James Corbett Studio

11/11/09

You have to visit James Corbett Studio!

by gblev at Citysearch

I'm not an online review person, but I've honestly been meaning to suck it up and post a review for James Corbett Studios for quite a while now, because I have never been completely thrilled with a salon or stylist/colorist EVER like I am when it comes to James! And let me mention I've lived a lot of places, spent ridiculous amounts of money going to the "hot" hair guru of any particular moment, and I've been disappointed more times than you'd think a 29-year-old could count. But hey, I color my hair a lot! And move a lot ... and thus I know the pain of searching for the perfect coif master in a new city. It's daunting. It's downright scary. When I moved to NYC 3 years ago from Dallas, I researched every trendy and classic salon in the city, and practically pulled my hair out trying to decide where to take my tresses for a trim and highlight. THANK THE GODDESS of BEAUTY JUNKIES that my job put me in contact with a lovely editor at Lucky magazine, who just so happened to have those perfect "my hair has been enhanced, but there are no telltale signs" highlights. When I asked who did her hair, she emphatically insisted I visit "Corbett" (as he was called at WT before - thankfully! - he opened his own oasis of beauty).

The rest is history. But I don't just have hair that constantly garners compliments (I mean, do I ever, though!!), I also have a more pronounced personal look, and a place I know I can go if I want a dose of pure wellness and pampering, without the pretentiousness. James has an innate knack for helping his clients find a look that's entirely them, and also completely in the moment. I change my color constantly, but he somehow makes the transitions seamless - noticeable in the right way, and simultaneously unnoticeable in the right way.

JAMES: Kind, funny, visionary, and just flat out the BEST COLORIST you will ever go to. Yes, he's touted as a genius in the media. You should believe them. And you should treat yourself to the experience of getting to know him. He will entertain you, beautify you, and make you want to befriend him!

JAMES CORBETT STUDIOS: Asian-inspired comfort, if that makes sense! You can throw your Gucci or bags of farmers market finds on the comfy leather couches when you arrive and not worry about a thing while you're there. With the addition of the Spa and yoga space downstairs, you are truly in for a complete escape from daily stresses. My visit last week, I was surprised with being treated to a therapeutic manicure while my hair processed. I won't lie - I almost fell asleep while magic was being worked on my terrible cuticles. I can't wait to "ohm" there, and follow it with a facial! Want coffee, tea, wine? Basically, the staff caters to your every need or want, but in a relaxed, friendly, melt away your troubles and leave with gorgeous tresses kinda way. Nothing uppity or uncomfortable here.

THE STAFF: Speaking of, the stylists are all impeccable. Period.

OK folks, I'll spare you and end this novel with one final, important note: James did not solicit my review. He, and James Corbett Studio as a whole, simply deserves it! If you're in New York and looking for a beauty oasis, visit and you'll agree with me!

• Pros: Personal attention, atmosphere, talent of the staff

11/09/09

The Best Color, Cut and Spa

by sharon grteenberg at Citysearch

I love James Corbet Salon and Spa. James is the best colorist and I trust my hair to him every 6 weeks or so with great confidence. Without fail, each time I leave the salon, strangers will remark on how great the color is. And when it comes to cut, Jay, is the best. He understand my hair and is a pleasure to deal with as well. James and his staff make it a very enjoyable, relaxing place to get color and cut. It's like Cheers for hair! Everybody knows your name . The salon dog Diego is the cutest. I can't imagine anyone ever having a bad thing to say about this place.

James recently opened up a Spa and that place is also fabulous. Great staff, calming atmosphere, great products that don't hurt your skin, and again none of the drama and the crowds at the uptown type places. My facial was great.............no red marks, no breakouts, no puffy skin and the organic products smell nice as well. I would run, not walk to this Salon and Spa and you too will be a fan.

• Pros: Small, intimate,talented staff
• Cons: none

11/09/09

Fixed my botched color & made me feel like a friend

by SassyC at Citysearch

I was referred to James after I walked away from another salon in tears with the exact color I said I didn't want. James fit me in right away and treated me like a longstanding client even though we'd just met. He immediately made me feel comfortable and he gave me the PERFECT color. I've been a devoted fan and client now for over a year and I regularly get compliments on my color - often from other hair stylists! Visits to James' studio are like visits to a friend's home - between the beautiful, relaxing decor and James' warmth and sense of humor and his adorable dog you'll want to hang out even after your appointment. I found the perfect salon and stylist. I won't trust my hair to anyone else and I refer everyone I know to his studio.