Not all bobs are alike, and celebrity stylist Michelle Forst likes to keep up with red carpet trends to make sure her cuts are always on point. Her latest creation, a wavy bob inspired by Sienna Miller’s hair at the Golden Globes, is a welcome alternative to more predictable short 'dos. In our opinion, this edgy crop is the perfect look for spring. George the Salon, 945 North Rush Street (at Oak); 312-923-9444.
For Natural Bayalage Highlights: Renee Pelc, Gloss Salon
Renee
Pelc makes highlights look like they are supposed to — natural. The
20-year-plus industry veteran has a knack for transforming tresses into
effortlessly sun-kissed and vibrant locks with her precise bayalage
technique. And, thanks to the new Olaplex Bond Multiplier No. 1 she
uses, you can go blonder minus the breakage. Trust, you may well never
go back to foils again.
Anthony
Cristiano has quite the client roster — and there's a good reason
everyone from Gigi Hadid to Kristin Cavallari to Sophia Bush has him on
speed dial. As a celebrity editorial hairstylist, he truly understands
the balance and proportions of someone's face shape to give
them the most flattering 'do. This spring, Cristiano is embracing
beachy waves, as seen on Sports Illustrated cover girl
Hannah Davis and Brazilian stunner Adriana Lima. Seek him out if you'd
like to give your friends a serious case of hair envy.Anthony Cristiano Salon at the Trump Tower, 401 North Wabash Avenue (mezzanine level); 312-268-2440.
For The Best Extensions In Town: Tony Odisho, Exsalonce Salon And Day Spa
Like most Chicago girls, we've
tried our fair share of hair extensions, and Tony Odisho's still win
our vote as the best in the city. Whether you want to add length so you have more to work
with, or a little fullness so you can finally achieve the style of your
dreams, you won't be disappointed. And, with proper care, they won't
damage your tresses, thanks to a keratin bond that mimics the structure
of your real hair. Not a fan of sitting in the salon
chair for hours? Choose the express tape option, and you'll be out the
door in under an hour.
For Someone Who Really Gets Natural Hair: Rahni Michael Flowers At Van Cleef Hair Studio
Several generations of Chicago's African-American community have had their hair coiffed to perfection by the hands of Rahni Michael Flowers at the sophisticated yet welcoming Van Cleef Hair Studio. The secret to their success? Rahni works carefully with his team to find the most beneficial products and to minimize the amount of heat that is applied, resulting in beautiful, healthy hair that can then be easily styled. Van Cleef Hair Studio, 56 West Huron Street (at Dearborn Street); 312-751-2456. For The Longest-Lasting Blowout Of Your Life: Giselle at Charles Ifergan
Prepare to ditch your beanie cap and let your locks shine. No matter what look you are trying to achieve, Giselle can make it happen, and in less time than your average lunch break. But, what we really love is how long our amazing blowout stays fresh. With a little care (read: dry shampoo), you can look salon-perfect for at least two to three days. Charles Ifergan, 106 East Oak Street (between Rush Street and Michigan Avenue); 312-642-4484.
For Unicorn Hair You Can Actually Pull Off: Jennifer Doljanin At Mario Tricoci Salon & Day Spa
Over
the course of 35-plus years, the Tricoci family has opened 15
full-service locations throughout Chicagoland that continuously offer
the latest trends and techniques in the industry. The newest innovation
in their technicians' mixing bowl is called "color touch instamatic,"
which livens up blonde — and slightly deeper-hued clients — with a dash
of pastel color that’s painted on, balayage-style. Whether you want to
channel your inner Katy Perry or your Kylie Jenner, there are six diffused
shades to choose from that will tastefully fade over time. And, don’t
think you’re too old for this look. If Helen Mirren could pull it off, so can you. Mario Tricoci Salon & Spa, 900 North Michigan Avenue (between Delaware Place and Chestnut Street); 847-202-1900.
For A Bold Burst Of Color: Stevie Smith At Smith & Davis Salon
Smith is an expert at whipping up color formulas that fit her clients' lifestyle and comfort zone. But, if you’re looking to step out of that comfy place and try something different, this mix-master also has a few tricks up her sleeve. For a fun, new way to add vibrancy to the hair without an overall commitment or change, Smith suggests adding a pop of color in the form of bright hues (think peacock blue), for a bold or subtle — but never predictable or boring — look.
Smith & Davis Salon, 735 West Wrightwood Avenue (at Burling Street); 773-697-4206.
For A Next-Level Bang Trim: Amy Abramite At Maxine
If
you’re looking to make a small change that delivers major results,
Maxine creative director and stylist Amy Abramite is your gal. The bang
aficionado starts by analyzing your head shape, the width and length of
your forehead, the density of your hair, and your hairline itself before
ever picking up her scissors. Then, she decides what will look best for
the shape, length, and texture of your tresses — whether it's clean and
blunt à la Katy Perry or soft and sexy like Dakota Johnson.
Celebrity-inspired bangs? Yes, please!