Run--don't walk--to Ian at Low Ear Studio. Ian stopped me on the street on my walk home from work to tell me he loved my look and he wanted to work with me... he passed me a card with some of his best cuts on it (very professional photos and business card may I add). Needless to say my immediate thought was "Um yeah!" I checked out his Instagram and he has an expansive portfolio of styles (check him out if you haven't already/ @ianlevinsonhair). I was stoked to set up time in his chair for the following week. The studio itself (located near garment district) is well curated &&& a vibe. Chill music and well-styled interior design create a mood when you enter Low Earth thanks to the collective of talented artists working there. Ian offered me a sparkling water upon arrival (though if it was earlier in the day I'd hope it was an espresso from their beast of a machine!). And I could tell the vibes were good based on the conversations happening at both of the occupied chairs. Hair art is not a concept I've been familiar with in the past but after an hour in Ian's chair, I'm inspired creatively and by his passion for his craft. Ian was tactile, precise and thoughtful in every cut he took of my hair--walking me through the reasoning for the shapes he was creating. He wanted to educate me on why certain shapes and styles complement my look--or don't--and it's clear he knows his stuff. I'm even more impressed he just picked this up a couple of years ago and his passion has driven him to the city. I've never had a hair experience so thoughtful -- Ian is a hair shaman. This guy is going places! read more