I have never had such a better experience at a salon. I got my hair done by MADISEN, and I loooovvee my hair (totally recommend her to anyone) Got there, the salon is pretty and good lighting. They have delicious ice tea, yum. When you get your hair washed, the seats have a built in massage. For the hair. I came in with a light brown hair and it had hints of borderline orange color, which was a no go for me. I showed Madisen the color I wanted which was a shade darker brown with a reddish undertone. Basically, she did EXACTLY what I wanted. I requested long layers (which sounds easy but trust me, I've been places and some hair stylist don't understand this concept) and she made my hair look voluminous and healthy again. TOTALLY come to see Madisen, she's freaking amazing. read more

Capella Salon - Reddish Brown with long layers by Madisen - Hair Salons Near Me - Studio City, California

I have followed Shai Amiel, AKA, The Curl Doctor for at least two -three years. I read and re-read post. I screen shot image after image for closer inspection. I yelped and I googled him. Is this man for real? Are people really satisfied? I basically stalked this man, because I didn't want another faux, replicated Deva-like Cut by a well meaning but misinformed stylist. I had to make sure that he was legit. Yes, I have seen three different people who claimed to be trained and well-versed in dry cuts for curly girls. They talked a good game and I let my guard down to honestly save a buck. While the experiences weren't terrible (no harm done) they were just far from what I had come to learn about this style of cutting. One very nice lady offered the comb to me m, so that I could show her how I comb and style my hair, "what?" Another person raved about his training and then took clumps of hair and started cutting, "huh?". The last person I went too seemed scared of my texture hair, stating that it was the curliest hair she'd ever seen, and at the end, she picked out all my pretty spiral curls and I left with a big dry fro, "hmph." Fast forward to February 2019, I finally said, "Enough is Enough". I scheduled my appointment and saved my pennies for a date with the Doctor! My curly friends let me tell you, it was worth every cent! The salon was decadent! Although I am an administrator I was made to feel like a celebrity. The assistant Tasha showed me around and offered me a beverage. I was introduced to Shai, who immediately made me feel comfortable and familiar, as if we'd known each other for years! He listened carefully and gave advice while he carcasses and assessed my curls. His cut was exactly what I had expected, Curl-by-Curl. I knew I was in great hands! He also explained about the condition of my hair and alerted me that I had been using the wrong product for my very full, but fine curls. I needed a much lighter product to allow my hair to show its definition while also showcasing body and fullness. After the cut Tasha took over my curls at the wash bowl. She trained me on how to strangle, and on how much product to use. After a short deep conditioning stint under the dryer, she proceeded to style my hair at the bowl. Apparently all styling products need to be applied I'm drenched hair. Something I had not been doing in my own. Lastly we defused my hair with several directives flip my curls this back, forward to the left and to the right. The end result was shiny, defined spirals that I was in love with! I have finally found my stylist! Will I be returning? 100 Percent Yes! Thank you Shai, thank you Tasha and thanks to all the staff that make up the family at Capella Salon! I am a happy customer. Side note: if you purchase products be aware that they only provide store credit if you accidentally buy the wrong item. Be sure before you swipe your card! read more

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On my last visit to LA, I went to Shani for a facial and microdermabrasion, and it was definitely a highlight to my trip! I had been getting breakouts for about a month which is very frustrating for me at 34 years old. When Shani saw me, she made gentle suggestions of what could help calm my skin down and get rid of some of the top layer grime that had been clogging my pores and making my skin look so dry. The microdermabrasion and facial were both painless, and actually felt pretty good. Shani didn't try to up-sell on precuts, and was just there to help my skin (and me!) relax and feel better. The day after my appointment, my skin felt much smoother, healthier, and actually glowed. I could not be happier with the results and will be booking another appointment with Shani the next time I'm in town! read more

Client Beware: The Owner, the Famous Curl Man marked my review as funny this AM, so clearly he doesn't take his client's concerns or satisfaction seriously. Original: There's no excuse for the poor quality haircut I got, given the price I paid. I went in today for a Deva cut...I booked with Marlee based on the reviews I saw here and availability. When we met she asked what my goal was and I told her specifically that I gave myself my last haircut when I went natural and I did a semi big chop on myself in 2014. So my SOLE PRIMARY reason for getting this cut was to get the dead ends off that I missed before. I have coily curls and some of my ends were straight and wouldn't curl because it was still the old damaged hair, so I really wanted those pieces cut off. We discussed how I find it unsightly and that it contributes to single strand knots and tangling at my ends. She acknowledged she understood. I also told her that because I cut it myself the left side was longer than the right and I wanted it even. Well I'll let the photos speak for themselves (all the after pics were taken in car right after I left salon), but I'll add this, after we were done (order: cut, wash, apply gel, dry, style) we both noticed that lots of the dead uncurled ends remained, she even called them "little fishhook pieces"... So we went back to her station and as I lifted my hair we saw more so she cut some more pieces then told me she was done... then I paid and went to my car ... once I got out of the parking structure and into the sunlight I really saw the dead straight ends, so I literally called the salon from two blocks away and I was told Marlee was gone already....I was very pissed my hair wasn't even in its normal curls, but in puffy non defined waves with some clearly straight ends sticking out.... the person who answered was not helpful and was honestly short with me and only promised to give Marlee a message.... After my hour and a half drive back home to Long Beach, I trimmed the pieces myself and washed the gel out she used... I literally wasted $150.... I've seriously gotten better trims at Supercuts for $15. All jokes aside, I'm genuinely disappointed because I was really looking forward to this cut....I literally requested a day off from work for this appt. I should add that I really didn't get the impression that Marlee knew how to Care for curly hair and she definitely doesn't know ethnic (black hair). As for her, was she nice and sweet like the other reviewers said? Yep, she absolutely was. Does that matter to me? Nope, not at all. I didn't go to her to make a friend, I paid my money for a professional cut with a specific objective, and she failed to deliver. Period. Update: My response to the Owner: I called from literally two blocks away before I ever got back on the 101 to return home and I didn't go anywhere else, so clearly an hour didn't pass. I never told Marlee that I thought my hair was perfect and it is unfortunate that she told you that I did. I did mention that I didn't like the product as it weigh down my hair and looked shiny, but that has nothing to do with the fact that she didn't cut my hair as requested. I also mentioned that she didn't get all the ends and she too agreed. If she was concerned about the length she certainly didn't provide that explanation to me, however, I see she readily had an excuse for you. Furthermore as my review stated, my goal was to get rid of the dead ends, there was no concern for keeping length as I told her very plainly that my hair was breaking off so I need that dead hair off. If indeed she so knowledgeable then she would know that dead and damaged ends are counterproductive to growing hair retaining length. And finally, I am well aware of how to care for my curly hair, as I never use towels and only used t-shirts, that being said, drying with paper towels was not the issue, but "towel' drying after product application is ridiculous, period. I do not wish to return to your salon. As you see in the review and pics I cut off the damaged hair myself and evened out the uneven parts, there is no reason to return. read more

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The best in the business - I love my hair I've been natural for several years never embraced my curls until I came to see Shai read more

The most amazing cut by Miriam! I've had long hair most of my life and just turning 30, I needed a change. I'm so in love with my cut and my curls and I cannot wait to come back and cut more! Miriam and her assistant were so kind, communicative and enjoyable! I'm a mom of 2 under 3 years old so getting out of the house rarely happens. Service and staff were stellar and made me enjoy my day off that much more. Love Capella. read more

Capella Salon - Cut by Miriam! - Hair Salons Near Me - Studio City, California

This review is long overdue. So I went to Capella couple years ago and got my first deva cut and highlights by Shai. I loved It! Last month I went back but due to Shai being booked months out I was scheduled to see Marley. Soon as I saw her I feel inlove lol.. she's gorgeous! I was initially scared to let someone else besides Shai touch my hair but after I met Marley I knew I was in good hands. She was amazing. Very friendly, we had great conversation and I was so comfortable and at ease. She listened to what I wanted and she gave me her feedback and advice. She didn't push anything on me. She brought my vision to light and I left in love with my cut and highlights. I have to admit Shai you're great but I LOVE Marley, she's Amazing. I'll forever be her dedicated customer. Thank you Marley read more

First time at the salon, everyone was very kind and helpful. Natarsha cut my hair and I love it so much!

I had a WONDERFUL experience with Marley. I got the Deva Curl Cut and color. I wanted one color but Marley (and another color stylist) advised against it because of my active surf lifestyle. Marley also directed me towards products that were best for my hair. I love the color she chose and the installation process. I also appreciated everyone's honesty. I will be back and highly recommend to friends! read more

Capella Salon - Before - Hair Salons Near Me - Studio City, California

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I'm a curly girl and I got my 1st Deva Cut on Sept 27th. I was a bit nervous because I've seen other people on YouTube that got the Deva Cut (at others salons) and were not immediately happy with the cut or others that got the cut and when they straightened their hair, it was butchered. Well I must say that I'm glad that I got my Deva Cut. The stylist Marlee was great, we spoke about my hair and she got to work. She cut about an inch all the way around and when she finished, It had a shape and I LOVED IT!! I felt much more confident about wearing my natural hair. As the days go by, i'm loving it more and more. Although, i haven't straightened my hair, (not even sure I want to with my new cut :o)), my hair seems to be the same length on either side of my head. I'm so glad I decided to get my hair cut. Thanks Marlee!!! read more

Capella Salon - Day 2 after Deva Cut. - Hair Salons Near Me - Studio City, California

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I LOVE THIS SALON!!! It was my first time going I was recommended by my best friend who's been multiple times. Dani is an angel on earth. She is so sweet, so real, and literally just the best!! She broke everything down for me about my hair and let me know in depth what my hair needed and what it didn't. She is SO KIND!! It felt like I was sitting and chatting with one of my best friends for a couple of hours. She also gave me great recommendations on the products I should be using which I obviously bought. I 10/10 would recommend this salon to anyone!!! read more

So I am finally ready to do my review of Capella Salon. I am growing out a pixie cut and wore my hair in braids for about a year. I was also looking for a new salon to go to so I basically googled "natural hair salons near me" and Capella Salon popped up. I also didn't have any specific stylist that I knew to go to so once I called, and based on when I needed my hair cut, I was able to get an appointment with Sophia. I am not gonna lie....right after I secured the appointment I was scared 1) because this was my first Deva Cut 2) as a black woman I typically go to a "black" salon and I had no referrals for Capella so I was going in blind 3) my hair is not long enough yet to put it in a bun in case the cut didn't work out, and 3) I have not fully embraced my natural texture to the point of letting it out, wearing it big and feeling beautiful. I had thoughts about cancelling the appointment and just getting braids again, but I decided to stick with it and I am so happy I did. When I met Sophia I decided to just be very open and honest with her we and talked through ALL of my reservations and concerns. As a result of our open communication the end product was BEYOND what I could have ever asked for. Now the PROS: 1) Sophia really took her time with me explaining everything she was doing and made sure I was on-board. 2) the salon is immaculate with an open airy feeling which I loved. 3) They had multiple sizes for the salon robes...as a "CURVY" girl that matters A LOT!" 4) the music is everything 5) everyone was welcoming 6)THAT CHAIR AT THE SHAMPOO BOWL...BAAAYBAY!! I had to apologize to Sophia because I was in a daze and about to fall asleep while she was explaining the process of washing and conditioning my hair 7) the color Sophia did for me was EVERYTHING! 8) I felt pretty afterwards. Now the CONS: 1) lawd have mercy I spent half my rent payment in there! That is why I can only give 4 out of 5 stars. Although the salon is very pricey, I can say that my results made it all worth it. That's it. I Loved the salon, I loved Sophia and I will see you all in 6 months, after I have saved up enough money to come back....BUT I WILL BE BACK! read more

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If I could give this salon a million stars, I would! Miriam is the definition of GRACE and Talent. She greeted me with an enormous smile and took me to her chair. I got a haircut and low maintenance balayage along with Money pieces- recommended by Miriam(wow factor). I was also offered complimentary drink and light snacks...definitely a nice touch to the salon. I was looking forward to a much needed- relaxing time at the salon away from my daily chaos and I got so much more. The Capella Salon is a beautiful and inviting place that I would highly recommend to anyone!! Please stop by and book your appt with Miriam- you really won't be disappointed!! read more

I had an amazing experience with Marissa with my first curl by curl cut on my natural hair. She was very precise with the cut, and knowledgeable about curly hair. I took the scissors in my own hands during lockdown and had a lot of unevenness throughout. She beautifully blended my hair together and gave me awesome layers. I absolutely love the cut, and I will definitely be back to see Marissa! read more

Amazing, pure amazing. Shai is a GENIUS. I have never been to a salon and walked out in such awe. He took my curls and did a phenomenal job with them. My hair has never felt lighter OR looked this good. Don't hesitate, book today! read more

Called on a Thursday for a next day appointment and was booked with Ceci (and thank God for that). Ceci convinced me that health and corkscrew curls were more important than length; She of course was right. My hair has never been more defined and bouncy. I received a curl by curl cut and highlights, no bleach involved. I flew from Washington for this cut and am in no way disappointed. She is professional, very good at what she does, and knowledgeable about curly hair and how to maintain its health. I will be seeing her again. Thank you Capella salon for bringing my curls back to life! read more

Capella Salon - Curl by curl cut with a few honey highlights. - Hair Salons Near Me - Studio City, California

I'm in love with my hair cut. Nartasha was patient and talented stylist/colorist and such a wonderful soul. She truly transformed my hair it looks incredible. read more

I got my hair done recently and stylist Natarsha was wonderful. She's really knowledgeable about the science of hair and has a way with curls. My hair is type four, extremely thick and I am very tender headed. She was so gentle :) my hair turned out great and looks and feels so healthy. She also gave me customized product recommendations for when I'm doing my hair at home. read more

I had my curls cut here a couple of months ago and decided to wait and style it on my own for awhile before writing a review. So my experience was as follows: Pros - This is a beautiful salon. The decor, the lighting, the mood...everything was professional, relaxing, and on point with no stress. Plenty of parking, friendly staff, minimal wait, and COVID compliant. There is some mention of pricing in some of the other reviews, and it's not cheap, but I got almost 3 hours of one-on-one attention and a bunch of hair advice so I thought it was worth every penny, especially if someone is new to being natural. I'm not, but if you are, going here is a great starting point. Cons - I wouldn't say this is a con, just more of something I wish I would have done before my appointment. Try to be as specific as possible with the cut you want, describe it when you make your appointment, and asked for someone who cuts the way you like. If you want a bob, say that. If you want layers, say that. When you get a stylist, visit their IG and make sure they cut the way you like. I didn't do any of those things, and ended up with a single length bob instead of layers. I won't name the stylist, because she came across as new in her craft (which is okay) and she gave me a good haircut and was knowledgeable, it's just not the cut I wanted. I asked for layers and brought pictures of what I was looking for, but had I checked her IG and looked at examples of her work, I would have seen all her cuts are the same and she cuts bobs. I mentioned it to her at the end of our session and she had a good attitude about it, telling me to try styling on my own and if I wanted to come back in a couple of days, she would fix it. I would definitely go to this salon again, but would just follow the things above to make sure I got the look I wanted. read more

This place rocks. I've been getting deva cuts from various salons for the past 4 years, and Capella is my favorite. Reception are really friendly. Patrick is incredible. He cuts my hair like it's a work of art, taking the time to sculpt each curl. I really appreciate his dedication and skill, and absolutely recommend him! read more

I did not trust "the concept of Shai" when I first heard of him (or the deva cut). SOOO many heat damaged hairs gave me the illusion of length and while I wasn't eager to cling to them, I wasn't eager to face my fears of having really short hair. I hesitantly booked an appointment with Shai, knowing that if anyone COULD cut my hair well, it would be him. Shai is profoundly interested in curly hair and its general health. And upkeep. Capella has a strong reputation for educating clients on how to keep up with hair and my experience was no different. He recognized my hair's potential from the moment we began talking. I was nervous he might've tried to make my hair more pretty than healthy and that was not at all the case. My hair's health was on the forefront, yay! It's obvious how natural this is to him. Passion is one thing, this seems to be like a second nature to Shai. I would come back time and time and time and time again. Amazing energy. Also! Speaking of energy. I was soo nervous about the social aspect of this coming in. The idea of needless small talk, filling silences with words? It's daunting to me. Enough to keep me satisfied with my own company allllll the tiiiiiime. Shai was super friendly, initiated conversation... But it was all relevant, he didn't try to get me to talk just to talk (which would've been fine I guess, I'm just terrible at it), but I knew if I WANTED to keep up a conversation with him it would've been easy. He's wonderful and kind and I'm just so happy to have had this experience :) Thank you so much Shai!!!!!!!!! read more

I've been searching for a salon that really knows curly hair for awhile and recently came across a post by Shai about how Nathalie Emmanuel, who plays Missandei on Game of Thrones, wore her natural hair (and cut by Shai) throughout the whole recent season, so I decided to give the salon a try. Shai's rate was a little out of reach so I was paired up with Ceci Escobar for a cut. It was a great experience from beginning to end and I've rarely if ever been so happy with my haircut. I forgot to bring the photos that I had wanted to show my stylist, but Ceci knew exactly what I needed to get the versatile cut and shape that I was looking for anyway. She was extremely personable, as well, and fun to talk to. I felt taken care of the whole time! In the end, I got a beautiful cut that I'm still happy with days later. I would totally recommend this salon to anyone with curly hair for its professional and talented staff and warm and welcoming ambiance! UPDATE: I went back for a second cut and it has worked so beautifully for me! I'm about to book my third cut with Ceci! read more

Shai "The Curl Doctor" has doctored my once nonexistent curls back to curly popping life!! I started my healthy curly hair journey with Shai in 2014! He gave me my first deva cut. Cutting out a lot of the heat damaged hair, left me with a nice starting point that allowed my curls to flourish and begin to come to life! I'm so thankful for his teaching and encouragement he has given me throughout the 3 years of my curly hair journey! Thank you Shai for what you have done for me and what you do for all us curly girls! It is so LIBERATING to know where my hair has started , to the healthy curly condition it is in now! If you haven't experienced what he can do for you and your hair, please do! There is no need to hesitate, I promise you! read more

Love this salon. I feel truly pampered and understood here. No one knows curls better. Had great devacuts from both Carmen and Marlee. Thank you! read more

Capella Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Studio City, California

Today I went to Capella Salon for a long overdue hair cut. When I say I was a raggedy mess who looked like the 70s called and wanted their stringy hair back, I'm not kidding. My stylist is Patrick Micallef. OMG! OMG! I look ah-mazing! I love this salon, the people, the vibe, the location. Mostly, I LOVE Patrick. Pick up the phone and make an appointment now! You won't regret it! Trust me! read more

I've been coming to Capella for about 3 years now. I came to get my curly hair corrected: damaged hair that had a lot of straight straggling hairs. MARLEY is amazing. She not only fixed all my straight pieces and brought my hair back to life, I trusted her with coloring my hair. The two times in my past that I had my hair colored, they were epic fails... too blonde against my brown face. She is a color specialist. She knew exactly how to get the right color for my complexion and what I wanted. Marley cuts and colors my daughter's hair also. We are with extremely happy and won't go anywhere else for cut and color read more

Capella Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Studio City, California

Staff is friendly, place is clean, they offer coffee, bagel & ice tea. Fuck Yeah! Massage chairs, great shampoo, good ambiance in overall. If You are here for a beautiful colour I would suggest their blond specialist Zsofi, she is the best in balayage. If You are looking for a sick fade Sasha is the best! If You are looking for red hair Jenny is your specialist. Or if You want something special and a big name behind the scissors look for Shai! read more

Maricarmen and Jodi are goddesses. They cut, clipped and shipped, we chatted and talked, they pampered and taught me how to care for my curls. I'm so smitten and thrilled with my hair, like I said goddesses! read more

Okay. Changing my review to one star. Wish I could leave zero stars. Shai saw the review I wrote here on Yelp and called me personally today, several times, on my cell phone. When I was finally able to talk to him, he YELLED AT ME for writing him a bad review. Some gems from our conversation: "Well, if you need your hair fixed, you know, hair is an art, I can't get you in right away because if some layers are messed up, it is not that big a deal. I'm not going to move my whole schedule around just for you." "You wanted your bangs straightened but this is LA and it's not 1994, I'm an artist, why am I going to do that?" Um, maybe because you're a business and I'm giving you money to cut and style my hair the way I want? And if I'm not happy, it's MY fault, not your fault? Oh, and you're going to insult my hair too? Nice. Well, I'm sorry I didn't enjoy my soccer mom haircut. Wait, no I'm not! And if I'm dissatisfied, you're calling me to berate me about how I feel instead of trying to make it right? Yeah, uh - thumbs up! Mission accomplished, I'm changing my review! read more

I went to the "curl dr." Shai Amiel at Capella Salon in LA and it was the WORST HAIRCUT I've ever had!! I've been in tears for days now and would NOT recommend anyone with more tightly curled or coiled 3c textures go see him. I went in with hair that, when straightened was about mid-back length. I told him that I wanted to grow out my hair. That request were ignored!! After my cut with Shai Amiel's my hair is neck length (straightened) at the longest layer and cheekbone length at the shortest. And the cut is round. Very round! (Think modern day fro.) Did I need a trim? Yes. Did I need about 6-8 inches hacked off? No!! HELL NO!!! The shape is disastrous! I asked for something that wasn't too round and would fit in with my lifestyle. Instead, I left with a ton of hair to the top of my head and extremely short sides. It doesn't fall or lay down like it used to, it stands STRAIGHT UP atop my head. The cut is round and a little uneven. I can't put it in a ponytail without pieces falling out. So short on the sides I can't even out it in a ponytail. My hair hasn't been this short in 20 years. The Curl Doctor (who I thought I'd try after all the hype on Instagram) - Shai Amiel - After my experience, I can't recommend him! Unless you have a looser curl pattern or want a fro - don't go see him. My only hope is that the shape will grow out nicer than it looks now. And that it'll grow out fast!! read more

I would like to share both a suggestion and a review. First, I think it would be very considerate for the receptionist to call Shai's clients two days (as opposed to one) in advance to confirm appointments. I made an appointment with Shai several months in advance and paid the required $75 deposit. I had written down the appointment in my calendar as being for next month, but I just received a call that it's actually for tomorrow. Honestly I made it so long ago that I'm not sure if I screwed up and wrote down the wrong day or the salon did...but either way since I won't be able to make the appointment I was told that I would have to forfeit my $75 deposit because of the 48 hour cancellation policy. Very disappointing. To avoid this problem in the future, I think it would be a win-win for everyone involved if reception would call to confirm at least two days in advance of Shai's appointments. I'm sure most of his appointments are booked months in advance, so this would allow for his clients to reschedule if needed without being penalized. In addition, it would leave adequate time for someone else to take advantage of the last minute opening. Now for the review, which is based on the color and cut I got last year at this salon. I could not see Shai because he was fully booked, but reception referred me to another stylist who they said specialized in curly hair and organic color. The color turned out fine enough, but the haircut and styling were HORRIFIC. It was absolutely the worst I've ever had at any salon. This woman had zero expertise with curly hair and truly had no idea what she was doing. It was so shockingly terrible that I just wanted her hands off of my hair, so I paid the obscene amount of money for my services and left quickly. I took a picture when I got home that day which I've posted below (my face is blurred for privacy, but also because I was so upset that I was crying). All that being said, I was really looking forward to seeing Shai and having him work the "magic" on my curls that I've read about, but honestly I have been quite discouraged by the whole experience at this salon. Perhaps I'll try again someday, but for now I'll be tending to my locks from home using the Curly Girl Handbook as my guide. Good luck to all the fellow curly girls out there! read more

Capella Salon - This is what my hair looked like when I left...it's hard to tell I even have curly hair! Needless to say I was very disappointed - Hair Salons Near Me - Studio City, California

I am deeply disappointed to even have to write this review, but I felt the need to after being completely embarrassed based on my experience here. Here's what happened - I called in to make an appointment last week for a curly trim. I have very curly hair, like tight micro corkscrews. Gets dry very easily, fragile, but also very thick (see my Yelp pic for reference if you're curious). I haven't gotten it trimmed in over a year, so I was anticipating that this would be somewhat of a tall task, but not impossible for the alleged curly gurus that work here. The receptionist was exceedingly polite over the phone, and confirmed that someone would be able to trim my hair to glory. She scheduled my appointment with Stephanie, who she assured would be able to take care of it. I got there super early, welcomed by the awesomeness of the salon, anticipating how great my hair was going to look. I get in the chair, and she immediately starts picking apart my hair furiously.. I'm thinking, "YAY! ok, here we go!" But then it stopped. She took parts of my tangled hair in her hands and said, "this is too tangled - I can't do anything with it". She told me I would need to go to a braid specialist, or a DREAD specialist, to get someone to detangle. Now, mind you, going in there, I knew it was tangled. I had slept on it wet one too many times and hadn't properly trimmed it in over a year. But this is EXACTLY WHY I came there in the first place - you guys brand yourselves as curly wizards.. you MUST know how tangled curly hair can get!! This is why I specifically came HERE - and WILLINGLY paid a $75 deposit just because I believed that this would be the best haircut I ever had. The stylist turned me away. She also told me that no one else in the salon could do my hair. I was devastated, and embarrassed. They did refund my $75 - that is the only reason why I am even giving 1 star here. Generally speaking, in a situation like this, I would blame myself for lack of research in finding a quality hair salon. But that is not the case - I spent hours going through Shai's instagram, viewing Capella's website, and making sure that this was the commitment I wanted to make. I say to you, Capella Salon - please don't brand yourself as a curly hair salon if you are unwilling to take the time to ensure that customers leave feeling confident and taken care of, particularly after requiring that your customers pay a lofty deposit fee just to be told that the cannot receive a service that you market so proudly. Perhaps my situation is an isolated one - I would never want anyone else to have to feel like that after leaving a salon. Suffice to say, I will never be coming here again. If you have hair like mine, please PLEASE speak at length to the receptionist, speak to the stylist beforehand, get to know them and their strengths/weaknesses a bit (if possible) just so that you know what you are getting into. You will save yourself a lot of time and unnecessary headache. I am sure that many people leave here as satisfied customers - I am, as I mentioned at the beginning of this review, deeply disappointed that I was not one of them. read more

I never write reviews, and even now it's taken me about a year to get this one out there - even thinking about it now, I'm still enraged/disappointed about my experience at Capella Salon. My hair did look very good, but I felt so terrible about myself after I got it cut. When I first got to the salon, I was told that the friend I brought couldn't wait on the couches for me to get my hair. Since we don't have cars, we had to take the bus two hours to get there, and she couldn't just "drive to the mall or something" as Shai suggested. That was extremely disappointing, and I wished they could have just let my friend stay (but salon policy is salon policy, and I wasn't going to argue). After waiting in the chair for around 10 minutes while Shai posted something to Instagram and talked happily to his other customers he began cutting my hair. He started chewing me out on how badly I had styled my hair/had been taking care of it, without telling me how to properly take care of it. I'm sorry my hair isn't up to your standards, but hey, I realize that and that's why I came to this salon in the first place! He shamed me on and on for about 40 minutes - adequate time for me to feel terrible about myself. No lie, I was about to cry in that chair. I was looking forward to this appointment for at least two months, and it started with a blow to my self-esteem. Maybe it was because of my age (I was 18 at the time) that he felt the need to not pay attention to me and take me down a few pegs. The stylists are awesome, though - the only reason why I didn't give 1 star. They were attentive and sweet, and made me feel right at home. They also told me exactly how to take care of my hair without shaming the hair I came in with. I'll never come back again. I'm sorry, but insulting me isn't the best way to keep a customer coming back. read more

The worst and most embarrassing hair cut ever! I have curly/wavy hair, but not tight tiny African style curls; nevertheless, I was given a hair cut and styling with so much water and product that my hair looked wet and kinky and like a bad permanent from the 1950's. And it was too short to put up. I got the hair-cut/purported styling the night before a very special event I was attending out of town and was stuck feeling and looking more unattractive than I ever had in my ENTIRE LIFE. The cut was like a pattern very tight curled cut not meant to fit anyone in particular and was utterly unsuited to my actual hair and face. I will NEVER go this salon again and, unless your hair is naturally kinky, DO NOT GO THERE. I cannot believe how much it cost and how much time it took to look so terrible! read more

I'm still going here (over a year later at his new location!) Are you curly? I'm talking from wavy to kinky curly - then get here. Seriously, I'm trying to help you look better! :) Know what I really appreciate? Shai listens. No cutting if you don't want (no bugging you about "BUT YOU HAVE TO CUT IT FOR IT TO GROW!") No hard sell for products, no allowing you to pay more for something that will just EFF your hair up (yep, I know from experience that trying to be bleach blonde will ruin my curl pattern..again, I'm on his "before and after" page and I look like a FOOL on the before... I keep getting Shai to try to make me blonde, though.) The new salon? Huge, modern, and airy but surprisingly still quiet and relaxing with all those folks bustling around and clients gabbing to their stylists (me!) It's harder to find a good curly salon in LA than it is to find a working, non-metrosexual man. After ten years of looking - this is the only place I trust. Feel free to ask me anything - I know how hard it is to find a curly stylist! read more

I apologize in advance for this review being so long, but if you've got curly hair like I do, you would sit and read for hours if it meant you could get beautiful curls that you actually like! I've had big curly hair my whole life. I've spent 20+ years trying to tame my hair. All I wanted was straight smooth hair. In college I tried various salons in the San Diego area and no one seemed to be able to handle my hair. No one could manage it better than I could. I have a friend who always gets her hair cut on a day when she's going out. I learned early on to do the exact opposite. I knew never to make plans after a hair appointment without having time to go home and fix what the stylist had done.... That is until I met Shai Amiel owner of Capella Salon in Studio City. I had just had a baby and I was looking to wear my hair more naturally. I realized that I just didn't have time to blow dry it, flat iron it, etc. Knowing that as a "curly girl" I couldn't just walk into any old salon, I did an online search for the best curly hair salon in Los Angeles. Capella Salon popped up. I read a bunch of reviews about Shai and the salon and also saw that he had been certified to cut curly hair in the Deva way by Deva creator herself, Lorraine Massey. I decided to give it a try. It wasn't difficult to get an appointment. Shai even works on Sundays. I made an appointment to get a "Deva Cut" - a process created by Massey in which Shai would cut my hair dry. Makes sense doesn't it? I mean how many of us have been traumatized by salon experiences where the stylist cut our hair when it was wet only to have it shrink up 10 inches to our ears making us look like a cross between Shirley Temple and a poodle? When the big day arrived, I washed and styled my hair the way I normally would and let it air dry without pulling it up or putting any clips in it - as I was directed to do. Unused to wearing my hair down, I sat in a chair at the salon looking at the mirror thinking "yuck, I should just keep wearing my hair straight." Luckily I only had to wait a minute or two for Shai to finish up with a client. I was relieved when the first thing Shai did was ask me the history of my hair. I have been in situations before where the stylist was barely listening to what I was saying. Unlike previous experiences, Shai wanted to hear it all! I immediately liked him and felt that he was really taking an interest in my hair and what I wanted to gain from my experience with him. And what an experience it was! I learned more about my hair during my hour at Capella Salon than I had in my 34 years of getting my hair done at various expensive salons throughout Southern California. Just as described, Shai cut my dry hair curl by curl. As he was cutting he gave me all this great advice about what products to use, when to use them, how much to use. He even took the time to instruct me on how to color my hair at home. When he was done, before looking in the mirror, he warned me that my hair would look A LOT bigger right after he cut it than after he washed it and styled it. Hearing this I expected my hair to look like I had put my finger in an electric socket, but I was fairly surprised to see that even at its biggest, my hair didn't look half bad! So, after the cut, Shai took me downstairs to wear they wash your hair. I wouldn't even describe it as "washing" your hair - that wouldn't do it justice. It's more like your hair gets its own mini massage. They used the Deva products on me. The Deva No-Poo, and the Deva One Conditioner. Then they walked me over to the mirror so I could watch as Shai's assistant Amy put two different products in my hair (Deva Arc Angel and Deva Curl Cream). She showed me step by step what to do to make them work the best and answered every question I had regarding the products she was using. Then Amy put clips at the roots of my hair to give it some lift as it dried. Such a smart idea - why hadn't I done this before! Shai then came over and asked whether I wanted to have my hair air dry, dried with a diffuser or whether I wanted to sit under the dryer. I elected to sit under the dryer. He then pinned a couple paper towels to my head to make sure the dryer didn't create a frizzy halo. About 20 minutes later I was ready to go. When I first looked at my hair in the mirror, I thought, how is my hair still wet? The hair I was looking at looked like my hair when its still all wet and smooth and frizz free. But my hair wasn't wet at all! It had dried beautifully! Great curls - No frizz. I was amazed. I couldn't believe I was about to walk out of a salon with my hair looking beautiful. The quality of my curls was unbelievable. I was actually happy at that moment that I had curly hair and for the first time I was leaving a salon loving my hair! (Guess who wished they had made some plans to go out after all!) Thank you Shai! read more

I don't live anywhere near the salon but braved the 405 because this was the salon belonging to the "curl doctor". I wanted to go somewhere where my curls would be treated with care, consideration and handled by an experienced capable stylist. I came in the day before for a consultation and booked an appt on the spot. Upon arrival I felt like I was in capable hands and really surrendered myself to the experience after having showed Marley pictures of what I wanted. I arrived at 1 pm and left around 5:20 and what I left with were unblended chunky-ish 90's esque scary spice highlights. One side of my head was lighter than the other. The highlights on bottom brighter than the top ones. Not to mention I had highlights with bright blonde roots and brown ends. I came in immediately to get it fixed but obviously had some apprehensions about letting a person who just messed up my hair go in and try to fix it again. Though she was up for the challenge she kept denying that she had done anything wrong and kept saying she thought it was a good job, not even an apology for messing up so royally. There's a reason I go to professionals and don't sit at home doing my hair myself because this is how it tends to come out. We were obviously living in two different worlds, agreed to disagree and, at least I got my full refund plus tip back. Moral of the story being don't trust the hype. Though Capella prides itself on being a curly hair salon they messed up and just as bad as anyone else if not worse. Spend your $200 elsewhere honey! read more

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I'm surprised that most of the reviews here seem to be one star or five star. If I had to sum up my experience, I'd have to say, "meh." I have worn my natural curls for years and get compliments on my hair, but I've always been looking for someone who gets it and can really cut curly hair. I was thrilled to hear about a salon where they specialized in the "Deva Cut." For the cost, I was expecting to walk out looking ready for prime time. Not so. While I'm happy to report that I can't complain about anything having been done wrong, for the price, I'm underwhelmed. It's a nice cut. The curls have nice separation. But honestly, my hairdresser does just as well for WAY less. So, I'm torn between being ok with the cut and being pissed about the big hole left in my bank account. You live. You learn. read more

I have very curly yet very fine hair. The girl was very friendly BUT the cut was not for me. She cut it dry, gave me some spiel about how shampoo is bad for ones hair, especially curly hair. My hair is super oily and it has to be washed daily. It does not dry out. After the one size fits all curly heads cut an spiel she put all sorts of goop on my hair and scrunch dried it with a drier that looks like a hand. I tend to air dry my hair when I decide to go curly. I ended up looking like a wet poodle after she rolled in the mud AND it cost $95! Sure, I've paid that in Beverly Hills and Silverlake but I also get a good cut that takes into consideration that I have FINE, SOFT curly hair that does not need to be weighed down with a bottle of gel. If you want a good cut in the Valley go to Salon True in Sherman Oaks or go over the hill. read more

THE GURU HAS DONE IT AGAIN!!!!! I LOVE SHAI! ABSOLUTELY AMAZING EXPERIENCE. Being Multi ethnic with naturally curly hair its hard to find a stylist who knows how to treat it and maintain it. Over the years my hair has been through so much damage and all i want is my natural curl back. This was my first time getting a "DEVA CUT". I was nervous and was afraid my hair would be too short after the cut. Shai made me feel comfortable and at ease. He educated me, answered all my questions and made my hair feel brand new. He gave me his contact info so I could reach him with any concerns after. I highly recommend Shai. Remember you get what you pay for and its in investment in yourself. read more