As someone who has been going to Smith Davis on and off for the last 10 years, as a curly girl, I feel dismayed and disappointed in the lack of consistency of not only Sam K's haircut, but also in reading reviews from the last 4 years. It seems it really depends on who is cutting the hair but also who is supervising apprentices. I first heard of Smith Davis 10 years ago when I came in for various pixie cuts. I do remember being listened to, and saw my experiences as a collaboration between the customer, apprentice, and teachers. I walked out each time happy with my hair. I also came once for a curly cut with a regular stylist and was very happy. The only reason I stopped coming was because I found another very good salon within walking distance of my job. I also saw how wonderful of a job you did with a longtime customer and friend who has very very long 3c /4a curls/coils. So when I recommended Sam K try Smith Davis I felt confused about what happened. I also saw the results of her haircut from earlier this week. I know how much work curly hair is and the fact that you didn't supervise this well speaks volumes. I can relate when a stylist tries to push products on you that are too heavy for curly hair and doesn't listen. It's one thing if you're learning about your hair, every customer is different. When an entire salon doesn't listen to your needs, unprofessional is a polite way of putting it. By cutting off her hair like that, you threw away hours of labor, often resulting in back pain, as well as 100s if not 1000s of dollars of products that go into investing into curly hair. She deserves a refund and accountability. I'll make sure I never recommend this place again. I feel heartbroken because I know the story of your inception, about the rift that caused the owners to leave Sine Qua Non and start your own business. That's hard ways I will never fully understand, but your inconsistency is inexcuseable. read more

I first came here about a year ago for a haircut when my usual stylist at Art and Science wasn't available. My close friend had recommended Smith and Davis after coming here for years. My stylist was friendly, but the haircut was awful and choppy. I looked in the mirror shocked and said very politely that it wasn't what I wanted. She admitted she thinks this is more flattering than what I wanted. I hated it. Luckily, I had enough length that a bad haircut wasn't unfixable. I had also noticed that the woman at the desk was inexplicably combative just checking me in, and read how Smith and Davis was not very responsive to complaints. I chose to just move on, accepting that I had lost time and money. My stylist at Art and Science fixed it a month later. Unfortunately, I was so "over it" I forgot the name of the salon all together. This year, when my stylist was on break, I went to salon apprentice and scheduled a cut around the corner from where I was meeting a friend. I often see apprentices. At good salons, they're well-supervised; in fact, I found my regular stylist, Ariel at Art and Science, when she was training an apprentice who gave me a great cut, and my colorist at Sine Qua Non was an apprentice when I first saw him ten years ago. On the day of, I had a work call that went too long and the apprentice graciously agreed to meet me half an hour after our scheduled time. When I arrived, my heart sank. This was the same salon that messed up my hair last year! I briefly considered walking out. It would have been an asshole move though - she needed her hours and I was already there almost half an hour after our scheduled time. Also, my split ends were bad and I wanted to get them cut before they traveled up and my hair ended up in worse shape. And again, my hair is long enough that an unflattering cut can be fixed. Or so I thought. My stylist was sweet but not the best communicator. We agreed I liked my length and the hair cut would be layers, and we'd only cut enough to get rid of split ends and keep the shape I have but just add some volume on top. I emphasized repeatedly that I wanted lots of movement. She showed me exactly how much she was cutting, about an inch. Unlike apprenticeship programs at other salons, no instructor came by to check in with me and check in with the apprentice to make sure everyone was on the same page or offer instruction. He only checked in at the completion of the cut, and even then he only checked her technique and didn't ask me if this is what I wanted. Throughout my haircut she would get startled whenever I spoke to her, because she was focused on my hair. I asked her several times what exactly she was doing and what cut she had planned for me, and instead of telling me about the results or what my hair would look like, she described her hair cutting technique as if I were an instructor. I could tell this cut was going badly. The layers she was cutting into my curly hair were straight and blunt. Curly hair almost always needs point cutting or slide cutting to avoid a blocky shape. When you cut curly hair with blunt horizontal lines, the curls stack on top of each other and create bulk and a boxy silhouette rather than movement. I took a deep breath and resigned myself to live with my bad hair cut until I could schedule the fix in January, and comforted myself that at least this time the price was tips-only and I had long hair and I could survive a bad haircut. I guess that was my second mistake. Instead of the inch we agreed on, my "trim" lost about four inches, maybe more - well over a year of growth. The shape is blunt, square, flat on top, wider at the bottom, stiff, and short, *the opposite* of what I asked. The fact that she assured me the haircut was round even as I observed her giving me a square cut tells me she didn't understand how her technique would actually look on me. The lack of instructor supervision is a significant failure of the salon. The whole point of an apprentice program is supervised learning. At reputable programs, the trainer checks in during the consultation and during the cut. I'm pretty laid back, but this is the first time since my girlhood days I feel like crying over a haircut. I've worked really hard to maintain the health of my hair to get it this long. And so much of it is gone. It is now too short to fix. I have seen two stylists (one regular, one apprentice) there with the same underlying issue: prioritizing their own vision or technique over what I wanted. The first stylist openly admitted she gave me what she thought was better (choppy layers). The apprentice described her technique rather than my results when I asked questions. The fact that a regular stylist does the same tells me they never really teach staff to listen to clients. Between the combative front desk and their poor response to client concerns, there is a cultural problem at this salon that leads to bad haircuts. I do not recommend. read more

Got a fabulous fresh haircut from rising star apprentice Izi. I will definitely be back read more

Writing this now because it's been six weeks from my haircut at this salon and I'm just as frustrated and disappointed with my hair today as I was then. I booked Brian for a standard hair trim (based on social media; first time at this salon). When we were talking through what the cut would look like, I explicitly mentioned a trim to take off the dry dead ends. Brian did the rest of the talking -- he suggested "face framing pieces" / layers which I said was fine because I've had layers before and figured they'd be minor. I was not communicative (which I now regret in hindsight). The word "layers" never explicitly left my mouth at this appointment; I am making it clear here that I did not ask for them, because they've been the worst part of this haircut and the biggest stressor for me since. I've never gotten a bad haircut before in my life and just did not even consider that as a possibility; I thought it'd be easy to avoid giving someone an ugly haircut. I was wrong. I trusted Brian when he suggested "some face framing" pieces, which was my mistake. I received the worst haircut of my life here (and I'm pushing 30). My heart dropped when I initially saw how much length he took off. My hair was just below my bosom (but again, pretty dead). I suggested 2 - 3 inches to get the dead ends off and he ended up taking off ~4 - 5. I actually find the length itself to be cute, but unfortunately the 'layers' ruined the cut (and my self esteem). Also, one side of my hair was about half an inch longer than the other -- something I've never experienced before until this salon. The layers themselves are extremely choppy and unblended. Friends and family agreed when I showed them the cut and equated it to Lord Farquad's bob from Shrek on top of a long cut; another said they look like stepping stairs. As for styling, they were cut in a VERY shaggy way; and I am not a woman who would ever, ever want a shaggy haircut in any capacity. Brian was so extremely friendly, warm, and likable, which makes me feel awful when I detest my hair cut every day in the mirror. I ended up going to a previous stylist in the city to try and clean up the cut as much as possible. He agreed that the only way to clean up the choppiness would be to cut it to a bob. We opted for keeping the length; he cleaned up the layers and the uneven length, and even had to thin my (already thin) hair out where the bob / layer was at its worst / most choppy. So this haircut's cost was automatically doubled by having to go to a second stylist to try to fix the one I received at Smith & Davis. I'm writing this on the off chance it saves someone else from this fate. I've tried convincing myself it's not that bad, it's not that noticeable, it's not a big deal, but every time I am out on weekends or styling my hair, I get so upset feeling like my hair is styled for somebody that I am not. Maintaining this hairstyle has added time to my routine. I try to "fix" the shagginess by blow drying (Dyson) the layers inward toward my face (think Rachel Green). However, no amount of hot/cold settings or mousse get the layers to stay turned in -- they inevitably end up flipping back outwards in their shag no matter how I style them. If you come to this salon and book the same, I highly recommend clearly and explicitly communicating what you're looking for. Make your voice heard; I wish I did. I am leaving this review 2 stars because, again, Brian was wonderful personality wise and the salon itself was nice. I just cannot believe that I am now a month and a half out and still actively hate it this much on a daily basis. I legitimately feel sad and crushed when I'm either doing my hair or worrying how it looks when I'm in public, and I think that alone warrants this kind of warning -- heed caution, proceed at your own risk. read more

Brian was recommended to me and when I met him for the scheduled haircut, it felt like I was in the right hands. When I described what I was thinking and showed him a photo, he was totally on board, enthusiastic and in total agreement about its appropriateness for my hair. I sat back, relaxed and enjoyed the conversation. When he was finished, my inner thoughts were like, 'WTH just happened?', the cut not at all what was discussed up front. Instead of the layers and length that were set as goal, I had a too-long blunt cut. Yes, I could have questioned him about the cut but I was the last appt in the shop and the front desk attendant already had her coat; I didn't have it in me to raise the issue. Anyone, me included, can make a blunt cut work so it's not like the experience was a disaster although the gulf between hopeful expectation and the reality was pretty wide. S&D off the list for me. read more

I was 15 minutes late due to transit complications and called ahead and expressed why, but that is the only reason for why I could guess that I was overcharged by $30. The max price of a cut on the website says $120, but I was charged $150 without comment and before tip. I now regret tipping after checking the website prices, as I was shocked at the price and considering my stylist began at the back of my neck where I couldn't see the length, did not check with me about the length, and when I felt the length with my fingers and immediately asked for longer after the first cut was made, just went ahead with his vision. It's a good cut but it's not the cut I wanted or asked for, and at that price that's kind of insane. read more

Smith & Davis Salon - I wanted shoulder or collarbone length, ended up with a bob, and narrowly dodged a pixie cut. Do not come to this salon! - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Beware of complaining, Smith & Davis customers! Found Smith & Davis when I moved to Lincoln Park seven years ago. Picked them because they'd gotten highlighted in Elle magazine. Found their services good, if not expensive, until after the pandemic. Last color I had there was not great. Apparently they didn't rinse my hair well enough and product rubbed off my hair while I slept, ruining my bedding. When I confronted them about it, they gave me a refund, and I thought all was well. Referred a friend for service. Alas, that was not the case. When I called for an appointment yesterday, I was told to seek another salon. So I shall. read more

I've gotten some fantastic haircuts here over the last 9 years or so. I've usually gotten them from someone training, but I've still always left with beautifully cut and styled hair. Michael is who has always overseen the cuts, and if I'm ever in a position to get my hair cut by him I will. read more

I love this salon! I have a very thick, curly, massive hair type that takes a long time to dye, cut, and process. Hana is great with helping me schedule my appointments. Abby is amazing at hair colors and created the perfect palette for me. Liam cuts my hair, and he does great cuts for curly hair and the styling keeps for days. I can't recommend this salon enough! read more

If you are reading this, you're going to need some sunglasses because it's a GLOWING review! Lexi is my colorist and I feel truly ~blessed~ to have found her. Not only does she perform literal magic each and every time she does my hair, she also puts up with my outrageous demands and unreasonable impatience (bleach and tones take a long time but you can't rush perfection!). It's extremely hard for me to trust people with my hair...I'm extremely particular. But I've never had to worry once with Lexi because I know she's a master at her craft!! (and a very fun kind person to be around!) Smith and Davis: 17/10 would highly recommend. read more

Smith & Davis Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I have been going to Smith & Davis for over 5 years now and am a big fan. I was apprehensive about going once COVID hit; however, I was so impressed with their protocols and procedures that I have been twice now since March. Both times I felt completely comfortable! The main door was locked so no one could walk into the salon. There was no one allowed to wait in the lobby/waiting area. There were only 1-2 stylists and 1 colorist in the studio and only one other customer when I was there and we were on opposite sides of the studio (much more than 6 ft. apart). Everyone was in masks, all surfaces were wiped down thoroughly and distance was constantly maintained. They even got a new heavy-duty air filtration system. Stevie, my colorist (and co-owner) really cares about the safety of her customers. She talked to me about their protocols at length and wanted to ensure my comfort continuously. For anyone on the fence about going to the salon, check out Smith & Davis - they're doing things correctly and safely there! read more

I had a session with Brian this week and it was, quite frankly, the best experience I've ever had with getting my hair cut and styled. At every step Brian checked in with me to ensure I was ok with any changes. He gave expert suggestions and took my ideas to heart, as well as adapting them to my hair with his expertise. I also interacted with one of the owners who was kind, welcoming and affirmative. Everyone uses gender neutral pronouns which was AWESOME. I can only imagine how this standard will continue to make everyone feel safe and comfortable. The salon goes above and beyond for COVID standards. Do not sleep on this place!!! read more

Wow! I just had the best blow out ever by Katie! she really took the time to take my frizzy dry hair to a super beautiful healthy level! The salon has a very fun vintage modern vibe and everyone was very nice and made me feel comfortable. Also shout out to Stevie who recommended some great products that are already showing great results. read more

I was long due for a freshen up/hair cut. I honestly wasn't sure about coming in because I get really sketched out when it comes to new people messing with my hair. (Due to bad experiences and being traumatized with so much breakage happening to my hair.) I'm glad I came in though. Brian was my stylist. He heard me out on everything. Gave me great advice and did a phenomenal job. He definitely knows what he's doing. Very smart, courteous, kind and friendly. It's nice to talk and relate to other artists like myself. I will be coming here again to get my hair cut. Possibly colored soon. Plus I love the fact that this is a 5 min walk from my house. My hair feels a lot better and healthier. Thanks so much Brian!! read more

Smith & Davis Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I had consistently mediocre haircuts here in the past and since then went elsewhere. During early Covid reopening phases, I needed to find an open salon but was nervous about safety and the receptionist quite literally started shouting at me when I asked if they had a vax policy. (The answer is no they do not, which is fine but it's also fine if a customer wants to know.) The response was unnerving, unnecessary, and really out of touch with reality. The vibe here is not good. read more

I went in through a call on Salon Apprentice for a color and a blow dry with Drew Faber yesterday. I am in from Florida and wasn't able to get my hair done before driving in to Chicago for the holidays. He did an awesome job. My color was a single-process. He did a thorough consultation, checking my hair and asking me what I was looking for. I said I wanted a nice brown and to cover my grays. He delivered. My hair is a rich deep brown and was extremely shiny. Love it. He then gave me a blow out. I kinda gave him free rein. Let me say my hair looked amazing. Rarely do I walk out of a salon completely happy. Rarely do I walk out of a salon and not go home and redo my hair. He did an amazing job, it even held up through the Chicago wind at the ChrisKindle Market. My husband could not stop staring at me and telling me how pretty I looked. My son also agreed. I highly recommend Drew and this salon. I would love just to go in every couple of days during my stay and let him blow dry my hair, seeing the salon is right across the street! He's good and should have a long and prosperous career in this field. read more

THIS IS THE BEST HAIR SALON! Michael gave me seriously the best haircut it makes me so happy. Absolutely everything was clean & I felt super safe. If you are even thinking about getting a haircut here a little bit do it! You won't regret it!! read more

Michael is a master hair stylist. You will absolutely not go wrong with his work, and he is a very kind person as well.

I have textured, thick hair and have spent YEARS trying (and failing) to find a stylist that could properly cut my hair. Got my haircut from Michael last week, and I've never received so many compliments from a cut!! The layers are beautiful, it feels so much lighter and is way easier to style! Also - the salon was great, the entire staff was friendly, had some great conversation! Will definitely be back! Thank you!! read more

I have been going to this salon for over 4 years and I have never - ever - been disappointed. Stevie does my color: she is more like a wizard or a scientist than a colorist. It's like she reads your mind and then magically deposits her findings into your hair. For cuts I go to Alicia: she is so talented and sweet. She makes great suggestions, but never pushes more layering or cuts my "just a trim" too short. I adore both these ladies. I always feel 10 times prettier when I leave their salon (and I'm already incredibly gorgeous, so...) read more

Got a big chop from Brian (under Michael's supervision). It was a great haircut. I have heavy, straight hair, and I've walked out of a lot salons with boring, lifeless cuts on many occasions. I've had cuts that have weird shelfs. I've also gotten well-executed, prim bobs that were just not my style. Not so with Brian. He listened to what I wanted and took the time to get it right. He also made sure to style it so that it would be akin to what I would do with it in the morning (I.e, almost nothing, so the cut needs to do the heavy lifting). I was also not great at describing what I wanted as this was a bit of an impulse decision (I have to be in front of important people for the first time since the pandemic). Michael and Brian helped me figure it out and made sure I left with something I was happy with. I was really impressed with the attention to detail and the precise care taken with the cut. It came out as the relaxed looking bob of my dreams. read more

i've been seeing brian for over a year and he slays every single time. he understands the texture of my hair and always works with me to achieve what i'm looking for. i've had 3 different styles since i've been a client of his, and he executes each one well, not a one trick pony! the rest of the team is super warm and welcoming, and they have great products at the salon. thanks friends! read more

Horrible haircut, horribly styled, horrible manager. I went in in with hair halfway down my back and came out looking like Shaggy Doo. I have very long hair and the last time I was in we did a very small trim so I decided to go short this time around. We discussed doing a bob. He suggested a french bob. I've had bobs several times but was not sure what a French bob was. He explained it's like a regular bob but usually cut around chin length and often with bangs. I said that sounded good but I don't look good with bangs (I have a small forehead). We decided face framing curtain bangs would be a good idea though (I've had curtain bangs before, they looked great, so I knew what to expect). Also, because I've had my hair cut in a bob before, I knew what to expect there as well and a bob looks good on me. So we decided to go for it. What I ended up with was what would be most described as a choppy, layered, outdated shag. Short hair, cut choppy and lots and lots of layers. And, very short bangs. I'm pretty easy going when it comes to my hair and have never made a big deal over it... even if it's not exactly as expected. Usually I can figure a way to style it to look good. But, this is just horrible. I thought about calling to see if they could cut it to be more even but the shortest layers were so short that I'd have to go down to a pixie cut to get any sort of desired shape and I really was not wanting to go that short. So, I called the salon and asked for a refund - This was not a cheap haircut. The manager called me back an hour later saying she could offer me a free session on how to style my hair in accordance with this new cut. I told her that I already had re-washed my hair twice (the night of and the next morning) to try different ways of styling it. It wasn't my inability to style it correctly, it was just a downright bad cut. She said she'd re-cut it for me. I told her, that wasn't really an option due to how little length I have to work with. She belittled me on the phone and said that I got what I asked for from the stylist. No. This is not what I asked for and not how I expected to be treated. read more

I'm not sure how this place has such great reviews. I moved to Chicago from NYC 4 months ago and being underwhelmed by my first salon test I booked here having seen the rave reviews and write ups of it in mags. I've had color done here twice (blonde toned and then all over demi-color) and both color jobs were very nice. However I got my first cut here this weekend and all I have to say is: WTF? I had a consult with the stylist with my hair dry/natural prior to the cut. We discussed my natural wave and that I went for very much an Olsen twin look: long, natural waves, rarely blow dry, tousled, slightly messy, very organic shape with no blunt chopped across bottom but also not a lot of layers, just enough long layer shaping for some dimension. I walked out of that salon looking like Rachel from Friends at the end of the series. It was just a trim on the bottom and she cut the top layer of my hair about 2.5 inches shorter than the bottom layer from my face back to just behind my ears then it's just the same long length. Like ummmm I'm sorry I'm not a 40 year old woman living in 2001, what is this? So still looking for a salon for cuts.... read more

When I moved to Chicago 5 years ago, my hair was still recovering from going white blonde the year prior. I called the salon after walking by several times - I liked the vibe, and I've never gone anywhere else! I started with Chad and Abbey, and have since moved on to Lexi and Alecia. I also saw Stevie a few times, who is excellent! Everyone has been an absolute delight to work with and so talented - my hair gets compliments all the time. More recently, I've stated balayage with Lexi, who is a whiz with color - my hair has never looked better. I've sent several friends her way, too, and they've texted me rave reviews. And Alecia is possibly the nicest person ever - I never have a bad day when I'm in her chair. Between Lexi and Alecia, my thin, fine, frizzy curls are behaving and rocking! read more

I don't normally write reviews but I had such a great experience at Smith & Davis Salon that I had to share. This salon gives off such a cool vibe in general but they took time with me to hear what I was looking for for my consultation, listened and delivered. This was the best color and cut I've had in a long time with an overall chill vibe. I would highly recommend! read more

Team Alicia here. I've always thought if I ever find a stylist that works for me, I won't be recommending them to anyone because they would still be a blind bargain that somehow red my mind. Enters Alicia... She is a talented and skillful lover of healthy hair. What I like the most about her is that she doesn't alternate between being confident and focused and being an open and patient listener but is all of it at the same time and all for real. She is the boss but she also makes it clear that, for the time being, you are her boss. She is also adorably curious and really into what she does for living, which is always a plus. Go girl! read more

I was in need of a root touch up, and wanted a balayage, but have had a couple bad recent salon experiences (at other places), so my expectations were pretty low. However, I went to Emily and she was amazing and extremely knowledgeable! She looked at the pictures I showed and did a full explanation as to why my hair was the way it was, what would help, what I needed to do myself in between sessions, and how she could eventually get my hair that color. She made sure that she put stuff around my hairline so that I didn't walk out with dye all over my forehead as previously has happened at so many other salons. She was also super down to earth, which is always a plus when you're sitting for that length of time getting your hair done. A lot of salon cultures can be a bit of a turnoff due to their snooty nature. Smith and Davis was the exact opposite. The women at the front were friendly from when I first called to make the appointment and explain what I was looking for, to the time I checked out at the end. I'm really happy with my hair and will definitely be returning, as well as recommending to any of my friends who get their hair colored! 10/10 experience read more

Michael has been sculpting my locks since 1996 when he was the Art Director at Vidal Sassoon. He's a master of his craft and continues to have a passion for hair that only a true hair artist would have. He's also honest working with your personality, lifestyles, etc.. AND it's great to know that everyone there has the same integrity. I'm so excited for Michael and Stevie to have opened Smith and Davis and collected such a great team of talented people whom are like minded individuals. The space has a clean and airy feel with a hint of throwback. Vintage styling/ barber chairs and metal medicine cabinets for stylist stations. LOVE IT! And when you're inside you automatically feel comfy. The staff is very personable from the front desk, to the assistants and even the staff that isn't directly working with you. I feel that stems from the fact that they're happy to be there as well. It's always great to support a business that creates a positive environment for their staff. Congratulations again to Smith and Davis. I expect great things! read more

I have finally found my salon!! I recently moved to the area and so began my search for a new hairstylist. I went to another salon in the Lincoln Park area, and was greatly disappointed. Great haircut, but poor service and over priced hair cuts. I live 2 blocks from this salon, and have walked by multiple times. Finally I decided to look it up and was happy to see there were great reviews. Decided to go to Alicia for a haircut. I do not regret my decision. Alicia is super sweet and chatty. She took the time to talk to me about how I wear my hair, and what I like, and what I am looking for. In the end I walked out with a great haircut, and could not be happier!!! She even offered me to come in and get my bangs trimmed as often as I need. I would recommend anyone to come to this salon. The salon itself has a cool vibe with lots of art and vintage chairs. I will definitely be back! read more

I love Smith & Davis. My search for go-to salon that always delivers is finally over! I recently got THE best cropped/pixie cut II've ever had. I've gotten so many compliments and I can't stop admiring it myself! Alicia is super cool, down to earth and oh so talented. It's no surprise with mentors like Michael & Stevie, from my experience (and friend's experiences), two of the best stylists/colorists in the city. Everything seems to gel so nicely there, the vibe is relaxed, great music and the people are so nice, I could hang out there all day. Do your hair (and your confidence!) a favor and go to Smith & Davis, GO! read more

Michael Davis ---is by far the best hairdresser on this planet ,,, I highly recommend him,,I always look forward to his suggestions he has taken me through many phases of short to long haircuts throughout the years ,,and every time he seems to amaze me-I'm feeling fabulous read more

Stevie & Michael (Smith & Davis) have been my hair's dynamic duo for the past few years. When I heard they were leaving Sine Qua Non, where they were both top stylists and Art Directors, I knew *I* was moving, too! I am delighted they have their own space. A great way to describe the pair is to describe their "new" salon. They chose a building from the late 1800's and have kept many of its beautiful features: narrow floor boards, crown molding, the pressed tin ceiling, etc. They also found amazing vintage styling chairs made of wood and leather - I felt like I was sitting in a club chair! This attention to detail and style is something truly unique to Smith & Davis; this is not your cookie cutter, sleek salon, with black leather furniture, marble floors and white orchids. As others have noted, Stevie and Michael are both masters at what they do. I average several compliments *weekly* on my platinum hair color. Stevie turns out wonderful, rich, dynamic colors; I have yet to see a dull, brassy blonde leave her chair. I have come to trust Michael so much that I frequently let him do what he wants. He's also great at looking at multiple photos and doing *just* what you want! As he was trained at Sassoon, he's extremely precise and methodical in his styling. His cuts grow out beautifully and style effortlessly. Smith & Davis are caring the Sachajuan hair product line from Sweden. As a beauty product junkie, I'm thrilled they are carrying this line as it's a very "natural," has aesthetically pleasing bottles, and delivers impressive results! For parking I'd recommend trying Halsted first. There are two banks/ATMs right on the corner should you need cash [PNC & Chase]. read more

Smith and Davis Salon - Awesome I have been seeing Stevie for about two years. She really knows how to do blonde so beautifully. I get a lot of compliments on my color. I just recently started getting haircuts from Michael. He really understands what you want in a cut and is very precise on how he cuts. They are both very talented and experienced professionals. Now they have opened their own salon, which is very impressive and has got the best "vibe". The salon mirrors their spirit and soulfulness. From having beverages served on glassware to the little cookie on the side of the saucer, from the hard covered bound books on a variety of subjects, to the barbershop chairs everything is just a "wow". read more

I'm notoriously bad when it comes to follow-through. But today when I got what seemed like the 15th compliment on my hair--from a coworker who, before my new haircut, always threw me the stink eye--I decided to open a yelp account. The haircut was just. that. good. The shorthand: Alicia does amazing work. Extended version: Smith + Davis Salon takes care of you. They take care of you before you even get to the salon. There was major construction going on when I was scheduled to get a haircut, and Adrianna let me know the day before, saving me from what would have been a parking nightmare. Once you get to the salon, everyone is warm and welcoming. Other positives--the music is great, the chairs ridiculously comfortable. I usually come to the salon indecisive and fairly ambivalent about the haircut process in general, but Alicia is always patient and helps me figure out what I actually want. If I can't decide, we browse through magazines; she shows me styles and we reach a consensus. She's confident in her ability, which makes me confident that I'm making the right choice about the cut. And even though I was somewhat apprehensive to chop off as much of my hair as I did, Alicia assured me it would look great. She was right. read more

Wonderful salon - wonderful people - and wonderful work done here!! I absolutely love the environment and the stylists/colorists that work here! Everyone is super friendly and gives off an artsy creative vibe which is amazing :) My hairstylist Chad is THE BEST - seriously guys, go to him for anything and he'll deliver. I have super thick and curly hair and he always cuts it beautifully. I don't trust my hair with just anyone - only Chad :) I would definitely recommend this salon!! read more

Alicia was fabulous for my recent 1960's Bouffant undo. I have short hair and she bobby-pinned it into immobility & created just the right amount of height to achieve the look I was wanting. I had an event that evening that involved dancing and I am very happy to report the 'do' held up perfectly. My appointment with Alicia ended at 4:00 and it still looked great at midnight She's a perfectionist. Had great idea's. Was very accommodating. I wish I had a picture of my hair because it looked fabulous. I felt very 'Mad Men-ish.' Will definitely come back. Receptionist/Front Desk were very polite, professional and friendly. read more

Every trip to Chicago I make sure and get to Smith and Davis Salon. As usual this trip did not disappoint! I went to Emily for a root touch up and ended up with the most beautiful, rich color I have ever had. Emily was careful to protect my skin around the hairline so I didn't look like I had just gotten my hair colored. She even protected the ear pieces of my glasses. (the last salon that colored my hair ruined a pair of glasses!) Emily made sure to talk to me about what I wanted and then followed through by listening and giving me the perfect color. Smith and Davis has a great atmosphere, friendly staff, great music and the best cup of hot tea ever...the cookie was spot on too! If you are looking for a salon to trust, look no further. Thanks for my beautiful color, Emily, I'll see you in 8 weeks for my next root touch-up. read more

I'm sure the first stylist that did my hair is also wonderful, but at the end of the day, she couldn't get me what I wanted (a subtle and blended, but visible, ombre). I don't usually go back to salons I wasn't originally 100% thrilled with, not because of any hard feelings, but because I have a childish guilt complex that makes me unable to face people whose feelings I may have hurt. Anyway, Stevie was so accommodating that I decided to give it a shot. She started her work day hours early and we had the salon all to ourselves while she fixed my hair free of charge (and it wasn't even by any means a hair emergency). I'm very happy with what I got and I will most likely return in the summer when I'm ready to go even lighter. No one gave me any attitude about returning and opening the salon early for a fix, and Stevie mentioned the other colorist was taking some additional classes to better accommodate clients. As a matter of fact, I even had to mention that I'd have to come back with the gratuity due to a misplaced wallet, which I'm sure is super annoying and sounds suspect...but no one gave me any attitude about that either. read more

I followed their Instagram for a while and thought it was a place with a vibe similar to where I used to go. After a cut, I can say for certain I'll never return. My stylist didn't listen, was a poor communicator of her "vision", and I'll be dealing with the after effects for months. I could not be more disappointed. read more