Salon V: A Mane Attraction in Lincoln Park

BY RACHEL DICKENS

I’ll just say it – choosing a new hair salon is the underrated mother of all difficult decisions.

What I’m about to share is the abridged story of how I found the salon of my dreams – and how you can too (because you all knew that part was coming). 

Right after moving to Chicago last year, I chopped my hair into a chin-length bob. Initially, I loved it – the upkeep was manageable and the style reminded me of one of the actresses’ hair on 90210, so obviously I felt like a million bucks. But what came afterwards was a slew of underwhelming trims that left me feeling less-than-stellar about my short locks.

After crowdsourcing my friends for recommendations, I chose Salon V in Lincoln Park – a coworker of mine swore by it, plus she told me we’d both get $10 off our next visits if I used her name as a referral. Total win-win.

Despite awesome reviews and a convenient location, Salon V is one of the most unpretentious places I’ve ever visited. Like many other Aveda salons, it has an ambient vibe that feels more intimate than edgy, more rustic than modern. While the space is relatively modest, I understood from the moment I stepped inside that I was at an upscale salon that meant business.

Clearly, I’m a fan of this place. But I’d have to say my favorite thing about Salon V is their show-don’t-tell approach to selling products. Rather than droning on about how much a $60 conditioner would change my life, my stylist, Laura, used certain products on my hair and explained their usefulness straightforwardly when I asked about them.

In addition to Aveda products, Salon V also uses Global Keratin – a brand I’ve come to discover and love through my visits there. I’ve always been on the fence about getting some form of de-frizzing treatment, so Laura suggested I try GK’s deep conditioner before committing to the real deal.

No joke, this product has tamed my hair tenfold. It keeps my locks soft and manageable for longer than any other conditioner. Needless to say, I ran out of it for a week between haircuts recently and wore my hair in an unfortunate, stubby ponytail until I could get my hands on another bottle.

The ultimate awesome thing about Salon V is that I always leave feeling refreshed, not only by the welcoming atmosphere and quality products, but by my great haircuts. I’ve been back to Laura for two trims since my first visit, and in the spirit of paying it forward, I’ve recommended Salon V to multiple, now-loyal customers.

Oh, and if you’re in the market for a new salon, my name’s Rachel Dickens and I welcome $10 referral discounts whenever it feels natural.

Salon V, 1007 West Webster Avenue. For more information call 773-296-0616 or visit www.salonvchicago.com.

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