Worth every penny, Federico makes me feel like a million bucks every time. Worth the trek from Santa Monica. read more

V.i. Studios - Post 1 week after cut and down perm - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

The BEST of the BEST OF THE BEST. Yes, Federico Kawamoto is that good. Husband said this is the best haircut and hairstyle he has ever had in his life, which is a bold statement. My husband has long hair and wanted someone to understand how to cut men's long hair with natural curls. We have been through a lot of hairstylists and all of them except for Federico had zero scissor skills and just only wanted to use the buzzer and go crazy chopping off his locks. Federico's scissor skills stems from his training in Japan, which we totally understand the meticulous art, the culture and lifestyle. I was blown away by his magical hands. He understands exactly what you want and he spent his time explaining to my husband from hair washing techniques to hair product use to blow drying techniques. My husband was floored and beyond impressed. He said no one has ever explained to him in such a way. Federico was beyond knowledgeable and humble in every way. There is parking at the Paseo lot and street parking as well. His V.i. Salon is located inside Salon Republic above H&M and is at suite 506. Appointments only and he takes credit card as well. His price is reasonable with the amount of skills he possess. He is always timely without rushing you and wants to make sure that your haircut experience is one that is perfect. Federico is just that--perfection in skill, experience and excellence. read more

See all

Federico is easily the best hair designer in the area (country?). Very personable, gives great cuts, and was able to help guide me through my first perm. He eased my nerves, addressed my concerns, and clearly explained everything. He's always happy to answer my questions, even spending time and his own hair products to teach me different ways to style my hair. Glad I trusted him on my second perm now, and I'm happy to see him the next time. read more

I've finally done a hair dye with Federico and it was SO worth it. Thank you, thank you for how awesome my hair looks! I would definitely recommend if you're thinking about dying your hair, to trust Federico. He walked me step by step and taught me much about the hair dye process itself on a scientific level. This was a platinum blonde which took about 4 hours from cut to dye and toner. Felt completely normal with no problems! Thank you again!! read more

V.i. Studios - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

My husband only gets his haircut at VI Studios, he won't go to anyone else. And honestly, I get it. Noah and Federico are absolute masters of their craft. Their attention to detail is unreal. Every cut is precise, clean, and just looks effortlessly good. He even tried a perm here once! He felt so comfortable and trusted their expertise, which says a lot because he wouldn't normally go for something like that. And to their credit, it looked amazing and held up beautifully until his next haircut. He ultimately went back to straight hair (perm maintenance wasn't for him), but they still nailed it. Service is a 10/10--if we could give more stars, we would. The vibe is always friendly and professional, and you never feel rushed. These guys take pride in what they do, and it shows. read more

This is my second review, and this time it's for Federico! I wanted a more edgy, messy look, and I noticed a lot of his clients had those kinds of cuts, so I decided to book with him. When I got there, Federico really took the time to understand what I wanted. He asked me to show him pics, and I always save pictures of white guys' haircuts I'm into. When I showed him the looks I wanted, he was super honest and told me it would be hard to get that exact style because of how Asian hair behaves. I really appreciated the honesty. We kept talking, and I explained the vibe I was going for and what I don't like about my hair. He listened to everything before picking up scissors/clippers. The cut itself was amazing, and I genuinely enjoy chatting with him, the conversation always flows naturally, and he's pretty funny too. Something I've never accomplished with other stylists is having my hair still look good after a week. That's rare for Asian hair, where the sides get puffy and the cut loses its shape fast. I've been going to Federico for a few months now, and every time I sit in his chair, he still takes the time to ask what kind of cut I'm thinking about. I've been loving the "warrior cut" I've been rocking, but whenever I'm ready to switch it up again, I know Federico will have my back. I'm super picky and borderline obsessive about my hair, and I promise you, you can't go wrong getting your cut here! Pics are from 2 different style of cuts I've gotten! Both were a vibe! Thank you Federico! read more

V.i. Studios - warrior cut - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

Three sessions later and I'm very satisfied with Noah and his work. He gave me good insight on my first perm and even offered to adjust the hairstyle I had at the time to better fit the style I was going for free of charge. I followed up a few weeks later for a haircut and then another perm a couple of days later and it's been great. For context I have straight Asian hair so I was looking for something that would give me more texture up top without having to style it too much. My first perm was an s wave style that ended up looking way better than I thought it would and my second was more curly and I'm diggin it. Good conversations and a new hairstyle for a fair price is all you can really ask for. Highly recommend VI Studios/Noah and check them out on IG! read more

Adding to the long list of 5 Star Reviews: I discovered the power of the Korean Wave Perm about three years ago. My Korean friends never talk about how they get volume, they don't want the other Asians to find out. I came to Federico through word-of-mouth. I didn't have a clear idea of what I wanted but I knew I was tired of my tough, flat, peasant hair. I'm Chinese so my hair can take quite a bit of abuse and still look boring. History of the legend of Federico: He's trained in Japan. You know that country that takes service to an extreme? That country that takes business to a whole other level? They beat him up for years and then gave him their secrets. Secrets of proper perming, proper shaping, proper styling of Asian hair. Do you want KPop hair but have no idea where to start? Take a photo to your visit with Federico (or Noah his apprentice) and they'll be able to give you what you want within reason. I say "within reason" because some of us don't have KPop hairlines or head shape. Federico will tell you immediately if you're reaching too far. I've been coming here for such a long time, I'm terrified that he'll move and I'll be stuck finding another stylist. I trust him with my headshots. People keep asking if I'm Korean now. Yes, I am spiritually Korean through hairstyles. read more

See all

I have been seeing Noah as my hair stylist and barber for some time now and he is amazing. With my haircuts, sometimes I only have a general idea of what I want and Noah is able to take my broad directions and translate it into something specific that I am always satisfied with. I have done many styles from longer hair to shorter hair, and I am happy with all of their outcomes. With my hair perms, I am very satisfied with all of my appointments. I had never permed my hair prior to visiting Noah, and he was very clear about what the whole process would be like and any potential questions or concerns I had were immediately addressed. He is always very friendly and cultivates a positive environment while doing this hair service. I cannot recommend him enough, 10/10. read more

Federico and Noah are the best! They've been doing my hair and giving me super powers for almost 3 years now; really good listeners and communicators when it comes to understanding different styles, and they make it so comfortable and easy to be around. Everything considered, I love seeing them for my appointments and always looking forward to catching up. Highly recommend going here for your perms/haircuts/great vibes! read more

Truly a master for men's wave perm! My bf got his first perm ever and loves it! I seriously just think Federico's kindness and vibe made my bf very comfortable and happy overall. Federico is so talented in his craft, even studying in Japan to learn under a teacher. You can tell he loves what he does and is happy to share it with new clients! After today, we'll definitely be coming back. My bf has been raving about his new haircut and perm so much that it's starting to bother me... jk haha! When you book the appointment, you get a text message on how to get to the salon. Super helpful! We didn't have any trouble at all. The plaza has a parking garage so it was pretty easy and straightforward. Just a heads up to fellow girlfriends/partners/extra company, the studio itself only has a couple seats so if they need it for other clients you may have to scoot out and go sit at the chairs in the hallway, buuut it's seriously not a big deal cause it's still inside the main salon and like five steps from their studio door haha. Overall, great experience for my bf with straight Asian hair. He felt so at ease and informed on the maintenance thanks to Federico! read more

Loved the service here! Noah is truly the best - I will definitely be back! Noah gave great advice and made every step so easy!!! 10/10 Recommend! read more

V.i. Studios - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

I have visited them a handful of times now while experimenting with different styles and places for a year, and now that I have grown out my hair, the expertise/attention to detail is something that makes it work paying the extra money for your haircut. Both Noah and Federico are masters of their craft and they show so much passion for their work along with being super respectful. read more

Federico was amazing; listened to my vague ramblings and gave me exactly what I wanted! I was tired of long and flat, and he gave me a very layered hush cut that honestly brings new life to my hair. It naturally curves and creates the messy waves I want - even without styling. I didn't think my stubborn, straight hair could even do that; he really knows how to make Asian hair work. I also love how he made it so that it'd look good no matter where I part my hair, after I mentioned how I sweep it to side often. Overall, chill vibes and a relaxing atmosphere with a clearly skilled craftsman. I'm so happy I found a hairdresser I can trust 100%! read more

V.i. Studios - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

Came in for a perm and haircut with Noah. He was attentive and gave me great advice on what I need to do in order to achieve the look that I wanted. Will be coming back for more future visits with Noah. read more

I've said it once, and I'll say it again: Federico is the only stylist I trust with my hair. I've been going to him for about three years now, and have never ever been disappointed in the services I received. In fact, I am always blown away after every appointment at the way he is able to make me look and feel incredible. I came in for a trim before I go to Tokyo for three weeks and he was able to refresh my hair and really make my 3 month old perm look brand new. Tack on the stellar colouring job he did and I feel amazing. I recommend him to anybody who listen, and if you were looking for a reason to go consider this review your wake up call to book an appointment. I absolutely promise you will not regret it. read more

V.i. Studios - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

100% recommend not only do they have the skills to get you a super nice perm or hairstyle but they also have a lot of knowledge on how to maintain and style it. The service is also super nice Noah treated me and did a really nice job. Overall place is good vibes I would highly suggest going if you haven't already! read more

I've been coming here for years! Amazing haircuts , amazing perms and immaculate service. Federico is an artist when it comes to hair. His attention to detail and ability to cut and style Asian hair is #1. There's no competition. I'll keep coming back forever Federico and Noah are amazing!!! I love them. read more

Federico is an artist and master of his craft, I've never had someone explain in such detail about how my hair grows, how it should be cut, and how to style it. He really took the time and made sure I knew what he was doing with my hair. I love how my hair turned out. If you're looking for a hair stylist that really cares and knows his stuff, you've found the right guy. read more

Huge shout out to Noah. Got my hair on fleek. Cut my hair so good I was about to marry myself. 10/10 Recommend.

Master Hair Designer and Stylist, Federico, is a highly skilled and experienced professional. Having trained and worked overseas in Japan, he possesses a deep understanding of hair anatomy, chemistry, and the latest trends and styles. Specializing in Korean and Japanese haircuts and perms, Federico creates a unique and personalized look for his clients that fits their face shape. When I brought my concerns and proposed hair goal, Federico was nothing short of amazing. He tailored my style based on my face shape, hair type, and personal preferences. Federico explained the art of perms, cuts, and styling in a clear and simple manner, using languages and concepts that are familiar to the client. He explains these concepts with examples and illustrations, where key points are highlighted and complex ideas are broken down to smaller and manageable bite-sized pieces. From how the chemical bonds work for a perm to the understanding of the length, cut, texture and style of a cut and its geometric relationship to the face, Federico really knows how to enhance an individual's natural feature while altogether having a very personable approach. read more

Federico made me beautiful again! Since the lockdown, I pretty much let my hair do whatever it wanted and had an ugly grown out balayage turning orange and super dry split ends. It's been getting so hot and I can't stand my hair, so my husband Ray recommended I come visit Federico at VI Studios. I'm super low maintenance with my hair, so I just wanted to chop a lot off for the summer weather. Federico is really good at explaining and recommending what I should do with my hair and not to thin out too much since I might experience postpartum hair loss in later months. I've worked with a lot of hair artists and they always tell me my hair is super thick and coarse, but Federico knew just how to cut it so that it would be shorter, lighter and still fluffy. The salon is super cute and very clean with a lot of Totoro decoration which I love. read more

V.i. Studios - Before and After! - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

This review is long overdue. I first thought of getting a perm in early 2022 and I found Federico through Yelp. He was very helpful in answering my questions and we scheduled an appointment in March of 2022. We opted for a wave perm based on his suggestions and I was really happy with the way it turned out. He cuts hair clean and fades really great as well. I remember I felt a big boost of confidence after my appointment. In addition, he is an awesome conversationalist. We talked about a wide variety of topics and shared about our lives together. It made the experience that much better. Immaculate vibesz He is a good hair designer but an even better guy! I met the other stylist Noah as well and he also is a great guy. I would recommend them both if you are looking for a men's perm :) Unfortunately, his hair cut prices are out of my budget at the moment and I wanted to also keep supporting my other hairdresser.. so I only get the perms from him now. The results are still amazing each and every time! Picture attached is from a visit in February 2023 (men's wave perm only, no cut) Thanks Federico and Noah! read more

V.i. Studios - With Federico and Noah - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

Federico is a magician. I came in with a general idea of what I wanted but was also looking for a bit of consultation. I asked Federico about my face shape and what he suggested I should go for. He gave an easy to understand answer as well as eased any concerns I had. During my wave perm + cut appointment, Federico outlined each process, step by step. I look great, I feel great, and I'll definitely be back. Thanks Federico! read more

V.i. Studios - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

Noah and Federico are masters of their craft. I primarily work with Noah, and his attention to detail and use of a variety of techniques are two of many qualities I appreciate about him. I've been considering getting a Japanese perm recently, and Noah has been helping me decide on a style by graciously sending me pictures of what would look good for my hair texture and head shape. While I haven't worked with Federico yet, I talk to him all the time and he is a true professional with the way he carries himself when working with other clients. V.i. Studios as a salon is beautiful, well lit, and is also a pretty decent size as they recently renovated their place. They sell Milbon hair products here as well if you're interested. Overall, I have not gone to any other salon/barber in the past year and a half because Federico and Noah are just that good at what they do. Hit them up if you're in the Pasadena area! read more

Another 5 star review from another satisfied client. Federico is one of the best hairstylist I came across; him and his apprentice, Noah, offer the best in Pasadena. Now seeing that they went from 2 seats, up to 4 seats, it can only go up from here and see who else joins under Federico's apprenticeship. Hairstylist do a lot; not only cutting hair, but also keeping up with trends, and seeing the "IN" hairstyles for everyone. They are very honest with their works and also offer in-house brands that you can buy that they use as well. Beauty comes with a price; and it shows. From consultation, to the actual haircut itself, to a quick hair wash, to styling. They just don't just do a "copy-paste" type of haircut like some barbers do, they take into account of everything. Hair thickness, health, desired length, face shape, whether you want a perm or not, types of products they use, and many many more. "Honesty is the best policy" is the best way I can put it for these two. If you feel like you're stepping way too far, they will tell you. If you're reaching higher than the stars, they will tell you. If you're overthinking on it, they will tell you. This private studio is amazing at what they do. read more

What can I say that hasn't been said about this place. Both Federico and Noah are experts in their field. The atmosphere of their spot was welcoming and classy. For this particular appointment, Noah was the one what did my hair. He was very informative of the process, and followed the reference photo I had shown him perfectly. Noah had great conversation skills, not only talking to me about his passion for hair but also his own interests outside of his job. I really look forward to coming here again as I think I've finally found my personal place to get my hair permed. I highly recommend this place. Rest assured that these two gentlemen will get the job done for whatever you need. Thank you Noah! read more

See all

Frederico is a highly skilled hair stylist and I feel lucky to have discovered him through a friend's recommendation. I have naturally wavy hair and he's able to shape it in a way that makes it easy to style. He is a great conversationalist and I feel very comfortable when I'm in his chair. Looking forward to coming back for many years to come! read more

Very professional, good communication. Haircut from Noah was clean. First cut in 2 years

TL:DR - The best haircut I've ever had! If you're Asian and have bad haircuts your whole life Federico is a god send. Location: Getting to V.I. Studios can be a little tricky, so let me help you out. It's located in the same complex of stores as "The Paseo" and there is underground parking that is 90min free with validation. (V.I. Studios validates fyi.) Once you've parked your car, head towards the Equinox gym on the 2nd level. Just before reaching the Equinox gym there is a door for "Salon Republic." This is a group of private studios for hair styling and V.I. Studios is located within here. The private studio is homey with accents of Ghibli figurines and soft J-pop music playing in the background. Consultation: This was my first time getting my haircut from Federico, but upon meeting him all my worries melted away. We started off by talking about the type of haircut I wanted, what kind of hair that I have, and what to expect from the haircut itself. (Personally, I would suggest showing up with about 4 photos of the type of haircut you want. Try to select photos of people with similar face shapes to yours. Also, bring in a photo of yourself of past haircuts that you liked, or ones you want to avoid.) I was rocking a man bun with 10inch of hair and wanted to chop it down to a 2-block. Federico was a great listener and gave suggestions on which haircuts would work the best for me. After agreeing on a undercut/constrast 2block, Federico then begun to explain his hair cutting process. At all times Federico was transparent and kept checking in to make sure that I was on board with his decisions. This is super reassuring after having gotten so many terrible haircuts in LA. Federico doesn't try to hide anything and in explaining his process, shows that he has the skills. The Cut: The cut itself went relatively smoothly without any issues. Federico's movements were clean and efficient. At no time did it feel like he was unsure of what to do next. After cutting my hair he shampooed and conditioned it, then styled it. He used milbon a Japanese wax to style my hair and it works so well. Just enough hold but no greasy look. At no time did I ever feel pressured to buy some, but I bought some anyways since it worked so well. Throughout the haircut we had casual conversation that was chill, where we talked about our love for Japan, his journey to learning how to cut Asian hair, and the differences between Japan and America's haircutting teaching styles. Not to mention that he has been cutting the hair of some famous people and their crew! Conclusion: Throughout the whole haircut I had a clear view of what Federico was doing, but I was still surprised when I saw the final product. I felt like a K-pop star or a hip young professional from Japan. I've never seen my hair with so much volume and texture! I blurted out to Federico "This is the best cut I've ever gotten!" He was humble and just played it off, but I was completely honest. I knew I wasn't exaggerating, because all the way home I was looking at myself in the rear view mirror. If you're Asian and been suffering from bad haircuts your whole life, then you HAVE to go to Federico at V.I. Studios, it's a must! read more

I recently had a 2-block haircut and perm by Federico at VI Studio, and I couldn't be happier with the results. Federico's attention to detail was exceptional. The haircut was precise, and he took the time to understand exactly what I wanted, resulting in a style that perfectly suits me. The perm he gave me added a wonderful touch of volume and texture to my hair, making it look naturally beautiful. Federico's expertise in both cutting and perming is evident, and it's clear that he's passionate about his craft. What sets Federico apart is his ability to create a comfortable and enjoyable salon experience. He made me feel relaxed and confident throughout the entire process, which made my visit even more enjoyable. Overall, I highly recommend Federico at VI Studio. If you're looking for a talented stylist who delivers exceptional results and a great salon experience, he's the one to go to. I'm thrilled with my new look, and I'll definitely be returning for more hair adventures with him in the future! Never felt good with my hair for a long time read more

V.i. Studios - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

Federico should be your go to guy for perms and cuts, especially for Asian hair. He explains the entire process so you leave without any confusion or worries. Best perm and cut I've gotten hands down! read more

Noah and Frederico have became my go-to spot for any of my hair concerns. I love how they take the time and effort to discuss and fully disclose what approach they will take with the hair cut and any recommendations they may have to create a hair style tailored to you! Thank you Noah for always making me look sharp read more

I saw my friend's hair who got a wave perm done by Federico and it looked so healthy and gorgeous. I immediately asked for his info! Federico was so kind to respond to my late Yelp message about booking an appointment. When it came time for my appointment, I discussed what I wanted and he was very receptive and gave me the run down of what's possible. I shaved my head during quarantine (who didn't?) and he fixed up my sad excuse for a two block cut. After that, perm time! Throughout the entire process, he was attentive, made me feel comfortable, and explained every step when I had questions. I had a perm done a while back and it absolutely fried my hair. That perm was more curly, but it was extremely hard to maintain and my hair felt like straw. This wave perm is more elegant in my opinion and the biggest plus for me is the fact that my hair is SOFTER than my normal virgin hair. UM YES PLEASEEEEEEE. AND you can control the waves with water, it's more wavey when wet so Federico advised I use product when I have towel dried hair. If I want a more relaxed hair, I'd blow dry it! Thank you for the laughs Federico and I FREAKING LOVE MY WAVE PERM!!! My hair is SOOOOOO SOFT. See you again!!!! I've attached a photo to show my before and after but I took my photo on the way home so its a cliché car selfie and has terrible lighting so you're gonna have to look at his other photos for a better before and after xD read more

V.i. Studios - Okay you can't really see my hair and the cute waves cuz I took this photo on the way home with shitty lighting and background - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

I never thought I would truly enjoy a perm before I came to see and consult with Frederico. Here I am 4 weeks later, and I still catch myself in the mirror just amazed at how much of a difference he made in my hair styling. Not only did Frederico give me an amazing perm, he also talked me through the styling of it and what would best fit me in terms of caring for it. He really has a deep understanding and passion for what he does in his studio. I can't overstate how big of a difference his attention to detail makes. I will definitely be a consistently returning customer, thanks Frederico! read more

I don't understand why people don't give an honest review nowadays. It was my first time to ever go for a 2 block cut. I saw this place had flawless reviews.i had to check it out for myself. Yelp, google, 5stars across the board. This is too good to be true. I had a consult to later I found out was Frederick. We spoke on what I wanted to achieve for my head. Tbh it was very easy to create an appointment no doubt. Even on a Friday afternoon. The last text I received was that there is $15 dollar late fee, and a $70 last minute cancellation. I head in 30min early . Come in to find out Noah was about to dig into his lunch. Patiently waiting up for my 2pm appointment. Noah and Frederick. Come out. Looks like they're headed for lunch. 2pm comes around. And now I'm angry. He's late.They're both late. I don't understand why both had to leave for lunch since Noah already got food.If i am expected to pay a late fee. That should be expected from them as well. I sat down. With noah. And tells me that the length of my hair won't be long enough for the cut and that for today he could create a solid foundation.. I told them maybe it's best to come back later when my length is ideal . Frederick.gave me this speil about being independent contractors and that this is their livelihood. Blah blah. So I gave it shot. With high expectations. I sat through this . I was expecting perfection. After 1 hour of a cut. It still comes out to be uneven. Since they are masters of their craft. I call bullshit. $70 dollars for an imperfect haircut. read more

V.i. Studios - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

Being a Asian guy, it's tough to find the right barber. Federicos attention to detail offsets the ADD I have with my hair. He'll tailor your cut based on your input and personality and teach you about styles you may not have thought of. Definitely not like other barbers that gives a good fade but bad style with the top or vice versa. He's a great hair stylist with for both men and women (he's my gfs stylist also). If you're looking for a new barber/stylist, take a chance with Federico. You won't be disappointed. read more

V.i. Studios - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California

Had chest length hair and told Noah to do what he wants, and what he did did not disappoint!

Such an amazing experience compared to past salons. Haircut : Went into detail on the hair cut i wanted and went into detail on both the length and how to style it . Had a few examples of the cut and went over what made them similar and what set them a part . They also kept in mind my preference of length and was able to get the perfect balance of length and style Perm : Same as above i had examples and they went over what kind of perm it would be and the up keep on it . They helped me figure out my hair texture and the best way to maintain and keep the perm full . They went into details of the products i should use and avoid to make sure i kept the best longevity of the perm . Last thing , the perm solution they use doesn't smell nearly as strong as other places so no headaches whatsoever. Overall I'll gladly be coming back , for both haircuts and perms down the line . They know what they are doing and they are confident and yet caring with you to make sure you enjoy every bit of the service . read more

Federico is an amazing hair artist! If you're looking for someone to do your balayage and won't break the bank...go see him! He's thorough and meticulous with his work. I've been seeing him for several years and have turned my family to seeing him, too. I first came to see him because I was so distraught after a botched job at another salon. He revived my hair overtime and walked me through the whole process. I've gotten compliments on my hair several months after it has grown out! My hair also stood the test of a global pandemic because it grew out so seamlessly and I still got positive comments on the outgrowth. His balayage is just that good! He's also excellent with scissors and just does not disappoint! My boyfriend swears by Federico's haircuts because not only does he do color well, he does men's cuts like nobody's business. Stop stalling and scrolling and book your appointment already! read more

V.i. Studios - My hair at night! - Men's Hair Salons Near Me - Pasadena, California