around all these wonderful women. I always see Timony and she does my extensions and hair cuts, and Tracey or Mitsy help sometimes. They are all thoughtful, personable, fun, and kind. I have been going there for about 6 years now and I can't believe I just thought of writing a review! And they really listen to what the customer wants-this is crucial in finding a great stylist! They also go out of their way to make sure you comfortable-offering tea, or water, and even asking for a song request at times. Having my hair done is so fun, I never want to leave! read more

I love love love my hair. The color is perfect! The cut is amazing! Heather did an awesome job. The salon is full of people living the dream and doing it with style. Thank you Barbarella read more

I just started coming to Barberella because my amazing hair stylist, Lisa Maria Johnston moved over here from Groove Salon in the city. I'd been going to Groove for about five years and was thrilled when she moved to Barbarella (close to where I live). WOW--she is a hair-styling genius and I love the vibe at Barbarella so much. It's absolutely wonderful--HUGE THANKS!! Highly recommend! read more

Shiori has given me the three best haircuts of my life, and I don't say that lightly. My brother owns a hair salon in L.A. and has been cutting my hair (well) for 20+ years, and up to now, he's been the only person able to handle my tempermental hair. Shiori has the rare talent of being able to handle wavy hair that has "big Dallas hair" tendencies, and taming said hair such that it looks sleek, smooth, and hip. She was able to take the request, "Please make my hair look on-trend, not too big, not too mom-like, not too teacher-y, but style-able in 5 minutes or less," and turn it into a great cut (followed by two more great cuts). She rules. read more

OK, where are more stars? I want to give Michelle like a dozen or more... I am writing this after my first but not last visit! Here's why I am going to rave about this salon: 1. my cut is awesome. Michelle got it, she totally knew what I was looking for and was able to execute, even with my very difficult frizzy/wavy/kinky hair! 2. honest and really cares about her clients Michelle was totally honest about what was possible for my difficult hair. I initially wanted to get a cut as well as color, but was convinced not to do the color (even though Michelle could have gone through with the color and made more $, in the end I didn't need it - i was trying to transition to grey and she said it would be best to let what I have grow, which would happen naturally after the cut) I felt as if she was looking out for my best interests and gave me sound advice. 3. totally great business There's a reason this salon has been there for fifteen years! I've always wanted to go, but it wasn't that convenient for me to get out to the east bay, but I finally was able to make an appointment happen! I did have to wait a long time for an appointment, but it was totally worth the wait! like seriously... totally worth waiting almost a month... now i know: book in advance! 4. Kind, interesting people! Michelle has a great ease to her. I felt like I've known her forever... I was super comfortable, and felt like I wasn't judged (like some beauty salons make you feel). She and her husband Vincent, were AMAZING to me... I was 40 minutes late (and sitting in traffic most of that time..) and already running late after having a super bad morning and falling on my face on my way out... Vincent made me a cup of tea and even got me breakfast! He didn't have to do it, I felt like he really was just a nice guy helping out someone... It really turned my incredibly bad morning into a great one, and re-inspired my hope for humanity (seriously... sometimes it just takes one kind gesture!) On top of the amazing care and compassion, Michelle and Vincent were so great to talk with. They are interesting people, with interesting lives. You can tell by the design of the salon that they are not the 'typical' place, which I feel is taking over the Bay Area... This is the 'old school' bay area folks (they grew up here! like me!) who are real people, doing interesting things with their lives. Plus, they played fantastic music set - everything from pop to punk to old school R and B! 5. great service, great products ok, did i mention my super cute hair cut? WHY did it take me forever book my appointment with them... I knew they were great (recommendations) and i could 'sense' by their aesthetic that this salon was for me (not a super hip, modern, trendy soul-less salon where you're offered decaf macchiatos with lemon balm infusion water... but a real place with a true identity)... Michelle paid so much attention to my cut, taking her time to place every single hair (ok, might be exaggerating). She totally understood what I wanted (the low-maintaince person that i am). I also inquired (she didn't push) about the products that she was using, and she recommended a great line... I haven't tried them yet (except what she put on my hair), but I am excited to because they are natural, non-toxic and make my hair look like it has never looked before - amazing! Ok, i could go on and on, but you get it, this place and Michelle and Vincent are gems. I kind of was hesitant to write the review because I want to keep this place 'secret'... read more

Michelle cut my hair for the first time today. I brought in a photo of what I wanted and she did a fabulous job. My hair never looked better. Thie is more than a five star haircut. read more

I do not write reviews on Yelp, however; I wanted to share my experience.. I have been a client of Michelle's for over 15 years. I first went to her when she was working in Albany. I had been to 2 prominent salons (one in Berkeley, the other San Francisco) for a color correction. Both of these salons tried to help but the results were awful... and I was so upset. A friend recommended Michelle and I could not have been happier with the results! Where the 2 stylists before Michelle miserably failed, she was able to give me a very professional consult. Michelle took the time to get a clear understanding of what I was looking for. She not only was able to correct the horrible color but she also gave me a flattering style that got rid of all the damage that had been done to my hair. Hallelujah!!! Since then I have been a devoted client. Actually, both my husband and daughter are clients of Michelle's as well. Over the years I have had different colors and styles (including extensions) and I have loved them all. :) In closing I will say that Michelle has always been nothing but accommodating, professional and an absolute treasure of a hair stylist! I trust my hair to no one else! read more

The best place to go in the San Francisco Bay Area if you want a stunning cut, color, extensions, or anything else outside the norm. I've been a client since almost the beginning, thanks to a friend's Day One recommendation, and I go there every chance I get! read more

I love Barberella Beauty Lounge. I see Christine, and you should, too! She has amazing attention to detail that a control freak like me can really respect. She plays with my hair before washing it, sometimes starting my cut here. Then I get a wash and neck massage with organic herbally shampoo. After my cut, she styles then CUTS AGAIN, to finish it off. Love! She even noticed this weird curl I have at the back of my head that no one ever notices (including my mom, who thinks I am making it up). I always feel beautiful when I leave. I only give four stars because, like others, I find the reception staff to be somewhat cold, making it hard to relax a bit at the salon. And it can be hard to get it for an appointment. Small prices to pay for finding the stylist - actually, she likes to be called a hairdresser - that gets my hair. PS. Don't be fooled by the crazy hip-ness. They really are friendly (except the receptionist). And the owner drives a giant Mercedes so the prep-yups can also feel at home...aaaahhh. read more

I just got a very mediocre haircut at Barberella. I had high hopes because I live so close and was looking to find a new salon/stylist since mine is so busy and so expensive. Partially it is my fault for not researching stylists but I was hoping that all the stylists would be legit. My "before" cut was so much better than my "after." The stylist seemed half asleep and didn't even go through my hair to check lengths after it was blow dried. My hair is super straight and needs to be cut precisely. I'm not saying that I won't go back but I'll try someone else. read more

Salon was very nice and clean. Staff also very sweet and TImmony is great! I will for sure be back. Totally worth the price too

After some foibles with at home dying I came in with every blonde problem imaginable (brassy grown out to a green tinge). Terrible. Lisa saved my hair!!! I left with perfectly natural looking dark blonde with two tones of highlights..if you aren't sure where to turn I highly recommend Lisa. She has my full trust any time!! read more

I have followed Michelle around the east bay for years! She is the greatest and always has a great cut and cool color for me whenever I visit. I get all sorts of compliments about my hair and it's all her doing! All the people at the salon are warm and friendly and the salon feels relaxed yet professional. All the stylists are extraordinarily talented hair artists so I would recommend calling for an appointment. I know they do very cool hair extensions + waxing, facials services too. read more

So I like this place. It is cute and the women are nice. I didnt love my haircut, but the color was done well. I may try this place again in the future. read more

A friend whose hair I have long admired referred me to Shiori at Barberella. I had been seeing Myung at M7 on College but the last time M colored my hair, it looked reddish instead of dark brown and I thought it was time to try a new color line/stylist. Demeanor/Background: Petite. Trained at Yosh in SF. Been doing hair for 12+ years. Quiet presence. Spunky haircut with bright colored chunky highlights. Listens attentively. Doesn't need to engage in conversation. Practices vinyasa yoga. Color: I emphasized I do not want color that looks red and I wanted to cover my gray. She brought out the locks of hair and suggested a warm dark brown. I agreed with her suggestion. I asked S' opinion of low lights to better camouflage my gray. Since I had over 3" of roots, S recommended I do an all over tint this visit and do low lights next time when I come in for a touch up. Barberella just switched to a new color line called Kemon from Italy. My hair felt very silky and looked shiny afterwards and color looks natural. I only saw one or two gray hairs at my right temple. S specifically added more pigment in her application of color to cover my gray and said that the color will be darker than expected but the extra pigment should disappear within 2 weeks. Also, no added sealant: I didn't have to spend 10-15 min at sink after washing. Wash: Barberella uses Eufora shampoo/conditioner. (She did ask me afterwards if I wanted to purchase. I said No and she didn't push.) I usually have a big problem with the sink b/c I can't bend my neck backwards. S made me comfortable and was done in no time. However, I believe the underside of my hair along the neckline probably deserved more of a rinsing. It felt thick with color after the blow dry. Cut: I told S I wanted layers. S followed the lines of my haircut by M and was complimentary regarding M's technique - rounded edges. I told S up front not to use the thinning shears. She used a razor blade to finish edges. I did tell her I was tempted to go with shorter layers to frame my face BUT I refuse to use barrettes and hairbands during yoga, so shortest layer has to be able to be in a ponytail. Blowout: Used large round brush so step up from M's flat brush. Still a far cry from Mary Thi at Lucero. Technique: Every stylist has her/his own technique. That being said, here is what I observed - not meant to be good or bad: 1. Cut some length off my hair before coloring (most stylists don't cut until after color); 2. She didn't ask me to stand up or check the length of my hair after blowdrying. You can read more about Kemon/Eufora here:http://chadwickstudio.net/kemon.htm 2 things: I noticed color stains on my forehead after the wash and I asked her to scrub the color away from my neck/hairline/forehead as I am teaching in the AM. She complied immediately. Didn't notice any stains when I inspected myself at home. 2nd thing - she finished and I went to the bathroom to change but then ran my hand under my hair and felt a huge wet section. So asked her to blow dry some more. She did so. However, upon coming home, that section still felt wet. The rest of my hair is dry so I think the issue is that it needed a longer rinse. Tracy, the receptionist, is amazing: She gave me excellent directions for parking (across the street in the neighborhoods - street cleaning on Fridays - no time limit or meters). Upon walking in today, I was greeted by Tracy who took me to the back room (not a waiting room, but the waiting area was full) and proceeded to get me a cup of tea, magazines, a chair to sit on and an extra chair to serve as a table. She apologized for the room, saying they were undergoing renovations as they hired two more stylists so added shampoo stations to what was formerly the hair styling room. After I took off my coat and put on the smock, I was cold. Front door open. I asked Tracey if she could close it. She explained it needed to be open for ventilation but she could set up a portable heater. The heater, by the way, worked well and I wasn't cold. I thanked Tracy before leaving. It has been a LONG time since I've experienced such excellent service. Atmosphere: Funky and casual like San Pablo Avenue. I think all the stylists wore black and black or dark brown boots and several had bright colors (including Shiori) in their hair. Quite loud in the salon with the door open so street noise plus blow dryers plus chatter of stylists and customers. Bathroom: low lighting (prefer brighter lights), very clean, sticky roller thoughtfully provided. Hang coats (next to clean smocks) in wardrobe. Parking: easy on residential streets. Just read signs for street cleaning Cost: $250. 3 hours in the chair. All over tint + haircut. (Credit cards accepted). Shiori workdays: Thursdays/Fridays/Saturdays starting at 9am. It took me 3 weeks to get this appointment during the holiday season. Tracy actually booked me for 5 hours just to make sure Shiori wasn't rush. read more

Heather is just terrific. She is a talented colorist and cutter and has a gentle manner but doesn't keep her expert opinions to herself either. I was very reluctant to leave the hairdresser I'd had forever in the city but Heather made it an easy choice. Parking is no problem at all and the price is reasonable for the expert service. I couldn't be happier with Barbarella and Heather. read more

The best place for cuts & color in the Bay Area. I visited several different salons when I first moved here, and I was hooked on Barbarella from my first visit! The cuts grow out very well, and their color lasts longer than most. My hair is pretty problematic at retaining reds, and they're the only place that's managed to get it to stay for a reasonable amount of time! Chiori is great about listening to what I want out of a cut or color in order to get it just right! I've done the natural colors, the vibrant vegetable dye colors, and the extensions, and never been disappointed. Christine also cleaned up & styled my sister's waist-length dreadlocks for my weding. She can work magic! The beautician services by Rachel are worth every penny too! Instead of most facials, where your skin is somewhat irritated afterward, here your skin positively glows. The products are the best i've ever used! Needless to say, I can't say enough positive things about Barabrella! read more

I hate writing 2 star reviews but my cut at Barberella was a definite "Meh". I made the appointment after seeing the adorable facade and reading mixed reviews but the experience was definitely not worth the $70 price. I can't name the stylist but her hair was hip and choppy. I asked for something similar (I also have heavy curly hair so it could have worked out) but I came out looking pretty much the same as when I went in. Very standard textbook "long-layers". Moreover it grew out poorly-- which is when I discovered Remedy where I paid about the same but got an excellent cut that got compliments. Sorry Barberella! Maybe more training for the junior stylists? read more

I can't say enough good things about Barberella. I just moved to the East Bay from out of state and was in desperate need of getting my roots done. Back east, I got a very botched platinum dye job that resulted in bad burns to my head. So I needed professionals to rescue my hair from the skunk stripe of intense roots, but who would also be gentle and sensitive to my head's needs. I got all of that at Barberella and more. I explained my situation to the receptionist and she immediately scheduled me for a free dye consultation to make sure they could help me. When Heather, my stylist, was nervous about the condition of my head (chemical burn scarring), she sought advice from the senior stylist. They clearly explained what my options were and listened to my concerns. I couldn't stay platinum, sadly, but they came up with a great look blending in low lights, so I could at least stay blonde. I just finished my highlight session with Heather and it looks beautiful. She kept checking in on me during all steps of the process to make sure I wasn't having a reaction and did an amazing job on my hair. I can't wait to get my hair cut with her next week. Thanks so much, Barberella! The outstanding attention you pay to your clients really shows and I'll definitely be recommending you to my friends. read more

Rachel is the best Waxer and Facilaist EVER! Love her!!! She will not disappoint!

Such a bummer that this place was just not worth the cost. My hairstylist Shiori was recommended by a co-worker with great hair (who since went back and got a haircut that made her cry). Unfortunately, I came home with hair several inches shorter than I'd asked for and a really awful color despite spending $150 or so. I went back to get the color fixed (first time I've ever had to do that), and they were skeptical but did do it for free. Darn. The quest for a great stylist continues. . . read more

Loved Mitzi's work since she started at Barberella. The salon is a really nice and inviting workplace. Not only is it a comfortable salon, they also give great service. I've seen the customers, and the Yelpers' opinions. I think they've all been very satisfied with the work done from Barberella. I personally love it there from the workers to the hair done. read more

After seeing the reviews on Yelp, I thought I'd check out Barbarella and I'm glad I did. I love the haircut Shiori gave me. The cut really works with my curls and wavy hair and it's growing out great. I had such a great experience that I went back to get some highlights. I'm definitely going back! read more

I am an extremely happy customer. Heather is amazing. Every time I get my hair cut I never know what I want exactly but she always knows what to do. It's also a little harder with my hair extensions. But Heather knows exactly how to make it look so natural. Will always be a repeat customer!!!!! read more

Everything that Rachel says and then some!!! This is a FUN salon to go to, totally funky and unpretentious. Plus they do colored extensions like no other and are super patient in helping you pick out what will work best for you and make you happy in both color and style. But I would say the hair takes a back seat to the superstar esthetician Rachel. She not only is a magician w/ the waxing, I look like a movie star after she works on my eyebrows but her facials are to die for. It's is an amazingly relaxing and rejuvenating experience! She makes you feel totally comfortable with her gentle and professional bedside manner. She devotes well over an hour and half transforming your skin. It's practically a religious experience. You get to wear this fun little terry smock and she works on not just your face but your shoulders and chest. All the products she uses are completely organic and they make your skin feel so alive. I could literally go on and on about what an amazing experience this is but you wouldn't understand until you've tried it yourself. read more

I've had two great haircuts here by Shiori. On my first trip I had her cut off almost 10 inches of hair, and she gave me an excellent short haircut. I'm not big on doing things to my hair like blow drying it, or putting stuff in it, and this haircut was exactly what I wanted. I just went back recently to get it fixed up and it was another great job. I like the atmosphere in the salon too, colorful with good background music. It sounds like they usually get booked up a month or so in advance, so plan ahead or try to get on the waiting list in case there are cancellations. read more

I've been going here for years and I consistently get great cuts from Timmony. The ladies are always welcoming and I've never walked away unsatisfied with my cut. read more