So like, I'm a college student. Which means I'm poor and can't drop the big ass wad of cash needed at Umi. But if I was rech I would consider being less rech to get my locks cut here all. the. time. Emphasis needed. People here know what they're doing. And if they don't I have a hunch their asses are out on the street, blankly looking at the number 75 on the door - kind of like me, trying to figure out how to get into the salon. They're hidden because they have NOTHING to prove to anyone. So how did I get my badass haircut here? I needed one badly and did a lengthy search of salons that need models to practice on. I came upon the name Uni and thought "hmm I haven't heard of this one before." Did a quick Yelp search, saw the awesome rating and called right away. And even though I was a model (because I'm hot) getting a complimentary cut, I was treated like gold. The receptionist was super friendly and had a great sense of humor and thanked me a bunch of times for coming in. Yea you're welcome, it was really hard for me to find time for a FREE haircut from one of the best salons in Boston. My stylist was Elle and she was sweet and wonderful and ready to learn. Though I don't know a thing about hair, I do watch a lot of Tabitha's Salon Takeover so I'm almost a stylist at this point. There is a LOT that goes on with cutting hair. I was utterly fascinated. The owner? head stylist? was there watching Elle and the other stylist like a hawk. I knew I was in safe hands. I'd be coming out with a wicked awesome 'do man. I had no idea what my hair was going to look like but I'm a risk taker and now everyone wants to know where I got my hair cut. If you can't afford to go here, be a model. If you can afford to go here, I'm jealous. And FYI : I think I want my apartment decorated the way Umi looks. Clean, spacious, minimalist. Omg like me lol. read more

It's true what you've heard, Umi Salon will definitely cost you, but no more than any other high quality salon on Newbury Street. However, I can wholeheartedly tell you that this is the best salon in Boston. I've had one too many bad hair experiences in Boston to know good from bad. If we want to talk good, this place takes the cake. If they can take my dyed black Asian hair to a gorgeous, multi tonal golden color, they work miracles... and they do. Their goal is to make you look your absolute best. I'm always impressed by their attentive service and blown away by their color expertise. My Asian hair is currently a nice golden honey color and it's never once oxidized into that usual orange mess you see on so many Asian women. AMEN TO THAT SISTER! I'll never go anywhere else for my coloring needs. read more

I have been coming to Umi since it first opened, before all the awards and magazine recognitions. Prior to that, I had gone to probably half of the salons on Newbury, and had never gotten a cut that I truly loved. My hair is long, thick, straight, and coarse, and I got so tired of too many stylists trying to give me a Jennifer Aniston-type layering. Once I got to Umi, I was impressed by how thorough and attention-oriented even the "lower-level" stylists were. They always took the time to listen, and then carefully tend to my hair, even if I went over by an hour. The only thing that I don't like is that every time I find a great stylist at Umi, they end up leaving after awhile. I know this is normal, and people do move around, but even this isn't too big a deterrent because the next stylist they recommend to me is always great too. I have since moved to SF and am worried I'll have to waste months and tons of money finding a replacement for Umi. The last two stylists I had at Umi were artists with hair. You could tell by how intuitive their cutting style was, and how well their cuts lasted until the next. My hair does not work with lots of layers, and I also have side bangs that are a challenge to cut correctly, and Sean and John immediately knew what to do just from touching my hair. Their cuts always left me feeling amazing, and they never made me feel rushed, even though I have a lot of hair and it takes a long time to blow dry and cut. Sean has sadly moved out of the state, but before I left for SF I had a few cuts with John and he was just amazing. Even though John had Jeffrey recommend me to a good salon in SF, I think I might have to wait until I go back to visit Boston to get a haircut! :) read more

I've been going to Umi on and off for six or seven years now and my experience has been universally positive. I always get great, low maintenance haircuts (I am pretty upfront about the fact that I don't, and won't, blow dry my own hair) that grow out really well (I'm also not one to get my hair cut more than a few times a year), and fab color jobs (though I haven't been quite as happy with my color since Liz left - she would always color my hair a few shades darker than anyone recently seems willing to do it). I also LOVE the Umi experience - the salon has a great vibe, the receptionists are always super friendly (even though they know I only come a few times a year), and I love the whole minimalist aesthetic. It's a feel good place, for sure. My one complaint, and this isn't so much about Umi, but high-end salons in general, is that I don't believe in tipping professionals and hair services, at least these days, are professional services. I resent the expectation to tip 15 to 20 percent on top of a whopping $300 bill (and at Umi, even the owner accepts gratuities). I have heard the mantra - if you can't afford to tip, you can't afford the service - but a hair salon like Umi is not a restaurant, and one would hope the stylist is taking home more than the $2.50 an hour waiters and waitresses make before tips. To reiterate, this is not a complaint about Umi per se, but about salon tipping in general. Me, I tip 10% (or something in that range) and it hasn't affected the quality of the services I've received. I'm always wowed. Which says a lot about the integrity of the salon, too, I think. As for how Umi fits into my otherwise frugal lifestyle: I don't believe, in general, that it is frugal to scrimp on quality. And especially not when it comes to your hair, your winter coat, or your eyeglasses. On these three items, I encourage people to spend as much as they can afford. You're better off with three hair cuts a year from Umi than one every six weeks from a cheaper salon. Just be upfront with your stylist, and let her know you want something that will grow out and not look, well, grown out. read more

If you are very VERY picky about your hair, and sometimes get a little nervous before every haircut, this UMI is THE place! They are meticulous with everything, and they certainly know how to make you feel at ease. I've lived in Boston all my life, and it took me just nearly that long to find the perfect salon. I've tried every place, and for me, money is no issue when they do a fantastic job and they make you feel comfortable. For as long as I can remember, I've always had long hair, and only Umi made me feel comfortable and ready to go short, and I mean SHORT. I had my hair cut into a bob - there shortest ever - and I LOVED it. Never ever will I go anywhere else, and my stylist is truly the most innovative, friendly, and thoughtful hair stylist I have ever met. For selfish reasons, I won't reveal the name. :) Since it is located on Newbury and has one of the most expensive haircuts in town, one would expect a sort of arrogant, nose-up-in-the-air attitude, but it is nothing at all like that. People are laid back, very hip, and definitely NOT pretentious like most Newbury salons are. So go do something for yourself for a change... go to Umi and be pampered and leave looking fabulous! read more

Probably the best salon in Boston. Professional. Hip. Artistic. Sean is so creative yet careful with my hair. I have waist-length eurasian hair, which is really thick and a challenge to cut. He does an amazing job --- even when I wanted to tint it for depth, his solution was perfect! Umi needs to open in NYC. And quick. read more

Angel thin hair, receding hair line, cowlicks, picky about the hair style, and very suspect about stylists. That's what Jenn @ JSD had to contend with when I showed up today. Before I met her I'd been wearing a classic style for the past 15 years: parted on the side, layered, short around the sides and back, you know, boooring...I mean, er, a "classic" cut. I showed Jenn a few styles on my phone and that's all she needed. A short time later, after chilling to the soothing music, non-pretentious ambiance, simple and stylish atmosphere and nice chit-chat, she finished and I was ecstatic. That rarely ever happens. Judging by the responses, "Your hair looks great!", "I really, really like it.", etc. I was convinced Jenn did about as well as one could with my hair. Thank you Jenn, and great job! read more

John Porter is beyond a hair dresser. Once you get a cut from him it's hard to go elsewhere. And taking the time to let him get to know you, your style and of course your hair will work wonders for your self-image. This is a rare artist who truly loves women and style and works to get your inner beauty to shine through discreetly (or not so subtle depending on your style). Also, he's just amazing to be around. His personal style and lack of ego as well as his incredibly trenchant observations make the session memorable. You'll be feeling beautiful and inspired for weeks after. read more

A very trendy salon on Newbury steet; it came highly recomended by several local boutiques. They have created a very nice experience while getting one's hair cut- their shampooing massage lets the stress of the day fade into nothingness- it can only be described as an escape (in a good way). With so many options for salons in Boston (let alone Newbury st) Umi truly stands out; the cost, when compared to other salons and their service, is very competitive. So treat yourself, and take an hour out of your busy day to relax. ::other:: -they take credit cards, but tipping is cash only -plan on getting to your appointment on time, the waiting area isn't much more than a largec window seat -they use Bumble and bumble products (they also sell them) -it is possible (less and less) to call mid day and get an appointment. *I've used Umi for the past 3 years, and haven't even thought about trying another salon. read more

So, I am the type of person who does not typically write reviews. I read them voraciously...particularly when it comes to hair stylists. So,after I had one of the best hair cuts EVER, I thought I'd better give back the love. I have thick wavy hair which requires a lot of cutting with precision. And, I don't want the shellacked cougar look. After a lot of online research, I chose to try Jeffrey. I called and described my hair and said I'd probably need more time than the average customer. No problem. Christina cut my hair and let me tell you: she is terrific. She is a rare stylist--intuitive, skilled, and so delightfully down to earth. My hair looks great. I wear it down now more than I ever have and I've been to some of the reputed bests in the country. Seriously, give this salon a try, and ask for Christina, if you are picky but not stuffy, not shy about spending money for a great cut and want to feel like you know what to do with your cut when you style yourself. I was so impressed with this place. This is my first review on yelp because I just could not pass up the opportunity to give these guys a shout out. read more

If you need products, go on Saturday. The receptionist that works on Saturday (I must must get her name) is FABULOUS. I'm a new client, yet every time I come in, she greets me like I've been going there for years. She's also well-trained on the product line. She's given me great tips about how to apply and mix with other products to get the best results. read more

I am floored that this place has good reviews. The "star" (self-declared in his own mind) is Jeffrey, a seriously pompous individual. He is a gifted stylist, but the attitude just is WAY over the top. He refuses to make eye contact, and his staff is merely there to service his highly oversized ego. The audacity to charge $400 for this level of disrespect is incredible. NEVER again. read more

They always pay attention to detail, I love them, they're so friendly it's SO worth the price. I've had worse service and paid for more before around Boston and this is def. my favorite place so far! Once, my dresser wouldn't let me leave til he got the color JUST PERFECT so he redid it 3 or 4 times until it looked great instead of just OK. :) read more

Once I found Jenn at JSD, I knew it would take a drastic geographic move for me to put my hair in the hands of somebody else. She is creative and adventurous with my hair but also educated and honest. What I mean is that she is open to my fun ideas but she also knows when to put the brakes on, in order to avoid disaster. She has taken my hair from bright orange/red to beautiful, soft pastel lavender and now the most beautiful platinum blonde. She is also very aware and up-to-date on popular products and trends all over the world. She is friendly and personal but still professional and the studio is gorgeous. Worth every penny! read more

Love this place! The atmosphere is clean, quiet, and peaceful and the staff is top-notch. They were super friendly and professional. Jenn & Jeff did an awesome job with my hair! I highly recommend them. They both listened to what I wanted but also gave suggestions based on my hair. I will definitely go back and highly recommend you check them out! read more

The worst haircut I have ever had. He just did by his own style and didn't check whether the hair fit you or not. Now, I just waited the hair grow and turned in to the original hairstyle. Never go this place for hair cut again. Way overrated. read more

I would never return to this salon. Perhaps my expectations were high but for $400, I think anybody would have high expectations. I saw the owner Jeffrey for a cut. I was looking for a fresh new look and walked out looking like Mrs. Brady from the Brady Bunch. This description is NOT an exaggeration. I am in my early 40's and have had many good cuts/styles (some bad too) but this was horrible. I had to go somewhere else to have the cut fixed. I have lived in Boston for about 15 years now. There are so many fabulous hair stylists in this city that it is absolutely ridiculous to pay this kind of money for a haircut at Umi. The only positive thing I will say is that their product line is very good. read more

I have not yet gotten a hair service here, however I have been using their products, from the Umi line. I first saw a short write-up for their Umi Foam in a recent issue of Stuff magazine, and they said that the line in general is free of excessive and unnecessary detergents, preservatives, colorants, etc. This sounded like what I have been trying to find in a luxury hair care line. So, I checked out their website (which I believe has recently been updated). Not every product is labeled by what it doesn't contain, however I was most interested in trying their shampoo (which they say does everything), and their Tonic spray. The Umi Tonic is a perfect replacement for my Bumble & Bumble Tonic. The Umi version contains no water (it is Aloe Vera based), and contains no harmful paraben preservatives. I am avoiding parabens and sulfates (as well as most silicons and pthalates) because they are unnecessary in most cosmetics, IMHO. I am still testing the Umi Shampoo... Basically, this review is to reward a salon that actually seems to understand and share a passion for luxury hair products that are free from unnecessary chemicals, and are tested on models and not animals. I hope that some day I can book a hair cut with an Umi stylist... For now, I will indulge in their in-house product line. I hope the products do well. Their literature says they launched at Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week 2008, so the Umi line is pretty new. read more

This salon has such rude staff, and it has upset me greatly. I was given an EDITING session by Jeffrey, my second haircut by him, and when I called to say that I needed a little more length taken off (my pixie was left a little long), I was called by DJ saying he was not available, and abruptly hung up the phone with "GoodBye" on my voicemail. When I called days later to see if I could come in that following week, I was told my future appointments were cleared, Jeffrey would no longer cut my hair, and they would give a referral if need be. DJ then hung up on me when I tried to find out why - he said I had issues getting there and complained (only when I asked to have Friday appointments after work, at 5:15, and I wanted to return shampoo/conditioner that gave me a rash (no ones fault). I never did get a refund, nor did I bring them back and get credit for my next cut, as DJ suggested. This was so upsetting to me, as I spent 400 dollars in two months - 150 per cut (I had 2 cuts), and I bought three products that are going to waste since they are not right for my hair. These products were close to 100 dollars. Well, I have lived and learned. DO NOT USE THIS SALON. They are really rude and cannot even tolerate a customer asking to have a cut tweaked after the initial cut. read more

I spent my morning at JSD today and am so unbelievably impressed with the team's attention to detail. My hair was in dire need of sprucing up. It was starting to feel too heavy because it had been months since my last hair cut and years since it had been colored. Kaylee took the time to look through my hair with Jeffrey and really figure out what would look natural on me. I can't say it enough - it was a wonderful experience! Will definitely be going back. Kaylee really took incredible care of my hair. It feels (and looks!) fantastic. Thank you to Kaylee and team! What a perfect way to kick off the weekend. read more

After a recommendation and reading dozens of positive reviews on Citisearch, I went in for a cut today. I found the place to be ok... like it was trying to be cooler than it is. But I liked my hairstylist, she was really kind and did a good job on my hair. I still miss my hairman back in SF who spends a lot of time on my head, but overall, I was satisfied with what I got at Umi. We'll have to see how it grows out though. read more

Awesome cut from Jenn! Gorgeous studio, really good vibes. So many complements on the cut, thank you!!

As good as it gets, is right. I'd almost given up hope on finding a stylist or salon that might be able to understand my shaggy mop of a head of hair, and tame it. I think Umi might just be the only place on earth that can do it, and they did it on the first try. These stylists are serious professionals who take a lot of pride in their work. The result was subtle, precise, with a somewhat nonchalant air of "I just rolled out of bed this way" simplicity. Not easy!! And let's be honest - there's some serious sticker shock here; I nearly had to hand over a full week's pay to meet the full tally after gratuity. But worth it. You get what you pay for. read more

I had the most unpleasant experience at Umi with Jeffrey the "founder-creative director From the minute I walked in, he treated me with arrogance and you are lucky I am cutting your hair attitude...For a total bill of close to $400.00, this attitude stuff is just shocking .. I can not legitimately tell you whether his work was any good because I am still focused on the disrespectful treatment I got. His attitude from beggining to end was almost mocking. I have had hair cuts by many expensive excellent hairdressers and was never treated this poorly. From the minute I walked in, he told me my color was bad. Now I don't mind suggestions at all (in fact I was willing to take his suggestion) but his whole approach was that so condesecending- He could have respectively made a suggestion to me about my color ..but he did not. He made it clear that I had a "surburban trashy colorist" He was not very pleasant during the entire hair cut and from beginning to end I felt that he could not care if he had my business- which is good because I would never go back. Its a shame because i had such high hopes for the place. I think Jeffrey needs to get over himself and start treating clients as if its his pleasure to be serving them. If you like being treated badly, this is the place for you. read more

I am unfortunately unable to give more than three stars. I recently had my hair cut at Umi and I will admit, the hair cut overall was not bad. Unfortunately, it was not what I expected. I like to give stylists some room to play with my hair. However, when I specifically mention liking some pieces in the front longer than the back, I expect to get exactly that especially given the prices at this particular salon. read more

I started going to Umi in 2004 after a lot of different cuts around Cambridge and Newbury Street. I balked at the price, but then went for it. Boy, am I glad I did. I have gotten consistently great haircuts there from Lisa. I haven't lived in Boston for the last seven years, but every single time I go there for work, I make sure to book an appointment with Lisa. Another big plus - I have extremely thin (and thinning even more) hair, and LIsa gave me my first haircut where I felt really confident about myself despite my hair. She's been willing to work with what I have and make me feel supported while doing it. read more

This is hands down the best salon in the area. They have a very modern and minimalist ambience, which is quite refreshing! The staff is truly professional. They know what they're doing, and despite being the best out there, what's most remarkable is that they respect your personal style and are not pushy at all.I know people complain that their services are pricey, but I feel they are totally worth it. I usually get good haircut from here, and get regular trims on to maintain it at my regular salon. They are light years ahead when compared to other salons, with knowledgeable, pleasant stylists. read more

I had a terrible experience at Umi. I made an appointment to get my hair cut. When I arrived, I was carrying my 7 month old baby. They told me that no children were allowed which I respect. However, they then told me that they would be charging me for a "missed appointment" at a cost of $175. I told them that I had no idea that children were not allowed or I would not have arrived with a baby. They were adamant that they had told me when I a made the appt which is crazy and makes no sense (I would not have shown up with a child if they had told me!) The woman I spoke to WAS the manager and was so rude and dismissive it was incredible. I had to deny the charges on my credit card. It was the worst customer experience I have ever had. So, buyer beware! read more

I started going to Umi back in 2007 and loved it for a while. However, my grandmother died and I had to travel back home to go to her funeral during the time my appointment was scheduled. With all of the emotional distress, I forgot to cancel my appointment. The very rude Umi receptionist called me to remind me of my appointment that day, and when I explained my situation to her, she flat out told me that she was going to charge me the full amount for missing my appointment. I couldn't believe the NERVE she had to charge me $250 for an appointment I missed because I was at a funeral!! I will never never go back there! read more

Jeffrey is the best hands down. I have very fine hair that is difficult to manage. Jeffrey takes the time to cut it perfectly so that it requires low maintenance but more importantly it looks fabulous not only for the next 2 months but for over a year! He is a master hair cutter and stylist and creates a masterpiece for your face shape, etc. I am now in Scottsdale and miss Jeffrey :-(. I will have to make a special trip back just to get my hair cut. read more

High end, high quality. Christina rocks, and this is well worth the money, only if it's a twice/year hair cut. Lauren the receptionist is very professional and thorough. Treat yourself! read more

This salon has ambiance, simple sophistication,and offers professional service from entire stafff. Jeffrey is the best for giving a fabulous haircut with a glass of wine to calm those hectic days. Not many places where you feel like a princess from the time you enter to the point of checkout. Great selection on current and high end products. read more

i got married last november, and my wife and i both had our hair styled at umi for the wedding. we were going for vintage looks, but what we each wanted was vastly different. while she wanted fingerwaves, i wanted a vintage, simple updo. they paired us each with the stylist best suited for what we wanted - my wife had erin for her fingerwaves and i had angela for my updo. we loved our stylists and couldn't have been happier to have them work with us on our special day. the negatives included (obviously) the price, although we knew what we were getting into before we began the process with them. my wife also had a serious issue with time management - not at the fault of her stylist but whomever scheduled her appointment. we were supposed to be there until 11, so that we could go next door and have our makeup done and be off to our afternoon wedding. however, because fingerwaves take so long to set, my wife had to have them partially set, run next door for makeup, and then run back to umi to have her hair set further. it was an inconvenience to us because it set us back time-was, but moreso it was a huge inconvenience to erin, her stylist, and the client erin was working on after we were supposed to be finished there. the atmosphere is pretty stuffy as well, but if that's what it takes to make you feel like you're in a fabulous salon then i suppose this is the place for you. on the positive side, once we bypassed all of the stuffiness and were dealing one-on-one with our stylists, we felt much more at ease. i also have to say that erin, my wife's stylist, dealt so wonderfully with the whole scheduling fiasco. she realized that it was, after all, our wedding day, and that while it was important to make sure her other client was catered to, we needed to take priority. also, the scalp massage shampoo process is to die for. the most important issue here for me is that i came out of this process completely enamoured with both my wife's and my hair styles. if you have the money to spend, i would definitely recommend them for unconventional and beautiful bridal hair. read more

I have had Trish cut my hair two times already and she has done a marvelous job! I have super thick hair and one side of my hair is a little bit denser than the other side. She made my hair nice and light without looking "stringy". She's a sweetheart and I will continue getting cuts with her. I highly recommend for other thick hair people like myself to see Trish! read more

The stylists and owners are very friendly and personable, the music is at a reasonable level, and the chairs are very comfortable. It's a little expensive, but you get what you pay for. My hair looks awesome!!! If you need to splurge on one thing in your life, do it on you hair at JSD. read more

I have never written a negative review before...but I need to get the word out that Umi is a joke. For a salon touting sophistication..and charging up to $300 dollars a cut...much is expected. What a letdown. I could go on and on about their ridiculous attitude and sub-par service. But suffice it to say, save yourself the time and money and try another Newbury Street salon (there are many). read more

Highly not worth the money and the attitude you will receive from the staff while they are busy! Spend your money and time at a salon that will treat you with respect! read more

Great haircut - very meticulous. Color was NOT the best I've had, not worth the money. I left with roots and the color was not applied uniformly. The worst part of this salon is the rude receptionist. She honestly made me not want to go back to this salon. read more

This overrated salon definitely is more hype and good p.r. than anything else. I went twice for highlights...and the only word of mouth I had ever heard about Umi was when an acquaintance of mine told me later that the owner Jeffrey made her feel very uncomfortable one evening when she had the last appt and no one was in the salon. Let's just say, my gorgeous blonde friend never came back. And after meeting him I am not the least bit surprised. I was expecting a lot given how much is written about him. But when I arrived all I found were very few customers -the place was empty- and very unstylish ones at that. There wasn't even a good haircut or color to be found. But I went ahead and did a highlight. It was decent, nothing special and because they only use unknown "Umi" brand products the blowdry (which cost an extra $75) was not even good. I was approached by the owner Jeffrey who told me he really wanted to cut my hair. I was surprised he was soliciting me for a haircut. For such a "talented" hairdresser shouldn't he be swamped with clients and not have the time for this. I also noticed when I was there that he barely had a client, spent more time walking up and down his salon checking himself out in the mirror and giving me the eye. On the day of my first appt. with him I sat waiting for him for 30 minutes and when he finally came out with a haircut I didn't even like, I let him know that I was on a really tight schedule and would have to rebook. He was annoyed that I had to leave and pick my child up. The next time that I spoke to the receptionist (who now turned into the devil- go figure) I was told that I was no longer a client and had been taken out of the books. I was utterly shocked that after having kept ME waiting for 30 minutes I am now being told to find another salon! Clearly by the look of his clientele it appears these women are hoping to have magic preformed on them in exchange for a $400 price tag. This place is a joke. Completely over rated, over priced and obviously lacks any semblance of professionalism. If you have $400 you want to spend on a haircut, save the money and see Mario Russo or Nick Penna at Salon Capri for half the price. They are classy, beyond talented and have never kept me waiting. Their salons are packed with great looking haircuts and stylish people everywhere you turn. Jeffrey is clearly a has been egomaniac and the experience was insulting and laughable all at the same time. read more

I had the worst hair cut and salon experience here of my life! The teacher was a dictator, and I wish I had gotten up from the chair and walked out so I could pay someone else to fix it. They did a short pixie cut that was extremely wrong for my round face. I don't blame the student, she could tell I was unhappy and seemed to feel bad and quite nervous. I blame the teacher and the receptionist who said it would not be a pixie cut when I called for the appointment and said I was cool with going short but that was the only cut I didn't want. I told the instructor I could even go fairly short on the sides and in the back but couldn't she leave an inch of hair on either side of my face to fall to chin length? I still wanted to feel feminine. Her response was that that wouldn't be a "proper" style and she wouldn't do it! I went against my better judgement and hoped she knew how to make it still seem girlish. What a mistake! You shouldn't be lied to and get your hair butchered just cause you're trying to watch what you spend. No one diserves what I think of as one of the most unfriendly/ worst customer service experiences of my life. If I could choose negative stars I would! read more