I am really conflicted about how many stars to give this salon because Shun does great work. I went to her 3 times (March, April and June) and was fairly happy on my first 2 visits, despite the prices being much higher than I'm used to paying and having some difficulty scheduling the first 2 appointments, because she is a one woman operation. However, my last appointment was disappointing for 2 reasons: 1. At my 3rd visit, Shun advised that I needed a trim, either at that visit or at the next visit. In my experience trims are about $15 and I usually get a trim every six weeks so I said go ahead and do it. Shun charged me $95 for a trim, the same price I paid when I got a style cut at my first visit 3 months ago. When I questioned this, I was told that a trim is a cut and a cut is a trim, they take the same length of time and expertise and that other stylists are unprofessional (I'm not sure why this last point was brought up). She even pulled up something on Google to prove her point, despite my 30+ years of customer experience to the contrary. 2. I specifically asked for my hair to be left longer in the front. I have a picture from a month ago showing my hair touching my collarbone; now it only reaches my chin, so the trim apparently went awry. Because my hair was curly when I left the shop I didn't realize this until I washed and styled my hair today. This revelation prompted me to write this review. I just checked another equally rated stylist's prices, who has tons more Yelp reviews than Corps D'Lite, and she charges $10 for a trim and $35-50 for a cut. My last stylist charged less than half of what Shun charges for the exact same 3 services; the only reason I stopped going to her is that I wanted to lighten my hair and she recommended I go to a colorist. So because I think it ridiculous to pay almost $100 for a trim every 6 weeks, as well as treating me like I'm clueless on what I should be charged for a trim, I won't be back. read more

Corps d'Elite claims to be a high-end salon, but it is a slightly-above-average salon with exorbitant prices. The stylist, Shun, did a relatively nice job of washing, drying, flat ironing, and trimming my hair. Her colleagues were friendly, the music was good, and she served me a cup of green tea. Therefore, I will give her 1 star for this review. Unfortunately, Shun fails in many other areas of professional styling. She arrived 15 minutes late for my appointment. She took too long to style my hair, because she was busy making recommendations (upselling) additional services. Thus, I was 30 minutes late to a wedding after my appointment. When I booked the appointment, I told Shun I had a wedding 2 hours after our appointment. She said our appointment would only take an hour. Our appointment took almost 2 hours. Worst of all, the Corps d'Elite prices are absolutely, undeniably absurd. She charged me $95 to trim my ends. (I did not get a fancy hair cut; I got a simple blunt trim without layers.) In addition, she charged me $75 for a wash, dry, and flat iron. When I booked my appointment, I was told I would be charged $55 for the style and just a little more for the trim. Since the prices were so high, I called to ask if I was erroneously overcharged. Shun said I was charged the right amount and she didn't even apologize for the confusion. Instead, she insisted that I actually was getting a good deal, because she is a "professionally trained stylist who could charge hundreds more." She then offered to send me her resume, so that I can verify her qualifications. What kind of unprofessional response is that? Where are her customer service skills? I really want to support Shun, because she is local small business owner. However, I simply cannot support anyone who nonchalantly overcharges me for a basic service. Although her years of experience are impressive, she clearly needs to learn more about customer service and pricing. I will not return. I recommend you avoid this establishment, as well. read more

Nowadays, it is quite rare to find hair stylists who not only prioritize the health of your hair, but also are well educated, knowledgeable, and have an extreme level of expertise in the art and science of hair care for all hair types. Shun is the full package. She is very passionate about her work, has high expertise and knowledge in styling all hair types, understands the science behind styling technique and hair products (and will always opt to use products that do your hair the least amount of harm), really takes the time to understand your hair story and tailors her work to the needs of your hair (rather than taking the easy way out and applying the same generic formula or approach on every customer as most other stylists do), and aspires for excellence in all that she does. After all, "corps d'Elite" translates to "best in class." She delivers quality in all that she does. My hair has never never been healthier since I started going to her salon, and I am always on the receiving end of compliments - whether about how great my hair cut is, or how healthy and shiny it looks. I often even have strangers stop me on the street to ask where I get my hair done. I am a firm believer that your hair should be treated as an investment, and that you can't put a price on good quality work. As the saying goes, "[if you're doing it right,] you get what you pay for." Shun not only invests in the health and beauty of your hair, but invests in each and every one of her clients. She does this often by sharing research-based tips on hair care, to really educate clients about how to take care of their hair in a way that is long-lasting and by debunking so many myths and lies that we've long learned or been told about hair products and the beauty industry. She has decades of international experience and exposure to draw from, and has trained many other stylists through the years. And, to add, she and her team of makeup stylists also provide excellent makeup services for any occasion (aka the "Beauty Bar"). I received glowing reviews after my Beauty Bar experience. You really can't go wrong with Corps d'Elite! And you'd be well-served to entrust your next styling needs (hair or makeup) into Shun and her team's hands. read more

I was in dire need of hair cut and my regular barbers were either booked or not in town. One of my good friends goes to this salon and recommended Shun to me. I am not going to lie, I was a little apprehensive at first, because I mean it was a beauty salon, but my friend reassured me Shun had the skills and expertise to make me look good again. I was sold. Upon entering the shop I was warmly greeted by Shun and I must say I was thoroughly impressed by the decor of the salon. It was very modern, but with an elegant twist. Shun offered me wine, champagne, tea, water or a cocktail. I'm a slight lush so I went with the wine. I told her how I usually get my haircut and she reassured me she could do the same or even better. She thoroughly shampooed and conditioned my hair. I came to find out that we had a lot in common from attending the same undergraduate college to liking some of the same cuisines. I felt really comfortable engaging with her. The haircut was amazing and I was happy about the experience I had at the salon. She takes upscale to another level and I am very grateful. I'm a firm believer of cheap work not being good and good work isn't cheap! I'm happy to say I now utilize her services even more. read more

I've passed this beautiful establishment for the past two years and recently gotten to know the owner Shun through our professional worlds. Leading up to my birthday this week, I decided to test out the salon for a full weave... Pros: Ambiance (beautiful establishment, alcoholic/nonalcoholic beverages served), great hi-end products used, stellar cut and face framing, location Looking forward to continuing to support this black, woman minority owned small business!!! read more

What a wonderful and unexpected experience I had with Shun. She was referred by a friend while visiting DC after seeing an appalling photo of myself. Shun came in on her day off, spent 4 hours on my hair and I left with a super cute, updated look. I have had wonderful comments from co-workers, friends and familia. Thank you Shun for your kindness and helping me change my look . read more

It was my first time getting my hair done at Corps d'Elite and I am so glad I went there for my big academic day - commencement. The owner is absolutely wonderful! If you need any accommodation, talk to her and she will solve all of your problems. I went to Corps d'Elite to get my hair done, and since commencement was early, there was no way I could've made it on time had Shun not opened the salon 1 hour and a half before they were supposed to open just for my blow dry! Where else do you get that kind of service but Corps d'Elite? I really appreciate her professionalism and also my hair looked AMAZING. Luscious waves to impress...and it lasted all day. Thank you so much for going to great lengths to make your clients happy! read more

Can I give a zero star rating? Shun fails in many areas of professional styling. She arrived 15 minutes late for my appointment. She took too long to style my hair,thus, I was 30 minutes late to a wedding after my appointment. When I booked the appointment, I told Shun I had a wedding 2 hours after our appointment. She said our appointment would only take an hour. Our appointment took almost 2 hours. Additionally,the Corps d'Elite prices are absurd. She charged me $95 to trim my ends. (I did not get a fancy hair cut; I got a simple blunt trim without layers.) In addition, she charged me $75 for a wash, dry, and flat iron. When I booked my appointment, I was told I would be charged $55 for the style and just a little more for the trim. When I asked why the price was so high, Shun said I was charged the right amount and she didn't even apologize for the confusion. Instead, she insisted that I actually was getting a good deal, because she is a "professionally trained stylist who could charge hundreds more." She then offered to send me her resume, so that I can verify her qualifications. I really want to support this business, because it is a small business. Although her years of experience are impressive, she clearly needs to learn more about customer service and pricing. I will not return. I recommend you avoid this establishment, as well. read more

I transferred to this salon with Michael Sean while he nursed my hair back to health from a neglected hair weave. Most of my hair had broken off and I wasn't sure whether I'd have to live with a bob or some other short hair style for a number of years. Micheal is a magician because less than a year later, my hair is swinging close to my shoulder blades, strong and continuing to grow without chemicals. The salon treatments won't break your bank account and I've never encountered waiting times, which is my primary gripe around most salons. You can schedule a time that works for you any day of the week and get in and out with a wonderful style without taking up half of your weekend. Ask for Michael when making your appointment. You'll be more than pleased with the results. read more

Best haircut ever. Super complicated but she nailed it. Exactly what I asked for and I couldn't be happier. Amazing shampoo/scalp massage and yummy cocktail to boot. Love this place! read more

Great salon. Great customer service. Great location. Shun is my hairstylist and is a great hair care advocate. Highly recommend!

Truly stellar salon with stellar care and attention. You will get your money's worth and come out of here with what you wanted. I'm very picky, and was extremely pleased with my results :) thanks for the awesome cut! read more

I really wanted to try this place out because of the Scalp Rejuvatherapy they offered. I have a very dry, itchy, and flaky scalp and have been having trouble finding a place to give it some extra TLC. I was the last client of the day for Michael and he really took his time to go through and exfoliate, moisturize, and massage my scalp. I felt very attended to and taken care of!! He also did an amazing blow out! The location is very clean and stylist! I plan on going by every time I'm in DC! read more

Had my first experience and visit last week and I was extremely impressed. Shaun did an excellent job (color and blow out) on my hair and I definitely will return for additional services. First impressions are lasting - she and one of her stylists were very professional. I was greeted and welcomed with a warm smile. Loved the ambiance. Kudos to Shaun. See you in a few week. read more

When I first walked in Corps d'Elite I was immediately put at ease and felt welcomed by the owner Lashun she was warm and professional. I must admit I am not too knowledgeable when it comes to applying the right amount of makeup , she worked with me and gave me good tips. Overall the I had a very good experience , I felt beautiful and confident after she was done with me. I would highly recommend this place to every woman wanting to be taken care of the right way. read more