R5 Best Hair Salons in Westchester County

Nothing transforms a girl (or boy) more completely than a sleek new ’do. Luckily for us, Westchester has a bevy of beauty salons, each promising to turnour ragged mops into head-turning works of art. Here are 15 great new or undiscovered treasures Westchester Magazine has found this year.

Gloss Salon
25 Parkway, Katonah

Opened: December 2011 The Vibe: Charming, light-filled, and clutter-free with gorgeous architectural and interior-design features. The Long and Short: Even on a cloudy day, Gloss Salon, a cheery, yellow-framed house, is filled with light from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Just as striking is the Anthropologie-meets-Restoration-Hardware, earth-toned interior, which looks almost like an artist’s gallery. Stations are actually rolling carts brought along when needed. Dramatic mirrors—there are five expansive ones—are stunning; the two near the color station are framed with driftwood. The snug window seat in the front and a self-serve coffee and tea station, are additional
plusses, as are the gorgeous pillows that offer comfort at the shampooing area. But, of course, the “mane attraction” is owner Shannon Nitti, a youthful-looking mother of three who previously worked at Richard Scott Salon in Mount Kisco. Often found in four-inch heels (she admits standing all day doesn’t deter her), she’s all about finding the best style for each client, using her educated, artistic eye for suggestions. Her motto: “We are committed to making you feel like the true individual that you are.” The salon, which also has a stylist, Andrea Caballero, specializes in color, cuts, Brazilian and keratin treatments, and extensions. Of course, the Hershey’s Kisses set in bowls throughout the room only add to the freshman salon’s sweetness. Make an Appointment: (914) 232-7655; gloss25.com. Women’s haircuts from $65; girls’ haircuts from $40; men’s haircuts from $30; boys’ haircuts from $25

Salon Posh
516 W Boston Post Rd, Mamaroneck
Opened: September 2009 The Vibe: Like you’ve walked into a living room filled with the chatter of girlfriends. The Long and Short: Expect laughter, kisses, and lots of hugs at Salon Posh, where owner Diane Mammana says she works with her best friends. Really. The five stylists basically grew up together or know each other through a local connection. Mammana admits she’s had two dreams—to open her own salon (check) and to go to Africa. While the second is still on the “wish list,” she did decorate the space to evoke shades of the continent with earthy, deep-brown tones; bamboo fans; and a stunning bench that looks like it was carved out of a tree. Even the website has a leopard-print background. The focus here—aside from the gal-pal bonding—is on an abundance of hair services: cuts, color, highlights, and a keratin smoothing system, all at affordable prices. The salon also sells a variety of hip products such as It’s A 10, Big Sexy Hair, and L’Oréal Nature’s Therapy. Bridal is a huge part of its business, with bookings for weddings made months in advance. The salon also hosts an array of bridal events throughout the year, often partnering with JK Flashy Makeup Service of White Plains, as well as other area vendors. On the docket for 2012: Mammana’s own hair-extension brand. Make an Appointment: (914) 899-3333; salonposhhair.com. Women’s haircuts from $60; girls’ haircuts from $35; men’s haircuts from $25; first-time customers get 15 percent off the total cost of their service(s). If that customer refers a friend, not only will the friend get a discount, but the person who referred the friend will get discounted services again on his or her next visit.

Aura Boutique Salon
191 King St, Chappaqua

Opened: Under new ownership since July 2010; new name and renovation as of January 2012. The Vibe: Like you’ve entered a cozy home complete with wind chimes, a sitting area with a sofa and chairs, and beautifully framed windows that flood the room with light. The Long and Short: The first things you’ll notice when you walk into Aura are the flickering candles and scents of lavender, evoking a serene—dare we say it—aura. The salon, previously known as Robin Michelle, changed hands two years ago but has now been dramatically altered. Owner Leticia Villagran broke through the first floor to create an “upstairs/downstairs” effect, with a larger reception area and more cutting stations. There is also a separate brow studio on the property for eyebrow waxing and shaping. (Specialist Gail Marie, one of Westchester Magazine’s Best of Westchester winners, works out of this space.) The upper level is devoted to color, with a special area for keratin treatments. Villagran also decided to change the name of the salon to more accurately reflect its mission: to cater to hair organically in an environment that’s as natural and fume-free as possible. Most of the products are from Aveda’s organic line, but you’ll find other products as well, including a vegan keratin option by Zerran RealLisse. Make an Appointment: (914) 238-0091. Women’s haircuts from $65; men’s haircuts from $35.

House for Hair
852 Commerce St, #4D, Thornwood
Opened: September 2011 The Vibe: Walking into House for Hair is like stepping into a European retreat where owner (and 22-year hairstyling veteran) Ingeborg Hollander pampers you with Dutch coffee, French products, European treats, and unique styles. The Long and Short: Hollander, a recent transplant from the Netherlands, has a slightly different approach than what you might expect at other salons. It starts with her prices, which are based on your hair’s length. Then, it’s just you and Hollander and the bright orange mirror that shows off your new look. There’s a sense of playfulness and fun here, with a panda chair for kids; a mod-looking, white-and-orange shampoo station; and a spa-like steamer for drying under for those who are getting color. “People tell me they love all the attention,” says Hollander. “And I love giving it.” Her services run the gamut from hair design and styling to hair color, highlights, extensions, and the Brazilian Cacau hair-smoothing treatment. She uses Hairgum from France and the Dafines coloration line from Italy. Make an Appointment: (914) 747-0077; houseforhair.com. Receive 25 percent off your first visit for coloring, cuts, and blowouts; short hair from $35; medium hair from $40; long hair from $50; men’s from $25.

Julius Michael works on a client at his sleek Scarsdale salon.

Julius Michael
1 Christie Pl, Scarsdale
Opened: May 2011 The Vibe: Modern, cutting-edge boutique with a distinct LA look. Bonus points for the assorted cookies and cakes in the waiting area from Lulu Cake Boutique. The Long and Short: First, there’s the impressive interior—the shiny, patent-leather-look white walls; the glossy, slate-gray floors; and the ethereal-looking stylist chairs. But there’s also the fact that nearly everyone in here is gorgeous—both the clientele and the stylists. But no worries: you will be, too, when you walk out. Owner Julius Michael trained with celebrity hair colorist Rita Hazan, working on such stars as Britney Spears, Mariah Carey, Jessica Simpson, and Jennifer Lopez. Though his specialty is color, he’s also adept at hair extensions and hair replacement, as well as permanent Japanese hair straightening. He and Armonk resident Monica Wald oversee a staff of five stylists, each with her own area of expertise. Kelly Ciccone specializes in blondes, curly hair, and keratin treatments; Summer Kamke has redheads and up-dos covered; Voula Severino does color, cuts, and is a master up-do stylist; Jennifer Goldman O’Neill is a precision haircutter trained by TiGi; and Cindy Gencarelli, with more than 20 years of experience, is another blonde master who’s also a pro at highlighting, haircuts, and more. The salon sells only products by Oribe, a high-end hair-care line that uses ingredients such as mother of pearl and keratin, created by celebrity hairstylist Oribe Canales, Michael’s mentor and former boss. At press time, the salon was pitching a pilot for a reality TV show. Make an Appointment: (914) 725-1123; juliusmichael.com. Women’s haircuts from $80; men’s haircuts from $40.

Dragonfly Hair Studio
54 Maple St, Croton-on-Hudson
Opened: April 2011 The Vibe: There’s a spiritual, holistic vibe to what is billed as Westchester’s first “green” salon. The Long and Short: You are greeted with words like “generous, charismatic, and soul sister” painted on the back wall when you enter this small, three-chair salon. Fresh flowers grace each station, coffee is brought in from The Black Cow around the corner, and, on the way out, you’re given a complimentary lip balm along with a personal affirmation that sits in a small bowl on the hand-crafted, natural wood reception desk (made by a local artist). There’s so much thought in the ambiance—biodegradable wallpaper, organic products, and an emphasis on cutting down on waste (no paper cups here!)—you almost forget you’re not here to schmooze and hang out but to get a haircut. And, oh, what a style you’ll be treated to! Owner Tara Colavecchio worked for 18 years in Manhattan, at such top salons such as Chaz Dean, Frédéric Fekkai, Chinois, and Pierre Michel. Her staff is just as experienced and talented, most of them with years of NYC experience. (Astrid Cohen, who still works at Warren Tricomi Salon at the Plaza Hotel, is a master colorist who’s here a few times a week.) Whatever you do, make sure you leave with the salon’s special “dragon oil,” pure Marula oil whose multi-purpose function ranges from makeup remover to an under-eye cream to, of course, de-frizzing and styling your hair. Aside from being pure “magic in a bottle,” it’s distributed by Women’s Works, a company that assists women in South Africa. The salon also does eyelash extensions, hair extensions, airbrush tanning, body bling and vajazzeling, and offers makeup services. Make an Appointment: (914) 271-1336, dfhairstudio.com. Women’s haircuts from $65 ($125 for women; $85 for men for Colavecchio); children’s haircuts starting at $35.

Numi & Company
99 Purchase St, Rye
Opened: February 2012 The Vibe: Sophisticated glamour with the mood of a hip, happening party. The Long and Short: Co-owners Nuriel Abramov and Gabriel Abrams, leading stylists who climbed the ranks at New York City’s most exclusive salons (Kim LePine and Rosario Acquista for Abramov; John Frieda for Abrams), have been busy. Since opening Numi & Co. on the Scarsdale/Eastchester border in March 2010, they’ve expanded, bringing the same level of service to their new—and much larger—salon. (There are two large rooms with clear delineation between the five coloring stations, and eight haircutting stations.) Whether you have curly, fine, or straight hair, the staff at Numi & Co. is up for the challenge. For the record, Abramov, who travels between Rye and the Scarsdale location, is known for expertly transforming previous haircut mishaps into a head of amazing locks you’ll love. Make an Appointment: (914) 921-6864; numihair.com. Women’s haircuts from $75; men’s haircuts from $45; 15 percent off to new clients during the month of April.

Renee & Co. Hair Couture
32 Westchester Ave, White Plains

Opened: September 2010 The Vibe: Funky, sassy, and joyful with energy that matches its gold walls, black ceilings, and glimmering chandeliers. The Long and Short: The five stylists here specialize in multi-cultural hair with a total of more than 60 years of combined professional experience. Their mission: to make your hair “sing” in ways other stylists haven’t been able to. Owner Renee Robinson has a vision for each of her clients and is able to steer folks to the right person on her staff. For instance, Lauren is a master hair braider, Charlie is known for working with children’s hair, Giselle for straightening and perms, while Sophia is an expert in handling chemically processed hair. The salon also does waxing, eyelash extensions, and ear piercings as well as keratin treatments and hair extensions. The only downside can be parking: find a space at nearby Stop & Shop or at The Westchester rather than looking for spaces on the street. Make an Appointment: (914) 437-7000; reneehaircouture.com. Women’s haircuts from $60; children’s haircuts from $35; pecials on Wednesdays (check website for details)  

Carla’s Hair Salon
1735 E Main St, Mohegan Lake
Opened: In Shrub Oak for five years; moved to new location in June 2011. The Vibe: Traditional and comfortable with a something-for-everyone ambiance. The Long and Short: A team effort defines the nine-chair salon where face-framing cuts and up-to-the-minute color keep clients coming back for more. The salon, which caters to both men and women, is run by husband-and-wife owners Sharif and Carla Sams, who attribute their success to a loyal team of nine stylists who frequently take classes to keep up with trends. The salon is an exclusive Aveda vendor and has the newest products on constant rotation (including the popular Aveda botanical therapy treatment for thinning hair); the Aveda makeup line also is sold here. Waxing is available, too; the Sams very recently brought an aesthetician on board for facials. Make an Appointment: (914) 528-5017; carlashairsalon.com. Women’s haircuts from $45; men’s haircuts from $25; occasional specials on the salon’s Facebook page and website.

Mode A Salon
496 New Rochelle Rd, Bronxville
Opened: January 2012 The Vibe: Fashion-forward in a hip setting. There are three chairs and a beaded curtain that separates the reception area from the styling space. The Long and Short: It’s the little things that make this brand-spanking-new salon so groovy. Owner (and New Rochelle resident) Flavio Oliveira has decorated the place in mod whites and blacks with a cool purple reception desk and shampoo chairs that recline all the way back. There’s even a bit of a hot-towel treatment that goes on post scalp massage. Coffee is delivered on a wooden tray in ceramic mugs. Yes, Oliveira’s Brazilian accent and swanky Manhattan style had us at “hello,” but what really seals the deal is his haircuts and color: stylish numbers done with attentive care and quality. The 23-year veteran’s philosophy: “Hair is like the ultimate accessory; we want it to complement the rest of your look.” FYI: he only uses L’Oréal products; he also hopes to bring in a makeup artist full-time. For now, makeup services are available on weekends only. Make an Appointment: (914) 840-4343. Women’s haircuts from $55; first-time clients get 15 percent off a hair service or a free power-dose color treatment with haircut.

Salon Aventine
80 Lincoln Ave, Pelham
Opened: June 2011 The Vibe: Elegantly simple with three chairs, two coloring stations, and two shampoo stations. Music is soft; the big flat-screen TV is rarely used. The Long and Short: Talk long enough to salon owners and you’ll soon find out everyone is connected. Diane Cohen, a hairdresser who took time off to raise her kids, used to refer clients to Kathy’s Salon, now Salon Aventine. When she learned Kathy wanted to sell, she jumped at the chance. After all, hair had always been her passion. She—and her two stylists, Ericka Connor and Sara Clemente—do everything from color to cuts to blowouts and straightening. We love the sign behind the reception desk that reads: “Legend has it that Diana, Goddess of the Hunt (among other things such as the moon, fertility, and maybe shoes) lived on Aventine Hill in Rome.” And so, with that in mind, a new business was born. Though the salon caters to men and children, the “girl power” vibe is definitely ingrained in the ambiance. Make an Appointment: (914) 738-9599. Women’s haircuts from $60; girls’ haircuts from $30; men’s haircuts from $35; boys’ haircuts from $25.

Salon 42
42 Garth Rd, Scarsdale
Opened: New ownership as of March 2009. The Vibe: Standard unisex salon that appeals to all generations. The Long and Short: It’s hard to stand out in Scarsdale. On Garth Road alone you can find three salons, with another one around the corner. What makes Salon 42 different? Owner Clara Sinko, who has had years of international training, for one. A good friend swears by her expert handling of all kinds of tresses. She has worked in Scarsdale for many years, and at one time she was the owner of Ultimate Image just a few doors down. Under her tutelage, Salon 42 was completely renovated, transforming a tired-looking salon into something smart and spacious. There are six chairs and a host of talented stylists each with their specialty. But what really makes the salon stand out is its organic color treatments that are ammonia and fume-free, as well as its organic, formaldehyde-free Keragreen keratin straightening system. The salon also carries various lines from around the world including AG from Canada and Milbon and Nigelle from Japan. Also on the premises: Lashes by Divine Evangelista (DivineLashExtensions.com); by appointment only. Make an Appointment: (914) 723-3445; salon42ny.com.
Women’s haircuts from $55; girls’ haircuts from $35; men’s haircuts from $25; boys’ haircuts from $20

Salon Camaj
1331C North Ave, New Rochelle
Opened: January 2012 The Vibe: Down-to-earth and unpretentious set amidst an airy, loft-like ambiance. The Long and Short: This light-filled salon has a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you want to stay and chat with the mother/daughter owners Donna and Maria Camaj. Both had worked at other salons—mom Donna at Leah Beauty Center in Scarsdale, daughter Maria at Christina D in Port Chester. This collaboration is their dream come true and you can feel the enthusiasm. For now, it’s just the two of them—plus their two assistants—but they hope to add to their staff soon. The space is big, yet feels cozy with a comfy sofa in the front, offering a bird’s eye view of the action. The women specialize in cuts, blowouts, updos, and organic keratin treatments. Make an Appointment: (914) 278-9180. Women’s haircuts from $80; girl’s haircuts from $35; men’s haircuts from $35.

The Ultimate Touch Salon
15D Rye Ridge Plaza, Rye Brook
Opened: March 2011 The Vibe: Traditional, with a clientele that is equal parts men and women  The Long and Short: While decadent massages and specially brewed coffee are all well and good, at the end of the day, all you need out of your salon visit is unhurried service and a really good (and maintainable!) haircut. And that’s what you’ll get at Ultimate Touch, where the stylists—my sources swear by Stephanie Sciarretta—can take your look from dowdy to daring. Or, for those who are more old-fashioned (like me), they will simply just make you “you”—only a little more stylish. The full-service salon is also known for its world-class hair restoration (owner Chris Licursi has been on Good Morning America and Montel Williams, among other shows, explaining the process). Licursi took over the salon from Pat Ciani, who ran the business for three years under the name Salon PF. Ciani is still here—just doing more of what he loves—cutting and styling hair. The rest of the team includes Sandra Aceituno, Leonard Lopane, and Michael J Carauetto. Make an Appointment: (914) 358-9210; ultimate touchny.com. Women’s haircuts from $55; men’s haircuts from $35; new clients get $20 off any service.

The French Connection

The Salon at the Ritz-Carlton
White Plains
Opened: January 2008. Though The Salon at the Ritz is not new—it opened in 2008—we had to tell you about Spa Supervisor (and stylist extraordinaire) Cecile Chapaveyre. She offers a blissful, get-away-from-it-all experience, complete with an indulgent scalp massage. All this before your haircut even begins. More than that, she and The Salon offer service so personal you’ll feel like a queen. While there are two hair stations, most often, if you come midweek, it will be just you and Chapaveyre in the room. You are the focus. Period. And French-born Chapaveyre is your guide ready to work her magic. Her motto: It’s all about the basics. She doesn’t believe you need a lot of products to have good-looking hair—just a healthy scalp (hence the intense massage). She also likes to start a shampoo with a dose of product—no water—as a way to really clean your hair and set the canvas for what is sure to be a masterpiece. Above all, she listens to what you want (especially when you want to “keep the length”) and accommodates with the flourish of a master—my curls never looked so good. The Salon also has two manicure tables, two pedicure chairs, and a makeup station. There are three hair stylists and a makeup artist on weekends. Despite the small size, this is a full-service salon dedicated to color, highlights, up-dos, bridal hair trials, and hairstyling, as well as children’s and men’s cuts. Make an Appointment: 3 Renaissance Sq, White Plains (914) 467-5891, ritz carlton.com/en/Properties/Westchester/Information/Default.htm. Women’s haircuts from $95; men’s haircuts from $50; children’s haircuts from $35; salon guests also have access to the spa facilities including the steam room, sauna, and relaxation lounge. Valet parking is complimentary.