I am irrationally attached to my hair and had been driving about 45 minutes away to get to my hair cut with my hometown stylist for years. I finally decided I needed to find a salon close by and turned to Yelp. Based on high ratings and proximity to where I live I chose Sanela. When I first walked into the salon it appeared very organized and clean and I was able to check in and get my appointment started a bit early. I scheduled a cut and dry for long hair with Diana. I am so happy she was the one available when I called the afternoon before to book my appointment. During the consultation, Diana was able to picture exactly what I wanted and then executed the perfect cut! I typically just get some angling and layering nothing crazy but I am very happy with the results! I will definitely be returning to get my hair cut by Diana in the next few months. In response to some other reviews, I did not feel judged at all and felt that all employees were friendly and accommodating. As I said, I will be returning and I recommend Diana to anyone transitioning to a new stylist like I was! Tips are cash or check only!!! read more

AMAZING!!! AFFORDABLE!! PROFESSIONAL!!!! I just got back from getting a haircut at Sanela Salon (Stylist - Shawneen Moffitt) and couldn't wait to get back and share my experience on yelp. I walked out with the BEST haircut I have ever had. I have tried practically every salon on Newbury Street and have always left feeling dissatisfied with the end result and annoyed at the high prices. Sanela Salon delivers excellence - I guarantee. The space is clean and open and in a lovely area. To say I am excited is an understatement. My stylist was friendly, natural, and knows how to listen to what the client wants. Definately check this place out!!!! read more

This was an expensive blow out and not done the way I wanted, could have done it at the corner barber, just not impressed When you call they are kind of rude, require a credit card to make an appointment, then tell you if you have children don't bother coming in! The salon itself is ok, and the work product lacking read more

I used to live down the street from Sanela and I am a big fan of the Salon. Great feeling, decor, and staff very welcoming, I had a great couple of years of hair care at Sanela. My stylist was Shawneen. She saved my hair from years of bad cuts, patiently trimmed little by little until it was back into a great shape and long as I wanted it to be. One of these twists of life, in the middle of my move to Newton I learned that Shawneen was no longer at Sanela, and even though I would have traveled for her magic hands, fate has it that I found her down the street from my new home, at Kenneth Wildes Salon. read more

I have lived in Brookline for over 30 years, and have used stylists on Newbury Street, and in Cambridge, Brookline, and Newton. None compare to Sanela!!. I came into the salon for a consult when I was frustrated with both my hair cut and color. Sanela worked with me and created a wonderful style for me. I receive compliments daily! This is the first review I have ever written -- I absolutely love my hair cut and color. read more

Great team of expert stylist and color specialist. Beautiful salon with great staff. Have been coming for years.

I came to Sanela Salon after seeing a Boston Deal and reading some good reviews, I decided to go for it. I'm so glad I did! Sanela is very serious about color and doesn't really let anything slip by her (after telling her I wanted to go really dark, she very much advised against it due to my laziness in keeping up with my color). She really did give me exactly what she thought would look good and work with my life (style). Shawneen was so sweet and we we're laughing the whole time she was cutting and styling my doo- and it turned out great. She also called me out after telling her I wanted bangs- she said I'd hate her for it b/c I hardly ever blow dry my hair. Anna, the assistant, was so attentive and friendly also. Yea, I love it. I'll definitely be back. read more

Immaculate atmosphere, warm and professional greeting from staff. Merchandise is not an overwhelming presence in the waiting area (sometimes you feel like you're at a discount bonanza); quality products, good variety. High price range, but during my salon visit, these products were used on my hair and I really could tell a noticeable difference in the luster of my hair, which felt lightweight and clean afterward. Jamie was my stylist, she gave me a haircut and a blowout. She was gentle and informative, explaining to me the products she was using as she applied them, what was in them, etc. She offered many useful tips I have now added to my regimen, but I never felt like I was being lectured on hair care. She is a friendly gal, but is a master of her craft, I have to hand it to her! We had a very clear and direct dialogue about my plans for this cut before she began, exploring a few different options and the pros/cons attached to doing a couple more dramatic things I had toyed with in my mind (lowlights, bangs), but she explained the maintenance behind either choice, and without trying to talk me out of it, I felt fully informed to decide for myself what I really wanted. And then, flawlessly, she executed one of the best haircuts I have ever received! I usually pay anywhere between $25 (at Mastercuts/Supercuts) and $65 (at other private salons) for a haircut, and have never left so pleased with the results, even days after. She took the time to style my hair with care (about an hour), and I never felt rushed. As an individual, Jamie is friendly and easy to talk to, very sweet!, while never straying attention away from what she is doing. Before I left, I scheduled my next appointment with her. I have never done that before. Jamie is phenomenal, and from what I can tell, the staff fosters a nurturing environment among one another. During my shampoo, Jamie quietly complimented another stylist on how well she completed a blowout minutes before, and as another staff member came around to sweep the floor, Jamie thanked her. Wouldn't you rather go to a place like that? Where people care about overall performance and seem to genuinely enjoy their work? I loved my experience at Sanela, Jamie is fabulous, and I don't see any reason to go elsewhere. read more

I FINALLY found my hairstylist: Jaime! I came in with a couple of pictures of what I wanted (I made a relatively large change) and she seemed to take a personal investment in making it look 'fab.' She spent a lot of time (over an hour!!), was more than willing to answer all of my nervous questions, and was so encouraging and positive. And, she's affordable (I'm a grad student, so that must mean something!)! The place is classy, clean, and they give you coffe/tea/water and a complimentary hand massage! I have never had a better haircut or haircut-experience. read more

Always a negative aspect of moving to a new place, I found myself searching for a great hairdresser after I moved to Brighton from Denton, Texas. I knew that finding someone to compete with the amazing stylist I had in Texas would be a challenge, but Sanela has met that challenge and passed with flying colors. The salon is conveniently located for my apartment near BC and the staff is extremely friendly. In general, I'm an awkward person, so I usually avoid eating in public as often as I can, but I have taken Sanela up on their complimentary beverages, biscotti, and bruschetta with ease. It seems like everyone takes care of all the customers, and it really makes for a great experience. The first time I went to Sanela, Jamie styled my hair. I was looking for something different, yet not too drastic, so I went with straight across bangs (and I love them to death). She offers complimentary bang trims and took time to understand what I was looking for. After our consultation, I felt I could trust her implicitly with my hair, something that's not easy to come by for me. I recently went back for a (free!) bang trim and a gloss to change up my hair. The product gave my hair more depth AND it conditions it (seriously, my hair feels better after the gloss than it did before). Jamie is wonderful, talented, and she's got my business for as long as I'm in the area. Overall, the salon, the products used, and Jamie are incredible for the prices charged. Even on a student's budget, this is an amazing place. read more

This review is for a particular stylist by the name of Doritt. First off, she is way more than a typical stylist. She is a true artist. It was truly the most amazing haircut I have ever gotten. Her technique blew me away! She used an old school barber's straight razor and comb. It was my first full non-scissor cut (actually for us guys, its hard to find a stylist that doesn't immediately go for the electric clippers) and I guess that why I could never get that awesome texture I so dearly love. I couldn't believe it!! My hair actually looked like the ones you see in the magazines! But her real talent was her ability to see trouble spots and manage them. I know doubt have cranky hair, one side wants to lay way different then the other. Why my parents didn't make my middle name "cowlick," I have no idea. So many times i've heard, "thats just the way your hair is," as if I was doomed, but she actually knew how to tweak it by cutting my hair uneven in certain spots, making it lay perfectly, and paradoxically, making it look the most even it has ever been. I don't know if they teach that in beauty school, because no prior stylist has ever attempted to tackle that problem for me. She also colored and cut my friends hair, and she has never received so many compliments. It looks absolutely amazing!! What a talent! read more

Jordan did an excellent cut for me after I received a terrible haircut a few weeks prior. She took her time and I never felt rushed. I'm excited for my next cut! read more

A glorious color and cut provided by Jamie. She's so talented and friendly - ready to greet you with a smile. Probably the best part of the experience was the teamwork within the salon. Everyone helped each other, and I had a constant supply of coffee, water, and magazines coming my way. A beautiful and clean location. I'm looking forward to going back again. read more

I've gotten my hair cut twice by Jamie and she does such a great job. She is sweet and thoughtful, and listens to what the client is looking for. For example, I wanted a low-maintenance pixie cut that was still feminine and playful and she delivered on that, plus tips on how to care for the cut. And bang and neck trims in between appointments are free--great for short-haired ladies. read more

I got a haircut and blow dry from Jourdan and had a wonderful experience. She was so nice and professional and went above and beyond to make me comfortable with my style. She gave me little loose curls at the end, and my hair looked so amazing. I will definitely be coming back to her! read more

I have been going to Sanela Salon for over 2 years and have seen Diana the whole time. She is the best hair stylist I've ever had. i have very difficult hair, long, thick, curly, etc. She always does a phenomenal job and gives excellent advise for how to maintain healthy hair in between cuts. Thanks Diana! read more

I've gotten 2 cuts and color here and am totally pleased. Friendly, nice atmosphere, and mad skills (Sanela herself). I highly recommend this salon. read more

I've never been able to find a hairstylist who I have wanted to go to more than once until I came to Sanela. I was recommended by a friend to make an appointment with Jamie and I'm so happy I did! She does an amazing job with my hair and is very friendly and knowledgable about how to tame my fly-aways and give my fine hair life. The salon is always clean and the staff is very friendly- I'll definitely keep coming back! read more

I just got my hair cut here yesterday by Diana and had to write a review right away! I decided to cut off several inches of my long hair after damaging it with dye and heat. I brought in some pictures of the long angled bob I wanted, and Diana took the time to review the cut and dicuss with me the best way to execute it on my thin hair. She could have easily just imitated the cut in the pictures, but it wouldn't have ended up looking as flattering without the way she tailored it to fit me perfectly. Diana immediately made me feel comfortable and meticulously executed the best cut I've had in years, all for only $45. I've gotten so many complements already and will most definitely be going back for my next trim! Great salon, great atmosphere and Diana is highly recommended! read more

New to area and needed a haircut. Jordan was great! She gave me exactly what I wanted (clean up trim). She was very thorough and attentive to detail! First time I have left a salon not wanting to fix my blowout. Highly recommend her and the salon! read more

Worst hair salon ever! I went there for a blow out. They took my credit card information to make the appointment and told me they would charge me half of the service if I don't show up, fair enough. I was there on time and my stylist was HALF AN HOUR LATE even though on the phone I told her the exact hour I need to leave the salon. They also DO NOT ALLOW YOU IN THE SALON IF YOU HAVE CHILDREN. I have very thin hair and I asked for a blow out that makes my hair look bigger, I was simply looking for more volume. The stylist told me SHE CANNOT DO IT (what kind of hair stylist cannot give volume in a blow out!!) and this is only possible only if she does a blow out with curls, which I thought she was going to do with the blow dryer, so I said okay. It turned out to be awful. She not only damaged my hair with the hair straightener to give me curls, she also didn't give my hair any volume at all! I had to fix my entire hair myself when I came home, and had the most ridiculous hair for the rest of the day. Apparently, what they understand from a "blow out" is just blow drying your hair which will cost you $40. If you ask for volume in your blow out, this is called "blow out with curls" which costs $65. Yes, that is right, they charge you an extra $25 just to use their hair straightener on your hair to create curls that will disappear after 5 minutes. Please avoid this place, I have been to many hair salons in my life, and this was the worst among them for sure. Will never go back. read more

Sadly I can't corroborate these great reviews. Everyone I've talked to in the salon is very friendly and helpful-- I felt comfortable the entire time and it has a very nice atmosphere. However, I now have one of the worst haircuts I've had in a long time. I described what I wanted to the stylist, emphasizing that I'm trying to grow out my hair. I wanted it layered, and I said I liked a certain type of bang. I told her that I needed some advice on the bangs because I figured she would know what would work best with my hair type, face shape, and other factors. It seemed like she ignored my concerns and just did what I thought I liked. My hair length is back to what it was months ago, and the "seamless" layers are nowhere to be found. My face seems rounder than ever, my hair thicker than before. It seems to be all one horribly awkward length and the bangs make me look like I'm about five years old. Of course, they're too short to properly brush to the side so it looks like I'll be growing this one out for a while. There's really nothing that can be fixed at the moment. I'm disappointed because the salon has such a nice staff, but it just isn't right for me. read more

I was so pleased with my experience at Sanela Salon. Dina was my stylist, and as a first time client there she spent time thoroughly asking about what I expected. I was just looking for a trim on my short / chin length curly hair and she nailed it. It was one of the few haircuts that I have left the salon and not re-styled it as soon as possible. The price was very reasonable, and I would highly recommend this salon and Dina to my friends. read more

Jamie is a goddess! I found this salon because of all the great Yelp reviews and I am so glad I took the plunge. I had really long hair all my life and needed something different. I wanted to go short and Jamie did an amazing job. She took her time with me and made some helpful suggestions. She even took before and after photos of me without me even asking because the change was so drastic. I am still adjusting to my new hair, but I have gotten so many compliments. I definitely will be returning and seeing Jamie, although I am sure the other stylists are just as fabulous. read more

After reading such great reviews, I went in for a haircut with Shawneen. Day of haircut reaction observations: definitely a solid cut. She knows what she's doing. Nice bright spacious feel to the salon. Very friendly staff. Like the hot tea they gave me. Reasonable at $55 for haircut. Easy parking, easy access. A few weeks later: I still think it's a good cut. Not the best cut I've ever had (nothing to creative), but I bet she's consistently good. I'm going back! read more

I had my first experience at Sanela Salon recently and it was wonderful! Everyone was very friendly and it was an extremely comfortable atmosphere. Shawneen went above and beyond to make sure that my hair looked fabulous by the time I left. I will definitely be back! read more

Everyone I came into contact here was so sweet and smiley. My haircut was with Jamie and not only was she adorable, she was extremely knowledgeable and taught me how to perfectly blow out my side bangs. :) The salon is only a couple years old and I like the simple and open layout. I'm totally going back! read more

I recently needed my hair cut and styled for some maternity photos my husband and I were having taken the same day. Sanela Salon was able to squeeze me in on super short notice as a walk-in. I had Jordan, and she did an amazing job not only blowing my hair out and making it look lovely for the photos, but just handling my hair in general, because its super long, thick and tangly and had not been cut in an obscenely long time. She really worked wonders with my rat's nest and had me out just in time to take some very classy photos in which my hair looks absolutely beautiful - something I could have never done on my own. Thank you Jordan and Sanela Salon! Since I can't attach a pic here, I made my profile picture one of the photos I had taken that day, to show how nice she made my hair look. read more

I've been going to sanela salon for 8 months or so. I think they are fabulous. Last minute i needed a haircut because I had an engagement shoot scheduled. They didn't have any room for me initially but they worked to fit me in. They called numerous times when cancellations occurred. I have been seeing shawneen. She is very talented and cuts thick hair very well. She even curls my hair when she blows it dry. read more

I recently relocated to Brookline for a new job in the City. For the last 10 years, I've gone to the same salon and the same stylist. If you're anything like me, I'm extremely particular about my hair, and finding a new stylist was terrifying! I've now been a client of Sanela for seven months, and I couldn't be happier. Before my first appointment with Shawneen, I was nervous and paranoid about reestablishing that oh-so-important relationship (it's much more than just cutting hair!). The moment I walked in, I was sold. To this date, I look forward to getting my haircut - not just because I'm getting my haircut, but for the interaction, laughs and relaxing environment. The space is beautiful and comforting. You don't even notice everything going on around you. Customer service is impeccable. Upon walking in, you're immediately greeted by first name, your coat is taken for you, and you're offered a beverage (coffee, tea and water). Sanela is extremely welcoming, often mingling between her clients. She always makes it a point to come over and say hello. She's put a smile or two on my face after those busy work days! My stylist, Shawneen, has been a breath of fresh air. She has been amazing. I'm very nervous about changing anything up with my hair, and I often have a hard time deciding what to do. She has a way of understanding me and helping me make changes without going over the top. I've developed such a trusting relationship with her that I'm to the point that I can come in and say "make it look good", and I know she'll give me something I'm comfortable with. Aside from her great talent, she's friendly, fun, professional and caring. If I could go every week just for a quick chat, I would! Overall, I'm thankful for my experience at Sanela Salon, and I would recommend it (and have) to anyone. Thanks to them, I'll probably never leave Boston!!! I can't wait for Salon to someday be a Salon *and* Spa!! I'll be first in line. :) read more

This was great! Brand new salon: clean, bright, pleasant. The staff are friendly and welcoming. Great scalp massage by Anna w/the hair wash. Shawneen cut my hair and she does a great job. She understood exactly what I wanted and has good judgement. Loved the cut, so I'm very pleased. I'm definitely going to come back--its a good price, too. It's right off the C-line too so that's easy to find. Would definitely recommend! read more

I went to Sanela Salon for the first time today. I had seen a girl at my yoga studio with a fabulous haircut, and since I was on the market for a haircut and good salons are hard to come by, I decided to ask her which one she went to. I am soooo glad that I did! I called on Friday and got an appointment for the following Tuesday. The salon atmosphere is great. Shawneen was very nice and friendly. She washed my hair herself and did a great job. When it came time for the haircut, she listened to me carefully and reiterated to me what I had said in a way that made me feel very confident that she knew exactly what I wanted. I have long Asian hair and hadn't cut it since March. It had previously been cut into a v shape in the back, and the tip of the v had turned into a scraggly rat-tail looking thing. I had lots of broken strands. She cut my hair into long layers, got rid of the v, gave me a flattering sideswept bang, and somehow the cut added lots of volume to my normally flat hair. I absolutely love the way that it came out, and it may well be the best haircut I have ever gotten! This is my first Yelp review, and I wrote it because I am THAT pleased with the work that Shawneen did. Prices are very reasonable! Complimentary bang trims. Do yourself a favor and check her out! read more

I had been walking past Sanela for months before I finally called and made an appointment on a whim. I didn't request a particular stylist or anything. I just took the only appointment they had on the day I had free time. I have had terrible luck with this scheduling habit of mine, but this was definite an exception. The place is very clean and has a calm, relaxed atmosphere without being quaint in the least. It's stylish but comfortable, too. Shawneen talked to me at length about my hair and what I hoped to do with it. She was thoughtful about my needs and habits, but also wiling to state her opinion on what I should do. She gave me a very good haircut--MUCH better than any cut I ever got for the same price at Dellaria (Coolidge Corner)--and was really thorough about checking to make sure things were even, I was happy with it, etc. I was happy with the cut, happy with the price, and happy with my spontaneous decision to schedule an appointment. It was a great "accident"!! read more

Diana is amazing - she's cut my hair twice now and listens to any of my concerns about the way my hair is. She took the time to help teach me to style it, too. I'll definitely keep coming back :) read more

Been coming to Sanela Salon for 3 years and always so happy with my haircut!! Jourdan is a great at listening and understanding what I'm always looking for and helps gives advice when I show up indecisive read more

This is a great salon. The cuts and color are always spot on, staff is friendly and super courteous. I've been going here for years. The only thing that is at all bothersome is that they leave the front door propped open in the winter (because the staff gets too warm while working), and I always get really chilled having a wet head and dressed for indoors. They close it when you ask, but 15 mins later someone opens It again. The actual ambiance and service is great. It's pricey, but if you want consistent quality service you'll find it here. read more

First time going here this weekend. Great customer service and a really good price for a haircut. I'd recommend!

Diana is the absolute best. She actually listens when I say I want to keep my hair long and she gives the best advice- I even let her give me some longish "bangs" one time. They were awesome. I've gotten a haircut from her multiple times and as long as I'm in Boston I wouldn't go anywhere else! read more

I AM LETTING OUT A VERY BIG SECRET.........SANELA SALON IS A DREAM!!!! I have been seeing Sanela for over 5 years, and would travel a great distance to avail myself of her tremendous talent. Sanela's talent and personality and charm and warmth are a gift to her clients. The new Salon is stunning, warm, and SERVICE is key. There is no ego or arrogance. Sanela really listens to her clients and creates and styles always keeping in mind, client input. I have referred many of my friends to Sanela and all are loyal customers now. A few months ago, I was having a manicure and looked at this stunning blonde next to me. I asked where she had her hair done and ironically, she wanted to know where I have my hair styled. Guess what??? We both are loyal, dedicated Sanela clients. Shawneen is another stylist at the salon, and she has such a sense of personal style and is such a delight to deal with that I highly recommend her. To have your hair washed by Anna is a total treat. And last, but not least, Paola greets you on the phone and makes one feel like a treasured, valued customer. Sharon H., Newton read more

Sanela is great. Diana is amazing, and has always done an excellent job on my hair. I've loved the products she uses on my hair, they're all really light and smell wonderful. The staff is friendly, the salon itself is clean and warm, and their online system to request and confirm appointments is super convenient. If you're looking to get a great hair cut, Sanela is definitely worth a visit! read more