When I started at Tulane, it took mere weeks for the campus to feel like home. All the new faces and places, even my tiny closet of a dorm room in Monroe, made me feel so happy and comfortable at Tulane. But there was always one thing missing: my hair stylist from home. I didn’t trust anyone with my hair, but I could no longer wait the three months it would be until I went home to see my beloved stylist. When I asked new friends for recommendations, I wasn’t sure who I would like the best and it felt like every salon was at least an Uber ride away from campus.
That’s why I’ve organized a list of my favorite NOLA salons and stylists for cut and color, and arranged them in order of proximity to campus. All time estimates are measured from the walking or driving distance to the salon from Bruff. Find one that works for you so you can stop missing your home hair god.
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Pure Salon
PHOTO: Pure Salon
This adorable little salon is nestled between some houses on a residential area of Lowerline Street, right across from the building formerly known as Cafe Freret. Located just a half mile from campus, it would take you just 11 minutes to walk over and get your hair cut or colored in between classes! FYI: this salon is only 2 blocks away from the Boot, too.
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Family Barber
PHOTOS: Gwen Snyder
The cutest little barber shop you ever did see is only 18 minutes away. This salon is located right at the beginning of Oak Street, so your visit would be a perfect little study break if you’re spending the day cramming homework in at Rue de la Course. Try this salon out if you’re thinking of switching it up a bit & getting a shorter ‘do, they do everything from bobs to buzz cuts.
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Salon Capri
PHOTOS: Gwen Snyder
This luxury salon is the perfect place to find your favorite new hairstylist. It’s located just on the other side of Audubon Park on Magazine Street, about 30 minutes from campus, and sells beauty products from brands like Kevin Murphy and Marula Oil. P.S.: I heard that Jay does awesome highlights.
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Modern Men
PHOTOS: Gwen Snyder
Another fantastic salon for shorter haircuts, Modern Men is 19 minutes away, just around the corner from everyone’s favorite Sunday brunch spot, Satsuma. Come get a trim and make sure to peruse their extensive array of products.
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Paris Parker Prytania
PHOTOS: Gwen Snyder
This is hands down my favorite salon in New Orleans, and just 35 minutes walking distance. You can get the full works here: cut, color, wax, nails, massage, and all with natural, sustainable, great-smelling Aveda products. Even better, you can book online! For cuts, I recommend: Chris, Lauren, and Amanda. For color: Stacey, Chrissie, and Kelli. Oh, and don’t forget to stop by Creole Creamery when your appointment is over.
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Eric Michael Salon
PHOTOS: @ericmichaelsalon
Definitely not walking distance, but definitely worth the 15 minute Uber. This new salon, started by experienced stylist Eric Michael, is perfect if you’re looking to get balayage or ombre. Get out and explore a different part of the city and look fabulous while doing it.
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Salon Diversions
Another Aveda salon, Salon Diversions is located in the heart of the French Quarter about a 20 minute ride away. This salon specializes in hair extensions, but their coloring looks out of this world. As an added bonus, you can pick up beignets from Cafe du Monde on your way back to campus. If you need further convincing, check out @gabriellearmanini’s Instagram. It’s a gamechanger.’
PHOTO: Gabrielle Armanini
For coloring, most stylists suggest you come in for a consultation before actually getting your hair dyed. If you’re looking for a new stylist in NOLA, think about your hair timeline to figure out what time is best to go in and meet your new favorite person! I’ve learned the hard way that the best way to get the color you want is to come in with pictures (Pinterest and Tumblr are my faves) to show to your stylist.
About Sara Alice Witcher
Sara Alice Witcher is a senior from Baton Rouge who proudly survived Swine ’09. She is a Public Health and Political Science major who enjoys boxing in her free time.
Sara Alice Witcher is a senior from Baton Rouge who proudly survived Swine ’09. She is a Public Health and Political Science major who enjoys boxing in her free time.
