I've lived in San Diego for 17 years and tried MANY salons in that time, and I can very confidently say that Santo Tomas Collective is the best salon I've been to. Michelle is the most talented stylist and is worth every penny. I just wish I would've found her years ago. I kept trying to go to the newest, hippest salon and giving my money to very nice, but possibly very green, stylists who just didn't have the depth of color and cut experience Michelle has. It's just so clear to me now what a difference a stylist's experience level can make. Michelle gets my color exactly right. Every. Single. Time. And then if I want to change it up, she's always up for it and always knows how to accomplish my biggest hair dreams. I always leave feeling sexy and like I got exactly what I wanted! The other thing is that Michelle and her husband, Enrique, who works at the salon as well, are just lovely people. And together, they've created a beautiful salon with great stylists and a focus on your safety during these Covid times, but without losing the friendliness or the care they put into their services. Sadly, I'll be moving out of state in a few months. I told Michelle the other day, in total seriousness, that I would need to make the 2 1/2 hour flight to San Diego every 6 weeks, just so she could keep working her magic on my hair! read more

My hair service with Tabie was 4 hours and $500. My usual stylist for 4+ years missed my appointment last minute and couldn't reschedule for 10 days so I was stuck with gray showing. Got referred to Tabie by a stylist I used pre-2021 before she moved away. I'd been to this Old Town salon pre-covid. When I arrived Tabie had another client with color on her hair so she wasn't even close to being done. She spent lots of time shampooing, massaging, cutting, and styling the other client while I waited and waited. To color (one color, no highlights) and cut my hair plus remove & replace 9 shoulder length tape extensions took 4 hours. I've never had a hair service take that long. And she cut my hair too short which I couldn't tell until it was dried. Now my 2 month old $400 extensions are also cut too short. When I complained she said she left my hair longer than I'd asked. Oh right - you know better than me how long I wanted my hair. Then she said it was $500 for the service! I was shocked. My fault for not asking beforehand but I had no idea it could be that much. I've been paying $300 + tip which I thought was a lot. And I could tell she just pulled that number out of her "back pocket" - literally made it up on the spot. I just wanted to get out of there so I paid and left. I texted after to ask why it took 4 hours. She said her other client was "only 15 minutes late" and it normally takes her 2-1/4 hours just to cut and color. I've never had a hair appointment take even that long even with extensions. And that doesn't explain the other 1.5 hours I was there! I can't remember a worse experience at a hair salon. It was after a long day at work and I was exhausted. I wanted a relaxing time and this was anything but. The other stylist's client had her child there screaming and running all over the salon. Then I found out Tabie trained my 2021 stylist, they've been friends for 20 years and almost bought that salon together. I feel I was set up and taken advantage of. My 4-year stylist was in on it too - they're all buddies. I'll never go there again and now must find a new stylist I can trust. If you think to go here better ask beforehand how much $ and how long it will take. And don't tell her to take off 2 inches because it will turn into 5! read more

This was my first time at Santo Tomas Collective and what a great experience. It was a quaint salon in Old Town with the kind of service you don't get in salons any more. There was a warming and welcoming vibe as soon as you walked in. Amanda was my stylist. I literally would drive 2 hours to have her color and cut my hair...that is how good she is!! She did an outstanding job on my color and I haven't had cut this stunning in I can't remember how long. This salon was worth the drive and a my new home for hair! read more

Jill is the best!!! This place is so cute as well. I love the location and parking. My hair always turns out amazing!

Dennie is a master for color! She has an amazing way of give you the look you want and she is so warm and fun to be around. I also felt very safe at the salon, they are doing a great job following COVID safety protocols. read more

Santo Tomas Collective - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California

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Dennie has been my stylist for a decade now. I trusted her to give me my first bob and later a pixie. Her highlighting game is totally on point. I could not believe how beautifully my teasylights grew out during the pandemic. One of my favorite things is when I go to see her and she says "you know I had this idea for your hair" and then she does something so wonderful and creative and I leave the salon with amazing hair - just look at my pictures - she is an artist! She is so much fun and clearly loves what she does. The salon is in a great location with plenty of parking. It's very spacious and beautiful and I felt so safe with the Covid-19 safety measures they were taking. Oh, and they have the most comfortable sinks I have ever put my neck on. I didn't have that post-salon visit neck ache we are all familiar with! Fantastic salon!!! read more

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I have been trying to find a place to get a good haircut and had hopes for this place. Small place that seems to be run by the stylists themselves which is not something I personally prefer. I ended up waiting awkwardly in the front till my stylist finally greeted me. I was only there for a bang trim and the woman who cut my hair may have been having a bad day. She handled my hair extremely rough and brushed my bangs like she was blowing off some steam. She forgot to put the robe over me and then remembered after she already started cutting my hair. My bangs came out very uneven. I would not come back here personally but giving 3 stars because not sure if this was just a one off bad experience with a stylist. Other stylist seemed nice and the place is cute. read more

Jessica Nguyen is a complete sweetheart and is a master stylist. I was tentative at first because I usually don't stray from my usual stylist at a different salon, but she was away on vacation and I needed gray coverage stat! When I first arrived at the salon, Jessica and I discussed my hair goals and she looked at pictures of what I wanted. I appreciated her feedback in regards to hair color expectations as I have level 2 Asian hair with pre-lightened ends and wanted to go a summer bronde that was neither too ashy nor too warm. She did exactly what I requested and I love the end result. I would highly recommend Jessica to anyone but especially to the gals with dark hair that want to lighten up for the summe read more

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Looking for a color expert? Dennie has been doing my hair for the last 10 years. She always takes my hair to the next level no matter what I ask for be it purple or blond! Her knowledge of color and style always helps me make decisions about what would look best on me. read more

Santo Tomas Collective - Loving my hair!!! - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California

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Maureen Ryan is the best! Such a genuinely kind person and she's amazing at her job.

I come here to see Jessica. She's absolutely amazing and listens to you! She doesn't cut a ridiculous amount off your ends and she respects your budget etc. I would never go anywhere else! read more

A friend recommended Jess Nguyen after I had a disaster happen to my poor hair at another salon downtown a couple months ago. From the get-go Jess was AWESOME. She took time with me at my consult to understand what I wanted and then again at the start of my appointment with her. She gave me options of what we could do without destroying my hair and listened to all of my concerns. Oh and she is hilarious to boot! She literally transformed my hair back into an epic summer blonde and made me feel beautiful again! I will be telling EVERYONE I know about her.....she is magic!!! Truly wonderful experience from start to finish!! 1,000,000/5 stars!!! Thanks Jess!!!! read more

As a bald man, I never thought I'd review a hair salon but I wanted to give props to Dennie and Santo Tomas. My girlfriend(who doesn't Yelp) waited 6 months through quarantine to get a haircut, and finally decided to pull the trigger. Dennie assured her that all COVID safety protocols were in place... masks, disinfecting, barriers between stations, etc. She was totally at ease in the salon. As you can see, the cut and color ended up awesome and she is thrilled with the results. Dennie is both personable and professional. Go get your hair done, San Diego. If you ain't bald, Dennie's your gal! read more

Santo Tomas Collective - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California

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Got my hair cut by Jacque after hearing so many good things about her!! She listened to what I wanted and the outcome was better than expected. She took her time cutting my hair, making sure everything was perfect which I really appreciated. She is so amazing with hair and I'm so happy to say I've found my go-to hair stylist. Definitely recommend her 10000%! The salon itself is very cute! I was greeted by the the cutest little Yorkie who I believe belongs to one of the stylist. He definitely made the experience so much better. I was welcomed immediately and was offered beverages. The staff was very friendly. Can't wait to come back! read more

Santo Tomas Collective - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California

Dennie is a truly talented stylist! She did a fantastic job updating my color and cut. I love my hair! Ps. The salon is very clean and has done a great job complying with all the COVID safety precautions including masks & barriers. I felt very safe. read more

My hairstylist is Maureen and has been for a couple appointments now. She goes between 2 salon locations and is fairly new to Santo Tomas Collective. That hasn't stopped her from giving each and every appointment her all. Although I've only gotten trims / wash & blowouts, she's shown great knowledge and extreme dedication to keeping my hair strong and healthy. I've seen more growth since going to her and having her look after my hairs health. She really is great. As a one time stylist, or long term (as she's become for me) she will make sure she keeps her clients happy by making sure they get what they want out of her service. Thank you so much Maureen! It's always a good laugh and great conversation when we get together. read more

Santo Tomas Collective - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California

Dennie is a hair whisperer! She's been doing my hair for 6ish years. I found her through a friend after going to multiple failed attempts of finding a new stylist. She's simply the best. Giant bonus... in chair conversation is always fun and exciting. I trust her and would let her do anything to my hair. Even in these odd times - I feel safe in her chair. A+ Dennie!! read more

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Dennie did an amazing job with my COVID hair!! The salon was amazing and I felt 100% safe!! I'll be back!! Thank you Dennie for my beautiful new hair read more

Santo Tomas Collective - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California

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I had my hair cut and colored by Dennie a couple of weeks ago.... it was a big change for me. I couldn't love it more and I have gotten so many compliments on it! Thanks Dennie! read more

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So glad that Becca has moved to this warm, lovely salon. It's a convenient location with free parking, so now I can get my hair cut more often! And she does such a lovely job on my curly locks, it's a win-win-win. read more

Maureen is a super awesome and amazing stylist...Nothing like a great haircut and color to make you look and feel 10yrs younger! I will follow her anywhere but I LOVE this shop @salonsantotomas great vibe and made me feel extra safe with the cleaning and covid processes and procedures they have in place! read more

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Lynette is amazing! I have extremely thick, straight hair and she knows exactly how to cut & style it. Before meeting her, I bounced around in search of a stylists who would be able to work with my hair type and no one ever got it right until I met Lynette. I've been her client for 3 years now and followed her from a previous salon. I am always happy with how my hair turns out and always look forward to my next haircut. The salon itself is extremely clean and nicely decorated. I love the ambiance. The salon provides free parking in a lot behind the building. All you have to do is go inside the salon and ask for a parking pass that you place on your dashboard. Tourist that visit Old Town also park in that lot sometimes, so give yourself some time before your appointment to look for parking. read more

Been going to this salon forever, love the vibe and people. Michelle is amazing and i'd recommend her to anyone. Very professional and always upping her years of high end training with supplemental education on the latest techniques! Loved seeing the salon grow over the years and couldn't imagine going anywhere else. 10/10 experience read more

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Michelle has been cutting and styling my hair for about 14 years now. I won't let any one else cut my hair! Michelle runs a top-notch clean, beautifully furnished salon in Old Town that matches the charm of the area. I've seen her grow the Salon Santo Tomas Collective from its inception! It's amazing; she's amazing! And a great array of quality products to choose from. read more

Santo Tomas Collective - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California

Michelle's vision and style shines through in her salon. She is a skilled colorist... I refer to her as being a "sorcerer" because my results are always magical. She creates hair color that has depth and multi tonal layers. read more

I have been going to Becca for years, and she always does a great job. She has great prices and would recommend to anyone looking for a stylist. Previously she has highlighted my hair, and the highlights were great, and now she has done red for me, which has come out vibrant and healthy. Free parking too lol. read more

Bristen at Santo tomas is one of the best stylists I ever had! I am very picky,but I have total confidence in her expertise. She is super talented and goes out of her way to ensure that she understands what you want. My hair always looks amazing and super healthy. So many compliments even in France where i am from. She keeps learning all the new techniques and her professionalism is impressive. The cherry on the top is she is so warm and fun to be around! Definitively the best salon in San Diego. read more

I recently relocated to the San Diego area and was nervous about finding a new salon and stylist. I was referred to Crystal Redholm and my fears were completely wiped out. After 3 visits my hair has never looked better. Her ability to get back to my natural color of my youth, chase my grey away, and make my hair look natural is a talent. She is a gifted talented artist in color and cut and would highly recommend her. Thank you Crystal read more

Violet specializes in vivid colors. She has been my stylist for almost 5 years now. I can't imagine anyone else working on my hair. Violet has such natural talent, years experience and so much knowledge about colors and techniques. She custom mixes all of her colors so you walk out with a tailor made look. I trust her wholeheartedly with my hair. After years of coloring, my hair has been the healthiest since I've become her client. Violet is now at Salon Santo Tomas! The salon is so clean and welcoming. They have the most comfortable chairs, too. Which is important when you have a 5+ hour appointment. They also have a dedicated parking lot. Make all your hair dreams come true and book an appointment with Violet. She is truly a master in her industry and I'll let my photos speak for themselves. read more

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I love the service and haircut! If you want a pixie, Maureen is your girl. They have coffee and tea if you want some. Parking can be tight in the holidays since it's in Old Town. If in doubt, park at the trolley station and walk over read more

I love Dennie! And the Santo Tomas salon is doing an incredible job during COVID. I trust Dennie to do whatever she sees fit. She incorporates the latest trends and complements my skin tone and face shape. I've been going to her for years and so happy she's found a new home at Santo Tomas in Old Town. read more

Santo Tomas Collective - Gorgeous makeover by Dennie - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California

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Lee Evans for the win!! I had previously wrote a review in 2014 after I went to Lee for the first time. Well, my husband and I moved closer to north county, and I made the mistake of trying somewhere new instead of sticking with what works. Long story short, I got my hair botched and Lee worked his miracles and fixed my hair. I am extremely particular with my color and cuts, and Lee gets it spot on every time. He took the time to listen, offer his opinion, and then come up with a fantastic result in the end. Not to mention the neck massages are to die for during the hair wash. I would still recommend Lee for any of your hair needs!! read more

Santo Tomas Collective - A blonde fix by Lee Evans - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California

So happy I found Kim Smith! I lived in San Diego years ago and found Kim, once I found the "right" stylist I stuck with her and followed her to a couple salons throughout the years. I then moved out of state and was faced with the harsh reality of trying to find another stylist (read: bad haircuts). Finally, I moved back to California, near Temecula, and knew I had to track down Kim again. I was more than willing to make the hour+ drive to San Diego to get my "Kim-quality" cut. She is an expert at her craft, no joke, you will not be disappointed. She listens so well, communicates clearly, and consistently (I stress - every single time) delivers an excellent cut. She is a gem! And Salon Santo Tomas is a gorgeous salon. read more

Santo Tomas Collective - Kerastase wall. - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California

This is my new hair home. I came in here a couple times for eyelash extensions, and when my other salon started raising prices and messing my hair up I remembered this salon and how cute it was and decided to give it a try. They had a deal going so I scheduled an appointment with Shanice. When I went in I kinda knew what I wanted but barley lol. I had this brassy color and wanted to go to an ash color. Shanice did just that And was up front with all the costs and what the process would be. It was a good experience, and it's a super cute salon in the middle of old town... in the pic.. brassy hair.. couldn't get rid of it for over 2 year's.. middle was taken at the salon.. and last was a few days after when my hair lightened up some. pictures are hard to show the color. read more

Santo Tomas Collective - Shanice took me hair from brass to ash... see my full review.. - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California

I definitely recommend Dennie! I wouldn't let any other hairstylist cut my hair again. She got the haircut I wanted and took the time cutting my hair. read more

Santo Tomas Collective - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California

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I LOVE working (and getting my hair done) at Salon Santo Tomas! I have been here from the beginning, and as a stylist this is a great place to work and grow your business. The owner, Michelle, is always looking out for her staff and providing them with an environment they can thrive in. She has our best interest in mind 100% of the time. I cannot imagine a better working environment. Michelle provides us with a locker to keep our valuables locked up so they are kept safe. She also provides the necessary tools for us to conduct business and care for our clients, as well as opportunities for us to advance our craft and stay educated on the latest trends. One of the reasons Michelle is so successful is her heart of gold. We are all a big family here at Salon Santo Tomas and it shows as soon as you walk in the door. Whether you are a client or stylist, I highly recommend stopping by and checking us out! read more

I've found my new salon! I felt at home the moment that I stepped inside. The staff is welcoming and friendly, and Crystal is amazing! She did such a great job on my hair and was a pleasure to spend time with. I lost track of time while I was there because we got caught up in conversation. It was such a relaxing visit - everything that you expect of a salon. Also, the space is really clean and open. And they have reserved parking for all of their guests. I'll definitely be going back for a regular appointment with Crystal. read more

I am very particular about my hair so I knew I had to follow Becca over to Santo Tomas Collective when she moved there!! She is not only extremely talented, but she is so sweet and easy to talk to! Anyone looking for their hair done, needs to go see Becca! read more

Chelsie Renee is the wavy haired super hero! It's been a year and a half since the last time she touched my hair but I had the pleasure to finally to see her again! Today my hair is so freaking bouncy and happy! She speaks to hair AND she just happens to be one of the sweetest humans alive plus she gives an amazing shampoo. So basically nothing has changed in her amazing service! Let her touch your hair. Period. read more

I'm a travel RN and had an assignment in San Diego, California. I needed my hair pretty much revamped. I looked and looked for a stylist that could do color, my search payed off. I found Dennie, she is the most amazing stylist and colorist I've ever been to. She took her time to listen to me and my wants. I'm an older gal and have that bothersome gray coming in and just want to blend it as it grows in. Well Dennie did just that!! She also gave me the best haircut I've ever had. I was so impressed with her skills I also had her cut my son's hair before we left to head back to Illinois. I have to say that Dennie is not only an Outstanding stylist/colorist but a caring person that I consider a friend and I hope to see her again!! read more

Santo Tomas Collective - Love my Hair!! Thank you Dennie!! - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Diego, California