Studio DNA - Beverly (Formerly L Salon &

I live on Long Island but my family and I make occasional trips to the L.A. area, and on every visit try to arrange a styling with BRENDAN PADILLA. He does my hair, my wife's, my adult children's, and two grand children's. He gives excellent advice in considering alternate styling, relates well to males and females, oldsters, young adults and young children alike, works quickly and skillfully, and none of us have failed to be delighted with the final result. He's interesting and personable without being fawning or intrusive.

Pros: Good advice, extremely skillful and artistic stylist, personable and interesting, relaxed but efficient.

Cons: None of which I am aware.

Posted 07/13/08

If you're reading this, you were in my position: searching for a stylist, not wanting another uninspired cut and not knowing where to go. Stop Searching, Call Brendan. I didn't know him or L Salon other than they were close to me, but I read the reviews and decided to go for it: I couldn't be more happy. I was ready for a cut from long hair to short, and Brendan worked with me until I was completely comfortable with where we were going. AND I GOT THE BEST STYLE EVER! It's literally a style that you can get up in the morning, run your fingers through it, and go. Plus, it's an actual STYLE, not just a cut. I get so many compliments, and I feel great. Trust Brendan. I have found my stylist, and I'm not looking back. Brendan, thank you, you're a dear.

Pros: Brendan has natural talent, and cares about how you feel walking out.

Posted 03/07/08

Stylist Wendy Lallas cut and colored my hair for my next day baby shower. Everyone loved it! People commented on it all day. She cut my hair in a style that was so cute and intuitively framed my face in the best way possible (and with all the extras of pregnancy, this was quite a feat!). I had to drive over 35 miles to get to her and it was well worth it!

Pros: up to date looks and style, great color!

Cons: far drive (for me)

Posted 03/02/08

Brendan Padilla has been my hair stylist for almost ten years. I had been searching far and wide for someone that was intuitive and a genius with hair...difficult combo to find. I happened across him as a walk-in after jumping around from recommendation to recommendation...always feeling lost. Brendan got me immediately. I literally will sit in his chair and say "do what you want" and he will always make it genius. He's a phenomenal colorist and his cuts are gorgeous and grow out so well. I ALWAYS get multiple compliments from people when I do something different with Brendan. Recently he did something drastic...did an amazing red that went to black at the tips which has garnered me so many compliments I should really start carrying his cards on me. I was just in NY and a colorist actually sat there and EXAMINED my hair thoroughly, trying to see what exactly my Brendan had done...he was amazed and decided it was important to study my hair. Even tonight...I went for sushi, and the person 2 seats down from me at the sushi bar had to stop and say that he LOVED my hair color...that it was phenomenal.
Need I say more. This one is for life. I will never cheat on Brendan as long as he decides to do hair. He is the best, and damnit, I deserve the best.

Pros: Brendan Padilla is the best...I will let him do anything he wants to my hair. Ultimate trust.

Cons: Hmmm... can't think of any at the moment.

Posted 11/05/07

Lisa has been cutting my hair for 10 years and alway does a great job. She is friendly and funny and makes a great cup of coffee. I would recommend Lisa and L Salon to anyone who is looking for a new stylist or salon. Just don't let Lisa wash your hair herself, if you want to stay dry!

Pros: Lisa is the best!

Cons: None

Posted 11/02/07

i can't say enough about l salon and lisa (she cuts/colors my hair and is amazing). the salon has great energy--no pressure to buy products, no attitude, staff is friendly and makes you feel comfortable, and the place is immaculate. but none of that would matter if you didn't like how your hair looked when you walked out the door (or until you got it cut/colored again). you'll always like how your hair looks! i haven't ever left without being completely happy and totally satisfied. lisa is magic--don't know how she does it, but she gets the color perfect ever time and has somehow managed to cut it so that it looks thicker and fuller than it really is. plus, she's great to hang out with (nothing worse than having a stylist who you don't particularly care about or don't want to talk to---but that is so not lisa!). i could go on and on but you really need to see for yourself. you'll be glad you did and you won't be going anywhere else anymore. really

Pros: appointments are scheduled at your convenience

Cons: haven't found any

Posted 10/19/07

if you hate your hair, you've gotta go to l salon--you'll never hate it again. elle has been coloring/cutting it for years and i wouldn't go anywhere else. and that's saying a lot because i used to change stylists all the time--it seemed like i would get a few great haircuts but after a few months of greatness, it would never happen again. not with elle, tho--it's always good and she's amazing with color. try her once and you're hooked for life!

Posted 10/19/07

My experience with L Salon has been terrific. The facilities are clean and the staff superb. Stepping into L Salon offers instant escape from the hustle of metropolitan Los Angeles. Reception greets you with a hearty smile as if to say,"Welcome Home!" Impressive artwork populates the brick walls and super positive beats create a chill atmosphere for one to lay back and experience 5 STAR pampering in what feels like a thousand light years from the daily grind. I must recommend Rada Maksimovich who is both foxy and professional. This statuesque beauty begins with a masterful head massage and shampoo before showing off serious chops with her scissors. I've been a client for 10 years. Do yourself a favor and step into the world of L Salon...you'll thank me for it.

Posted 09/27/07

I have been going to see Jessica Stein ever since she graduated from Paul Mitchell Hair Salon in San Diego. And since she has moved to L Salon I now make the commute from Long Beach just so she can do my hair. I trust her with my hair and she is always up to date with the styles that I am looking for. She is highly educated in her field and always makes me feel welcome. I recommend her to all of my friends and co-workers.

Pros: Friendly, knowledgable staff. Clean enviroment.

Cons: Parking

Posted 09/22/07

Its all about Brenden Padilla. I've been seeing him for a little under 7 years and he never fails me. His cuts can last as long as three months and still stay stylish. He uses only scissors - never clippers - and he really factors every single piece of hair into the overall cut. I watched him work out in his head exactly how he'd cut a specific look into my hair, and, after showing him a picture of what I wanted, and after cutting the exact style into my hair, and after realizing that I wasn't going to be able to pull the look off and freaking out, he called me back to his chair, put his big calm hands on my shoulders, asked me exactly what I didn't like. I told him, and he fixed it. He's a hair messiah. I'll never trust another stylist to cut my hair.

Posted 09/20/07

Brendan Padilla in my opinion is one of the best hair dressers in Los Angeles. I've been going to Brendan for years and have never once disliked my hair cut. The man knows what his doing. I remember one time i forget he was going on vacation, and i was in need of a hair cut and had no choice but to go to someone else... Big Mistake! I actually had to wear a hat for a week. Brendan Padilla hands down is the man to see for any issues you might have with your hair.

Posted 09/19/07

I love my stylist Jessica- she is efficient, creative, and a true artist. Jessica has done wonders with my thick wavy hair- She has taken it from dull brown to creamy butter blond (or as she calls it "bling bling blond") and cut it in a way that allows it to be it's curly self on the days that I don't feel like blow-drying, or sleek and straight on the days that I do. I have been to a lot of stylists that don't listen to what I want, and just do what they think will look best- or try and go for something more trendy, and I always left feeling unhappy with the haircut- and the stylist. That doesn't happen with Jess, she listens to your needs (ie. I want less weight, but the same length) and creates the exact cut that flatters and delivers (ie. long, and light). Jess is great. She's been doing my hair for a while now, and I can't imagine letting anyone touch it with a ten foot pole!

Pros: Reasonable, efficient, relaxing

Cons: If there is one, I can't find it....

Posted 09/18/07

This is the first time I submitted a review to tell the world about my hair but I couldn't refuse!

One word describes my experience at L Salon. FANTASTIC. I passed by the salon with my girlfriend and she looked at my hair and said "Go In" you are need. I was so lucky to have met Jessica Stein, who was to my avaiable. She transformed my unstyled head of weeds into a great up to date look. It was unbelievable. I work in the entertainment industry and been to top stylists all over the world and she ranks right with them.

She is not just a stylist but an artist. My g/f was so impressed she made an appointment and came back looking totally hot with her new look. I referred my friends to her and we all love the attention we get from her work.

So here is gift to you people out there... if you need a cut and want to be transformed visit Jessica over at the salon. You will see what I mean!

Bud

Pros: She knows what she's doin and is an artist not a haircutter

Cons: My hair doesn't grow fast enough to go more often

Posted 09/18/07

My fine, thin, wavy, even potentially curly, hair has been a struggle to get cut in a flattering way. In fact, even though I'd found another expensive hair salon specializing in curly hair, I wasn't completely happy. But, after Brendan Padilla cut my hair recently, I was FINALLY thrilled with my haircut. I know it's hard to believe, but at the age of 38, I've finally gotten a sophisticated but casual cut that flatters my head shape and fits my hair curl and texture perfectly. Brendan is one talented artist who has found his calling. And, he's gentle, funny, and pleasant to chat with, to boot.

Posted 09/03/07

A friend tipped me off to L Salon almost 10 years ago and I have been a devoted customer ever since. Nobody does color and cuts like Tina...believe me I made a big mistake in trying a few other places that were VERY expensive. L Salon has a welcoming, fun, relaxed atmosphere. Highly recommended! This is coming from someone who doesn't really have great hair, but everyone THINKS I do!

Pros: Color specialists, Thursday night cocktails for clients

Cons: parking is tough in the area but that's not their fault

Posted 08/28/07

I spent a year and a half looking for Reg. I moved from NYC and tried 3 other salons. A woman whose haircut I liked referred me to Reg but with the caviat that Reg is opinated. Wonderful. I like someone who knows what they're doing and I expect them to have an opinion. And Reg does. She's nicely opinionated. For the past two years, I've had great haircuts, great color, and accommodating appointments. L Salon has a warm, welcoming, and current style -- none of the silly pretentious attitude that some NYC and LA salons have.

Pros: Creative, individual looks. Flexible, on-time appointments - no waiting, no dragging on.

Posted 08/26/07

I have been going to Lisa for 6 years with the exception of having to move temporarily. My hair just wasn't the same during that dreadful time away from Lisa at L Salon! The main reason I love having my hair done there is because Lisa LISTENS to what you want but can also provide expert advice when necessary. I have never walked away unhappy. Everyone is friendly, the ambience is comfortable and the typical snobbery that infects many other salons, especially in L.A., is non-exsistent here. Everyone is cool and easy-going. Especially LISA! She's a sweetheart and knows hair color and cutting better than anyone I've ever seen! If I ever have to move away again, I will revolve my visits back to LA around hair appointments with her. She is the only one who knows how to make my highlights look natural and blonde, not orange, brassy or fake. Lisa is the best!

Pros: Comfort, Expertise

Posted 08/09/07

Melody has been doing my hair for a least 5 years. I like that she takes time to give me a great cut/color and makes good suggestions when I want to try something new. I highly recommend her for her fantastic cuts, color and great personality. She is always so friendly and funny! Go see her already!

Update: 11/28/08 - Melody is now at Vered Salon on Melrose - I have followed her there. She can be reached at: housemelody@gmail(dot)com for an appointment. She is just great!!!! Love my hair :-)

Pros: It's all good

Cons: none

Posted 08/04/07

I love this salon space and all the fun people there. I have been a client for about 7 years and have ONLY gone to Christopher for my cuts and color. I'm sure the other stylists are talented and fun, but Christopher is a master at his craft and will make you blush with his wild stories and one liners. He's a great listener too which kind of makes it like a cheap therapy appointment. You walk out feeling and looking better. People always compliment by fabulous highlights...
The only challenge can be parking after 6pm due to the permit only but it's worth the trouble.

Pros: Modern space and cool events

Cons: Parking and the fish restaurant down the street

Posted 07/31/07

Beautiful salon with a wonderful atmosphere. Everyone is super nice and friendly -not snobby like so many other salons. Reg does my hair, and she is FANTASTIC. Not only is she so much fun, but incredibly talented. She really goes the extra mile and makes sure that you leave feeling beautiful. I can't express enough how much I really just adore her. My hair has never looked better, and I have never received so many compliments on my color. She is amazing with color. It is easy to get appointments. The salon has great hair products and staff that are actually knowledgeable about them. There is nothing I don't like about L Salon. I highly highly highly recommend it to anyone and everyone.

Posted 07/30/07

The place is cute and fun, which is how I feel when i leave there. The coloring is superb, resident heartthrob Brendan makes me a natural surfer californian...

Pros: clean, hip

Cons: non

Posted 07/24/07

I have to write and say how wonderful my experiences have been at L Salon with Erica. She rescued me from a color nightmare, and I will never go anywhere else. An expert at her craft, she has always been so accomodating and wonderful. I always say I leave with "Happy Hair" thanks to Erica. The Salon is filled with fun professional people who are masters at their craft! Everyone should run, not walk, to L Salon!

Pros: Great Talented Hair Stylists!

Cons: None

Posted 07/13/07

Ask for Brendan Padilla...he's been cutting my hair for over a year and I trust him implicitly. Highly recommended, plus a great conversationalist to boot!

Posted 07/12/07

I have been getting my hair done by Elle, the owner of L Salon for approximately 13 years now and I love her. Before finding this salon I had switched once a year. L salon has a cool, fun and relaxed atmosphere. Because of my busy work schedule I always need a late night appointment and that has never been a problem. People stop to ask me "great color, who does it?" I am so pleased with everything I have done at the salon and would highly recommend it.

Pros: Great service and atmosphere

Posted 07/11/07

I have been going to L Salon for13 years, and would never consider another salon in Los Angeles. Everyone in the salon is warm and friendly, but still get the hip factor. If you want something new they go for it, but if you need a trim and want to keep your hair long, you won't leave this place crying. People literally ask me all the time, "where do you get your hair done?". And, I have challenged, flat, drab hair when it's not cut and colored properly. Most importantly, I have sent many people to the salon over the years, and never had one person not instantly fall in love with Elle, the place and their own hair!!! She's the best kept secret in L.A.!

Posted 07/07/07

They do great extensions, cuts and color. The atmosphere is relaxing and inviting. The owner, Michelle Jonietz,has been the only stylist to ever make me like my hair. Her blowouts last for days and she does amazing color.I also get my extensions done here and they look so real that noone can tell i have them!

Pros: Ambience, servic

Cons: None

Posted 07/05/07

Being a native to LA, I had been to many, many salons. I was never completely satisfied with any of them, until I found L Salon. Elle has been styling, coloring, cutting and basically saving my hair for almost 10 years. I always get great comments on the cut and color of my hair. The salon is super friendly, no "gross attitude" at this place!!! They always do their best to help with your crazy schedule. It has also become a salon for everything I need. Waxing, facials and, of course, the best hair anywhere. I constantly rave about and recommend this salon to everyone I know!

Pros: Excellent cuts, great blowdrys, color is fantastic, FRIENDLY!!

Cons: NONE

Posted 07/04/07

I?ve been going to L Salon for over five years. Erica has been my hairdresser for a while now. She?s an incredible hairdresser who will get the style that?s just right for you, (I didn?t mean for that to sound so cliche). Above all, she?s warm-hearted and an excellent listener with a great sense of humor.

Amy

Posted 07/02/07

10 years ago a co-worker told me about this fantastic hair salon where she goes for cut color and style......and at that time her color was something that I had commented on b/c it was so well done, looked so natural yet it was very unique! That salon is the same salon i go to currently and the same salon i am encouraging anyone who reads this, to go to. The L salon Rocks.........they are setting the trends in color and cuts, are extremely cooperative and accomodating for those who have difficult schedules to squeeze in that much needed touch up, and, the location is ideal as it's right in the heart of everything! 10 years later it's the only place I would EVER consider going to for my hair cut, style and color and I promise, you won't find a salon in the entire city of Los Angeles that even compares!!!

Pros: best color experts in town, location, scheduling flexibility

Cons: none!

Posted 07/02/07

I love this salon, I've had my hair cut at this salon for so many years! Lisa has been my stylist through thick and thin and makes me look fabulous from one cut to the next. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the salon unpretentious...perfect.

Posted 06/17/07

Brenden Padilla did my hair and he has so much knowledge hair including texture, color and what cut will look the best. He was extremely gracious and a pleasure to chat with. I highly recommend going to him and getting the cut of your life.

Posted 06/11/07

I have naturally curly, unruly hair after a trip to L Salon my curls are in top shape, full of bounce and looking s*xy as h*ll! Brendan is the man with the magic hands, I wouldn't trust my curls to anyone else. He knows hair and he can recommend products that will really enhance your cut. Although Brendan is my absolute favorite, I'd recommend L Salon and any of their professional and fun staff to all of my family and friends!

Pros: Fun, professional staff

Posted 06/11/07

L Salon is casual and fun, and seems well-run. Customers get on-time, personal attention. Reg is great for both cut and color!

Pros: chill atmosphere. cool people. good haircuts & color!

Cons: street parking is usually adequate, but read the signs!

Posted 06/09/07

I highly recommend Brendan Padilla. His haircuts are phenomenal and last a long time! He's extremely courteous and friendly and very respectful of your time!

Posted 06/04/07

I have been seeing Brendan and Yasmine for a while now, about 4 years or so. These two are so great and professional I had to say it again. I wrote a review a about a year ago and every time I go to see them I feel wonderful and new again. I have referred a few friends to them, and I know they have written a review for these two hair wizards. Brendan, Yasmine thank you again, you both rock!

Pros: The staff is most funny and hip, Oh and love that wine!

Cons: evening parking after 5 can be difficult.

Posted 02/28/07

I went into L salon feeling frumpy and out dated I left feeling as Marisa said I would - Fabu! Marisa transformed my dull dishwater hair into a perfect caramel which has brightened my face. She has an excellent eye for color and really good understanding of what cut would best suit my face shape and hair texture. I have never felt better.

Posted 05/07/05

rina is the best waxer i have found. she is fast and painless.

Posted 03/15/05