My review here is in praise of Danielle, but includes comments on the new Shampoo Dolls location. From my previous review at the old location: "She is professional, friendly, and I always walk out looking and feeling like a celebrity...okay, maybe that's a slight exaggeration. But my hair certainly looks like it belongs on a celebrity." I'm happy to say I still feel the same way about my experience.
Danielle, is the best! She has been cutting my hair now for almost 3 years, and I won't go anywhere else. My hair is colored, and could look damaged and lifeless (did before I began having my hair cut by Danielle), but she makes it look sleek and marvelous! I always walk out of there looking and feeling stylish, and I am able to approximate the same look later on my own, which certainly didn't always prove to be the case with other stylists in the past. Danielle is a meticulous artist, who takes her work very seriously. She considers hair type and the shape of your face. The cut is always perfect! She often adds something special beyond what I have asked for, to try something a little different or give the look that finishing touch, and her instincts are spot on! Most importantly, Danielle listens and gives you the haircut you've requested. She also makes excellent recommendations in terms of products. Though the new location is not as convenient for me, I will keep coming back as long as Danielle is there. Thanks, Danielle, for another great cut last Sunday! I am loving it, as usual!
Shampoo Dolls is listed in one portion of Yelp as closed. Their first location on W San Carlos is closed, but there is a new location on Winchester Blvd. in a building that is technically part of Santana Row, but set back from the street a little and not easy to spot the first time around. The new location has advantages and disadvantages. Traffic is terrible (par for the course with Santana Row), so allow extra time to get there. Parking is free if you tell the attendant that you're going to the salon, and there is parking in the back too (if the front lot is full), which is nice. The salon itself feels a little unfinished, in terms of decor. It could use more drapery or pillows, and still maintain the minimalist look it seems they're cultivating (could be pushed further toward the "Euro Chic" style that's hot right now - maybe add some sheer, full length window treatments in white - would add to the relaxing, spacious vibe - and replace the wall advertisements that feel too busy with more interesting art work). The location of the reception desk is awkward, and always feels like it's in the back of the salon to me (there are two entrances, and they apparently want you to enter from the back parking lot Santana Row side, though the Winchester Blvd. side feels like the front). Feels unfriendly when you walk in. They should find a way to resolve this situation. Also, they seem to be having problems with their product orders since they moved. They are often out of whatever I'm trying to buy, and I sometimes have to buy my products elsewhere, which I'd rather not do. A big plus is the fact that their prices have remained pretty much the same. That's nice, especially considering the fact that this much larger location must be more expensive to run.
I would recommend this salon, even with the minor suggestions for improvement...especially if you ask for Danielle! Shampoo Dolls is a professional salon with nice ambiance and moderate pricing. It is well run. I rarely have to wait more than a few minutes, and on the rare occasion when I do, I can expect a great cup of coffee or bottle of water while I relax in the spacious, comfortable waiting area, listening to a good mix of music. I love their diverse selection of magazines, which includes not only the typical hair stylist choices, but also the latest issues of Vogue, Cosmo, Elle, etc. Shampoo Dolls offers luxury for those on a modest budget (not dirt cheap prices, but modest, meaning mid-range). I should add here that I color my hair myself, so my "modest" rating is based on the cost of the cut only, which is about mid-range for nicer salons with experienced, serious stylists. If you're accustomed to super cheap cuts (with the unpredictable results that go along with the low price), Shampoo Dolls may seem Pricey to you. If you're ready for quality at a fair price, give Shampoo Dolls a try. You'll leave wishing you had discovered this place sooner!
Danielle, thanks again! I'll be back. :~)
New location:
350 S Winchester Blvd
Ste 250
San Jose, CA 95128 read more