Blades Hair Studio

No hairdresser is perfect, I used to think David was as close as it got. But as talented as he is he has forgotten that what the client wants is what is important. He just wants to do the same haircut over and over. He doesn't listen anymore. I think he is tired of doing hair. I understand but it is disappointing.

Pros: Good haircut

Cons: Does not want direction from client

Posted 10/23/09

I originally found this salon through a friend back in June when I needed a hair makeover. Lots of different colors that needed to be redone and after calling to make my appointment I saw Gina. From the moment you walk in, you'll feel right at home! Everyone is relaxed and the salon is not the least bit pretentious, and my color is amazing. Gina always listens to what I want and makes really awesome suggestions so that I end up with perfect hair every time. I highly recommend!!

Pros: Great color, cuts & people

Cons: None

Posted 08/21/09

I broke up with my hair designer a couple of weeks ago after 7 years. I was a little affraid to start anew. A friend of a friend recomended blades hair studio to me, and I am so happy I called for an appointment!! Janet who took my call was ever so nice and she was very concerned about how I would like my hair done. When I arrived, I was welcomed by Janet and the sweetest dog ever, Mable. I got my hair cut/color with Gina, who was constantly asking me if I was comfortable and offered me a coffee refill several times! She also made my hair look sooo Rad!! She asked me about my hair through out the cut which was very nice. Go Gina!! I had a Awesome experience at Blades Hair Studio and I will recomend it to everyone I know! This Salon is very friendly, layed back and lacking snobbery(which I perfer). Try them out. They Rock!

Pros: Comfortable and friendly

Posted 07/20/09

Where does a person begin in describing why others should go out on a limb, believe a review and trust a stranger with a piece of themselves that reflects who they are...their hair?

Here is my feeble attempt~

First of all, my apologizes to Blades Hair Studio, I should have done this years ago. I must admit that I wasn't sure I wanted to advertise to the world wide web that I had finally found the last hairstylist to ever touch my hair. His skill goes beyond maintaining a highly successful business (in an industry where salons success rate is very minimual) and retaining 90% of his clients. From the thorough life-style interview to analyzing your facial structure, body shape and skin tone, he has already begun processing possibilities and options for the color and cut that would best suit you and your life.

His name is David. He has taken me on a journey through my hair. I have given him my trust and bar-none, the outcome is far better than I could have ever asked of him. I have been platinum blonde, purple, natural blonde with highlights, and deep red (I am sure I missed some). My cuts have always complimented my face whether it was a conservative or edgey.

I am not exagerating when I say, I receive at least one-two compliments on my hair every single day. Some days I actually chuckle because I receive so many. I am thankful I don't have to pay David a percentage on every comment.

Blades Hair Studio is known for their forward-thinking coloring and cutting techniques. Its kind of like when you purchase a shampoo/conditioner duo, they were created for each other. Its the same way with Blades~you really should make the investment in yourself and get both your hair cut and colored with them. The staff is so skilled that David will cut your hair to bring out the color Gaylynn painted on...or Gaylynn will color your hair specifically to show off David's precision cut.

Please know that if you desire to have results such as I have described, it did not happen because I told them what to do or how to cut/color my hair. Would you ever tell your doctor or lawyer how to do their job? We shut up and let them do their job, because they are the experts in their field. My results happened because of the interview process, David's developed and creative eye...and most of all, trust (mostly on my end).

One final item to mention regarding David's knowledge. He also developed his own line of haircare products. Since we invest our time and money in our hair by going this professional, our investment shouldn't stop there. It should continue in how we care for our hair. It will make their results last longer. I have tried EVERY product line out there and nothing works like Blades hair products do. Blades has their own website where you can read up on the salon and their products, order them online and have them shipped to you.

You can also find Blades Hair Studio on Facebook as well. A fact about Blades that sets them even further apart from other salons is that they have a No-tipping policy. They exist mostly on referrals from word of mouth, or reviews (like the one you are reading now).

I truly do hope this has helped you in a small way to make the decision to book an appointment with David and the rest of his staff.

Pros: No-tipping salon, their own parking lot( get a parking pass)

Cons: Absolutely none!!

Posted 07/09/09

Gaylynn was my stylist and she is wonderful. I was totally at ease and could tell from the moment I walked in that I would get an excellent haircut. I can't say enough wonderful things about my new hair style. I feel ten years and 4 days younger!
I made another appointment before I walked out the door... pssst, when you make your appointment ask for Gaylynn!

Pros: Friendly, great cut, cute shop, products

Cons: None... zilch ....

Posted 05/12/09

I made the mistake of not following Gina on her big move from Forest Grove to Blades Hair in Portland . I had someone new cut my hair and in a little over a week later I was on the phone to schedule my appointment with Gina so that she could FIX it.

Gina impressed me the first time I met her by simply taking the time to get to know me and my hair before the scissors came out. She knows style and gives suggestions (her professional opinion) instead of just cutting your hair. She takes her time to make it just right and has never hurried me out of the chair. She's great with kids too; she cuts all of my families hair. Blades is a nice environment also; friendly, casual, and open. I was introduced to the other stylists and their clients as well. Great move Gina......I'd follow you anywhere.

Pros: Gina is Gina no matter where she is working

Posted 05/08/09

We're new to Portland and David was recommended to us. I've never had such a great haircut! He was like an artist at work cutting my hair. The cut lays just right and frames my face perfectly. He absolutely knows what he's doing. Janet does a fabulous job of running the salon, everything was very welcoming and comfortable. Lovely salon.

Pros: Very Comfortable Atmosphere, Professional, No Tipping Policy

Cons: ?

Posted 04/06/09

I have gone to Blades Hair Studio for approximately 6 years now. I live in Gresham but it SO worth the drive. I will not go anywhere else! David is my stylist and I know that when he is done cutting and styling my hair that it will look fabulous. I actually have people ask me where I get my hair cut..it just happened last night when we were at dinner. If I want to try something new I feel confident that with David's expertise that it will look just as great as my original cut. My daughter has had to have David "fix" several of her color mishaps that she performed on her own hair and one was right before her prom! Again, I would highly recommend Blade Hair Studio. They are Great stylists but great friends too!!!

Pros: Highly trained, always professional, great atmosphere, friendly stylists

Cons: Wish the salon was in Gresham :)

Posted 09/21/08

david has been cutting & coloring my hair for years and he is a master! A neighbor ,who is also a hair stylist commented that she couldn't believe my hair was colored. ( i am completely gray when au natural) The atmosphere is casual & relaxed yet professional. Gay Lynn, who is a new addition to blades, has also colored my hair with great results. I can't imagine going anywhere else.

Pros: parking, no tipping,service

Cons: none

Posted 09/16/08

I have been going to David for over 16 years and that speaks for itself! Even my mother comes in from California to see him. I give David creative rein and have never been dissatisfied. I used to think I had to have a perm and now I haven't had one in 12 or so years. I was looking for a color change (too much silver showing) and David chose the right one to change to. I get nothing but compliments! David and his staff care and take pride in their work. My styles have always been easy to manage and that is important when you have to go home and style it yourself. David and his staff are always on top of the styles of today and listen to what you feel would work for you. I walk out of Blades feeling terrific because my hair looks great and so do I. The products they sell are products that they have had a hand in developing so they work just the way they should. Never pressure to buy, but your hair looks and feels great so why would you not? I would and do recommend Blades to everyone I know.

Pros: Great service and extensive knowledge of hairstyling and color

Cons: None!

Posted 09/08/08

In keeping with the many other 5-star reviewers, I LOVE THIS PLACE!
Six years ago I looked at a woman and asked, "Where do you get your hair done?" She gave me a card and, as the saying goes, the rest is history. My first colorist then was new & misunderstood my intent - the resulting mess was fixed gratis (that person long gone also). The free parking, complimentary beverages, great 'zine & tune selection, trimmed bangs in between cuts, and no-tip policy are all just dessert to the "full meal deal" at this home to some of the most caring, best-trained, talented (not to mention congenial) hair professionals in this town. And I've tried a lot. They can take you from "the world is full of &*%&" to "Aaah, I'm ready to go at it again!" in a couple of hours. They listen to your hair concerns (and a few others besides) and pay attention to your hair's idiosyncracies.
Disasters happen in life. Take your hair to Blades and let it be ONE disaster you never worry about! It's well worth it!

Pros: Skillful, attentive staff; ambience, customer service, parking, value, accommodating

Cons: you're not there right now

Posted 09/02/08

Not sure what the previous reviewer is referring to... sounds like sour grapes. Whatever. Here's what you need to know and what's important: Blades is an amazing salon. David is a master at cutting hair, with many years of experience. My hair is difficult to work with, strong, thick, coarse, unruly. David's talent for cutting so it behaves, is simply incredible. There's no other way to describe it. He listens well to what you want, will tell you straight up what will work or won't and why without making you feel like an idiot. He also "listens" well to your hair, paying close attention to its lines, quirks, cowlicks, and tendencies so that he works with your hair, not against it. He's supported by a talented team...Gaylynn does a superb job with color and has a great deal of experience in the industry. It's a pleasure going to a salon where the employees have considerable experience and depth. There are too many young stylists "out there" who behave as though it's all about them, and frankly, it's a relief to deal with folks who are highly professional yet warm, who pay attention to the details such as applying your color with a great deal of care, making sure that there are no stray blobs of color on your face or neck, etc. I also love their no tipping policy. It's a relief. Blades also has a range of yummy hair products, and they'll bend over backwards to make sure that your experience is the best. Do yourself a favor: if you're looking for a new salon, give Blades a shot. You won't be disappointed.

Pros: Talented, experienced professionals, free parking & wine!

Cons: None

Posted 09/01/08

David has been cutting my hair for 12 years and I will never let anyone else near me with a pair of scissors. I love the casual, edgy atmosphere, the location, and the no-tipping policy. This is hands-down the best salon in Portland.

Pros: Service, parking, artistry, conversation

Cons: f

Posted 08/19/08

Blades is an amazing salon, I started going there several years ago after reading reviews on Citysearch. The team, lead by David, helped me to grow my haircolor out to my natural gray through some great cutting techniques. I am back to coloring my hair again, it was fun to see what my gray looked like but I'm not quite ready to let it go gray for good.
David is the best, the only stylist I have ever let have carte blanche with my hair. I trust him implicitly.

Pros: Free parking!

Cons: None

Posted 08/19/08

Blades has the whole package. Not only are the people who work in the salon very cool, they are seriously talented with scissors and color. Honestly, I'm nearing 40 and my hair has never looked better. Something about the cut and color has made my hair look as healthy and full as when I was 18 years old. To top it off, the people have personality. It's like a little oasis from the chaos of life, and then I come out looking better too.

Pros: The stylists, music play list, glass of wine at the door

Cons: none

Posted 08/08/08

I moved to Portland 9 years ago and looked for a salon. I had three unacceptable haircuts at high-priced, highly recommended salons before finding Blades. One day walking down the street I saw someone working in her garden - even with the dirt and sweat I could tell she had a great haircut, so I asked her where she had it done. We laughed at how important a good haircut and style can be. My first visit to Blades showed me that they knew what they were doing. Before doing anything, David spent a good twenty minutes examining my hair to help me understand what my hair would do (and what it wouldn't do). I've been going there ever since and have recommended it to many. They are experts at creating hair styles that are easy to maintain and that look great from cut to cut - there are never those times when you're waiting for your hair to grow out of the cut. I don't color my hair, but I know several people who do who get it done at Blades - they all look terrific. On top of all of that, it's always fun to be there - they have become friends. And they all love chocolate!

Pros: fun, great service, free parking, TOTALLY satisfied

Cons: none

Posted 06/07/08

David at Blades hair studio and all of his stylists are truely amazing artistic people. They transformed me and my daughter in one appointment. I had fine thin lifeless hair with no body, with a hair cut and color I have this georgous full head of hair and the blend of color is awsome. Everyone that I know tells me how great it looks they are all amazed that it is me. It has been a total life changing experience. My daughter had long pull into a ponytail hair. David artistically colored her hair and styled it. All her friends love it, I can't quit looking at her and I haven't seen a pony tail since. I think he has to be the best stylist in the country.

Posted 05/31/08

I received such a terrible hair cut I cried for days. I asked for a trim but was given a new style that turned out to be choppy and ?butch?.

During my cut, my stylist suddenly went over to a co-worker and asked her to for her opinion. Suddenly they were cutting my hair at a 4 inch angle.

The result was my hair that was once full of smooth lusty layers that curled up slightly at the end was choppy and no longer able to be pulled back into a ponytail without the assistance of lots of bobby pins and a head band.

Also, tragically the front segments of hair were cut like a straight bob; it is also vastly different lengths on either side.

And all I asked for was a trim.

They refunded my money, but because of the angled style, it will take at least a year to recover. I would pay hundreds to have my old hair back.

I don?t recommend this salon because they clearly don?t listen to what you want and cut your hair as they please.

Posted 05/29/08

Where else can one get fabulous hair from eclectic, cool people and get served wine, with a FREE parking lot in NW? The entire crew are extremely gifted in colors and cuts, using a high end German color line. Their own product line is very cool. I am addicted to "Slick" and "Helmet Head". The newest addition, Marissa, gave me an awesome color last trip....not easy making my dark roots Marilyn Monroe platinum.

Pros: Ambiance, conversation, skill, parking, value

Cons: NONE

Posted 05/09/08

I have been going to Blades for 15 plus years. I started out because I liked the idea of the No Tip - always been a bit awkward for me. I have had very difficult hair to work with - due to the curly nature and once I find someone awesome, i don't bail.

Do not, I repeat DO NOT be intimidated by the progressive appearanceof some of the employees. I am far from progressive. David and his staff can do it all. They listen to people, they relate to people and they are true professionals and artists. They can do conservative, innovative and very creative. David is the person I see - and I trust him implicitly. He has a keen, quick eye and has an ability to read what people are like and what they might or might not be willing to try. I have referred many people here and will continue to do so. The salon does not push product. They don't sell you things you don't need and they care about your hair and the condition of it.
This is a place where you will see a cross section of customers/clients - people are people here and you don't have to be tres chic or a model - everyone is treated with the utmost respect and courtesy. David is a person of complete integrity. Try this salon - you will not regret it!!

Posted 10/26/07

I had fallen into a hair rut...and although my hair was "pretty" (read: long, straight), I was extremely bored with it and in dire need of a change. I did a search for "hip" & "edgy" salons in Portland, and came across the portlandcitysearch listing for Blades, along with all of the glowing reviews. Well...let me just say this: Blades lives up to the hype! When my scheduled hair stylist was unable to make my appointment due to an injury, they immediately got me re-scheduled with one of their master stylists. She really listened to me and took the time to find out what I wanted, what was going to work best for my life, and what was going to look best with my face shape. The entire process was very organic, as she would stop and ask my input, and make adjustments as she went. The final result was AMAZING! I have never been so pleased with a haircut in my entire life. I no longer am bored with my hair, and LOVE my new, flirty, edgy haircut. In a word, Blades ROCKS, and I will never get my hair cut anywhere else ever again!

Pros: Wine, coffee, water, friendly staff, fun!

Posted 07/13/07

I will admit that I was a tad apprehensive about getting my hair cut at Blades after viewing the photos on their website. Although the styles were cool, I'm not and I was afraid that I might end up with blue hair or something similarly as wild. Lucky for me, I went by the reviews here on Citysearch instead! From the moment I walked in everyone was so welcoming, the receptionist, the stylists, everyone. I arrived about 30 minutes early and fully expected to wait (and would have been happy to do so) but Tiffany, my stylist, took me right away. She spent time with me and was even able to translate my vague description of the style I wanted. After a few suggestions we decided on something and she began snipping away. About 20 minutes later, I was done and it looked great!

My cut was $47 (tipping's not allowed) and while I'm sure there are cheaper salons out there, the care and service I received at Blades made it worth every penny and more!

Pros: friendly, inviting, listens to your needs, no attitudes, no tipping

Cons: may be a little pricey for some

Posted 07/12/07

I just got back from my first-ever visit to Portland, OR. I live in CT and love my stylist here. However, I was growing out my hair for a summer wedding but decided I couldn't stand it anymore. Being a guest in Portland I checked out salons using City Search and liked the reviews for Blades. I made a Friday morning apt for a cut and color with Tiffany.
I have to admit, I was a little intimidated when I walked in. The stylists had such funky hip hair styles and outrageous colors. I thought for a moment, I should run. I'm a 32 yr old mom, and sad to say, not very "hip." Once I sat in the chair and talked a little with Tiffany about what I had in mind, I immediately felt at ease.
She gave me an awesome razor cut style that perfectly fits my face and style. She also colored my hair and gave me some highlights. I love my hair! My husband and friends at home all said this was the best haircut I've ever gotten.
The best part of all, is that their prices are so reasonable and they don't take tips. I almost fell over when they said they didn't accept tips! I put my $25 back in my wallet and promised to write a review.
Ask for Tiffany and tell her Marcy said hello. I can't wait to visit Portland again in July so I can go to Blades again.

Posted 05/22/07

After months of agonizing about how/where to get my hair cut, I decided to give Blades a try. To be honest, I wasn't very optimistic because I had tried all kinds of salons in the past and had never been satisfied. My hair is thick, long, very curly, and impossible to style. I am not a girly girl so my mess of a hair has been a major pain in the butt for many many years. The straightening iron is my best friend and when it rains, I am totally screwed. A good cut and lots of styling advice was therefore long overdue... When I arrived at Blades, I was immediately attended to be a lovely young woman and offered a glass of wine. I was then introduced to the stylist. What an experience!! The stylist sat down next to me, looked through magazine pictures with me and took about 10 minutes to talk about the different cuts that I was interested in. She took her time answering all of my questions and didn't pressure or rush me to make a decision. Since I was so tired of my unruly hair, we decided on a short, above shoulder-length cut. I was scared to death! I was worried that I would not be able to straighten my hair if it was that short and, since going curly was not an option, I would be stuck wearing a hat for months. Again, the stylist took her time and gave me great styling tips and advice. Then she began cutting... and I GOT THE BEST HAIRCUT OF MY LIFE!!! I kid you not, I have been freaking out ever since! It has been two months and it just keeps getting better! I have never gotten so many compliments before. The best part, however, is that (as a private joke) I tried to leave it curly... and it looks freaking AWESOME!!! I was so stunned that I actually walked to work (I was so self-conscious, I stared on the ground the whole way) to show my friends. Ever since, my friends and co-workers have been calling it the "sexpot hair" and get mad at me when I straighten it!! I will never get my hair cut anywhere else. Best hair cut, ever.

Posted 05/22/07

A very long winded account of my wonderful experience at Blades:
A couple of weeks ago I decided to cut my hair off. Being relatively new to the city I googled and citysearched until I found Blades, and decided to give them a try. I?m so glad I did! The staff is so friendly and laidback. They made me feel welcome right away (unlike other places that seem to specialize in making their customers feel inadequate and underdressed.) Haley, my stylist, sat down with me had an actual honest-to-goodness conversation about my hair. She asked questions and then, get this, listened. I don?t think I?ve ever had this experience with a hairdresser before. I always get nervous when I get my hair cut because I have to take off my glasses and it?s hard to see what the stylist is doing. This can be especially uncomfortable because I?m rather shy and sitting in stony, blind silence is not my idea of a good time. Haley was super sweet and talked to me the whole time. I cannot emphasize enough how homey and comfortable the salon is. All the stylists talk to each other and sometimes walk around giving tips and ?ooo?s and ?ahhhh?s as the patrons get prettied up. When Haley was done blow-drying my newly shorn noggin I put my glasses on and was?disappointed. I?m not sure why but my hair just didn?t look as I had envisioned. Haley noticed my lack of enthusiasm but encouraged me to try the look out and style it myself for a couple of days. If I decided it wasn?t working she assured me she would do whatever it took to make it better. I took her advice and, sure enough, it didn?t take me long to fall in love with my cut. It?s flattering, versatile and easy-peasy to maintain. A couple of days after my haircut I came home from work to find a message on my machine from Blades. They wanted to follow up and make sure my cut was still working. Of course I called and said "OMG YES!".
Long story short: I <3 Blades and I?m looking forward to frequenting them for many, many years.

Pros: parking, friendly & knowledgable staff, comfortable atmosphere, no tipping

Cons: none

Posted 04/27/07

I've never been big on spending money on haircuts. I always thought it was a waste of money and spent most of my life cutting my own hair. Occasionally I'd go to a low-end hip place like Rudy's. But those places are hit-or-miss. Every once and a while I'd get a good cut, but never anything amazing. I finally tried Blades because I'd heard really good things. I wanted a place where I didn't have to bring in a picture or describe a cut exactly. I'm pretty indecisive and never have a clear idea of what I want, but the staff at Blades know hair and always do something that compliments you. They take into account what kind of hair you have, how high or low maintenance you are, and even where you work. Now I've gone a total of 3 times and have had 3 great haircuts by 3 different people. To me, $47 is a lot of money. But I don't mind spending it when I know I wont have to worry about walking out of there with a bad cut.
The only thing I can even think of to complain about is their website. It's very... goth? I think it's really misleading. I'm constantly recommending Blade's to friends and family. But I feel apprehensive sending my mother a link to a website with a bunch of vampira goth models.

Pros: friendly staff, amazing haircuts, strict no-tipping policy

Cons: location, website

Posted 04/10/07

PROBLEM:I asked for highlights in my brown hair at a salon in another city. Disaster ensued and I ended up with dark gray/greenish, over-tonered frizzy hair just as we were heading off to spend a Thanksgiving week with family outside of Seattle.
GATHERING DATA: As we stopped in Portland on the way to Seattle, I cried to three friends here about the mess on my head, and they all said, "Blades. Call them. They fix hair." So I did.
MAKING A PLAN: Courtney was so great; she listened to my angsting with sympathy and understanding, and passed me to Valerie. Valerie quickly figured out what had happened and made time for me to come in for a consult. She looked at my hair, told me honestly what could be improved and what couldn't, David took a look too, and a plan was made.
EXECUTING THE PLAN: Fortunately, Haley had a cancellation and she worked the Blades Magic on my hair, with Valerie and David chiming in. I have never been to a salon like this. The folks there are ALL fabulous, positive, knowledgeable, warm, beautiful professionals. The atmosphere in the salon is friendly, non-pretentious, and comfortable. They have the depth of knowledge, the breadth of experience, and the detail-oriented team approach that coaxes your hair to its best. And then they go the extra mile.
RESULTS: And, you know what? They didn't just straighten out the disaster, but they improved the condition of my hair, and I like the new color as well or better than any color I have ever had.
CONCLUSION: I'll be back. And you should go there, too. They really care about making you happy with your hair.

Pros: Skilled stylists, lovely atmosphere

Cons: None

Posted 11/18/06

I thought the personnel at Blades handled their computer crisis with a great deal of professionalism. The salon coordinator, Courtney, worked 12 hour days to try and fix the problem. When I saw her at my appointment that very week, she was very upset at any inconvenience this problem might have caused clients. I can assure you that in the 2 years that I have been a client at Blades, I have never had a negative experience, either with the results of my hair or the exceptional service I have received. Computer problems are an unfortunate part of reality and we all need to be understanding of that.

Posted 10/12/06

We wish to apologize to May2006. Our worst nightmare happened and our entire software system crashed!!! All of our appointment log vanished for an entire year. We literally had 2 weeks of confusion and utter h#@%. There was a point where we were told by our computer people that it was "fixed" but it clearly was not. We are sorry that you were caught in the middle of that. We humbly apologize to you.

Posted 10/04/06

Upon recently moving to the area I have been looking for a new salon, so I decided based on the reviews to try Blades Hair Studio. So I called to make a appointment, the day I needed they had avaliable so I thought great and booked. I planned my weekend accordingly, until later that day when I got a message saying they were having computer problems and actually booked my appointment on top of another client. So, I proceeded to schedule for another day and the woman said the computers were still down. She said to call back in a couple of hours so I attempted to do so, although there was no answer, which I thought was strange considering it was operating hours.
Upon the return call the computers were still down and she said that when the woman made my appointment they were down at that time too. So I thought that was strange that she booked me a appointment even though the computer were down, so she didn't really know what she had open. At this point I was a little frusterated because I had already made weekend plans. The woman then basically informed me that it wasn't their problem they had overbooked and there was nothing she could do. She also proceeded to let me know that is how you do business, which I thought was strange. I mean a company makes a error and it is the customers problem,that is a little odd. Basically the studio solved the problem by letting me know there was nothing they could do and they were very unprofessional about the matter. I strongly recommend if your looking for a first time salon or any salon for that matter you don't go to Blades Hair Studio, it is clear they don't know how to treat their clients. Unprofessional and poor customer service could clearly explain what you will get from Blades Hair Studio, in NW Portland.

Pros: none

Cons: Poor customer service, attitude issues, overbooking

Posted 09/20/06

I have been a Blade's customer since 1997. I had moved to Portland and was searching for a good salon. I was referred to two other salon's downtown. I tried them both and my experience at both was a sylist who rented space and was pretty much a solo-flyer. The rest of the salon staff didn't really care much about me as I wasn't their customer. I was originally attracted to Blades because they advertised as a no-tipping salon. What I found since that day however, has been worthy of a lot of tipping! Blades is a cool, hip, professional, care about you salon. All of the staff are exceptional. They work together, learn from each other and as a result I get the best color and cut ever! David, the owner and also a stylist operates a great business. He makes sure his staff are taken care of as well as his customer. There is a 'family' feel among staff that is evident when you enter the salon. This is truly a "Cheers" place where everybody knows your name! I travel 40 minutes to get to Blades and I would not think of going anywhere else. My cut is alway exceptional as is my color. Every time I come in I am asked if my cut and color is still working for me and my thoughts are always listened to. However, I have so much faith in the staff at Blades that I usually just tell Rachel (my sylist extraordinaire!), work your magic as usual. And the magic always leaves me feeling happy! You will NOT go wrong going to Blades!

Pros: Very experienced staff, work together, great products.

Cons: Book your appointments well ahead for your desired times/days

Posted 08/13/06

I meant to write this review some time ago. For a year I had shoulder-length black hair. When I tired of it, I was very nervous about the color removal process having heard so many horror stories of orange hair. I contacted Blades via email, and got a very specific, informative email back from Judy on what needed to be done in order to successfully remove the color. At no charge to me, she snipped a small lock from my hair and did a strand test to see how my hair would react to color removal. After a successful test, I came in and had the process done. All I can say is, "Wow!". My hair is a beautiful auburn, and my experience there was stellar. Judy is a genius and Luke was incredibly sweet and helpful. I recommend Blades to anyone for color correction. They are unparalleled professionals.

Pros: Knowledgeable Staff, True Professionals

Posted 04/26/06

You will never find a salon more outstanding than Blades! The atmosphere can't be beat, the staff is awesome, and you are treated like a close friend. I enjoy every second I spend there. I have only had contact with a few of the staff, but they have made my week...wait I think maybe month. Haley is a sweetheart, very talented and spunky. Rachel was my first and I adore and worship her, she really seems to understand you. Luke is so amazing its hard to find words. When I leave the salon I am delighted at the outcome but there is some sadness that I will have to wait 8 weeks before I need to go in again. I like to get my hair cut and then colored on seperate days just so I can go in twice. They are just fantastic in everyway imaginable!

Posted 02/23/06

Haley did the most awesome up-do ever. It was in preparation for a coctail party I was throwing that evening. Haley really took a lot of individualized care and real interest in creating an absolutely beautiful up-do. Seriously, I know it's just 'hair' but to me, it was one part of a really great experience. I ended up hosting a totally successful coctail party; couldn't have gone better.
Oh, and one more thing- I really appreciated the warmth and hospitality given to me by Luke. He was not only extremely helpful, but also so genuinely kind. I would say "great customer service" but that would be an understatement. First of all, the staff don't treat you like a 'customer' but more like a real person, showing you genuine interest and concern for your hair. I am recommending Blades to everyone I know!

Posted 11/11/05

I got butchered at a cheap mall salon (asked for a trim, got an overgrown mullet) and made an appointment with Ivy after she was recommended to me. She is fantastic! I love my new cut. She also showed me some new ways of styling it without using any products. I will be going to Blades from now on - Everyone there is great.

Pros: front desk, stylists, atmosphere

Posted 07/27/05

Blades is by far the best salon I have ever been to. I have been a client for nearly a year now, and ever since I starting going to Blades my hair has been better than its ever been. Ivy's skill and precision hair cuts allowed me to grow my hair out, and her highlights are just perfect in my long hair. I love going to Blades because I feel so relaxed and pampered there. And Luke, who runs the front desk and coordinates appointments, is the absolute sweetest. Their products are also top notch.

Pros: Very skilled stylists, friendly environment, worth every penny

Posted 04/27/05

It's a bit spending, but they really get to know you and your hair, your likes and dislikes. They also give suggestions of what to do or not to do. After a few cuts, I decided to get my hair hightlighted. It didnt' come out as planned and a few days later, my hair dresser called to make sure I was happy with it and well, I confessed to him that I would like some changes. So he squeezed me in and now I love the way my hair looks and the color of it. At the end of it all, they even help you put your coat on. Heck my boyfriend doesn't even do that! ;) Come here if you want good quality, real professionalism and a refreshing atmostphere with no hint of snootiness.

Posted 03/03/05

Just needed some hair advice from them! Talking to them: Excellent Customer Service, friendly, positive energy. Wish I'd gone there first before my hair got fried at another salon.

Pros: Not pretentious , knowledgable, Friendly

Posted 02/09/05

I was so nervous, changing my hairstyle--i just moved in town and finding a new stylist had proved a challenge. However the whole experience at Blades was so awesome. The whole staff was so wonderful and worked together to really make me feel comfortable. Ivy took half an hour just to consult and find the right style for me, and EVEN showed me how to blow dry my hair to make the best of the cut. She gave me the best hair cut in SO long and didn't put a ton of product in it either! In fact... no pressure to get it, i had to ask for the stuff (maybe reverse psych, but it worked!) All in all, i have FOUND my new portland salon!!!

Pros: sweet receptionist, technical wizards, no sales pressure

Posted 11/09/04

I visited Blades after reading about in on Citysearch...I am wary of other people's ideas of a "good" haircut but the commentary seemed reliable. I made an appointment with Ivy and was impressed with her technical knowledge, especially in relation to curly hair (which I have!) The cut was fantastic- the best that I've had in years! I would receommend Blades to anyone, especially those weary of the average hair stylist. Cheers to Blades!

Pros: technical knowledge, attention to detail, individualized cuts

Posted 08/17/04

I went to Blades my first time after reading the reviews on Citysearch. When I made my appointment Luke who handles the front desk was VERY VERY nice. My appointment was a week later but Luke called me three days later to tell me that a spot got cancelled and I could come in. Anyway, I came into Blades wanting this really short cut but after talking to Steve and the owner they recommended it wasn't right for me. They were very professional and knew what they were talking about. Steve who was doing my hair was really cool! He listened to what I wanted, gave me his opinion, and asked lots of questions. I love my hair and would go back again. Maybe I'll get some highlights. =)

Pros: talented, friendly

Posted 06/18/04

I have been going to Blades for the past year and have always been very happy with the results. Steve does an amazing job with haircolor and really listens to what you want. The service at this salon is superior and the atmosphere makes it a fun place to go.

Pros: friendly, professional

Posted 06/07/04

Ok, I don't gush - I'm not a gusher - but after nearly ten years of addiction to an upscale salon chain who shall remain nameless (aveda), I've acquired a new addiction....one word, sounds like, BLADES. Ivy, you're my new favorite chick - I'll be back, and I'll be sending everyone I know to you and your colleagues. Since I couldn't tip you, there's a little gift in the mail for Magnus...thanks for the rockin cut and color - Jason LOVED the blonde! T.B.

Pros: Comprehensive, They LISTEN, They know their stuff

Posted 05/17/04

I found Blades on City Search and I love the service here. I refer all of my friends to get their cut and coloring done at Blades. They take their time to provide the best service!!

Pros: No Tipping, Great Staff

Posted 05/11/04

I have been going to Blades Hair Studio for approx. 9 years. Prior to Blades Salon I was a client of another local salon for 5 years & the owner was my stylist (who utimately ruined my hair!)Scarely thought today looking back! Finding Blades Hair Studio was absolutely the best thing ever! I was frantic when I 1st arrived at Blades to meet with David, Owner of Blades, to consult with him 1st regarding my hair problem. The professionalism and knowledge is outstanding! He took control & knew exactly how to "correct" the problem with my long highlighted hair that was literally breaking off! Valerie is now my stylist at Blade's & after 9 years don't know how I survived without them! I am grateful to them & thank them for their "knowledgable" talents! Anytime, everytime I suggest Blade's to anyone...Blades Studio... the #1 top salon for talent & knowledge!

Pros: Knowledgable, Talented, Excellence

Posted 03/10/04