I've been going to Riah for almost three years after two of my roommates (and their fabulous haircuts) referred Ann.
Highlights:
My hair is much healthier since going to Riah. Ann uses a tint, rather than a bleach, to get my hair a natural looking blonde that blends into my light brown hair. That also helps because I'm sure I should go back more often to keep the roots at bay, but at the end of three (and sometimes even four) months, they don't look that bad. Sometimes I go lighter and sometimes I go darker, but she always works with me. And my favorite thing is, the highlights look like the color really could be my own. I like a natural looking pattern rather than stripe-y look, and she can do whatever you prefer.
Haircut:
The shape of my head, fine hair, and the size of my ears all play into what I can do with my hairstyle. I look best in a bob, which isn't all that exciting but at least it never really goes out of style. I try variations on bobs, but basically it's always the same. So haircuts don't excite me that much, but what does excite me is the feel of my hair after a cut at Riah. The aforementioned roommates with their long, luscious layers always looked like really expensive cuts, like every hair was in the perfect spot even when they did it themselves. But the kicker that got me started with Riah was how they said it felt like a good cut. And now I know what they mean. A bob seems pretty simple, but it's amazing how one person can do it better than everybody else. My hair feels light and even, not weighted down in various spots. Nothing feels out of place. It's even in weight and thickness all around, and she's conscientious of my part.
Ann and Devon:
They are really laid-back and listen to what you say/ask and then they take time to think about what they are going to do. I hate when places plop you down and start the process and then ask you what you want when they already have an idea of what they are going to do. I see Ann four to six times a year and she always remembers what we talked about the last time I was in, both about hair and chit-chat.
Salon:
I like that it's so small. It's homey and warm, and I never feel rushed. It's downtown NY. If I wanted a big salon, I'd go elsewhere. This is like a hidden gem that a hip friend tells you about rather than the super luxe and uber trendy NY salon you'd see in a movie. It's good to be in on the secret!
Pros: great highlights
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