I have had the same hair stylist for about 4 years now...but I just decided to leave her. I swear it is harder than a break-up. She just hasn't gotten my hair right the last couple times.
So, I kind of asked people who's hair I thought always looked good...but then there was an article in a local magazine about a salon in town. They interviewed the owner and I was really impressed with his philosophy for his business and his hair styling. So, I just called and talked to one of the stylist and made an appointment. She booked an extra half hour for me for a consultation at the beginning.
If there is a place you think you'd like to try, just make sure they know you are shopping for a new stylist and that you want to spend some time with the new one discussing your hair type and what you want.
My best ones have been through friends and by asking girls whose hair I admire.
I actually went to one recommended in Daily Candy for most of last year though. They were wonderful, but not wonderful enough to drop $375 on color and cut (inc. tip)!
I hate this process! I went to 3 different people when I moved to Dallas before I found someone I was comfortable with, but to be honest I'm still not entirely happy with her. The idea of shopping a stylist again makes me want to barf. I took the road of asking people that I liked their hair but seriously, I'm not paying $200+ for a cut & color & that's what I seem to come across. Lilykind - the idea of $375 makes me shiver!
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Who do you have to probe around here to get a Chardonnay? - Roger the Alien from American Dad
Well, I used to work in SF and there were a couple of trendy/cute girls in my office and I asked one where they got their hair done. Three years later and I still get my hair cut and colored by this guy. I've tried places that were closer and more inexpensive, but I'm NEVER as happy. So, I usually only go every 3-4 months even though he recommends coming in every 2 months. It's about $350 for cut and color.