i should preface this by saying i have been loyal to two hairstylists in my life. the first hairstylist i was devoted to was kim long at wak shak in san francisco. KIM RULES HARD! I WOULD HAVE HER BABIES! and the second hairstylist is rachel at prink (formerly of siren). after my kids, I AM RACHEL'S HAIR B*TCH! :) many moons ago, siren salon was recommended to me by an old friend. he didn't recommend an actual stylist, but he liked the salon and raved about it and so i went and i met rachel. i think this was 2001, maybe 2002. i had some pretty loud pink stripes in my hair at the time and i was ready for a change but i wasn't sure what to do. i was REALLY wary of what might come next because i have my share of hair HORROR stories with hairstylists.... whole years of my life GONE for fear of the future with an unforgiiving camera... and damn, if i couldn't make enough porn money to go back to kim in sf either. (i'm JOKING!) but, rachel was very patient and really listened to me. and i walked out of there feeling and looking like a movie star.... ok, a raw, indie, low budget, foreign film movie star... the point is i looked and felt REALLY good. a few years, a new location (inconvenient for me - dude, i live near 99th and western) and (my) two babies later... i'm still going to rachel for my hair fix. i called her today knowing that this is always a busy time for her, praying that there was a cancellation and THERE WAS! so, if you happen to be passing by the salon in the afternoon and you see an asian woman rockin' a cute new 'do... that's me... CHA-CHA! ;) you wanna look good, dontcha? you wanna feeeeeeeel good, dontcha? see. rachel. now. read more

I've gotten my hair cut by three people here, and colored by two of the three. I've never had a bad experience, and their color lasts forever. If you are really curious about color, I recommend an appointment with Jeff, btw. He's very informative! They have a stylist level system where it costs more to see a person wth more training through the salon. However, they are cool if you switch between stylists, because maybe you don't want to pay for someone with more training because you know your hair is going to look like crap all winter/summer no matter what you do. But say you have a special occasion, or you have messed up your hair with many haphazard applications of dye from Whole Foods, it may be worth paying more to see a level two stylist or the artistic director. They carry Kevin Murphy products. I'm impressed with this line; it's not too toxic. The salon space is very open but feels homey and friendly. I like how it's below street level, it kind of adds to the effect when I emerge as a new person. read more

Have I told you lately how I love you? Prink Salon and in particular, the amazing Jessica? If you are looking for a new salon, think PRINK! They aren't about coupons or discounts or online offers - they're about high quality services at hair prices and earning repeat customers through excellent service. I'm referring my husband here to get his haircut next week so I can't wait to see how they do on their mens haircuts! :) If you're a workaholic like me, they even have wireless internet! Thank goodness Jessica doesn't mind when I I work while she works :)! Also, plenty of free street parking around and right near the Blue Line! read more

I've been to many different hair salons in the Chicago area since I moved here seven years ago. Since I found Briana at Prink, my search is now over. I have very difficult hair. First of all, it is very thick, there are tons of it, and it is slightly wavy. When I first met Briana about 2.5 years ago, I lectured her for about 20 minutes regarding how difficult my hair is, all my dislikes, and all my past failed experiences with other stylists. I told her honestly that I didn't know if she could really cut my hair well, since at the time, I thought only Korean stylists knew how to deal with Korean hair. Briana was patient with me and did everything I asked her to and I loved it. A little over 2 years and several hair cuts later, I told her, do what you want. I gave her permission to cut off over a foot of my hair. I love what she has done. I trust her completely and always feel very comfortable with her. read more

I've been following Katrina and the Prink staff for over a year now, and it'll take a lot of convincing to get me to go anywhere else in Chicago. I've got curly hair, if you can't tell, and Katrina keeps my haircut anxiety attacks away. Friendly, pretty faces (no offense to barbershops) that complement a pleasant haircut experience. Go to Prink if you can't stand the chop-shops, if you actually care about your haircut and will pay to have it done right, and you're not a sucker to those name-brand salons that charge you an unnecessary $15-$30 more than a basic Prink haircut. read more

I really love this salon- it's got a minimalist design so it's not overwhelming with noise and color and smells, which I like. I consider going to get my hair done as something relaxing and prefer a quieter (minus the blowdryers) environment. Jessica is awesome- there haven't been many people who do exactly what I ask when it comes to my hair, but she always gives feedback & cuts it perfectly. Her hair type is like mine which is helpful when I'm asking how to style it, curly or straight. The receptionist has been helpful as well, as my boyfriend and mom had both bought me gift certificates via the phone before I was even a client here. I was referred by friends and now I refer all my other friends to her, too! read more

For the past 7 years, yes, 7 years, I have gone to Jeff. I met him at a salon (that shall not be named) because my stylist had moved on....little did I know that our meeting in 2001 would lead to long hair relationship. When he opened Prink, I wasn't surprised that someone as talented as he was going out on his own. In 7 years, he honestly has never missed the bulls-eye. Not once. I have had my hair long, short, longer and shorter. I trust him. He looks at my hair patterns, considers weather/season, time I am going to spend on my hair, and products I will use before making a snip. Not to brag, but on SEVERAL occasions with different styles, I have been stopped and asked where I get my hair cut. Also, he never pressures me to buy products, and the staff at Prink is friendly, and give great head massages during your shampoo. This review is waaay over due. read more

I've been going to Jeff since the place opened at its old location on Division Street. He's everything you could ask for in a (straight male) stylist - he's informative, fun to talk to, and he kind of looks like Anderson Cooper! The cuts I've gotten are terrific - not overdone - and he's always given me great advice on how to manage wavy hair, whether I want to wear it curly or straight. For the girl who said the place was no good for curly heads - go to jeff. His hair is naturally curly so he knows exactly what techniques and products you need to tame it. And for the girl who said they tried to upsell her for coloring, I would note that in 5 years Jeff has insisted that I never even think of coloring my "virgin hair" to retain the shine. It's gotten a little expensive, but it's still my favorite salon in Chicago. read more

The longest relationships in my life have been with my hair stylists (which sounds pretty darn pathetic, doesn't it?). Even when I was active in the punk scene, I still had hairdresser friends take care of my blue/green/purple dye jobs (none of that Manic Panic crap for me). So, when I moved out to Chicago from the Bay Area, I was very nervous about finding a stylist & colorist as fab as the folks I used in San Francisco (Kelly at Grasshopper rocks, btw). Based on recommendations found here and elsewhere, I booked myself at Prink. My first visit Rachel took care of touching up my color (as I was in a pinch), though I've since been to see Jeff for cuts & color. On my first visit, I asked Rachel why they opened the place. Her answer exactly reflects the vibe of the place. She said they wanted a salon that was all about the art of hair, but with none of the attitude or potpurri of services (cuts, color, spa, makeup, oil change, sandwich shop etc.) many salons now offer. Prink is just this - nothing fancy interior (good music, friendly reception, simple design), zero attitude, and top notch stylists. Rachel did a fantastic job, producing exactly the shade of rich, dark chocolate brown I'd kept in my head for ages but never found anyone who could produce my mental image. Plus, the color has "taken" better than any other color experience of years past (I have superhuman follicles, which won't even retain black dye). Jeff has done an equally fab job. He replicated Rachel's color artistry and gave me an utterly fantastic cut. It's been almost eight weeks since my last visit (I'm due back in a couple of days) and I've had none of the "argh, my cut's grown out too much and now I can't do sh%& with it" moments that always seemed to strike about two weeks before my next cut before meeting Jeff. He is a seasoned pro and it shows. He approaches each client as an individual, and is very honest about telling you what he thinks would look best and work with your hair type/personality. I love knowing that they won't let you walk out of there without a perfect cut. Thank you Prink, for easing this hair-obsessives mind! read more

Rachel always comes through for me. She always gets me in right as I really need it. She knows exactly how to cut (and sweet-talk!) my hair so it does just the right thing without too much effort on my part. This is no easy feat, since my hair is kind of straight, kind of wavy, has some cowlicks. No one else (except anyone who reads this!) would ever know that though. Rachel has been able to cut it so that I can use all the different moods of my hair to my advantage. It is fun to have some versatility with my style. She is great at talking to you up-front and finding out what you like and dislike before diving in. I have yet to get the same haircut twice and I have yet to be disappointed in anything she has tried. In fact, I just got one of my favorite haircuts - ever! I heart you, Prink! read more

Recently moved to Chicago, but hadn't bothered to find a new place to get my hair cut. After a few months my wife got tired of my dishevelment and my former stylist referred me to Jeff at Prink. Street parking during the day isn't as easy as some reviews might imply, but we found some. The salon itself is nice, clean and not overly done up. Hands down, best first experience at a salon I've had in a long time. Jeff asked some basic questions and got an understanding of my lifestyle and knew exactly what to do. I now feel less like a Wookiee, and am extremely happy with the result. I'll be a loyal customer for as long as I live in the Chicago area! read more

I definitely forgot to review this place when I went here a couple of months ago. Sheila cut my hair and when I say "cut" I really mean "spent an hour perfectly sculpting" my hair. She was very precise and skilled, plus was also friendly and fun. I'm in need of a cut again so I think I'll be heading back there for a cut AND a color this time around! Also I love that my first time with Sheila, I was asked to fill out a questionnaire so they could get a better idea of what I was looking for. The receptionist was very friendly and everyone was ready right on time for me. The prices are just as one would expect, ranging from about $50-$80 for a cut depending on the stylist. Sheila was on the low end but definitely still has talent! EDIT: I went back there and since I notoriously end up scheduling my haircuts with little advance notice (e.g. oh no I'm going out of town Friday and need a cut tomorrow!!), I ended up seeing Katrina. She's equally awesome and attention-detailed. I'd highly suggest her OR Sheila! The only complaint I have is that their new website doesn't even list what times they are open. I'd think that would be necessary basic info. read more

I've been off and on going to Prink for a couple years now. Yes, I have strayed before but alas I'm back for good. Not only is Jeff highly skilled at what he does, he actually listens to you and gives advice-imagine...an actual conversation about your hair! No more snooty stylists pretending to listen to you then next thing you know you have a completely different cut/color then you wanted. Don't get me wrong though....he'll tell you it aint gonna work if it just aint. Perhaps that's one of the best things about him. Go, now, run to Jeff! read more

I have been going to Rachel for a few years now, since deciding to have hair (to not shave my head), and I have consistently been very impressed by her expertise in hair styling and know-how. If you can find your way into the secret underground hair lair that is Phoenix Salon Suites, and make your way to Rachel's corner of the building, you'll be in for a treat. Rachel is known for her expertise with hair colouring, but I have only ever received haircuts from her. It's from this experience that I would have to say she should be just as well known for her actually hair cuts/styling. As a guy who has only ever aspired up until now to grow my perpetually unruly curly hair into something of a Jon Snow/ Continuum era John Mayer artsy longer hair cut, I suddenly find this style within reach thanks to Rachel's abilities (other stylist had told me me that with my hair it would be impossible!). Rachel couldn't be nicer, too, or more professional and accommodating. I have anxieties with people touching my head that trace back to previous head injuries, and Rachel has always been incredibly gentle in cutting my hair to make me feel more comfortable, and furthermore has never been judgemental of this. In conclusion, I have found Rachel to be the best hair stylist that I have ever seen, and I couldn't recommend her services more highly to anyone looking for something from a blow-out to a complete hair style makeover! read more

I've been going to see Jeff at Prink for a couple of years now (since 2005... I think). My friend and I were originally hooked by his haircuts - his attention to detail and ability to give me a great cut that I can easily manage on a day-to-day basis are unmatched. Last fall I got a little more brave and asked Jeff to change my color (I've been a blonde with highlights my entire life) - he suggested I go for red. LOVE IT! I've never received so many compliments (i.e. "if I hadn't known you before, I would think you were a natural redhead). He did a color change for my friend as well and the result was equally (if not more) amazing! In general the experience of going to Prink is what visiting a salon should be...fun, relaxing and unpretentious - you can get what you ask for OR you can get unparalleled advice on how to change it up a bit. I've referred a lot of my friends (and husband) to Prink and nobody has ever been disappointed. I even flew back to have my hair done by Jeff when I relocated to DC for a year and half because nobody else compared. In short, if you're looking for a new salon, you'd be insane not to give Prink a try! read more

My boyfriend and I have been going to Prink for many years now. My boyfriend stumbled in the first time because the salon was practically across the street from our house on Division. Rachel cut his hair and things have never been the same. She has been giving him amazing cuts and added style ever since. I had the fortune of making acquaintance with Jeff at Prink and he does a great job with my curly long hair. I don't like high maintenance locks and he has given me great cuts that make my hair still look "POW" without all the primping. I highly recommend seeing Rachel or Jeff they are both masters of their profession and great people as well. read more

I'll keep it short & sweet: Jeff is a master colorist who can make even red hair hold color for months. Cuts are always great - he knows how to make me happy and cut my curly hair to do what it should (yes, red & curly :) ) They're never pushy with the products and only suggest when you ask. Low pressure, great service, friendly & smiley. Love! read more

Rachel's amazing; I found her online and never stopped going to see her; she cuts my curly long hair beautifully and even guides me through the dye decisions I've made: I went from naturally red to some black, to full blonde, and back. She's professional and a true expert in her field. I love the Kevin Murphy product lines she carries, too. read more

The only good thing I can say about this salon is that Jeff new the difference between white and yellow blonde which, surprisingly, has not been knowledge that every stylist I have seen in Chicago seems to know (apparently, yellow blonde is more popular in the midwest, as to oppose the to the white blonde that I am accustom to on the west coast). I have a much longer list of negative things to say about this salon. First, Jeff won't stop talking, and both times I was there he wouldn't stop talking about how expensive his scissors were and how he wanted to upgrade -- is this why your salon is overpriced? Third, he had someone else wash my hair when there was absolutely no one else in the salon but his partner whom he talked to the entire time, ignoring my complaints to the shampoo girl that my scalp was burning from the chemicals. Third, he insisted that I needed a "base break" to lighten the hair at the crown of my head so that when my hair grew out (I have light brown hair and get a full foil of blonde highlights) the roots would be softened. The first time he did this, my hair looked orange. I mentioned this when I went back in, but he still insisted that I needed to pay extra for the "base break" and that he would correct the color. Well, he didn't. It still looked as orange as ever! The next stylist I went to laughed when I told her about my experience, and told me that I was being scammed for extra money because my hair is light to begin with. I have been told the same thing by three different stylists! Shame on Prink for charging too much in the first place, and shame on them again for scamming me out of money! read more

Rachel is detailed, meticulous, and caring. She is like a poet and a scientist in hair dresser form. She gets to know you before she starts to create her art to better help her know your hair needs. I have never had someone pay such detailed attention to my hair as Rachel. Metaphorically, she is a master chef adding a dash of this or a dash of that in order to create the perfect flavor. She will not stop until your hair is absolute perfection for your particular features, hair type, and personality/style. Rachel is committed to the educational aspect both by professing and learning. Listening to her recount the things she has learned and her personal philosophy really lets one feel secure when under the influence of her scissors and/or color applicator. I think the prices are reasonable for the city. This is a small salon, so if you are looking for a loud-bustling salon, you should try some place else. '80s new wave is piped through the speakers at a medium level and the decor is modern-minimal with exposed brick and brushed nickle furniture. The lighting is suprisingly good for it's garden/basement level. Sunshine streamed into the waiting room area from above. Plan on spending a long time at the salon, as being meticulous comes at a cost - time-wise. read more

Ok, so, I guess I could be considered "that girl" who has been getting her hair professionally cut since the age of 10 while trying to follow in my mother's footsteps. I'm not ashamed to admit that I completely pamper myself when it comes to my hair cut and color (seeing as I rarely indulge in other forms of beauty maintenance), therefore my standards are pretty high. I have lived in Chicago for almost 2 years now and for the first several months had a hell of a time finding a good stylist. Since I didn't know that many people when I first moved I went to just about any salon that received a good online review. I found Prink thanks to a review on Citysearch a little over a year ago and I can't begin to say enough about Rachel, Jeff, and the entire Prink staff. Every time I go in I feel completely comfortable, and get along so well with everyone who works there. Seriously, they are all so chill. Unlike some other reputable salons in the City there is nothing pretentious about Prink. Their prices are pretty standard and their quality is waayyyy above average. In an industry that rarely gives a hoot about loyalty (they just want to make their money for the day...who cares of you come back, someone else will wander in tomorrow) Prink is absolutely most concerned with making the client happy. I have never once felt like my opinion wasn't valid or that my feelings about a certain style or color were overlooked. Jeff will work until you like what you see in the mirror, although most times he gets it on the first shot! However, in the event you are a little bit pickier when it comes to your hair Jeff guarantees his work. If you go home and the next day you hate it you can come back in and he'll try and accommodate your concerns. You won't find that type of customer service just anywhere. Bottom line, I've tried lots of salons in the city and with absolute certainty can say that Prink is the best I've come across. Not only do the stylists do "great hair" but they are a real breath of fresh air and a joy to be around. read more

AWESOME! This salon is the best! Rachel always makes my hair amazing. I've gone to other places and been satisfied, but Rachel ALWAYS styles my hair the best it can be. Everyone at the salon works so well with each other, they're like a team. Love this place! read more

Well I can see why everyone just loves this place--I assume all of you have straight hair? I had Rachel and she insisted on blow-drying my hair straight before she did my cut with a razor. It definitely looked cool when i left, and the color was awesome. However, I noticed that my hair was way frizzier than normal, but I figured my hair must have been fried from the color. I moved further north, so I tried Trilogy, where Scotty informed me that you should NEVER use a razor on curly hair, since it makes it frizzy. Oh. Thanks, Scotty! Rachel--take a note. read more

Though I live in the Gold Coast/Streeverville area and going to Prink is kind of out of the way, I had to give it a shot since they got such great reviews on Yelp! Brianna was my colorist and we hit it off. She was great in that she wasn't too chatty but was still friendly, and she was very easy to talk to. When my highlights turned out too blonde, she fixed them for me, hassle-free! I will definitely come back for a haircut when the time comes. I also really like the den/basement/minimalist but chic decor. I guess I'll keep investing in the $10 cab rides since a great salon/stylist is hard to find! Note: 24-hour cancellation policy or they charge your card! read more

my haircut is short and simple. i've been getting cheap haircuts my whole life and was content with them. however, i have now seen the light. yesterday i went to prink for my first big-boy haircut. jessica was a superb hairdresser and made me see what i was missing out on with cheap haircuts. no buzzers, just scissors. she was extremely detail oriented and now i can't stop staring at my sweet haircut in the mirror. the products they use are VERY quality and i ended up buying the hair paste she suggested. the salon is a nice space with a modern contemporary design - basically, everything was super nice. will definitely be getting all my haircuts here from now on! read more

Best care of my hair ever. Jeff is creative, precise and really, really good. I feel that I'm listened to and I receive great advice. You can't go wrong with Jeff or Rachel and I feel very confident recommending Prink to people who know and appreciate the difference in quality and style. read more

I tried to break up with Rachel, the proprietress of Prink, in a desperate attempt to preserve dwindling funds in my starving entrepreneur days. I came crawling back, though, when I found that no one in town cuts hair the way she does. Walking the fine balance between hip couture and conservative flair necessary for my work, Rachel always knows just what to do. read more

I'm addicted to haircuts. If my hair had the ability to regenerate fast enough, I'd get one weekly. That said, finding a new stylist can be next to impossible, as I'm sure most of you know. So, turning to my good friends here at Yelp, I decided to give Jeff at Prink a try. So, so glad that I did. He listens, gives suggestions when needed, and he's amazing at what he does. Spot on haircuts--every time. Not only will you feel beautiful, but people will stop you constantly and ask you who does your hair. No joke. read more

I've been going to Rachel for years. Today she outdid herself. Now I get to wear around one of her masterpieces of cut and color. I am a very, very picky perfectionist but I can relax with Rachel and let her practice her craft because it's going to end up beautiful. All I have to do is kind of explain what I want and then sit there and let her work her magic. read more

Prink is a great place to go when you want a stylist who pays extreme attention to detail and actually wants to do what's best for you. Who doesn't want that? Upon your initial visit, they make you fill out a profile about yourself which includes questions about your personal style and hair preferences. I don't think a lot of people notice this place because it's on that odd stretch of Division that doesn't attract as many people as the blocks that are further east. The only drawback is that the prices are quite high though it's understandable since it must cost an arm and two legs to keep a retail space in Wicker Park. I believe there are only two stylists so it must be even more difficult to make the rent. read more

Nice, reasonably priced, and conveniently down the street. Don't hesitate to use the jr. stylist Brianna, she's more than qualified to color, cut, and overall improve your hair. read more

Oh Prink, how I love thee! I've been going to Brianna for over a year since I moved here and have always been pleasantly surprised with what she does with my hair. She manages to funk it up a bit but still keep me looking acceptable for the office. The salon itself is a bit bare-bones but it works for them. Prices are in line with what you would pay at a more high-end place, but there is zero-attitude and everyone greets you with a smile. I always look forward to my primping sessions at Prink! read more

It is indeed a cute little place. Brianna was great. They use good products and know what kind of hair would suit you.

I've been sitting on this review for a long time but the experience still rankles, so here goes. I had a short window in which to get a haircut, so I made an appt. with the junior stylist praised on this site. Maybe I should have waited for the sr stylists to be available. Good things: I was impressed that they took a written survey of the client's preferences and habits. And to be fair the cut I received was technically very well done. Very light with good movement. That is why it gets the 2 stars. The problems: 1. She ignored what I asked for. I gave her a lot of latitude, saying that primarily I wanted easy to care for, but preferred to be on the edgier side. She gave me the cut that Jennifer Aniston had when she cut off her hair 10 years ago. Not edgy, not even current. 2. She would not bend her technique to give me what I needed. She does dry cuts. Wonderful, go ahead. But if I tell you that I never blow dry my hair and want my cut to look good after drying naturally, don't blow my hair extra straight over a round brush before cutting. What a big surprise that after washing my hair had essentially no style. 3. customer service. The receptionist was getting his hair colored so would only man the desk when it wasn't interfering with his processing. The two senior stylists were gossiping about a client that wasn't even there, berating her for continuing to come to their salon but trying several of the stylists. Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't her continued patronage mean she likes you? So she's trying on everyone's bedside manner--who cares? Wouldn't finding the best match among the staff ensure she stays loyal? Isn't that what the salon wants? So, kudos for being able to give a good haircut. Now, learn to respect your clientele, listen to what they want, and THINK about how what you are doing relates to them. Until then, go elsewhere, folks. read more

Place is okay, I don't like pushy people and always open to new do's but this time my hair was not done right. Not worth my time and money. read more

I have been going to Prink for over a year now, and I love it. Brianna is incredible at what she does. I have wavy/frizzy hair that looks horrible unless I flat iron it. Brianna consistently gives me a cut that makes it easier to style and looks great. Every time I go in for an appointment I spend the next few days accepting compliments on how great the cut is, or how pretty the color is. She knows what she is doing, and she listens to what you have to say about your hair, and uses that in her decisions while styling it. The other women at the salon have always been really nice, which I greatly appreciate too. Overall, Prink is a great salon! read more

Once I find a good hair stylist, I stay! I had my hair cut by Brianna several years ago at their old location and have been a loyal customer ever since. She does a great job of giving me the cut I request, but is also very good at offering advice if she knows what I am asking for is going to look stupid with my hair, or be more work than I am used to. That's what I pay a professional for, right? The salon is very nice and in my experience they are usually running right on time. When I moved farther from their location I didn't even consider finding a new salon and am happy to make the trip down to Prink when I need a trim. read more

I've been going to Prink since they opened in 2003. In the 50-plus cuts I've received since, I've never once had a bad experience. Jeff & Rachel are fantastic; everyone on staff is friendly; the decor is great, music cool, parking easy. Highly recommended. read more

If you are looking for a new hair salon, well look no further! After moving to Chicago, I had to endure the grueling search of finding a new stylist that would give me the hair that I wanted. From the cut to the color, I am very particular and I have very exacting standards. I will be honest, I made my first appointment at Prink due to some great feedback on this very website, so I feel that I have to pay it forward and do the same for other people! I made my appointment with Jeff, one of the co-owners of the salon. To put it mildly, Jeff is a hair genius! And what are my standards for hair genius? Someone who listens, someone who explains, someone who gives amazing service, and someone who gives phenomenal results. I actually waited to post this review to make sure I liked my hair as it grew out, because everyone knows a cut can be amazing for a week and then fall into disrepair. Well, my hair looks amazing. The perfect shade of blond, a great cut, and an awesome experience! read more

This salon was just okay for me. We went in for an up-do for my girlfriends wedding, and I really wasn't happy with how she did it. Not to mention it was over priced. read more