I went to get my haircut today ! I missed my appointment and they kindly rescheduled it . My hair stylist is JC . He was very patient and kind . We talked for 25 mins before the haircut . He make sure that I got what I want it . Which is a super bad ass pixie cut ! Both cool and cute . Super easy to style ! Super pretty ! Thank u very much JC! Can't wait to see u for my next coloring ! Thank u !!!!!!!!!!! It's my 5th time to visit JC! Thank u for the great cut and color again !!!! read more

VAIN - It's my 5th time to visit JC Thank u for this great cut and color - Hair Salons Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I am so sad that I just now found Danielle! I'm moving to NYC and wanted a change before I left. I haven't had a haircut in over a year! A former co-worker of my mine suggested VAIN in Ballard but I live in Tacoma and Ballad was just way too far, so I was glad to see that there was a location in downtown Seattle. I'm really attached to my hair and have had some awful experiences with salons in Seattle before, so I made sure to THROUGHLY read the reviews and found DANIELLE! She had some great reviews on asian hair which can be really hard to color. I didn't want orange or even blonde hair. I was pretty scared about the coloring but Danielle made me feel super comfortable about what kind of color she could give me. Definitely not blonde or orange. She was the best to talk to and me me feel super comfortable in telling her, "hey, whatever you think works best." Because she did the BEST! I am super happy with my cut and color. She made me feel comfortable and cared for. Which I appreciate in any customer service. :) read more

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I was looking at where i should get my hair done and saw a lot of positive reviews for VAIN. It definitely is a great place and everyone was nice. I wanted to get balayage with ash blonde, but with my hair condition-- it wasnt doable. Carissa was nice enough to still give me a balayage with a lighter tone than my current brown died hair. I like it a lot!!! Not too orange and lighter. read more

VAIN - Hair Salons Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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First off, I grew up feeling bad for my hairdressers. I remember my mom taking me to her hair salon and seeing the "Dear god, she brought the kid." Face I have thick and I mean THICK AS FUCK hair. It'd take an hour or more for my old hairdresser to cut my hair. Back to VAIN, I loved it here. The store is hip as hipster Seattle could get- funky, edgy and stylish. My hairdresser, Jamiee, was fabulous and she washed/cut/styled my hair in less than 30minutes. Wow. The whole cut costed about $60 plus tip but it was worth the money. Thanks VAIN! Tip: Pricing depends on the hair dresser. read more

VAIN - Waiting for my sister's hair cut to be done - Hair Salons Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Rebekah is the best and an artist with color and curly hair!!! I've been to a lot of hair places, but Vain is probably one of my favorites. Besides my Jill at Genesis Salon in Hawaii, Rebekah is probably the only person I trust to cut my hair. Jill tells me that people get lost when they cut my hair -- I'm Mexican Chinese so my hair is thick, curly, and there is lots of it. Rebekah also does my color. She creatively places color in my hair so it looks super awesome. To top it all off, she's a great person and super funny. read more

Need great hair? Go see one of the stylists at Vain. Tell them your needs when you make your apptmt and they'll hook you up with the appropriate artist. Or see if you can get an apptmt with Victoria, the founder/owner, with whom you can't go wrong. Fun Belltown location in funky storefront. Free touch up trims are a plus. read more

VAIN - Vic - Hair Salons Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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I wish I could still give 5 stars. I've been going to Vain for over 4 years, I've recommended the salon to everyone. After yesterday, I will not be going back. My catch-phrase for 4 years was "Vain owns my soul" and I would recommend the store to EVERYONE. Any scent of someone saying they needed a haircut, and I'd jump on a recommendation. I always left 100% satisfied with my haircut. I went for hair, brows, accessories, you name it. But, this past weekend, my Sister (one of the several people I've sent to vain for their hair needs) had a cut-and-color that didn't go as expected. However, I was willing to move past it and chalk it up to an off-day, and went in for my appointment on the 3rd (which was scheduled a month ago) after receiving my appointment confirmation call the day before. I arrived maybe 5-10 min early, checked in, and sat down to wait. After 40 minutes, Rebekah- my stylist for four years- comes over and says "I'm not comfortable doing this after what happened this weekend, I'll give you a referral to another stylist" walks me to the front desk and then walks away. After leaving me sitting there for 30 minutes past my appointment time. I can understand not wanting to work with me after the events of this weekend. But as a loyal customer for over 4 years, I expect at least a warning that my appointment was cancelled. I drove downtown, I paid for parking, just to sit there for 40 minutes. A call would have been nice, or at least when Rebekah saw me enter the salon, send someone over to say the appointment had been cancelled. Clients are expected to cancel 24 hours in advance. I'd expect a professional salon to hold the same policy for their stylists. tldr; I've been a loyal client for 4 years. I love vain's atmosphere and the stylists' friendly attitude. However, after two unprofessional moves in less than a week, I will not be going back and will cease to recommend them to anyone. read more

Updating to say that I have been married to this salon since moving to Seattle and have not had a bad cut/color yet. Even when Carissa (my go-to) was out on vacation for a while, there was always a skilled colorist to take care of me! Scarlett was also great! Also if anyone is curious about what kind of color, this place does amazing natural colors (red, platinum, icy blondes etc), but also does STUNNING non-traditional colors. I decided to be bold last time I was in and went from a natural red/auburn down to a bright pink/peach/rose gold ombre and I've never loved my hair more. Seriously just check out their instagram photos. Going back soon for more strange color choices and I can't wait! read more

I have been going to Vain for both hair cut and color since 2013. Apart from their cool vibe and friendly staff, I find them absolutely fantastic with their service. I see Carissa for my hair color- she is such a natural for picking out exactly the shade and tone you are looking for. I usually go a balayage and am always extremely happy with the outcome. I am not as picky about who I see for my hair cut because honestly, they are all great. Make sure to make an appointment well in advance as they get busy in the evenings. They offer free trim/ touch up for upto 4 weeks after your hair cut. In general I find them fairly priced, not too expensive and not a steal. I pay around 200 for the color (which I get maybe once in 6-8 months) and 50-60 for the cut. read more

Ok this spot is so cute. Loved the vibe. I had a color done and bangs. Color came out just how I wanted A+. If you want a good color, this is the salon. I'm dominican with curly hair so this would of been a hit or miss for me, since ONLY Dominican women know how to work my hair. BUT I was paired up with Nayla. She did everything I asked for. Super kind! Will be coming back! 4 stars because I thought it was pricey but I'm from nyc and used to do a cut and color for like $60 so everything is going to be expensive to me. Don't be afraid to ask for what u want! Remember that! read more

I've been coming here for the past three years or so, and since I'm kind of lazy and often broke I don't give my hair the love it deserves as frequently as it deserves to get it. However, when I do, my hair gets some serious lovin' from the fabulous stylists at Vain. I've seen Janae and Valentine in the past (and they were fantastic), but I have since become faithful to the marvelous Sarah B. None of them were afraid of my super-thick (yet super-fine) hair, they listened when I said that I was really low-maintenance about my hair and wanted a cut that would be equally so, and they made my hair look good. I can't comment on their color services, but they are rock stars with scissors, razors and those thinning shears. Sarah B has also introduced me to Moroccanoil products, which have basically changed my life. And they have free four-week trims! You can't go wrong with Vain. read more

The majority of people at vain are lovely and work very hard. Years ago, I used to go here for color (I don't remember the stylist's name) and it was always gorgeous HOWEVER, I went for a simple trim from Misa on Saturday, and she absolutely butchered my hair. I asked for a trim with long layers. She started cutting from behind. And when she was done she had cut off 9 inches, thinned my hair without asked and cut choppy, uneven layers. She let me leave the salon with the back of my hair all crooked because "she didn't want to upset me further". Mel, the manager at West Seattle, said she couldn't fit me in to fix their stylists butcher job for over a week, so now I have to go to work with uneven hair and layers that don't match. The rest of the stylists at vain are lovely but STAY AWAY FROM MISA. She obviously doesn't listen to her clients read more

I cannot say enough about Jeanne! She's consistently managed my thick, wild, wavy, sometimes curly hair just the way I want it (currently straight). On top of which she's a spectacular colorist! She's helped me get back to my natural red of yesteryear with a graceful transition. I have never gotten so many compliments on my cut and color before! She has a great consultative style. She really takes some time up front to discuss your hair, your desired style and how much maintenance you want. She it's a creative problem solver who takes all of your input and consistently delivers great results. I've been seeing her for about a year now and she's wonderful. read more

VAIN - I cannot say enough about Jeanne! - Hair Salons Near Me - Seattle, Washington

This review is about a year late.. hehe. I used to go there to get my hair cut and colored by Carly - but certain circumstances haven't permitted me to make the trip recently which is a bummer. The place is very relaxed and I love the layout of the mirrors and chairs. They have a nice comfy couch to sit on while waiting for your appointment and free coffee and water to drink. There's also jewelry and makeup you can buy, among the hair products. I don't know if she still works there as I haven't been there in ages, but Carly is an excellent hair stylist. She probably gets this a lot, but compared to the dozen other stylists I've been to in the past few years, she takes first place. She's cool and listens and does exactly what I want regarding my certain style, and doesn't pressure me in any way to change anything. The last time I was there I colored my hair 3 shades of silver, which turned out great! Although the price wasn't cheap, it was well worth it. I should make time to come here again since I do miss it dearly. read more

Well, after writing my last review, Chelsea left Vain. I proceeded to have two appointments with another person. The first being a haircut, where I got a one-side undercut which was great other than her doing something entirely different from the picture because "she thought it would look good" which was a little irritating considering she didn't ask at all... next was a bleach job on grown out roots which took 2.5 bleaches in one appointment and cost $220. It's NEVER taken so much bleach for my hair, it lifts quickly but requires a lot of debrassing but she left the bleach in for small amounts of time, it felt like they were trying to charge me for more sessions; even with Chelsea once it cost under $100 (and she was a tier up). The woman I was going to left, and once again I had to try someone new. I brought in a picture of a short, asymmetrical bob- pixie length on one side (leaving my undercut), down to the chin on the other, coming up to 1-2 inches below the skull line. Somehow she read this as all over pixie, and while she left the one side down to the chin in the front, it quickly forms into just formed short hair all around the rest of my head. She told me my hair was really thick which was confusing since EVERY hairdresser has told me I have thin hair. SHE THINNED MY HAIR SO MUCH I LOOK LIKE AN OLD WOMAN NOW. Seriously I wasn't ready to look like my mom this early in my life. I have no idea why she thought this was a good idea but the majority of my hair is now 1-2 inches long and anything falling longer on the one side looks like a whisp of cotton candy. My hair is thin and fine, any thickness helps it have some shape! I look horrible and it's extremely psychologically taxing. I'm a feminine person and have a pretty small head, so it's REALLY hard having basically a boy cut other than that whisp in the front. I'm wearing hats in public and am going to dye my hair darker so it doesn't look nonexistent. My advice is, if you want to have your hair done how you ask, don't go to the lower tier of hairdressers. Unfortunately, this has been my salon for 2 years now and I'm going to have to find another one. read more

This is a review for Alise! She has dyed my hair several times and each time does a beautiful job and gets the color exactly right. We did a auburn/red originally, then returned me back to my normal dark brown color. You can't tell the difference between my natural color growing in and the color. VAIN is also doing a great job with cleaning/ safety procedures in the current environment - the salon feels very safe. read more

I accompanied my friend who got a side undercut at Vain. Shoutout to Ashley for handling my friend's voluminous curls. The undercut came out clean and even. Vain also has a large selection of hair products, skin care products, trendy jewelry/hair accessories, soaps, candles. The interior has warm lighting and their is plenty of delicious tea to sip on as your waiting. For being right in Seattle - this very skilled salon is surprisingly affordable! My friend paid about $40 for the undercut, trim, shampoo and style. Would recommend this place in a heartbeart. read more

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EDITED: since vain nor the stylist has reached out i have edited this I decided Togo to vain after seeing a color style I loved on instagram. I will admit mistake on my part. I met with the stylist, Greta, she said what I wanted was unattainable in one session. So I said ok I want color in my hair but am very particular about the color not looking brassy or lighter than my skin color (I'm Indian) she seemed to understand and agreed with my statements. She starts the color process I realize I have a ton more foil one side of my head then the other. Didn't say anything. She then puts me under heat and goes to do another haircut! She keeps sending an assistant over to check my hair. Finally it's time to tone I get shampooed again the assistant put toner in my hair says it'll be 20 min 10 min later she shampoo me then puts another toner and says it'll be another 20 min! This time 5 min later she rinses it out. Bottom line my hair never looked so bad it's fried from the bleach it's orange and I have really light pieces. The next day I went to my regular stylist to get it fixed. I am a working mom and don't have time to deal with bad stylists but I will say it is incredibly frustrating when a stylist decides to double boom themselves. She basically forgot about me over processed my hair tried to fix it with toner. I should have paid her assistant!!! BTW i should have known better if you look at Gretas instagram all the hair looks fried. Never ever again. read more

Read the reviews and stay away!!! Burnt bald spots, Rebecca the monster, no heater, dirty sweatshirts to keep you warm (wtf) stylist deciding their not taking you for your appointment while your in the lobby. Ha! Thanks for the warnings and NO WAY!!! read more

I can't recommend Favi (Fabiola) at Vain enough. She is newer to the team, and did an incredible job on both cut and color. She was so fun and really listened to what I wanted and took the time to make it gorgeous. 10/10 would recommend so strongly!! read more

VAIN - Hair Salons Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Okay. I have avoided writing this review for a while now because I actually feel bad reviewing it so poorly when everyone seems to love it so much. But I think my experience is worth mentioning even if it is an outlier. Here goes... I typically get my hair cut at Rudy's because the price is right and they do a pretty good job. But after a few less-than-great haircuts there I decided to pay a little more and go to a salon where I could count on leaving feeling good about my haircut. Of course I went a-Yelping. It turned out that VAIN had amazing reviews AND was right by my office. Score! After checking out their website and seeing "haircuts starting at $30," I walked over and made an appointment. After I had been assigned a stylist I learned that her prices start at $45. I was hesitant as that was already almost double what I was used to. But I resolved to go for it and just get a great haircut. After all, based on others' experiences it sounded like it was worth the price. Before my appointment I looked at the bios on the VAIN website. My stylist's specialties were not in any way complementary to my hair type or style. I was now very nervous, but I told myself that a great salon would never pair me with a stylist that would do a bad job. Maybe she was amazing at everything even if her specialties were better suited to other hairstyles. Plus they actually saw me in person when I made the appointment, so they knew what she would be working with. The salon itself is very cool. The decor is kind of hipster-industrial. The staff was friendly and helpful. I met the stylist and she gave me a great wash before the cutting began. I'll spare you the painful details of my actual haircut. I described exactly what I wanted, which was just a shorter version of what I already had. What I got - after 2 turns of we're-done-no-wait-can-you-fix-this-thing-about-my-hair - was a weird asymmetrical semi-bowl cut with strange lines. Toward the end I was so nervous about what was going on that I was sweating. Finally, I just said, "Looks great," paid, tipped well (I can't not do it), and got out of there fast. As soon as I was past the window I put up my hood and texted my hairstylist friend. I knew it was bad. I could feel it. I told myself it probably wasn't as bad as I initially thought. But it was. It was worse. My friend came over that night to fix the damage and was amazed that I had gotten that bad of a cut at VAIN. She said the cut didn't make any sense at all and the stylist had also accidentally cut into my hair a little too deep in a couple of places. Fortunately, my friend is excellent at what she does and turned it into a pretty top-notch haircut. I wouldn't discourage anyone from going to VAIN. My experience is probably rare. That's why I also don't want to mention the name of the stylist. But I don't plan on returning. The first time around was far too traumatic and expensive. ======= Update: Shortly after I posted my review, VAIN contacted me to apologize for my bad experience. They put a credit on my account such that if I decided to give them another shot it would effectively be at no charge. They also recommended a stylist for me based on my Yelp photos, which I thought was extra nice (and clever) of them. I did appreciate the gesture, and they may have convinced me to give them another shot. High-five to VAIN for trying to make things right. read more

Once upon a time... I had a haircut in Hong Kong. The guy gave me bangs. Slanted bangs. Too weird for US bangs. He also gave me purple highlights. Bright purple. 5 years too early for US purple. I came back looking like a freak with a purple mullet. But it's okay, it didn't take too long for me to learn to love my mullet, and developed my love for the color purple. That was my tragic bang cutting experience. Years later... Jenny Slay cut my bangs, and I don't hate her! She gave me the low maintenance, cute hair that I asked for. Thanks Jenny! Now, I can go sing my "I love my hair" song. read more

Why I love Vain: 1. THE STYLISTS Jenny Slay has been cutting my hair for almost six years. She's coached me through weird post-dreadlock curls, short-hair grow out, betty page bangs, going darker, going lighter, and growing my hair all the way out. A year ago I walked in and said "My hair is now long and straight and brown. I am bored. I always wear my hair in two braids. I want something exciting. Help me." She bleached the tips of my braids and dyed them bright pink. If I had a dollar for every compliment, I think I would have earned the haircut back two or three times. This hair is now my trademark. My hairdresser gave me a trademark! I love her. 2. THE SERVICE Vain might seem like a hipster salon, but there's no attitude. I often find myself sitting in a chair between a 50 year old woman who looks like she's from Kirkland, and a 15 year old with braces, and both are getting awesome love from their stylists. While Vain is undeniably hip and bad-ass, there is absolutely NO elitism or pretentious BS from the staff. It's not like one of those Salons (cough*RUDY'S*cough) where the bad attitude is part of how they make you think they're cool. You don't have to be "cool" to go to this very cool salon. You get respect at Vain, whether you're going for a pink mohawk or a little foiling to cover your gray. (That said, you'd get triple love if you went for a pink mohawk to cover your gray.) 3. IT FEELS GOOD I went into Vain recently and was actually *disappointed* that I my pre-cut wait was only 5 minutes. The fireplace and couch and store in the front of the space are so cozy and comfy....I just wanted to hang out there for a while. How many waiting rooms can you say that about? FINAL PROOF: When I lived in LA for a year and a half, I insisted on getting my hair done on trips home to Seattle. Nothing in LA could compare with my beloved Vain. read more

I know, I know. This place is currently rated at 4.5 stars and at this point, Gene Juarez himself probably gets a haircut here. But I have to write a review, because my stylist Betsy changed my life last year, and I will forever be grateful. I was born with unruly, somewhat spastic, defiant curly hair. It doesn't curl down, it curls OUT. As a kid, I was nicknamed "Curly Sue" and teased relentlessly. As soon as I turned ten, I mastered the blow dryer. I spent the next 11 years in front of a mirror every morning, blow dyer and flat iron in hand, pulling my hair as taut as possible, willing my hair to cooperate. I experimented with reverse perms in my teens, and when Japanese thermal re-conditioning was introduced, I paid $350 (at a REDUCED rate!) to have that done every six months. It took over 4 hours, and smelled god-awful. You could say I hated my hair. When I first started coming to Vain two years ago, I had Betsy cut my hair into a funky layered 'do, which I loved. But one day, after about six months of coming to her, she held up a fried piece of hair and said, "Girl, we've got to do something about this." She starting cajoling me - I should stop straightening my hair, I should let the thermal re-conditioning grow out, she could show me how to style it curly, it would be so cute....I think after 13 years of battling my hair, I was just exhausted. I gave in immediately. When I returned 8 weeks later, she took the scissors to my hair and cut off a good 4 inches, removing the re-conditioned hair. It was a shock at first - but I started receiving compliments almost immediately. "Is that your real hair?" women would gasp. "It's beeeautiful." Beautiful? Nobody had ever called my hair beautiful. But with Betsy's guidance and the right products, I was left with perfect auburn ringlets - the head of hair people spend hours trying to create. And it took me all of 45 seconds: gel, scrunch, spray. Done. Betsy and Vain, I love you. My hair is healthier and prettier, and I enjoy an extra 40 minutes of sleep each morning. Bless you! (Note: My rating is a 4.5 - I would love to give 5 stars but prices have raised dramatically in the last 2 years. Totally worth it, but the percentage increase is large). read more

I'm actually writing a review on behalf of my mom, as I recently encouraged (begged) her to drop her old stylist and pick a new place on Yelp. She picked Vain. Now, I love my mom and everything, but her stylist of the past few years has definitely not done my mom's lovely hair any justice. But after going to Carly at Vain, she looks *fantastic*. Years younger, hip, just amazing all around. After the cut, she got compliments everywhere she went! Even my dad loves it! Carly added some color, but didn't try to hide the gray or anything. She gave my mom an edgy cut that doesn't make her look like a 60 year-old reaching for 30, she just looks like her best self. It's also a style that my mom can replicate at home--this is not a woman used to primping, so something easy to fix up in a short amount of time was essential. This cut was a success all around, so I can definitely recommend Vain. read more

As someone with SUPER curly hair (like insane curls) going to get my hair cut has always been a stressful experience. I've left many a salon holding back tears because they stylist doesn't understand the "shrink" factor of super curly hair and ends up taking off an inch...which looks like 5 inches was taken off. Cue the tears and wearing my hair up for weeks. Well, my curly haired friends, not the case with Jeanne. She is a magical unicorn stylist. Not only is Jeanne a great stylist (I've probably taken one too many post cut selfies because god forbid, I actually like the cut) and great to talk to, she is VERY knowledgeable about curls and hair care. She taught me so many great tips that I will hopefully use in my daily hair care routine. Curly girls (and guys for that matter), Jeanne is a godsend. Go see her! read more

a week after spending an entire weekend at VAIN downtown, i decided to write a review because of how unhappy i still am. i normally see Scott in Ballard and was looking to get my hair toned an all over copper. He recommended seeing Carissa as she is a redhead specialist, even stating so on their site- i figured i was in great hands. i came in at 2pm, got a bleach to lighten my natural color. after the bleach, she came back after mixing up something i had no idea what it was... something she gathered from my pictures i assume. because she was running late she asked me to move out of her chair for her next client while my dye set it and then asked her assistant to shampoo/blow dry. not only did it take this assistant more than 30 minutes to blow dry my hair, i was horrified at the color on my head. some version of blonde which was nothing remotely close to what i asked for. in a scramble, once again Carissa now finished with her other client, goes into the back and whips up another color without consulting. after this set in and i was blow dried, i expressed concern about the beaming orange tone coming out of my roots- i was told the lighting in the salon made it hard to tell bla bla bla. by the time i left (4 hours later) it was dark out and still couldn't assess the dye job. i woke up the next morning with flaming orange roots and the ends in some mousey brownish blonde. mortified to even go to work the next day, i called immediately that morning and was seen that afternoon. the third time you'd think would be a charm. wrong. because i was upset with how bright my roots were and the inconsistant coloring, she decided to darken it up. i ended up walking out there with hair darker than i came in with, and uneven patches of a brownish blond mixed in with my deep copper roots. therefore, absolutely no reason to have bleached my hair- which, after doing that, and 3 dye jobs in less than 24 hours has completely left my hair fried. i am beyond disappointed with VAIN. the only remotely decent part of the experience was speaking to Courtney over the phone after the 3rd failed attempt. i feel as though the refund they offered was a given, i really wish i could be comped a tone with another stylist in addition since the one with Carissa was an absolute disaster. i can't even attempt to salvage my hair with a box coloring because there are multiple shades on my head. i desperately prefer the hair i walked in with over what im forced to walk around with right now. absolutely awful experience. UPDATE: vain made it right, called me after seeing this review and set up another appointment with a new stylist, Danielle. two days after seeing her, i am still overly happy and have gotten plenty of compliments since. my color is rich, and it is even. thank god for danielle, great stylist and a kick ass chick. read more

I had a painful haircut at Vain. The stylist was likable, but she pulled my hair a lot. I also had a keratin treatment for the first time. My eyes started to burn half way through the process. I asked her if that was normal, and she said, "Yes." I would have preferred that she mention this upfront. The services were affordable, but not worth the discomfort. The keratin treatment didn't last as long as they said it would, and I took care to maintain the treatment by using Keratin shampoo and conditioner, and avoiding daily washing. I was overdue for some new styling and maintenance products, so I purchased shampoo, conditioner, and two Kevin Murphy products. One of the Kevin Murphy products I purchased was "Heated.Defence," which I intended to use for straightening. The fragrance is offensive. The scent is similar to Old Spice, and clashed with my perfume. I'm not knocking Old Spice, it's okay for men, but I rather not sport the scent. Generally, I'm not sensitive to scents, but you can smell for yourself--the scent is pungent. After one whiff of this product, I called Vain to ask for a refund or exchange. They turned me down, but offered to help me select an additional product. So essentially, their offer was to invite me to give them more business. That's ridiculous. In my opinion, it was a poor business decision to deny my refund/exchange request. I don't think they should sell a straightening product that reeks of men's cologne when the target consumer is female. When I learned that an exchange was out of the question, I tried the product to see if the scent would dissipate. It doesn't, and my husband inquired about my "odor" that evening. I don't mind spending money, but I do mind wasting it. I'll chalk this up to a lesson--learned. I'll avoid Vain and take care to inspect products for offensiveness prior to purchase. I can understand Vain's appeal, but I had a bad experience. Hairdressing is a competitive market, and I rather give my business to a salon that works with their clients to create a good experience. read more

I went to a "blonde specialist." She looked fresh out of cosmetology school, so don't know how much experience she really had. She gave my hair a green tint. It was really awful. The cut looked like I put on a helmet and cut around the bottom. Its down home and not snotty, but I guess I just had the wrong person. I actually went twice, just to make sure, becuase this place is so highly rated. No, you are all wrong. PS, I actually saw them cut some chick's hair into a mullet. Granted, she asked for it, but they didn't even make it look cute. It looked like the gal could have done it herself with Wahl clippers. read more

My sister is my usual hair stylist. She has an amazing natural ability when it comes to styling hair, and I have come to trust her with my hair like no-one else. She however lives 4 hours away so my hair cuts are not always timely and sometimes I just can't wait anymore. The last time I couldn't wait my hair was absolutely massacred. It was the first and only time I ever cried over my hair, cuz it was ~that bad~. So when I got to the point that my bangs were non existent and the rest of my tresses were threatening to take over my head and the world I buckled down, did some research, and very nervously made an appointment at VAIN to get my hair did. 1st things first, when making my appointment they took the time to ask about the state and quality of my hair to pair me up with the stylist who would work best for me. A simple and necessary effort on their part that put some of my trepidation at ease. When walking into the salon I felt even better -- for one it is the "quirky" sort of joint I feel comfortable in, and two it was the kind of salon I could see my sister working in. I was a little early so they offered me water or tea while I waited for my stylist. Right on time I met Guilia -- a super cute and awesome girl from Switzerland who was set to do my hair. We talked options, and drawing inspiration from my clothing (I was wearing a cute "pin-up" style dress for a birthday outing) she asked me to trust her with my hair and off we went. An hour and a half later - after a fabulous shampoo/massage, blow dryers, clipping scissors and a curling irons I was left with an amazing hair-style. I was ~beyond~ happy, giddy even with what Guilia did. Simple little changes and time to work out the details did wonders shaking up my look just like I wanted! On top of all of this, since Guilia was trying something new with my style she only charged me half price. What I would have paid went to her as a gigantic tip, and Im excited to go back in for my free touch up here in a couple weeks. I love Guilia. I love VAIN. And sadly for my sister I have found myself a new stylist. read more

So, I said I'd only write special reviews. Here is another one that is way overdue. You have short and/or spiky hair? You want something different and sassy? Have crazy haircut ideas? Go to Jamie... She is ah-mazing. Tell her what you want and then sit back and relax. She'll make that happen. I've never given any salon a 5 star but Jamie and Vain are really 5 stars in my book. Great management, nice and organized, cool ambience, great hair products... But I should "warn" you, color is not Jamie's specialty and she has a tendency to be condescending when it comes to hair. She talks as if you are a clueless dumb person knowing nothing about hair. Sometimes its really irritating to listen to her hair lectures --especially when I know she is wrong. But I decided to totally IGNORE that side of her and just nod when she talks. Or I simply steer away from hair topic and talk about other things. Also, she is totally not open to different ideas regarding hair related stuff and tends to shut you up emphasizing how experienced she is. But, like I wrote, Jamie is great at cutting hair, so I decided it worth the tradeoff... In other words, would you prefer a nice hair stylist that doesn't do a good job, or a not-so-friendly stylist who does a great job? --I am yet to find someone who is both nice and great, so... my experience. read more

When I first moves to Seattle I was trying to look for MY salon. I was told about this place by a friend and went to her stylist. Unfortunately. When I arrived I was told my stylist was running 10 min late. When she finally got in she seemed irked and not wanting to be there. She outwardly told me she was hungover. I tried to conversate with her but all I got were one word replies. I got what I wanted out of my cut, but professionally I was turned off. For me the cut is half of the experience the other half isthe talking. I never returned. read more

Vain needs another rave review just like I need a hole in my head. However, like others before, I had a great first-time experience, taking advantage of their $15 haircut special, and therefore, must also sing its praises. Even though it's kind of like beating a dead horse. We get it. Vain rocks. I left there with a whole lotta less hair on my head, which was a good thing, seeing as I had reached some kind of hair life crisis. Janae, who is one of their apprentice stylists, took my few words of instruction, which included the phrase, "just fix it," and expertly cut layers into my shoulder-length hair. When she reached a stopping point, she ran her hands through my hair, cocked her head in contemplation, and asked, "How do you feel about the thickness of your hair?" This was a question I'd never really thought about before. I mean, I knew my hair was relatively thick, and perhaps that's why it never really laid flat and was always flippy, but I was under the impression that thick hair was a good thing. Then she asked me if I wanted her to thin it out, which seemed kind of weird, but I reluctantly agreed to it, hoping to god I wouldn't look like an alopecia patient in the end. Again, she expertly cut away at my thick mass of hair, at times taking off rather large chunks with these special scissors that reminded me of kindergarten scissors. When she was finished Edward Scissorhandsing me, she blew my hair dry and flat ironed it bone straight. I was super pleased with the end result, especially since the haircut only cost $15. Of course, I've yet to make my hair look nearly as good as it did when I left Vain, however, for posterity, and because I'm just a little bit vain myself, I took a picture of my new hair. It can be seen here: http://images.yelp.com/photo?id=c9eGzU9iu31nL1qSdpAihw&s=l Is it too vain to say that I look smokin' hot? Ah well, guess I just did. read more

I have followed my hair stylist here. I see Adam! He's done red head melts, given me a pixy and seen me through growing my hair out long for my wedding. read more

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After reading so many great reviews on Vain and spending way too much on haircuts at Gene Juarez, I decided I had to try it for myself. Now let me tell you, my hair has a mind of its own...random super curly cowlicks complete with sections of oddly straight hair. Needless to say, it's been a challenge for almost every stylist I've ever had. However, Janae just blew me away. She knew exactly what I was looking for in my haircut and didn't let me down one bit. The scalp massage I recieved with my shampoo was BLISS. She got my crazy curls under control and cut it into the sexy layers I've always wanted. I highly recommend her! Weeks later, my hair still looks awesome. I can't wait to go back in for my complimentary trim! EDIT: 1/18/08 Why down to two stars from five? Upon my next hair cut, my hairdresser informed me that the last person to cut my hair thinned out my hair so unevenly and close to my scalp that some sections were only 4 inches long. He told me that normally thinning out hair is great but only for people that wear their hair straight all the time (NOT me)...I had been wondering why my hair felt so thin and lifeless the past two months. I will not be returning to Vain. read more

I read some great things about vain. I did my research, I even walked in to poke around before I got my hair done. I was really excited to let the hair stylist go bananas on me...I have a job where I can have the wildest look avaliable and I'm ready to get that done....but..... I.....was so unimpressed. I had called for an appointment, asking for a "funky hairdresser who could give me something WOW." And I ended up with.... something so dull I should have just gone to supercuts and saved the cash for a dinner out. My stylist (a hipster dude with nerd specs, Jake?) was so obviously not excited to do my hair, I couldn't get him to spark up a conversation for anything. And when I stayed still, shut up and let him get it over with- I felt like a jerk. He barely showed me how to style it, and just kinda ditched me in the end. This was all a while ago, I wasn't gonna say anything about it, until a little while ago a friend of mine said she went in for a color. She wanted her hair to be accented with chunks of a few other colors. Something bold, funky and personal. She ended up walking out with strawberry blonde boring, and feeling like the stylist charged her an arm and a leg to tell her her style wasn't what she wanted. I dunno, maybe it's just me...but I was totally unimpressed, I'm not enthusiastic about spending lots of cash to feel like I'm wasting my hairdressers time while they do their job, and I'm not excited to feel like the geekiest kid in high school at the coolest club in town. Bottom line- feh. Not going back. read more

After a bad dye job from another salon I went to Vain today to get a trim and cut off the fried ends. I walked out with the second worst cut in my life!!!!! I'm completely mortified. I rushed home to shower and redo the style to see if it was as bad as it seemed....and it was worse. I have never felt so manly, so unattractive after a hair appointment since a chop job at JC Penny's back in high school!!!!!! So much for finding the next best salon in Seattle. read more

I have been meaning to write a review about Vain for far over a week. I knew I was going to give it 5 stars and rave all about my new do, but I was torn about one thing. Do I yelp to the world the name of the hairstylist who gave me one of the best haircuts in my life and risk the possibility that it may become more difficult to make an appointment with her b/c everyone will want to see her? Well, I decided the answer is yes. Her name is JANAE!!! JANAE, JANAE, JANAE, JANAE, JANAE!!! She is AMAZING! Ok, so here is the deal. I have short hair and I have had a number of good cuts and a number of really bad cuts in my 8 years as a short haired girl. JANAE so rocks the house with short hair that I will be going to her for the rest of my life! First off, she asked me how I style my hair. No one has ever asked me that. She styled my hair in that way before she cut it. Then, she cut it dry, which I know I love, but never really understood why. I asked why she does dry cuts and she told me it is b/c she can see every single strand of hair when it is dry. Well, my new do feels like she cut every single hair individually. She took her time, was confidant with her technique, and textured the hell out of my hair. It is perfect! I love it! She listened to what I like and don't like about my hair, I told her how I want it to work, and she truly made miracles happen. JANAE, JANAE, JANAE, JANAE. She is my hero! I even made another appointment for a cut and color 6 weeks from now. JANAE is so good with her scissors and razor that she should have a Phd in hair styling. She has only been licensed for 3 years and I have to say that I am really proud of this girl and her talent. It is so great to meet a woman who is rocking her profession. Everyone must run to Vain to have their head sculpted by JANAE. She is the bomb! read more

Never say never on a Sunday Jenny cut my hair yesterday, and it was a good time. First of all - Sunday! I noticed some of the other salons in the neighborhood were open as well... I also noticed they were mostly empty. Uh huh, I said it. Second - The place is totally hip and groovy with every flavor stylist you can imagine. The clientele is equally diverse. And diversity is like my *favoritest * flavor. Third - lots of cool little doo-daas to spend a dollar or ten or twenty on. Fourth - an art gallery that kept huzbeau happily occupied while I got cute. A *gallery* , people, not art on the salon walls! Fifth - Jenny listened to what I had to say, I listened to what she had to say and I look sizzlin' cute, if I do say so myself. So there you have it, Five stars. I could go on, but that's all they give me, and it's been said already anyways. Those other yelpers ain't lyin'. Run, don't walk to Vain. Please. I like to see cute people. read more

Live in Vain!!!! The stylists here know how to do it-and do it well! It really all comes down to a basis of communication between you and the stylist. I landed a coveted cancellation appointment with Carissa - I chose her because she is and works well redheads. I explained that I had wanted more amp to my hair coloring but depth. She mixed up at least 3 different variations of tone - which turned out beautifully in the end! I was handed off to her assistant stylist - due to running late on time - to finish up the blow out. I braced myself to coming out underwhelmed but the gal worked my hair into sleekness! I blew alot of dough $$ that day but Vain certainly proves its every drop worth. Snap up a few cute cheap bits of jewelry and free dumdum pops while in the wait! read more