Vanity Salon

I tried a new stylist at Vanity Salon here in Houston and I have to say James is very with it and cool. My color is fab also thanks to Alex! I look 10 years younger!

Karen McCullough

Pros: Best haircut ever!!!!

Posted 06/19/09

I rarely write a bad review but in this case I'm going to. I want to be fair here so let me preface it by saying that if you're new to Houston and looking for a place to get your hair done that won't ruin it in one cutting or coloring, this is a pretty safe bet. It's a busy, fairly upscale salon and the stylists are experienced.

However, after a few years of being a customer I've decided not to return due to being treated rather badly at one appointment. Because of that I tried a few other salons and found that there are many good ones out there that actually are better than this one.

My experience happened one day when the salon was busy with a wedding party. Since I have a small child and can only get my hair done on a day when my husband can babysit and he works long hours, the times that I can go are really limited. I called one day and they said they had an appointment for color, but no cut and the color appt. wasn't with my regular stylist. That was fine. I would just have to go another time for the cut, although it was going to be awhile. Just as I was about to hang up, the appointment scheduler said, almost as an afterthought, that they didn't have anyone to dry my hair after the color. I wasn't really worried about that anyway. The big thing was getting the color. Then she said, "But you could probably grab a dryer and do it yourself". Great, I said. And that was that.

When I arrived, the girl did the color and that was fine. The girl shampooing me afterwards said, "there's no one to dry you," in a rather loud scolding voice. "You need to ask for that next time". I was a little embarrassed because I already knew that, but I didn't explain it to her as it didn't matter that much.

So, I went to the front and asked for a dryer. Instead of getting a dryer, the guy at the front went to get my regular stylist, who was already busy with another customer and I hadn't even had an appt. with her that day.

When she walked over, she didn't even speak to me or say hello. Nothing. Keep in mind, I'd been going to her for a couple of years. She begrudgingly just began to dry my hair and got the front part partially dry and then said "Ok, you have to go. My client is ready."

I turned around really shocked. I said "Well, could I at least use a dryer." She snapped back "NO, I NEED THIS. I NEED THIS." Well, I wasn't asking for HER dryer. I just wanted my hair dry enough to leave in colder weather so I wouldn't get sick.

At this point though I was starting to feel really embarrassed and upset. I hadn't ask her to do anything. The guy at the front had.

So, I went to another stylist and asked for a dryer. She gave me one and I sat down and started to dry my hair. It was a horrible experience. I was treated badly when I had been a faithful customer for years.

Sometimes when things like that happen you get over them and realize maybe it was just a bad day for someone or whatever. But I just couldn't excuse that behavior. I couldn't imagine treating a customer like that.

As a result, I've visited several other salons in the area and found that there are some really good ones, including Salon on Woodway and Uruku Salon on Westheimer, among others that aren't bad, but those are the two best I've been to since.

Pros: Stylists are pretty good

Cons: Stylists never on time, poor treatment of returning customer

Posted 04/28/09

I just flew in from Brussels, Belgium in desparate need of color and cut. I wanted an Aveda salon and was not disappointment in the service; the appointment was made within 24 hours; the receptionist staff were extremely friendly and professional; the rates were reasonable; and the facility was warm and inviting (I loved the massaging chair while getting my shampoo!) My colorist was Alex and my sytlist was Alesksandra. Alex quickly assessed my color and made a fabulous choice to correct recent coloring problems. Alesksandra did the same, quickly assessing the style and cutting to perfection. I would highly recommended them both and I plan to return on my next trip. What a delightful find. I couldn't be more pleased with the entire team at Vanity Salon. THANK YOU!!

Pros: skill of providers and prices

Cons: none

Posted 01/22/09

I absolutely LOVED my first (but not last) visit to Vanity. I have been to Aveda salons before, but this one is simply the best! I had colored my hair with dark brown box coloring for about a year and wanted something lighter and matching my pale skin color better. I called Vanity after reading their reviews and knowing that the location was close to home... I was booked for the next day for full highlights and a cut. When I walked in for my appointment I was greeted friendly by the front desk staff, who gave me a quick tour and asked if I wanted anything to drink. Everyone was so nice and helpful! I only waited 5 minutes for my colorist/stylist, Claudia, to greet me. She spoke with me about what I wanted. I wanted my hair lighter, but I did not want my hair blonde. She consulted another colorist to make sure we were on the same page about what I wanted. My hair was difficult to color due to the fact my roots were light brown and my ends practically black from the box coloring. Claudia was very up-front that my hair may take a few visits to get the results I wanted. She took her time to make sure my roots and ends would match. She wasn't only concerned about my color, but the integrity of my hair as well. It did take awhile, but in the meanwhile she offered me plenty of good magazines and even some wine! Then she cut my hair better than I have had it in years. In the end my hair turned out so beautiful... I feel like a new woman! She did exactly what I wanted... even better. I even got a complementary makeup touch-up in the end. From start to finish I had a spectacular experience. There were no pushy tactics to get me to buy their products. I cannot wait until my next appointment! I started my new job the following day and felt so confident, like I could take on anything. As I left Vanity, the workers were all telling me "good luck on your first day of work". It just goes to show they really listen and care for their customers. Thanks again so much!!!

Pros: friendly/skilled staff, atmosphere, parking, everything really!

Cons: a little expensive but well worth it for the overall product

Posted 01/17/09

I have been to the Vanity salon about 4 times now. I usually get a cut, and partial highlights. The colors and cut are always great, better than the last Aveda salon that I used to visit. However, the salon is large and I always feel that the hairdressers are hurried. The last time I went I was even put on an eggtimer! Then, after my hair was washed, the hairdresser went away to work on another client, while I was left waiting with my hair in the towel. Was I double booked? There was no time at the end of the haircut for the hairdresser to show me different ways to put up my hair with the new haircut, and I had asked for that when I made the appt. So in short, no complaints about the actual cut and colors, but the atmosphere is just not personal and way to hurried for the prices they charge. It actually made me decide to try out a different Aveda salon this time, maybe a smaller one.

Pros: Great colors

Cons: Not personal enough, atmostphere feels hurried

Posted 11/01/08

The price is such a deal for the great level of skill and Aveda products. I was very particular about what I wanted for highlights (blonde, but not too blonde...) and Shanna got a second opinion from the staff just to make sure that they were getting my hair as close to my description as possible. My hair turned out great! If you have any worries about how your hair has turned out, they're very nice and willing to correct it. All of this for $100.00 even! I've never found service this good for under $125.00.

You will not regret your visit here and your wallet will thank you as well!

Posted 10/23/08

Vanity Salon is one of the finer salon experiences I have ever had. From the friendly staff, excellent service, and complimentary drinks, I'd recommend this place to anyone. They offer a free "hair consultation," so that you may come in advance and decide exactly what you are wanting to do with your hair before your appointment. (I suppose this is more for color/style jobs, so that you may get a more accurate idea of the total cost which I thought was a great idea!) I've never before felt such personal service or felt like someone was doing their best to make me look fantastic while also taking into consideration how I personally wanted to look. My hairstylist was awesome, fast, and quite funny, actually. I don't believe I've ever talked or laughed so much on a salon visit! The other staff members as well were extremely friendly. No snooty service here, that's for sure. If you are looking for a fantastic salon visit with great rates and friendly service near the Galleria area, Vanity Salon should be your next stop!

Posted 08/29/08

I was a Nature's Way client and followed my colorist to Vanity. I love Vanity. It is so much better--warmer, friendlier, and more efficient. I always feel welcome and my colorist, Martha, is fantastic!

Posted 08/25/08

I have difficult hair naturally. When I moved to Houston the first salon I visited was Vanity because it's an Aveda Salon. On my first visit my hair needed much TRL. It was damaged with wispy ends caused by too much texturizing from a bad haircut. I expressed my concern to my new stylist Erica who was able to transform my damaged ethnic hair into soft, volumous, manegeable waves. Needles to say it looked fabulous! The service staff is great and attentive. I have visited the salon now for close to a year and decided to use their services for my wedding. I was very pleased with the outcome and so were my bridesmaids. The staff was very flexible with my demands. I feel that I get the attention I derserve when I visit the Salon. Sometimes I just schedule a shampoo because it's so relaxing, just ask for Willie she's the best! Best of all the salon is upscale and so is their professionalism.

Posted 08/15/08

Glennis, the owner of Vanity, has been my hairdresser for over 25 years. That in itself should say something!! I feel I am in good hands with her! I love the salon. The staff is always friendly and accomodating. My favorite day to go is Monday -- very quiet, very relaxing -- I can settle down to a good book, or nap in my comfortable chair while having my color done. Highly recommend this place. And the shampoo-massage chairs are soooo fine. Don't miss out on this very special salon!!!

Pros: Everything

Cons: Nothing

Posted 08/09/08

Suyen was very helpful with scheduling my appointment and putting me with a stylist that met my needs. It was my first time at Vanity and Orlando gave me the most amazing shampoo and topped it off with the best blowout I have ever had! Very professional, very nice! I will be back, probably weekly! Will definitely cut into the shoe budget but worth it!
Thanks!

Pros: Orlando! Great service, Great Aveda products!

Cons: None

Posted 06/09/08

Pros - the seats you sit in when you're getting your hair shampooed are great

Cons - my haircut took 1 1/2 hours. I have straight hair that goes just past my shoulders, not quite mid back. It should not have taken that long. The person who cut my hair gave me completely uneven layers that frame my face and I now have bangs, which I didn't ask for, and they are very uneven. This salon asks their customers to write good reviews on citysearch and offers up the possibility of a free service if they do - which is why I think there are so many reviews on this site.

If you're looking for a good Aveda salon, try somewhere else. Unless you want a haircut you can't wait to grow out.

Posted 05/12/08

I enjoy my visits every six weeks to this salon. It is the best Aveda salon I have been to. The front desk staff provides great customer service and you so not have to wait to see your stylist, they are usually on time.

Cons: On Saturdays, it is very loud in the salon.

Posted 05/03/08

I look forward to my appointments at Vanity. The staff are all so friendly and welcoming, I never feel uncomfortable there. My hair always looks great. Occassionally I'll go in to change my hairstyle completely and I have loved it everytime. The stylists are great with my color as well. And the bathrooms are so cute!!

Posted 05/02/08

I went here because a friend had recommended it, and it's walking distance from my work. I had Ashlie, and she is phenomenal! :) She gave me exactly the type of haircut that I wanted, with little input from me... I usually just have the stylist do whatever they think will look good, and I was very impressed with her! :)
I will definitely keep going to Vanity!

Pros: Location, Price, Great Stylists

Cons: None

Posted 05/01/08

For a first visit to a new salon and really seeking a change - it was amazing!! I really enjoyed the atmosphere, the energy, the team members and, especially, Angelique! She was welcoming, knowledgeable, understanding, patient and took great care of me! I love my new look, the price worked for me and I've already made appointments thru the summer. I'd recommend Vanity Salon and Angelique to anyone seeking a change and looking for a "new do"!!

Pros: Parking, Price, Products, Experience, Knowledge

Posted 04/23/08

I have searched for the best Aveda salon, having tried a few in the last 4 years here in Houston and surrounding areas and this is it- My colorist Alex and stylist Shawna were great and the care and concern I received there was fabulous- I will continue to go there.....

Posted 02/20/08

I see all these recent positive reviews, but no names of stylists. Like stefiharr posted, I want a stylist who cuts short funky hair. She gives no name of who she went to.

Posted 02/11/08

I recently moved to Houston from Dallas and my favorite Aveda-concept salon of 8 years, so just after landing here, I was on the hunt for a new place. I started out at Nature's Way and was quite clueless as to where to go next upon its unexpected close. Since my colorist transitioned to Vanity, I somewhat blindly followed her smock, quite uncertain as to what awaited me. On my first visit, my appointment was running a little behind, so I grabbed a comfy seat and magazine. I was then approached and offerred something to drink (typical); shortly after that, however, I was given a 15-minute, unsolicited neck and shoulder massage. Are you joking me!? On my second visit, I booked an appointment with a stylist I had never used before. I was having trouble with my bangs and described my dilemma. Having never seen or cut my hair before, she was able to remedy my trouble-spot on her first try. I was very impressed. Just after that cut and my departure from the store, the manager called me and informed me that they had accidentally charged me $20 for a blow-dry that I had forgone and that they would be certain to credit me that $20 at my next visit (which they indeed did do). Needless to say, I am quite a fan of this salon and would recommend it to anyone. It's aesthetically very pleasing--but not too stuffy--possesses a quite talented staff--and is very client focused!

Pros: Friendly, talented staff

Posted 02/03/08

I dread getting my hair cut and dyed because I do not like all the small talk the stylists try to have. Not the case with Vanity Salon. This is the first salon I have EVER been to where I felt 100% comfortable and actually talked the entire time! Very nice and professional.

Pros: Stylist was upfront about all costs

Posted 01/20/08

I have been to this salon several times and have always had a good experience. Staff is very attentive and we always get started at my appointment time. Ashlie always does a great job and is very pleasant! As an avid aveda user, I understand that the products they recommend you buy are the ones that will work best with your hair. I will definently be back!

Posted 12/27/07

When I called to make my 1st appt. the manager was very helpful in accomodating my limited schedule and was patient & professional in doing so. Alexandria did a great cut & that can be a challenge the first time around. She was focused on working w/ me & not distracted or "busy" w/all the activities surrounding the salon & that is one reason I changed salons. The manager once again was professional in helping me exchange a product at a later date. Someone else (probably new) did not understand what my needs were and the manager took over. The first time I walked in to just look around I was immediately told about the Aveda products - too pushy. The salon is close by and I am really happy finding a great stylist. I plan on going back. The reviews are very helpful as they give more info on other services!

Pros: The pricing is competive and professional service

Cons: The entrance feels crowded

Posted 12/20/07

Vanity is wonderful. Professional staff with friendly stylists who aren't way too chatty. If you want the best haircut you've ever had go here.

Cons: none

Posted 12/13/07

Attention all you Nature's Way clients looking for your stylist: I was a Nature's Way client and have recently become a Vanity Salon client after Nature's Way closed down. I was very excited to see several Nature's Way employees working there; Orlando, Martha, Aleksandra, Weena, and Thanh. They were wonderful stylists, massage therapists, and nail techs at the other salon and it is very clear that they are doing just as wonderful at Vanity. If you were a client at Nature's Way and used to see any of these people you will be in good hands at Vanity Salon. Customer satisfaction is number one with them! And of course their work is impeccable! I highly recommend this salon.

Pros: Friendly, educated staff that know what they are doing; customer service; parking

Cons: None!!

Posted 11/20/07

I just moved to Houston from Louisiana, and I was afraid that I would not find an Aveda salon that I liked. But as a recommendation from the Galleria Aveda store, I chose to go to Vanity. They were very accommodating with the price range that I had in mind. The prices were the cheapest of the Aveda salons in Houston, but still $10 more expensive than I was used to paying. The haircut came out great....exactly what I wanted. I told her everything I wanted, so she didn't have to read my mind. The service and employees were all very nice and friendly. I felt really comfortable in the salon and with Shanna. I recommend her and trying out Vanity Salon. I will be back for my next cut!

Pros: Great atmosphere and service

Cons: none really

Posted 11/14/07

UPDATE: After I wrote this review the owner called me and said I could get a refund, but she wouldn't mail it, she said she wanted to see my hair. I told her that was fine, and drove across town to the salon to see her. She sat me in a chair, looked at my hair, and handed me a check. Then she pulled out a printout of the review I had written. She started reading it aloud. I said "that's mine, I wrote it." She said, "sound familiar?" and I told her that yes, like I said, I wrote it. Then she said she couldn't believe someone would "stoop so low." I was shocked. So low as to write an opinion of my experience at her salon? I was truly speechless. I had such a horrible experience at her salon so she insulted me? She went on to tell me that she wished me good luck and she would help me find a different salon if I needed the help. So my experience at Vanity was to get a horrible haircut, be treated rudely, then insulted, and finally, told to never come back again.

I joined citysearch specifically to post this and hopefully save some fellow ladies from a nightmare. I posted the same review on google reviews.

This was the worst experience I've ever had at a salon. I've never had to go back to a place after a cut, but when I got home and unstyled it, it looked as though a four year old had cut it. I asked for layers and there were none- just a blunt, dull cut, with 7 or so random pieces that were about 2 inches longer than all the rest. I want my money back because I'm horrified I paid $70 to have my hair mangled, and the management is feeding me all these lies.... "the owner is on vacation"...."you paid by check so we can't refund your money"...."we have to check with our accountant before you can get a refund".... You will be making a huge mistake if you expect any decency out of this place.

Pros: none

Cons: Being treated horribly.

Posted 11/10/07

I have been going to Nature's Way Day Spa for over 10 years, and it just closed! I was in shock! But, my wonderful colorist (sorry if that's not the appropriate word) called to tell me about the closing and said she was going to Vanity Salon. I got to keep my original appointment with her and asked her to find me a stylist at Vanity who was fun and cool and who could cut short funky hair. I loved the person she recommended - I loved the whole experience. They offer you drinks and massages while you're getting your hair colored. It was a very nice, clean environment and I will absolutely be going back. The only downfall is that it is more pricey than Nature's Way, yet both are in the same part of town and both are Aveda spas. I have very short hair, and to get it colored and cut, I spent over $200. This was significantly more than Nature's Way, but I love Aveda, I love Aveda salons, and I love the people at Aveda salons. Go to Vanity - you'll love it too!

Pros: clean, great service, good location, full-service

Cons: pricey

Posted 11/05/07

I have been getting my hair "done" at Vanity for over 7 years now, and I absolutely love it. The stylists are always so welcoming, chatty, and kind - even if they aren't the ones cutting your hair. I always feel so at home at the salon. My stylist (Angelique) is fun and friendly yet totally knowledgeable. I have never had a bad cut. She always asks me how I felt about my last cut as well as tries to teach me new ways to fix my hair at home. The bridesmaids and my mother all had their hair fixed by other stylists for my wedding, and everyone was happy with the way their hair turned out. The new massage chairs for shampoos are fabulous, and your neck doesn't hurt while your hair is being washed! I also get my brows waxed, and Eve is just fantastic. She never makes them too thin, and they always end up very natural looking. Everything is worth the price.

Pros: ambience, cell phones on vibrate only, stylists take time with you

Cons: sometimes hard to get an appt, magazine selection

Posted 09/07/07

I have a weekly standing appointment at Vanity. My stylist is AMAZING!!!!! Week after week, I am never let down. In addition to great service, the ambiance of Vanity Salon can be described as "Professional Tranquilty" with Massage chairs at the shampoo bowl, and a glass of wine under the dryer! Best of all, it is great to finally see the results of great hair care. My hair looks healthier than ever, and hasn't grown this fast since I was a kid....I am so blessed to have found my stylist at Vanity!

Posted 08/16/07

I've been shopping around for a good salon for a while now, but I think I've finally found it. Vanity is a great salon. I've been twice, and both times the staff was very friendly, attentive, and professional. My stylist takes me on time and does not overbook. The products are wonderful too. I like this place and would highly recommend it.

Posted 08/13/07

I really enjoyed my visit to this salon. The service gets an A+ from me. My stylist was great with hair cuts and making sure you maintain healthy hair. And I really appreciated that no one at the salon was overbooked.

Pros: Stylist works on one person at a time.

Cons: My hair could have been straigter after the flat iron

Posted 07/02/07

I have been going to Vanity Salon for over 13 years now and wouldn't dream of going anywhere else. From the wonderful customer service and friendly staff, to the perfects cuts and beautiful coloring/highlights they can't be beat. I have been to 3 different stylist, all of whom I would recommend to anyone. Also, Vanity is an Aveda salon, which I think is such an amazing brand of hair products, styling products and make up.

I recently got married and had my hair and makeup done at Vanity for both my bridal portrait and my wedding day. I brought in a few pictures of what I was looking for and the stylist recreated my hair to look exactly like the models in the picture as well as adding some suggested changes, making my hair look so elegant, special and perfect for my wedding day. Everyone commented on how beautiful it looked and it stayed put the whole night.

I tried a few other make up places before my wedding and was very dissappointed because the makeup was so heavy and made me look fake. Vanity's makeup artist took in to consideration my desire to look more natural and did a beautiful job with my make up.

Also, 6 people in my wedding party had their hair and makeup done at the same time making it such a memorable experience for me on my wedding day. All of the stylist did such a wonderful job creating such beautiful hair do's.

Vanity Salon is the #1 hair and beauty salon in Houston and I will continue going there for another 13 years!

Pros: Beautiful color/highlights, friendly/professional staff, great atmosphere

Posted 06/05/07

I had an Aveda facial (their version of microdermabrasion) with Eva and it was fantastic. I had gone in there the day before just to check it out and asked about essential oils for sale (my favorite is Lavender). The receptionist said they didn't sell them individually, but did use them in their facials. The next day for my actual appt, I was suprised when Eva used the Aveda Lavender oil for my facial! So apparently the receptionist communicated to my facialist and was so pleased!

I left completely relaxed...will defintely go back! The ONLY downside (as others mentioned), is that they really do try to push products.

Posted 02/13/07

This was my first time at this salon and I was impressed. The staff was pleasant and offered to get me something to drink and they had a changing room to put on a smock to avoid getting my clothes ruined. My appointment started at the scheduled time, no long wait! The hair stylist I had was Erica. She was very knowledgeable in chemical treatments and has a great personality. She really made me feel comfortable because she really seems to care about doing a good job and she wasn't in a rush. I also like that she knows how to brush long hair without pulling the hair. I will definately be a repeat customer. It was $130 for relaxer, haircut, and style (long hair), a pretty decent price for the Galleria area. The only thing I don't like is that they push their styling products, but what salon doesn't?

Pros: parking is good, good pricing, attentive stylists

Cons: try to sell products

Posted 02/11/06

Angelique listened to what I had to say. She asked great questions and she made me feel like I was in good hands. Jane was fantastic . I introduced myself as a new client, and she fully explained what I should expect.(i.e. consultation before the chemical process)

Pros: Superior desk staff, professionalism, warm surrounds

Cons: can't go more often

Posted 12/17/05

I have been going to Vanity for so long I can't even remember. I have even moved away to LA, but whenever I am in town I go see my Monica. I called today to make an appointment for my next trip home and to my surprise they say she is no longer there. I am stunned! Does anybody know where she is? Please tell me if you do. She is so great and I am so sad that I will have to find someone new. So if anyone knows where she is can you post it. But, regardless the salon is great and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a new stylist. However, I don't really want a new one unless I HAVE to! :(

Pros: competitive pricing, good parking, accomodating hours

Cons: need better mags., unhelpful salon direc

Posted 10/26/05