Lavar Hair Designs

I recently moved to a new city and to say that I miss LaVar Hair Designs would be an understatement. Finding the right stylist who understands your hair and can give top notch service consistently is no easy task. I've met two such stylists in my entire life. The first moved back to the Dominican Republic in 2010. I spent the next 5 years searching and finally was introduced to Regina! Here are the things I search for in a salon - cleanliness, professionalism, healthy hair, great haircuts, and dynamic styling. The entire staff can deliver on all of those points. The salon is CLEAN - from the washing stations, to the bathroom, to the waiting area. The staff is PROFESSIONAL. Keep your appointments and show up on time and you won't have any problems.  The longest I've ever had to wait upon my arrival is 15 minutes. And that was unusual and came with an apology. I am transitioning from relaxed hair to natural and my hair is the best it's looked in years. Regina can provide expert guidance and help you achieve the HEALTHY look you want. Need a trim or a real haircut. Done! The woman can hold and work a pair of scissors - both natural and relaxed. And finally the styling. I've never walked out on to 72nd Street with the same style. And I love it!!! Of course if you want the same look you've been sporting since 1999, I'm sure they'll accommodate. Point is, you leave with what you WANT! Relaxed, transitioning or natural styles.One thing I left out is the pricing. Is it expensive? Absolutely! But for ME - worth every penny given the consistent service I've received. I booked my Saturdays with Ms. Linda months in advance. In reading through the comments, many have objected to the pricing. I completely understand. It really is a personal choice of how much you're willing to spend on your hair. But know, you won't be disappointed. Plus you can always go in for a consultation with one of the many stylists.And as I sit here in my new city, back from one of the worst shampoos I've ever had in my life, my style was saved only because of the farewell cut Regina sent me off with. See you at Christmas! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I found this place doing research after moving back from Arizona. I was used to getting excellent service and don't mind paying for it. The service is consistently excellent and I walk out with my hair looking beautiful. The staff is friendly without having to constantly chatting if you don't want to. I go to Regina for my services, she is nice, funny, and will answer any questions. The atmosphere is nice in a hip neighborhood with everything a lady needs: bubble tea, cleaners, shoe repair, Ricky's Beauty Supply and Gray's Papaya AND Dunkin Donuts on the same block! They play a range of hip hop and r&b as you relax. You can get a free consultation by appointment and pricing before you book the actual appointment. Katrina and Linda are happy to do that for you. I have been going for a year and will continue to do so. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Great hair care and great stylist especially Regina

Reviewed on Google Maps

This hair salon is super professional always clean and I mean spotless they play smooth music that anyone would enjoy .. .my stylist Regina is very knowledgeable and provides excellent service and she really takes great care of your hair.. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I came here for the first time yesterday, LOVED IT. From the minute you walk in you notice the great selection of music playing, a lot of the girls and some clients were quietly singing along lol. The staff is very professional and since its apt only there was no wait for anything. From start to finish I was very relaxed and comfortable. Regina was my stylist and I loveeee my new hair cut! I don't think they're too pricey only because their prices are the norm for most african american hair salons and it was WORTH it. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I LOVE this salon and location. I always feel right at home. I've been to a few salons that are really good at one thing but not the other. Regina gives me cornrows, sew-ins, color, relaxer, braids and recently transitioned me to natural. It can get a little pricey but it's worth having a hairstylist that I trust. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This salon is top notch!!! I have been looking for a place like this for years. Everyone I interacted with from the very first phone call was extremely professional. The staff is also very friendly and welcoming. Regina is just spectacular and a very pleasant person! She listened to what I wanted, and gave me exactly that. I could tell from the minute that she started cutting my hair that she knew exactly what she was doing. She cut my hair perfectly with the first go around, and she didnt need to touch anything up. She's very gifted at cutting hair, I highly recommend this salon for any hair care needs. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have been going to LaVar Hair Salon for years.  I am extremely particular about my hair and was looking for a salon that specialized in haircare on all fronts, as I wear my hear weaved. Since becoming a client, I have referred numerous people to the salon, all who have left satisfied.  On top a promoting a warm and inviting environment, Ellin and her staff specialize in comfort and catering to their clients needs and schedules.Although I have seen and been in the presence of numerous 'celebrity' clients over the years, and even now, EVERYONE is treated equally and there is absolutely no indication of preferential treatment.  It is a very 'down to earth' vibe that permeates throughout the entire salon.Prices are beyond reasonable and are reflected in the quality of work and services provided.  Ellin, Marcia, Kim, Tawana,  Regina, Ayana, Linda, and Katrina work to provide the best hair experience EVER!... I can't make it up West 72nd without a compliment on my hair.  I won't be going anywhere else!... I love Ellin and the LaVar team! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have gone to this salon for years. There is no place like it. Everyone regardless of age or ethnicity walks about looking as if they've stepped off the pages of a magazine. The staff is second to none and quality of work is second to none. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

No other salon compares! Trust me, I've done my exploring and have gotten to the point where I rather have my hair busted by own hands then some strangers. Anyways...This salon is so put together and the staff is friendly. I always feel comfortable and I like how they cater to natural hair women. I don't have to hear any negative comments and/or sighs while my hair is being done. My go to girl is Regina! I just love her and not a soul does my hair like her. I get hair pressed and trimmed and every time my hair comes out A1. It literally feels like silk and I never get heat damage.  When I get my hair flat ironed I still get amazing results. It's a bit pricey but def worththe money if you care about your hair.I'm excited every time I go, make sure you bring a book or ipod because your hair may take a while but nothing good comes quick and easy! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

The place itself is quaint and relaxed. But this review is mainly for Regina. I had been transitioning from relaxed to natural for a year and was ready for a change as my hairs two textures were annoying me. I had a good 4+ inches of growth but wanted it cut to a short, chic, pixie. As a mixed girl, I have always gone to Dominicans for my wash and set, but for such a change I wanted to splurge and get it done by professionals (IMO Dominicans, while great at maintaining, are so so at styling). I told Regina what I wanted and she listened to every word, even things I had forgotten. She showed me my hair so I would be comfortable seeing it both natural and straight, and she cut it so that they both look badass. My haircut is beautiful and worth every penny. I've gotten so many compliments! The receptionist, when I first made an appt, asked if I would mind having a junior stylist. I don't think there was anything "Junior" about her. One very satisfied customer, and will be back soon. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I love my shiny, silky beautiful hair! Thanks, Angela! I'm not a big beauty salon type but these ladies treated my tresses like royalty. They were gentle, professional and courteous....enough to have me coming back in the future. I will say that I don't have much to benchmark them off since I frequently do my own hair but I was still amazed. I have natural hair so I did a wash, press and cut...it was $168. After reading these other reviews, I was prepped to spend $300. Sorry, in NYC, that's a drop in the bucket! I'd take quality service any day over a dominican blow out that leaves me half bald! These ladies are the real deal! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This review is a few months late but since im on here i figured what the heck, my experience was great at Lavar! I came her back in January to have my natural hair trimmed and pressed and decided while i was there to have my bang cut and it came out beautiful. I was a little sutprised at the outdated decor and self service drinks and snacks but nevertheless my hair came out beautifully and i got a good deal because my stylist was a previous apprentice and new to the salon floor and i received an additional discount! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

The atmosphere at Lavars salon is professional without being uptight. They Take care of you from the time you walk in the door, til the time took leave. I got my hair done by regina. Shes an excellent stylist. She not only does your hair, but she tells you how to maintain it. Most stylists make you feel like they dont have time to answer your questions and  like the questions you ask are stupid. She takes the time she needs to do your hair the way you want it, without having you in the salon all day. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I had my hair done by Regina Pearl @ LaVar Hair Designs. She was HIGHLY attentive to the details of how I wanted to style my hair and assisted me in getting it where i want it to be. Being a MALE and making the decision to grow my hair and maintain it in a natural style has been a difficult transition. Even entering a hair salon, a place not often frequented by males, had me a little nervous but the hospitality by all the women in the establishment was very friendly and welcoming. Regina catered to my preferences, and with patience, and precision, she promptly styled my hair beyond my own happiness. Ecstatic and pleased with my new do she even gave me tips on how to maintain my style. I recommend LaVar Hair Designs to any and everyone. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

There were some minor hiccups but my hair looked amazing when I left.  Marcia did a wonderful job.

Reviewed on Yelp

I made an appointment with Lavar back in July for a weave install in August. After being told it was going to be an all-day process, I was a little heistant but it worked out beautifully. My stylist Tawana and I spent a good 5 hours together, in a private room in the back, watching TV, while she did the install. Then once that was complete, we went back up front for cutting and styling. Tawana was professional, friendly, and her work speaks for itself. She works very smooth and does not rush. 5 hours later and it felt like we had only been together for 2 hours or so. Her weaving technique is also very nice; I feared having a headache from the tight braids but no. It's a little over a week later and everything is still holding up nicely. Thank you Tawana and Ellin Lavar. Oh and as far as anyone who mentioned the prices. I knew making my appointment and subsequently walking in there that it was going to cost more than the usual or the average but I approached the situation as this is what I must do to ensure quality work and service. I will definitely be back, matter of fact, my next appt is scheduled for Oct 8th. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Relocated to NYC and of course the first thing on my agenda was finding a hairstylist.  Marcia at LaVar Hair Designs was my second attempt to find a good hairstylist.  She is awesome! My hair looks and feels great. She is a true professional.  I love the salon.  It is clean, nice, and professional.  I love the system to setup appointments, price, and payment of services.  It is a well organized business!! If you want your hair done by professionals, come here!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I've been going to LaVar Hair Designs since I was in college and I must say that every single time I leave here, my hair is LAID yet bouncy. Additionally I receive compliments and request for my salon information every time they do my hair. I ADORE my stylist Marcia; she is absolutely the kindest and, more importantly, adept stylist to ever touch my tresses. The place is not overly spacious but is always sanitary and relatively quiet (which is a MUST at a salon for me). There are, however, a few drawbacks. While they don' seem to officially double book, there is usually a 10-15 min delay (from original appt time) before my stylist (or her assistant) starts working on my hair. Some members of the staff aren't very friendly (i.e can be curt/abrupt) but Marcia, Kim and Yvonne (one of the receptionists) are especially warm and gracious. Finally the biggest drawback for me are the PRICES. Now l've been going there since 2004 and I have seen the prices sharply increase over 35% for my services; not sure if that's the norm in the beauty industry but to me it seems especially steep. Yet they do hair so well, I keep coming back (and will do so no matter the cost). All in all, I highly recommend the place (if you go, please try and request Marcia...she is the best)! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

After being natural for a little over a year, I decided to find a salon to straighten my hair a give it a good trim.  I Went to Lavar at the recommendation of a friend who has beautiful hair.  After booking my appointment, my friend suggested I see Marcia and I thought to myself 'darn! I wish I had known. Now I'm gonna get stuck with a castoff stylist!'. But no ma'am that wasn't the case! Praise the Lord I got Marcia! What a blessing that I did!  She did a great job and didn't give the least bit of hesitation in answering my million and one questions. The lady who shampooed my hair was nice too and eager to make recommendations for my daily hair regimen which were really appreciated and helpful considering I still feel like a newbie to this natural thing(which I am loving)Marcia didn't use many products in my hair either which I loved. It was super light and has that amazing diva hair swing going. Loved it!  The only thing I wasn't loving was the price... But I guess they gave to pay that UWS rent and the service was exceptional (I truly hope they pay their staff well. they deserve it). I will definitely be back... Just not that often, as I have bills to pay too;-) More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I use to have my hair cared for @ LAVAR Hair Designs, but by Linda Villalobos. She was absolutely outstanding in her profession. I was very, very pleased with the services I received. Yes, it was very pricey, but you get what you pay for, or at least I did. I never had my hair serviced by a LAVAR staff member, so I can't comment on that. However, my only problem I had with Linda was, her profession taking her to California. This left me in a bind, especially when I needed a touch up. She was so good, I truly didnt trust anyone else with my hair. Because she was gone for long periods at a time, I'm now wearing an afro because I know I'm not going to get the same level of service she gave. I LOVE YOU LINDA WHEREVER YOU ARE!!! Janice-South River More...

Reviewed on Yellow Pages

I started going to LaVar Hair Designs (LHD) in August after my regular stylist left Impulse Beauty Salon and moved to a remote part of Queens.  I'd gone through bad experiences with several other stylists while trying to find a replacement and I researched upscale black hair salons, which is when I found that LHD had alot of positive reviews and mentions in reputable publications.  After visiting several salons in Manhattan and talking to the stylists, I decided to go into LHD for a complimentary consultation, knowing that I would need a major cut and treatment to my hair which was relaxed and damaged.  The first thing that struck me was the convenient location. Right up the block from the 72nd street train stop on the 1,2,3, getting to the salon by public transportation is fairly simple.  The trek upstairs was off-putting at first but the salon itself is lovely, very clean, well-appointed and professional.  The abundance of mirrors make the space look larger than it is, there is plenty of seating and with music constantly playing as background to the staff's friendly chatter, there is generally a good ambiance.  I was also intrigued by the private rooms that allude to the salon's celebrity clientele, although I've never recognized a celebrity while I've been there.I was referred to Reginald "Reggie" March for that first consultation and I am convinced the hair angels were looking out for me! Reggie took time to examine my hair and was very blunt and honest with me about my options. I had been very concerned about finding a stylist who was knowledgeable about promoting and maintaining HEALTHY HAIR.  So many stylists I had been to in the past would fry/hairspray my hair into something that looked great when I walked out of the shop but was then brittle and breaking when I tried to take care of it at home. Reggie is the complete opposite.  I quizzed him thoroughly on his credentials as a stylist, his motivations and his goals both for himself and his customers and it quickly became evident that he truly has a passion for designing hair of all types and textures while keeping it healthy.  He was also very open to listening to my goals and needs and talked to me about developing a plan to get my hair where I ultimately want it.It's been 5 months and I am now a regular client of Reggie's. I have never been disappointed by his work and have referred many of my friends to him. Many of them have switched over to going to him as their primary stylist! He is especially impressive in that he is able to style all lengths, types and textures of hair because of his varied experience in the industry.  The salon has a good mix of clients from all ethnic backgrounds and with all different types of hair.Personally, I started with super-short hair and can't be bothered to style it at home, and Reggie gave me a great "get up a go" cut.  Now that my hair is starting to grow out, he's been able to adjust the style so that it still looks good while fitting my needs.  Reggie is sensitive to what his clients want, but be aware, he is blunt and won't lie to you if your hair goals are unrealistic! He's also a great resource for information about the products that you should be using for your hair type.Another great thing about the salon is that it does a pretty good job of managing client traffic.  Like any salon, it tends to get busy on the weekends and can get backed up, but I used to have to devote entire days to getting my hair done because of unreliable stylists, and that is NOT the case here.  Appointments are honored, client's time constraints are respected and taken into consideration and you don't spend alot of time sitting around.  The staff does its best to always keep you attended to so even if your stylist is finishing up another client, you're being ushered to the shampoo bowls, based for a relaxer or you're seated in a stylist's chair poised to be called at any moment. The only cons about the salon are that it's closed on Sundays and Mondays which can be inconvenient (but is apparently common among upscale salons- the only time I miss the old "You can come in whenever cuz I'm trying to make the money-just know you'll be sitting around for hours" beauty shop) and also it's pretty pricey (expect to shell out 3 digits for a style cut or relaxer) which is tough for a student on a limited budget such as myself.  You definitely get what you pay for though and I save my pennies because Reggie is worth it!  If you're looking for a professional, upscale salon that caters to black hair, I definitely recommend that you check out LHD and ask for Reggie! He books up quickly, so make your appointment in advance. He is truly the best thing to ever happen to my hair, if not my wallet. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Love them!  I have a natural and go to Marcia for the best Press and Curl in the city!  I have to space out my visits though because prices are on the high-end, about $120 with the deep conditioner treatment - and that's before tips.

Reviewed on Yelp

You will not be disappointed!  I needed to get my hair cut, but I was very apprehensive about letting anyone do it.  Until. ..Reggie!  He is absolutely fabulous.  His cutting and styling skills exceptional, and he also focuses on healthy haircare.  He convinced me to switch from relaxers to a texturizer and my hair is so much healthier as a result (despite the fact that I also have a full head of permanent color!)  I've gotten so many compliments on my new hair and I owe it all to him!   BTW-I'm a D.C.-New York commuter.  I gladly make special trips to NYC to see Reggie, even though I live in D.C.!   Nough said! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Lavar Hair Designs is one of the most professional salons I have been to yet. All the stylist seem to care about their clients hair. My stylist Reggie in particular, made me feel very comfortable upon my first consultation visit. When I came in to have actual work done on my hair, Reggie was just as professional and caring as my first visit. Although I was apprehensive in getting my hair cut, Reggie made me feel very confident in his ability to to give me a great haircut and he sure delivered! What I like most was that he talked me through it. I received numerous compliments on my hair after walking only a few blocks when leaving the salon. 2 days later when I had to attend an outside event, in the rain, my hair held up very well and did not become frizzy at all. Overall it was worth every penny and I can't wait to go back. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I hit up LaVar Hair Designs last Wednesday for a dye job.  I expected to see the same excitement that took place on the We show, Hair Trauma (reality show based on the salon).  It wasn't like that at all as it was a slow day. LaVar is a very nice salon on the Upper West Side near the B/C/1/2/3 trains with a nice and pleasant staff to match.  It's a very clean establishment that caters to African-American hair as well as other races/ethnicities.  Everyone that walked into the salon left looking like a million bucks [including myself ;-)]I was taken care of by Shannel.  She did an excellent job on my hair (as well as my eyebrows).  I was looking for a vibrant color to make my curls pop and she found the ideal color for me.  She also advised me on how to care for my hair with the new color and recommended products that suit my hair type.The service was pricey but it was well worth it.  High quality always comes at a  matching price.  I guarantee that you'll be satisfied at LaVar. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Every stylist at Lavar is outstanding.  The owner, Ellin, is a legend in the beauty industry and has a huge range of celebrity clients -- at any moment a star or model may pass you coming out from Ellin's private room at the back . . .  But even if you're not a celebrity, this is the place to come for weaves, blowouts, cuts and every possible hair service.  The stylists are committed to healthy hair and to ensuring that your hair both looks and feels good.  They are friendly, kind and thoughtful in addition to being talented -- and you will look incredible.  In particular, my stylist, Angela, is incredible, but Tawana and Marcia are also good.  Without fail, when I leave the salon, I get numerous compliments, both from strangers and friends.The only drawback is that a salon visit can be a time-consuming process -- there's a lot of sitting under the dryer and getting a flat iron can be slow.  When I need a quick blow-out, I go elsewhere.  However, if you want to take the time and money necessary to look amazing, make an appointment at Lavar. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I've been going to Lavar for almost a year...it is a wonderful salon. Lavar is everything you would hope for in your salon, it's relaxing yet professional, they are serious about their work, but friendly and open to suggestions. I've never waited more than 15 minutes for them to start me and I'm not there ALL DAMN DAY!!! Tawana is my regular stylist although I recently had Angela do my hair. Everyone working there is quite capable and everyone walking out of there looks fabulous. Some of the reviewers say the salon caters to black hair---I'd say they tend to have more black clients, however, they do all ethnicities and have regulars who are non-black. The prices to me are moderate and in line with other salons of their caliber. I would definitely recommend it to anyone! Also the salon is appointment only although they do allow walk-in consults on Saturday. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

After weeks of debating I recently decided to cut my hair. The Lavar Hair Designs salon was definitely the place to go. The stylist who worked on me, Reggie, did a fabulous job! He did a thorough consultation - asking me what looks i liked, how short I wanted to go, and reviewing pictures of various styles and the end result was fantastic.Although the cost was a bit pricey (for me) it was worth it to go to a clean, professional salon with a knowledgeable, courteous staff. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This professional salon "caters" to black hair!  The stylists can manage whatever your needs are from natural hair care to extensions and everyone walks out looking fabulous.  I just moved to the area, needed a salon desperately and stumbled across the first reviewer's post and decided to give it a try.  I do not need to look any further!!   I just recently experienced the best hair cut of my entire life, by a stylist-Reggie.  I highly recommend him!!  Quick service too--no overbookings and no waiting.  Very professional salon.  I've posted pics on my profile page if you care to check them out. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have been a very happy customer of this salon for many years and can highly recommend it. I was surprised to read the review that precedes mine but it is clear that said reviewer made an ASSumption about the salon based on a single visit. Let's be real, accidents sometimes do occur. An offer of a free (and presumably pricey) deep conditioner is a testament to the classy reputation of the salon. Let's get to the point ladies---the hair! I have a very unique texture that is extremely curly and hard to deal with. Therefore I often come into the salon looking with a mess of haphazard crazy tight ringlets. By the time I leave, my hair is silky smooth, shiny and straight as a pin (the way I like it). Not only that but it is well conditioned and smells lovely. And the look lasts until my next wash which is generally a week later. This blowout gives that coveted hair blowing in the wind thing (I think the secret is that they don't use much product while styling, many Black salons tend to make that mistake which only weighs the hair down) If you are into weaves (that's not my thang), the owner does excellent weaves (this is actually her claim to fame). I have seen many celebrities in there getting weaves done and when they leave they look as expected---picture perfect . I urge any Black chica living in the city to take a chance on this fabulous salon, you won't regret it. More...

Reviewed on Yellow Pages