I don't want to leave a bad yelp review however I had a horrifying experience. I have come to see Aimee for almost 6 years. I came to get my hair done, which I am always excited to go see her. Well this time I had asked to be more blonde and I left with my hair YELLOW with huge brown spots. I had to blow dry my own hair twice. Saw a big dark spot, she tried to correct it with highlights and and it just made it more yellow and I still have huge dark spots. I have now had to go to a color correction expert and paying triple or quadruple the amount I paid. I am still owed 30$ from Aimee. She will not pay me back and has blocked me on anyway to contact her for my money back. This is also 5 days before my 30th bday, I had to pay someone to do color correction and fix my hair and my blisters all over my scalp, that was 400$ I would at least like my 30$ back from her and I feel the salon is responsible for their employees and I shouldn't have to pay for chemical burns, half of my hair gone and bald spots. Here are just a few pictures. If the owner can please reach out to me. I have medical records reported from my doctor and the receipts for my 400$ hair fix and the 30$ Aimee owes me. There are no words for how I was abused at this salon, something needs to be done about this. Oh and Aimee was drunk she had 4 glasses of wine, maybe that's why my entire head it burned!!! Normally when the partial owner calls, Jennifer, you they say sorry but this owner cusses me out and says she is not responsible for her employees. Now they are posting comments on Facebook. This is now a personal attack from the salon and it will go to legal matters!! read more

See all

I love getting my hair done here. The new location is fabulous. Everybody's super nice and welcoming even if they're not your stylist Jen rocks. read more

I have walked by the salon for many years, I always loved the items that they sold. But it wasn't until I saw a few of my clients have their hair done and they looked amazing! I had to know who did their hair. I never in my life bleached my hair, I have very dark brown hair. Aimee has been absolutely amazing, she airs on the side of caution as to not damage my hair. I now match my towheaded son and am absolutely loving being a blond. She has a real talent when it comes to dying hair, I have a blond that complements my complexion and she has added beautiful dimension so it's not just one boring flat color. I have gotten so many compliments and some people even think I'm a natural blonde. She has made me feel so beautiful and confident. Also big plus my husband is loving it too! I only trust her to do my hair, and she has been my stylist the last two years, she is also amazing with my son and cuts his hair. I say it takes a talented person to cut a toddlers hair! Thank you so much Aimee for the amazing work you do. read more

I've been looking for a new hairstylist for a while. So I posted a request for referrals on Facebook. I found out that my friend from high school Jenn Couch Wilson is a stylist & partner at Utopia. In reality she's more like a HAIR MASTER!!! Every hairstylist that I've ever encountered says I have beautiful thick hair. Then proceed to tell me how difficult it is to work with & usually charge EXTRA. I wanted bangs again & was told that I have a cow-lick & bangs wouldn't look good; but I've had bangs in the past??? I wanted a long shag-bang, long layers, blunt cut. Jenn didn't hesitate & before I knew it she gave me a DO; that made me feel like a movie star!!! Thank you Jenn great job!!! I have so much confidence in Jenn we're doing color on Friday. I can't wait!!! I agree with others reviews in that Jenn at Utopia is affordable!!! I would give an EXTRA STAR for the reasonable pricing if I could!!! read more

Aimee has been doing my hair for years- she is probably one of the most wonderful and creative stylists I've ever known. She gives me honest opinions about what I want, and always delivers gorgeous results I'm sad to see someone say such awful things about this amazing woman- who is such a bright light and such a gifted stylist. Please ignore the bad review ! Aimee works magic on my hair, my friends hair, my boyfriends hair- and I will always be a loyal follower ! read more

Don't go here. Your stylist will be drunk, she will burn your scalp and will not apologize or offer solutions to help you fix the damage to your hair and scalp. Then they will call and harass you for expressing your opinion in a public forum. Shame on you Utopia and shame on you Aimee. read more

Piper will make your hair amazing and beautiful just like she is :D She is really amazing with color, and cuts that are flattering to your face and/or Style. She is fantastic at color correction, she saved my 4th of July 2016! I finally did some big changes to my style- including Cut and Color- after I met Piper, and am so happy I did! I love this boutique salon! The cutest clothes and accessories! I love soft things, and a lot of the clothes they pick are the nicest feeling materials. Nice Restroom. Parking is usually easy, but if you go at a busy time of day you may end up parking 1 block away (not bad at all- encinitas is beautiful) paid meters right out front, or parking in the back lot/around the side streets- you'll see what I mean once you're there :) read more

I just got home from seeing Aimee at Utopia salon after a loooong time in quarantine! Aimee has been doing my hair for over 7 years and has always consistently been not only a talented and creative stylist, but a kind and generous person. Even with masks and other safety precautions, she made the experience personal. And of course did a fantastic job on my high and low lights and cut. She is always thorough and honest! Aimee is an expert and anyone would be lucky to find her! Her prices are fair and she never pushes product but will always give you suggestions if you ask. I've sure missed coming to Utopia! So happy you are back and appreciate the extra precautions the salon has taken. Thank you Aimee! You truly are the best! read more

I've never had more beautiful hair as I did when I walked out of this salon! Chanelle was my stylist and she took her time with everything from the beginning to the end. She has an awesome personality and she is so talented at what she does! She sat and talked with me while waiting for my color to set in and kept checking it until it was right. Not only is she patient and gentle but she's super sweet and easy to talk to. I'll definitely be going back!! read more

Utopia Style Lounge - Chanelle is the best! If I could put her in my pocket and take her home with me I totally would. My hair has never looked better - Hair Salons Near Me - Encinitas, California

See all

Let me put it this way. You will find Ms. Chanel Simpson on my top ten "Deserted Island List." Because, like... what is a lifetime of beach paradise bliss without GOOD HAIR?!?! Exactly. As you've probably assessed by now, I'm kind of a weirdo; albeit, an unapologetic one. However, this brings me to my next crucial observation of Ms. Simpson. At my very first hair appointment, it literally took Chanel less than five minutes to clearly understand who I am, what my style is, and MOST IMPORTANTLY, the obscure aesthetic DIRECTION I was headed in. I wanted (what most would consider) a drastic change to my appearance and she handled my request like a true stylist. Chanel wasn't intimidated by the cut I wanted. Chanel wasn't overwhelmed by my spastic, fragmented thoughts. Chanel was INSPIRED and EAGER to get started. Just WOW. True artists are hard to find and I found myself a keeper. Chanel gets me. All 2,000 versions of me. It blows my mind. And can we please talk about her personal sense of style for a minute? Like, damn girl. CHIC. AF. I'm a fan. A huge, huge fan. Chanel gives me all the feels. She's a BEAUTIFUL person inside and out. That's what makes my first experience with Chanel such a fairy tale. Not only did I walk away from my first hair appointment with the powerful, curly, pixie hairstyle I'VE ALWAYS WANTED, I walked away with a soul sister for life. I'm a very lucky girl. Just in case you skipped to the end of this review... All you need to know is that Chanel Simpson is F-ING BADA$$. The end. P.S. Chanel, sorry I hypothetically deserted you on an island with me. I know I'm a total creep. xox read more

I have had a very good experience getting my haircut by Aimee. She is a very good stylist and has good positive energy. I will keep going back for the haircut and friendship we built. read more

Amiee has always done an amazing job!! No matter what or how many times I've changed my hair over the years. Such a great person to be around, makes it feel like your with a friend not in a salon. If you are looking for a talented hair stylist, genuine person, and someone creative with highlights, balayage, or texture look no further... Aimee is your girl. read more

Do Not go here!! Do Not get your hair done by PIPER. I went in to get a full platinum blonde highlights. She sent me out ORange!! WTF , she had the nerve to say that she was happy with it! Well I'm not and I am the customer! I have never been treated like that by a salon. I have called and left a message for someone to fix it. Of course NO response!! 130$ down the drain. Don't waste your time or your money here!! read more

I've been going to Utopia since they opened. I like the boutique feel, including the friendliness of the staff. I have known Jenn since high school and feel as though she and India, both do an excellent job as owners in managing the salon. Lesley Baldwin is my hair stylist, and would highly recommend her for both color and cut (I only visit her for my haircut, but know plenty of people who have expressed that she is one of the best colorists in town). Skip the over-priced salons, and try out Utopia; it's like Detour but smaller and less pretentious. read more

There are things in life that I historically enjoy less than others. Shopping, puking, moving, and getting my hair cut are on that list. The hair wash part is fine, but the actual hair sticking to your face and in your mouth and down your back and on the floor isn't the best. Neither is cooking under the Paul Mitchell-sponsored cape/sweat lodge. But the worst part is the dreaded "So, what are we doing?" question. I don't know, I'm a dude. Am I really expected to describe in flowery detail how I want my hair to look? Or maybe whip out a picture of Brad Renfro circa 2004? "I want that look. That was Brad at his best. Rest his soul." Luckily, with Penny, I don't have to worry about any of this. I actually enjoy getting my hair cut. Recommended. read more

Like that biannual trip to the dentist, maintenance of the hair follicles eventually requires attention. Your coiffure can venture past your shoulders, swoop into your eyes, or even depart completely via electric shears. This hidden gem mixes an amiable color studio with those seeking more than barbershop clipper cut. Chanelle mixes her youthful enthusiasm with a diligent work ethic and meticulous attention to detail. She captivates your attention while her quirky innovativeness flashes across her scissors. Utopia will certainly make your main squeeze giggle with joy. read more

My teen daughter had her hair done here for the third time. She is really picky! She goes to Kimberly and the two times before her hair was good, what my daughter wanted, but this time as a mom she really hit it out of the park. I think with teens its good to have them get a comfort level with a stylist and now Kimberly understands what she wants - heck I have trouble understanding that. Her hair looks really good, and just completely fits her color and complexion. Great location, cool vibe, great for all ages especially teens! THANKS! read more

One of the owners, India, contacted me to apologize for the bad experience I wrote about in my review and offered a complimentary cut and color. Of course I was impressed-I love good customer service- though I was skeptical, as an owner from another salon had flaked on me after offering to fix a botched haircut. India, however, was true to her word, clearly wanting to make things right not for a better review, but because it was the right thing to do. So I went in for a haircut (though skipped on color) and ended up with a great cut that I love! It looks awesome even without any styling whatsoever, which is great, cause I am super low maintenance. Parking was a bit rough and I was disappointed that I wasn't offered a beverage, cause I was parched, but otherwise, it was a huge improvement over my first visit. read more

I found this salon after reading some YELP reviews. I'm so grateful YELP helps me be an informed consumer with customer reviews. Reading others I felt excited to check them out. I get really overwhelmed in large noisy salons where ten conversations are happening at once over multiple blow dryers. Utopia was far from that chaos. Really living up to its name of being an oasis. The couture clothing is also so wonderful to shop while color sets! The true gift of this place is PIPER! She is dynamic and versatile. She listened to all of my requests and quickly set about making them happen. Her playful intelligent personality made the time fly by. I have had one too many experiences feeling bored or disconnected with "chit chat." Piper kept the engagement fresh and lively while handling the science of color with ease. I really appreciate her ability to have this multi focus and give exceptional service! I imagine she would be amazing at any job but I'm so grateful her talent is with hair! Thank you Piper Rose! read more

This place is cute, convenient, easy parking on most days, and uses products I love. But the real golden ticket here is CHANELLE! I've been with her for 8 years, following her wherever she goes (not many places, she's the most loyal girl I know)! She is beautiful, a total perfectionist, and that translates directly into her work. Any color I've EVER wanted (we've done so many) has been taken from some instagram photo, right to my head, with her listening, understanding, and explaining exactly how she's going to make real MAGIC. Every time I've gone into Utopia, I've left feeling empowered and excited by the incredible color and shine left on my head! Chanelle takes her time, making sure to consider the integrity of the hair, and somehow took me from muddy red brown to a full head of fire engine red hair, with no breakage! And that's because she cares. Her work is an art and you can feel (and see!) her heart in everything she does. Even when I go in for a simple blowout she knocks it out of the park, giving me bouncy, long lasting body with UNREAL shine. I'm humbled to know her and to have her, her work is unbelievably perfect and always makes me feel incredible. Thank you Chanelle, I'll be with you forever. read more

See all

Chanel is the best! So diligent and caring. I love my hair afterwards. If your at utopia , go to Chanel!! Thank you for beautiful hair.

I went in wanting to go from my blonde to burgundy red, Aimee completely out did herself and my expectations! Completely transformed my hair and I'm in love! Definitely will be going to her for all my hair needs and bringing my friends too! read more

Utopia Style Lounge is THE place to go. This salon is in a beautiful location, and makes the experience of hair maintenance enjoyable. Chanelle is my go-to at Utopia. I am greeted with a smile, hug, and an offer of a beverage. Chanelle is truly a master at her craft. She listens to what I want, offers suggestions, and explains how she will get my hair to the final result. All of this before she begins the cut/color process! Chanelle explains what she is doing as she is doing it (both during the color and cut process) to ease any hair cut anxiety that we all seem to have nowadays. She also offers a warm-up for my tea with friendly conversation throughout the process. I have gone to Chanelle twice now, and can confidently say, I am done searching for the "perfect fit" hair stylist. Utopia is a salon I'd recommend to men and women of any age. The salon is beautifully designed and clean. Couple that with hair stylists who are talented, positive, and welcoming, and you have found a salon that makes you feel right at home. I have always walked in and out of the doors of Utopia with a smile on my face. read more

I've been coming to Utopia and seeing Aimee for 3 years now! Before finding this salon, I had never found a place that I really liked. Now I won't go anywhere else ever again. Aimee has given me highlights, great cuts, and even deep conditioning treatments. Any photo I've shown Aimee of what I want, she has delivered perfectly on. This salon has such a positive and professional atmosphere. If you're looking for a new salon, contact Aimee or anyone else at Utopia! You won't be disappointed! read more

I have been going to Rebekah at Utopia for a few years now. Every time I have my hair done whether it is cut, color or highlights I am always completely satisfied. She does an awesome job with both cut and color. I have a ton of hair, and she is patient and takes her time to ensure perfection. I have referred a few people, and they too are always satisfied. read more

Aaren Rocks.... my hair is freakin' cute and sexy! I decided I'd wait until I came back a second time before I left a review for Aaren. Some salons do a good job the first time, but then do a crap job the second time around. Definitely not the case with Aaren at Utopia. She's done an awesome job both times. I'm the type of person that doesn't really know what I want done with my hair and when I do, I have the most difficult time describing it. I've had many traumatizing hair experiences and Aaren puts me at ease by reassuring that she knows what I want which allows me to relax a bit more. My hair looks great and I've gotten lots of compliments. Aaren is also really fun to be around. I look forward to my next appt. with her =) read more

Jen Wilson is so amazing at hair extensions and color! No one has ever gotten my blonde as perfect as she does! She has also dramatically improved the health of my hair where I had breakage before. The hair she uses for extensions is so soft, shiny and real looking. I've had many compliments on my hair some of them even people in the beauty business. They say they can't even tell I have extensions. Jen is the best!!! read more

This review is for Piper. This was my first time coming to this salon and Piper cut my hair. She did an amazing job! I would definitely recommend her to a friend and will be coming back for my next hair cut! read more

Had my hair done by Erin, cut & color. Best hair-do I've ever had! She's really nice & funny too, made the time fly by. I really like the salon, small & friendly. She's my new stylist! read more

I have been going to Ailica at Utopia for a while. She is a great stylist and colorist, as well as really enjoyable to be around! The vibe of the salon is relaxed and friendly. I love going in there. I always come out feeling refreshed and beatiful! read more

I found India through Yelp and I Love the haircut she gave me! It is flattering and feels fantastic. I moved here from Toronto almost 2 years ago and have struggled finding a new stylist. I am relieved and so happy to have found her! I highly recommend her. read more

I have had my hair done at Utopia by Alisa and I can honestly say that it's never been done with more professionalism and expertise. I have medium length hair but am very picky about my hair and where I get my services done (having been a hair dresser myself). Alisa and the staff did an amazing job in making me feel at ease and welcomed me in a way that made me feel comfortable, as if I had been going there forever. The salon is in an easily accessible location and has a soothing but upbeat vibe. I would DEFINITELY recommend Alisa and Utopia for any hair services. You will not be disappointed, and you will come out looking great. read more

I've been going to Penny for a couple of years now. What I like about Penny is she still takes time to give me suggestions how to keep my hairstyle fresh and she's down to earth! I especially like the fact that she stays current on products and styling techniques. Past salons I've tried have left me feeling rushed so they can help the next customer. Not so with Penny. She really takes her time. When I walk out of the salon I feel pampered and relaxed. read more

I had my haircut by Penny a few weeks ago. I am new to the area and was looking for someone to cut and style my hair. I rode my bike past the salon and it looked so nice I decided to give them a try. And I am so glad I did! Penny consulted with me before she started the cut to find out what I would like. I have a little bit of natural wave in my hair and she suggested a cut that I would be able to easily style if I wanted to wear it wavy or straight. She also suggested great styling products that are so simple to use. I am very low maintenance with my hair and she took that into account with how she did my cut. Penny is super nice, very unassuming. She isn't pushy at all and will listen to you before she gives you a haircut. But if you are like me and dont really know what kind of cut you want, she has the skill to give you a cut that will work for your face, hair type and he degree of maintenance you are willing to put into it. I will definitely go back to Utopia, especially Penny because my hair hasnt looked this good in years! read more

Love Jenn! My son loves getting his haircut there and they have a great little gift shop. Always able to find something cute!

Piper Rose did a beautiful cut and highlights for me. I have really long, thick hair and have had a lot of bad cuts, so I am thrilled to find someone who is talented and fun too. read more

I have got to say that this salon is so cute! In the heart of downtown Encinitas. I have been to a whole lot of places for my hair extensions and I have to say that Jenn is by far the best at knowing what she is doing! I just LOVE LOVE LOVE my hair! read more

I have privilege to get a hair cut by Jennifer I am extremely happy with the service. She is an amazing professional and precise. I highly recommend Utopia salon. See you next time! read more

It's hard to find a salon with a fair priced good men's cut. India (the owner) does it right.

I have been getting my hair done from Yvette at Utopia since they opened. The salon has a relaxed vibe to it and all of the gals are very nice and professional. The location can't be beat and the service is always top notch. I am the type of person who wants a 'no fuss" hair style and with Yvette, that is what I walk away w/ evertime. I swear i don't want to mess my hair up because it always looks and feels so good when I leave. Prices are very competitive and most of all you feel very welcome at Utopia. read more