It's so nice to go to a hair salon that cater to your specific beauty needs. I tried going grey and didn't like it. Pam helped rectify the situation by coloring the hair so grey does not show up as fast. I get so many compliments on my hair color. The ambience of the salon with the other hairstylists are incredible. You are not their client but they will greet you and interact with everyone. This is the type of salon that you want to be at. read more

I had my first appointment at Portray and was booked with Melodie, who's listed as "new talent," so I wasn't expecting anything extraordinary. But I was so wrong! Melodie completely exceeded my expectations. Everything she did with my hair was flawless. I left feeling like I got way more than I paid for. It's also worth mentioning the products used during my service--everything smelled and felt amazing. No harsh chemical odors at all, even though I had a color treatment. Days later, my hair still looks and feels fantastic. The salon itself has such a great energy. Both the clients and the staff genuinely seem to enjoy being there. It even crossed my mind--if their "new talent" is this good, what about the rest of the team? I know reviews are supposed to include constructive feedback, but honestly? I've got nothing. This was a 10/10 experience! Thanks, Melodie--I'll see you soon! read more

Truly a bizarre and mixed experience. I booked myself in for a single-color roots touch up. It was my first time there so I had the usual first timer's trepidation and admittedly was cranky at the lack of nearby parking (should've walked - my bad) when I arrived. The color was done by Maddie. Fine. All good. The rinse, wash and condition at the basin was excellent (my God, the water pressure was insanely good), but when I was asked if I was getting a blow-out and I said "no, I like to leave it naturally curly" I didn't realize that meant, "ok you can leave now, bye". I thought someone might grab some curly hair styling product and a diffuser and dry my hair properly. But then I looked around me and saw only straight or flattened or ironed out hair and knew I'd come to the wrong place. My advice: Youtube is free and curly tutorials are a-plenty. First time. Last time. Curly girls not welcome. read more

absolutely not happy at all with the service here. I came just to get a bob cut from Maddie and was not satisfied with it. It's a simple bob cut. How hard could it be? Fast forward to today when I had a family emergency and couldn't make it to my appointment, I was just charged FULL price for the service that I didn't even get. Absolutely ridiculous and I'm never coming or recommending anyone to come again. They basically stole $70 from me. I'm sick. read more

I got one excellent cut from Pamela, followed by two very different, terrible ones. My bad for going back after the first problematic cut. But that first cut was so good, it seemed worth the risk, if (I thought ) I could just explain what I was looking for. The next cut, however, was even worse. More, the the attitude and defensiveness I got from Pam when I spoke up were shocking. I posted my experience about this on a local site. Pam's husband responded immediately, hurling insults about my being a Democrat and having voted for Biden. "She should go into Newark and get a haircut for free!" he wrote. It was so offensive that he was removed from the group. Overall my experience with Portray was quite a negative experience. However, it is worth noting that the women behind the desk at Portray are wonderful, as are the shampoo people, so I did give 2 stars. read more

I came into Portray initially just wanting a haircut, but then I mentioned that I was looking to bleach it to finish out my look. Carlee said she could do it for me and I thought, great! She's an apprentice but was supervised the whole time and the haircut came out fine, very cute and just what I asked for. I should have known something was off when she applied the bleach to my roots first. She let that sit for a while and then did my ends, which resulted in my ends not lifting as much as they could have since it didn't sit for as long. After rinsing it out, it was time to tone. The first round of toner was on for about ten minutes, but because it wasn't lifted to platinum, the toner didn't take everywhere. So what did they do? They toned my hair again, without telling me what they were doing or why. Someone else took over at this point because Carlee was busy with another client, which is understandable seeing as I was there for longer than I originally anticipated. But the other stylist came over and just dumped a bunch of toner on my head and rubbed it in like it was shampoo. Then they let THAT sit for at least 20 minutes. So my now very porous hair has been toned twice for a total time of at least 30 minutes. Surprise surprise, it turned a steel blue. This would have been great if I had wanted steel blue. I wanted PALE BLONDE, as close to white as possible without damaging my hair. Seeing as my hair was a level 6-7 when I came in, this should have been totally attainable, and yet... I'm sure my annoyance showed on my face afterwards because Carlee began blow drying it and then stopped. They ended up doing a bleach bath on me with shampoo and low-level developer, which did take a lot of it out. Now I have weird swampy gray hair which clearly still has darker yellow underneath. In the moment, I was so shocked that I just told them it was fine and I wanted to leave. But looking back on my experience as a whole I should have thrown a fit, hence I'm posting this now. The thing I'm probably most upset about is that multiple people tried to convince me it was BLONDE. I think they were trying to reassure themselves more than me because they knew they messed up. As you can see from the pictures, it is not even close to anything anyone would consider blonde. I think of it as a warm muddy gray. Again, I would be fine with it--if that's what I had wanted. To be clear, I don't blame Carlee for this, but there was a severe a lack of communication throughout the process. Why was I not consulted about the second round of toner? Why was it left in my hair for SO LONG? Why didn't they just try to lift my ends again to take the yellow out? Was it because I had class later in the day and they were rushing to get me out? I would rather have left with pale yellow, even, untoned hair than a base which I now cannot immediately use for creative colors like I wanted to. I doubt I will be returning here, and I'm really disappointed because of all the positive reviews. I feel like my hair became a learning experience for someone instead of a treat to myself, which is what it was supposed to be. read more

Portray Salon - This is from their Instagram video they took. - Hair Salons Near Me - Upper Montclair, New Jersey

See all

I really enjoyed my cut and highlights done by Rebecca! She did a great job and I love my hair. Im giving two stars because, when creating the appointment the amount said $275 for partial highlights, cut & blow out (apparently this is a base rate that's noted on the website), after my services I was charged $415. This included a treatment I wasn't aware I received, apparently because my hair was longer than shoulder length, and a fee for paying with card. I think it's insane that they can raise the original amount from $275 to $415 without informing someone before the appointment begins. I most likely will not be returning here because of this. read more

I was intrigued by their pricing -- $10 haircuts?! The salon has excellent reviews, so I figured I'd take the chance. I was tired of paying $70+ for a haircut, sometimes even for just a trim! Unfortunately, I've learned my lesson and will gladly pay someone with experience to cut my hair for $70, lol. I asked for a shoulder-length cut, but somehow we ended up just below the chin. And when I got home, I saw one side was shorter than the other. There are random strands in my hair that are longer than others. I honestly could have gotten a better cut from my mom Luckily, it's just hair and will grow back, but it will be an annoying next few months to grow it out. 2 stars because the salon is cute, and maybe the more experienced staff would have delivered better results? I'm just not taking that chance again read more

Portray Salon - Uneven cut and there are random strands in the back that are longer than others - Hair Salons Near Me - Upper Montclair, New Jersey

This salon is the best I have ever been to. Convenient hours, scheduling, incredibly helpful staff there to address any question or need, and wonderful stylists. Pammy (the owner) takes care of my husband and I, and "taking care" of us is an understatement. She is unbelievably talented, has a great eye, and MOST IMPORTANTLY - which is the single most difficult thing to find - she is consistently excellent. Both my husband and I have felt a major difference in our hair since we have been coming to her. Besides being amazing at what she does, she is a beautiful person inside and out. She is warm, loving, and truly cares about her clients as people, and not just customers. I had a very bad day one Friday - bad on all fronts. I completely forgot that I had an appointment. The salon called me, and I was mortified. They said they could not fit me in late. I literally had a breakdown - not just because of the appointment but because it was the cherry on top - LOL. They called and left me a voicemail and told me to come in, and Pammy texted me and said she will take care of me and to just come in and we will figure it out. Even better, once I got there (flustered, embarrassed, etc) she put me at ease. let me breathe, took my phone charger, plugged it in for me, and just let me chill. This is gold, people! You cannot put a price on that kind of treatment. Before her, I left a salon due to deteriorating service and unwelcome comments and a general sense of coldness when unavoidable things came up in life. She, her salon, and ALL of her staff are sparkling gems. read more

Ann Marie is the best. I asked for a new look and she smiled, then went to work! I love my updated "look". The salon is managed very well, the staff is friendly and welcoming! Best of all, There was no wait. I already made my next appointment. read more

Portray salon is the best place I have ever been. Being a business owner of my own(which means I am really particular where I work) I must say the professionalism and the admiration of all the work I've seen since I've been here have opened my eyes to real hair artists who actually care about their clients. I've seen the most beautiful work and I am so proud to work at portray salon. Come see us and get pampered and finally find a place with a great vibe, wonderful service and leave feeling like a new person with absolutely beautiful hair read more

I've been going to Portray for approximately four years now, and I love everything about this hair salon! Kristin is my hair stylist, and she really knows my hair. My hair is quite fine and straight, so any mistake is really noticeable, but she always cuts it just the way I like it! She does an amazing balayage, too, and she didn't over-process it. Next I wanted my hair pink, and she did a fantastic job with that, giving me the exact ombré look I showed her in a photo. I've had my hair cut by a few other people there as well, and everyone does a great job. Highly recommended! read more

Portray Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Upper Montclair, New Jersey

Jill gave me an excellent and stylish haircut. I am thrilled. I usually go home and take the scissors to my hair. But not now, and my new hair style make me feel 10 years younger! Barbara H. read more

I asked for a simple trim and they cut off at least 5 inches. The layers look terrible and are uneven. It is probably the worst hair cut I've ever gotten. I will definitely not ever be returning. read more

Overpriced. Paid $350+ dollars for an apprentice to do my hair, walked out with a frizzy nightmare because she didn't put any product in it. I asked if she could make my hair like the pictures I showed, she said yes, but only towards the end of my appointment did she mention I would have to come back repeatedly to get the color I wanted. It doesn't appear that any of them know how to style or work with curly hair. I also realized when I was home that she lost my earring in the sink. read more

Jill cut my hair and did an amazing job. I wanted layers, face frame and explained I wanted more volume. She did a really great job and I'm very happy with the way it turned out. I'll definitely be coming back again. read more

Another great haircut with Sue. Everyone is always so friendly and helpful here. I take my elderly mother and the staff goes out of their way to make sure she is safe and has a great experience. Love the new location and store. It looks lovely. read more

Portray is great and Jill is an incredibly talented stylist with a heart of gold. She's been cutting my hair for almost 30 years and I've followed her to 4 different salons in that time. She's friendly, very talented and "takes direction" very well (really? She's not a Golden Retriever) I would disregard that Yelp review below trashing her by a person who doesn't even have the courage to use their name when they make negative reviews, and take it from a loyal customer who's followed the same stylist for decades. I don't know the details but my guess would be that you were not clear in what you wanted; she doesn't just cut people's hair as she chooses. read more

Jill cut my hair and she did an amazing job! She really took her time and shaped it beautifully. Highly recommend her!

I approach hair places with a bit of trepidation. They all seem to fall to one end or the other a spectrum--either you leave looking like Flock of Seagulls regardless of how you respond to the question, "so what are we doing today?", or, you have to practically go black tie to fit in at the uber upscale boutique where you end up paying somewhere around eventy billion dollars before you walk out the door. Now, as a dude, I'm generally on the very to relatively low-maintenance side of things, but I do require a good haircut (and, um, color--the grays have begun their full-scale invasion and I'm not quite ready to be Gray Man). So my solution to all this is to find a salon that's staffed by folks who are pros, where it's nice and someone washes my hair for me and offers me coffee, but where I'm not paying for the art on the walls. Does such a place actually exist? Yep, Portray Salon--formerly Cheveaux (which is actually French for 'hair,' but a little too close to the French word for 'horse,' hence the name change). Ask for anyone (although Pamela is the best) and get a cut, color, etc. that will leave you looking like you just hit a salon in the heart of Beverly Hills, and will leave your wallet or purse looking more like you just had a fancy lunch in New Jersey. These ladies are so great, I may have to make the trek from LA the next time I'm shaggy. read more

I was very anxious to get a haircut because I grew my hair out long for 4 years and I've become attached to it. But, it was way over due and I needed some layers. I finally decided to make an appointment at portray with Nikki. I have never met her before and I was nervous bc some stylists get too "scissor happy" and cut more than you ask. But she was good! Very sweet and understanding. She listened to all my concerns, ideas, and gave me a beautiful haircut that I'm confident with. Very fun to talk to as well. However.... WARNING: portray charges ridiculous prices for anyone with thick and long hair. I always end up spending $160 to $300 plus tip!! So ask ahead of time for an estimate. If too much for you, you can find someone just as good for cheaper. Only reason I go here rarely. read more

Jill is an amazing stylist and such a sweetheart! She took the time to really understand what a wanted and turned it into a reality! The whole staff was so sweet and incredibly accommodating! I will definitely be back! read more

I downloaded yelp for the sole purpose of writing this review. Portray is the best salon I have ever been to. The salon in itself is gorgeous, with a chic yet classic looking layout. Upon entering, I was welcomed by the receptionist I spoke to on the phone, Donna. She was incredibly personable and actually got me a coffee and talked to me while I waited. Pamela is amazing! She listens to everything you say and asks you questions about the style you're looking for before and I while she's cutting your hair. I also love that she engaged in conversation throughout the hair cut, there were no awkward silences. The cut is gorgeous, and for the price you can't beat it. The staff is so friendly and kind, there is no drama or catty attitudes, everyone is very warm and inviting. After leaving they gave me a few samples of shampoos, conditioners, and a voluminous mousse, the best part is that there was no pressure to buy. This salon has everything, warm, friendly, talented stylists and employees. It has a clean, inviting layout, and all of their services are spectacular for the price. This salon is fantastic! read more

Lovely salon with friendly staff! Someone came here because of the great Yelp reviews & then recommended it to me so I tried it - it's great! I go to Kristen, who is wonderful but I've heard good things about other staff here so you can't go wrong. Up-to-date styles & great coloring too. Bring quarters or use Park Mobile App for meter parking. read more

Portray Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Upper Montclair, New Jersey

Great salon for men and women very well staffed very polite would not go anywhere else

Nicole cut and dyed my hair with the "lived-in" look and I love it. I'm a wash-and-go type of person and my hair looks so natural. I was smiling even before I left the salon, my hair looked that good. read more

Finally got the great haircut I want at a great price!!! Bonnie was wonderful and listened and gave me the best! Love love it!!! read more

Portray Salon - Finally got the great haircut I want at a great price!!! Bonnie was wonderful and listened and gave me the best! Love love it!!! - Hair Salons Near Me - Upper Montclair, New Jersey

See all

It's doesn't have that chic look that a lot of newer salons have but it does have a great atmosphere with friendly employees. It's like everyone knows everyone in that salon which is such a refreshing feeling. I would suggest going to Ann Marie especially if you are going for the first time and you don't know the other stylist. She is what makes the salon so great! read more

i had a consultation with jill and after talking for a bit we agreed on what i wanted and what she was going to do for me. she ended up disregarding everything i told her i wanted and went ahead and did what she wanted with my hair. horrible at taking direction. i left feeling horrible about myself and i'm out over $100 dollars. please save yourself the time and money and go somewhere else. i am extremely disappointed and misled after reading the great reviews. read more

really enjoyed my experience... everyone was super nice and professional from beginning to end. I had highlights (full head), cut and dry... i paid $175 before tip. it's not cheap but it's not as pricy as other places that are snobbier and pretentious... Overall, good experience. read more

Solid place.. I'll be back since I like them better than the other places in Montclair I've tried...

This hair salon is amazing! Pam does a fantastic job with my hair! She always gets the color that I want perfectly! I absolutely recommend this salon to everyone! read more

I had a great first experience with Kristin at Portray this past week. I've been been blonde for almost 10 years and finding a new stylist is always nerve wracking. I told her how previous stylists had processed my hair, she took this into consideration and formulated a plan. She was very thorough while applying bleach and foils, and used my side-part for direction, which was different from what other stylists had done for me before. She then put me under heat lamps and re-positioned them as needed during the process. She washed out the back foils first (because they had been in the longest) showing that she does not want to over-process hair for convenience. This was the best wash/head massage I've had in a long time! She brushed out my hair, which becomes VERY knotty after being bleached (I had warned her of this, but no stylist seems to fully understand the extend to which I'm talking), and cut it just the way I asked. She then blow dried it the way I prefer. Kristin was very thorough during the entire appointment and great to talk with. My hair has never looked this great and I will definitely be returning to Portray Salon! read more

I wanted to run into a salon and ask for two inches off the bottom with absolutely no blow out. This is impossible to find. I get haircuts twice a year because I just can't stand sitting there for that long. I walked in without a reservation and Kristen cut my hair quickly. She did not pretend she forgot that I didn't want it dried and she let me walk out with damp hair --- holla! They were very accommodating to my "walk-in" status and the best thing was that it cost $25 and they listened! read more

I tried to layer my hair myself when I realized that it look it looked horrible. Fortunately, I decided to try Portray Salon. They were able to schedule an appointment for me immediately. I had Kristin cut my hair, and it was the best haircut ever! She really did a wonderful job. My hair flows beautifully now. I'm looking forward to returning again (before I decide to cut it myself)! read more