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Aveda Institute
Category: Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Hair Salons [Edit]
125 King St EToronto, ON M5C 1G6
Neighbourhoods: Corktown, St. Lawrence, Downtown Core
(416) 941-9345
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Kids:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
32 reviews for Aveda Institute
32 reviews in English
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Review from Andrea R.
Toronto, ON
12/3/2011
Having moved here from Cincinnati, Ohio, I've had to get used to the more expensive prices for just about everything in Toronto, but the thought of spending $150+ for highlights and a cut was just too much for me. Luckily, a friend suggested trying Aveda Institute's salon, and it was a really good experience.
My appointment was supposed to start at 6 p.m., and when I arrived, the place was absolutely packed. One student took my appointment card and then I sat for a little while waiting for my stylist. I was finally taken to the styling chair around 6:30, and my stylist (who is also named Andrea, incidentally) apologized several times. I wasn't too fussed, but just be aware that things do go a bit more slowly at a student salon like this one.
Once the appointment got started, I told Andrea that I was looking for highlights, but asked for her suggestions to make the highlights pop a bit more than they had in the past. She recommended doing a few low-lights as well, and I took her up on the idea. She discussed the decision with her educator, (Cathy, I think?) who had to recommend slightly different color numbers than Andrea was planning to use. It eased my mind to know that a licensed stylist was in the background making sure everything would go well, so Andrea began mixing the color and off she went.
Again, things go a bit more slowly when students are learning, so Cathy swooped in and started putting highlights on the other side of my head, and I was all foiled within 30 minutes (which is quick for how much hair I have). She also helped Andrea to blow-dry my hair, as it was closing time and I'd been there for 2 hours already. When I saw the new color, I was pleasantly surprised with just how good it looked. There were just enough low-lights to make the blonde pop, which was exactly what I wanted.
Andrea was very sweet and produced a great final result, and I really appreciated that Cathy helped her out to keep things on time for the client. I will mention that Andrea kept explaining all of the products that she was using and was doing a bit of a sales pitch on each of them, and while that's nothing abnormal for a salon, it does get a bit old after a while. Overall, though, it was a great experience and a really good deal ($65 for highlights and low-lights... love it!!). -
Review from Bijan V.
12/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
I think it's incredibly hit and miss here and if it's a miss - it's at a rather high price!
I called in for a same-day appointment and they placed me with someone at their Institute (rather than the Academy which is the school upstairs, the institute is supposed to be the graduates who practice here). Surprisingly they didn't mention the level or price point but honestly I didn't care - I was going to be late for a Yelp Elite party!
I was seated for about 10-15 minutes longer than my scheduled time and they have no real seating area - I was just in the middle of everyone as they ran around handling their clients and it was quite a bit awkward.
My stylist greeted me and figured out what I wanted to do with my hair, got the resident guru involved and it all sounded fine.
2 hours later, multiple consultations with the guru and $45 later, I realized I probably could've gotten a better haircut at top cuts! My stylist had no idea how to cut 'guys' hair - recut areas multiple times, generally didn't seem like knew what she was doing and the whole 'experience' was very underwhelming.
Will definitely not be coming back here! -
Review from maverick m.
Toronto, ON
11/21/2011
THE GOOD:
Cost is a fraction of what you'd pay at a full Aveda salon (approx. $20 or $30 depending on the experience of stylist). Experience luxury at affordable price. Interesting to observe the training process. Sensory massage was superb. He did a better job than I've experienced at the actual Aveda salons.
THE SO SO:
The stylist is practicing so at various stages of the haircut he asked his trainer to check on his work. Can be a bit of a pain because my appointment was 1.5 to 2 hrs long when it's supposed to be 1 hr. Also, stylist I had seemed a bit uncomfortable. I guess training is not just in the technique but client service as well.
THE BAD:
You may not get exactly what you want. I don't think I used the proper lingo so my cut ended up differently than I expected. Still good, but different. This is probably more my fault. Suggest you bring a photo of what you want. -
Review from Zoe R.
11/12/2011
Pros and Cons, indeed!
Pros:
*Great prices - you can get your hair shampooed, cut, and blow dried for $21 plus tax;
*They use Aveda products throughout your visit;
*You'll be offered water/tea/coffee;
*TTC-accessible;
*nice service (typically);
*seems like the stylists are there waiting for your arrival (= minimal wait time).
Cons:
*It can take at least 2 hours for s fairly new student to cut your hair;
*it's very warm in there; *the air also doesn't circulate very much which means that when they're using cleaning products to clean their stations, the smell will find its way to your nose;
*the student will have to consult with their instructor about every 15 min. in the beginning.
This was my 2nd time there. The first time, the student was way more advanced. Faster, and more confident.
Today's student was very nice, in her early 20s, just starting out, not as confident, but she did a good job with my hair.
Both times, I didn't have to wait very long. Today, Rosie was standing there and waiting to greet me. She said that before my arrival, she was practicing on a mannequin's head which I thought was kind of sweet.
I felt as though she appreciated the chance to work on my hair. :)
I'm expecting right now, though, so sitting straight in a chair for two hours, I've learned, only aggravates my back... :P
I'd go back. And request a more advanced student, to save on the sitting time.
I don't exclusively go to student academies, I like to try different places, according to my mood, or my group/team/living coupon deals. -
Review from Esther P.
Toronto, ON
7/27/2011
I tried the Aveda Institute this week for the first time and I'm glad to report that I had a good experience. I had to make an appointment a week in advance, and I decided to try an "Academy Student" and have a Shampoo & Blow Dry done ($25.00). At this institute you can choose from the following levels of students: Aveda Institute; Academy Students; Advanced Graduates; Educators. The cost varies by the level of student, which I think is a good idea because you get to choose. And of course Aveda products are used in your hair.
Let me say this is the quickest blow dry I've had done at a school, this girl knew what she was doing and I was so glad to be out of there before 2 hours (I was done with everything in about an hour). Kelsey my stylist was great, she went the extra mile and was very helpful in recommended a particular product that would work for my hair type, without being pushy and try to "sell" it to me.
There was one teacher on the floor that day, he did not come over to check my hair before I left, I guess because I didn't have a colour or a cut done, didn't bother me because I was pleased with the finished product. You do get a shoulder massage and a scalp massage, which were great. I noticed other customers getting hand massages, but I didn't get that, maybe because my stylist was busy with the blow dry, next time I hope. So the location is great for me and I think I will be back in future. My hair looks fab!
I don't have a problem going to hair schools, why pay full price when you can get the same thing done for half the price? It's called being cost conscious. And the students need to learn on somebody.Listed in: Happy Hair
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Review from Roma M.
Updated - 3/10/2011
While I've never had a bad cut here, I have to agree with Grainne in that the academy student's are hit-and-miss. My last cut was just alright and the student was receptive to what I wanted, but found it difficult to adjust to changes. Of course, what was I expecting, as he was just a student, but some of them are definitely better than others.
Sometimes the institute students (2nd floor, $25) will surprise you more than the Academy students (main, $35).Listed in: The Beauty List
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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3/17/2010
I returned here yesterday for a haircut, this time on the second floor($18). I decided I could take… Read more »
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Review from Andrea H.
Updated - 7/14/2011
So, I called the day after my haircut to let them know I had a problem with my cut. They told me a manager would call me back. Five days later I hadn't heard from them, so I called again. A manager called back the next day, and I was able to book a redo for two days later with a more experienced student.
This time everything went fine. My stylist was ready when I arrived and fixed the cut very nicely. Too bad she's done the program in 3 weeks (too bad for me, that is, not for her!)
I ended up with a nice cut in the end despite the glitches in the service.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/6/2011
I had my hair cut today and will be phoning them tomorrow -I'll update my review based on how they… Read more »
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Review from Shiona R.
Toronto, ON
7/11/2011
I love this place and I am one fussy customer when it comes to hair cuts and colouring. I have been twce so far and both experiences were good. I have had a full head of highlights and they turned out well.
Due to my fear of getting a bad haircut I was relluctant to try this place as I was thinking eeeek students but the service has been excellent both times. The students are well supervised, yes I spend longer here getting my cut than I would normally but it is definately worth it!
The only thing I may struggle with is getting a different person everytime and I do prefer to have a regular stylist but then again this place is very reasonable in cost.
If you are happy for a student to tend to your hair then definately give it a try! -
Review from Jamie F.
Toronto, ON
2/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
I want to preface this review by saying that if you have difficult or weird hair at all, you're probably just better off staying clear from students period.
I went to the Aveda Institute keeping in mind that if anything went wrong, it's hair, it'll grow back, which is handy given the cut I received.
My hair is quite curly and even when straight takes a fair bit of styling to manage. I wear it both ways and communicated this to the stylist. He was exceedingly polite and nice.
I've had the luxury of having my best friends who were both awesome stylists cut my hair for years until I moved quite far away from them and had to seek out an actual salon. I find getting my hair cut stressful and salons intimidating and found this so of my experience at Aveda, despite the totally awesome and amazing aromatherapy head massage (wow love.love.love)
I went in really just wanting a trim to tidy things up, but I got much more then I wanted cut off in weird places that at the time with the styling could not tell. I was asked if I wanted my hair straightened which I did, but came out looking like Robin of Sherwood. I rewashed and styled my hair at home later that day and saw then how uneven (and not intentionally so!) the cut was and how much extra was taken off.
I won't be going back, and in future will pay the extra to go to a stylist that gets my personal look and can handle my freaky-dee hair.
That said my friends who have gone here and don't have mental hair like me, came out with absolutely amazing cuts and colours and have had nothing but good experiences. So there ya go.
Pros:
- Cheap!
- Head massage of awesome
- Aveda Tea
Cons:
- Uh...I look like a 70's Robin Hood crossed with Gareth from the Office.
- It took you 3 hours to make me look like this?! wtf!? -
Review from Josefa M.
Toronto, ON
12/29/2010
This has been the best find for me with my very thick and curly hair. In many other salons I have been charged extra or even double for having more hair or needing more product, so this salon has been great.
I do agree that because they are students you are taking a chance, but my experiences have been mostly positive so far. My only problem with this place is that they don't ask the client for feedback, which I think would be helpful for the students. -
Review from Sarah Y.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 2/15/2011
So I sent this review in to Groupon's customer service and they issued me a refund.
Good for Groupon! I love them even more now, and I will never return to Aveda. I'd rather give a local one-off salon my business.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/2/2011
Ok - so this is probably the first time I've ever felt bad about giving an honest review but… Read more »
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Review from Gemma S.
Willowdale, Toronto, ON
2/7/2011
I recently had my hair cut at Aveda (for the umpteenth time) and this time it was done by Jill. She cut off a whole lot of my hair after much debate ("are you sure you want to do this???") and it looked phenomenal.
I felt like I was 10 lbs lighter and I think she was relieved to see that I wasn't crying. ;)
It's been months. My hair still looks phenomenal. I can't get over how amazing this hair cut was. I love this place. Everything smells amazing, the neck/back rub is such a nice added touch, and the fact that the hair dressers explain every step they're taking makes you feel like you're part of the whole process.
What a great experience! -
Review from Melissa F.
Toronto, ON
3/9/2010
I have been dreading this review just because I know other people love it AND because if I ever see the stylist again I'm gonna get a swift punch in the face. BUT, by NO means is this place the dream people say it is.
And the only reason why I'm going to stick with my 2/5 is because, after talking to some other friends who have gone here they TOO had the same problems BUT still loved the place because it was cheap and they ended up with a cut they liked.
Pros:
-cheap
-supposedly well-trained (although...questionable with my experience)
-OTHER people seem to like it here
CONS:
1) After telling my stylist that my hair routine was "I don't even own a comb"- she proceeded to (gently) insult me by suggesting I really should use product. I realize that they have to SELL product here, but I think part of your job as a stylist is that you try to style/cut somebody's hair in a way that SUITS THEM, and not your selling quota.
2) I asked for bangs. she said no.
Have you EVER heard of a stylist saying no? She claimed that bangs would require styling product. I know for a fact that's not true- I've had bangs before and were able to take care of them wihtout any product or comb.
I respect your "professional opinion", but I'm SO confused how you say "NO" upon requesting a certain look.
I was just so shocked that I shut up and didnt' say anything and let her do her thing.
3) She straight ironed my hair. She asked me first. I said "no, I don't like my hair super straight..infact I like the opposite". She then blowdryed my hair. And then asked me again if she could use a straight iron. Finally I said, "sure" just because I was curious what she was going to attempt to do by straight ironing already STICK STRAIGHT asian hair.
Yeah, I said I didn't like it and said I really actually liked more volume.
4) After saying I wanted more volume she told me that was impossible because my hair was "too thick and too heavy". She said I needed to buy a brush and use product if I wanted the desired volume. Ok, again, I respect that you gotta sell - but she obviously doesn't understand that you can THIN OUT thick heavy hair. Maybe she didnt' understand how to cut Straight/thick asian hair? I dunno, but your JOB is to understand hair type and then WORK with it. Places where they are usually highly trained in a variety of hair types and/or know my specific hair type always thin out my hair.
I expect a "hair academy" to do the same.
5) I dont' think you should have to suggest how to cut the hair to highly trained stylists. I expect to tell her what look i'm trying to achieve and then she does her best to accommodate that. But this time I suggest that she needs to THIN out my hair and then give me some very short layers at the crown of my head. She then proceeds to tell me that volume for my hair (w/out product) is impossible. THEN goes to her hair-master-supervisor-guy and have a little whisper/chat. Then they come to my chair together-
she says: "She said she wants volume"
he says: "that's impossible without buying a brush and using product daily"
she says:"that's what I told her"
me: sitting there awkwardly as they talk about me in the third person. and have a public discussion on why I can't have what I want because I don't use product and own a comb.
So, to end:
A good stylist is soebody who LISTENS and gives you the look you want and ensures that it works with your lifestyle and hair routine. This IS possible, I've had it before.
So don't tell me "no";
Don't try to sell me things I made it CLEAR I don't use
and DON'T have a condescending conversation and put me down in third person
for goodness sakes.
I will not go back here again (nor do I think they would have me back after this rant- haha)
*To note- when I said my friends had the same experience- they told me that the stylist actually did say "no" to them when they requested certaint hings, but ended up liking the cut anyway.
**I ended up feeling ok with the cut. I didnt' love it and didn't hate it. The problem was that it looked EXACTLY like my old cut but shorter. And I explicity said I wanted a change-hence the bangs.Listed in: You are severely overrated.…
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Review from Ricky Z.
Toronto, ON
7/23/2010 1 Check-in Here
I must admit I have adulterous tendencies when it comes to finding and keeping a hairdresser in Toronto. I've been everywhere: Coupe Bizarre, Holt Renfrew, Vidal Sassoon, Civello, Truefitt & Hill and a myriad of others.
I've had some stellar cuts at these places, but I often find that the first one or two are excellent and then the quality drops off. At one place the owner of the salon spent lots of time on my first cut, making sure that I was very happy and that I got the best cut possible. The next time I went back he basically gave me an army cadets cut--with clippers! If I wanted that I'd join the military and just go for the whole lifestyle hook, line and sinker. Until then, scissors only, sir!
I think the place I've gone back to the most is the Aveda Institute. First of all, it's dirt cheap. And I like that. The value is very good considering you get a pretty good cut with all Aveda products, including a scalp massage and mini facial at the end. The catch here is your hairdresser is a student. This can be good or bad--it's really like a Forrest Gump box of chocolates scenario. You never know whatcha gonna get.
I've had the full gamut of haircuts here, but I do find they tend to be very good (the students are cutting to impress their educators, so they really are trying). Today I had a really pleasant girl named Leah. She gave me a sort of glory-of-the-80s Ricky Schroder meets dapper Don Draper cut.... I asked for it, so that's not a bad thing. Once, though, a student styled my hair in a fauxhawk about two years after they were in style. I walked as far as the corner and desperately tried to restyle it.
All in all, very good! $18 for a cut is pretty darn good. (You can also get $35 cuts from the Academy students. These are professionals who come to upgrade their skills and learn the Aveda technique.) Give it a try; it's only hair, it will grow back. At this price you can't afford to look like a bushman/woman. -
Review from susan c.
Updated - 2/23/2010
FYI: My $18-stylist Noelia has advanced to the next level and now she's $35. Still a great deal, IMHO.
While Noelia was off to train in the coloring program, I got another cut from a different haircutter, Anastasia, who is currently $25. She was also fab!
Be sure to book early because now that the word is out, appointments are getting harder and harder to get :( I shoulda never opened my big mouth.Listed in: A Frugalista in Toronto
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/30/2009
Sometimes being a freelance writer is a drag; work is slow, clients are late with payments, or those… Read more »
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Review from Jon S.
Toronto, ON
4/15/2009 ROTD 10/25/2009
Hey yous guyzzz, got a haircut today. (Yes, I look great. No, you can't sleep with me).
Student Amy did a fantastic job, under the tutelage of the amazing Tristan (whom I have dubbed The Rockstar of Hair Stylists).
A great cut, mini relaxation massage, hot towel face thingie, and mini scalp massage all for $35 (plus tax and tip). This Aveda experience smelt as great as their products. -
Review from Kim B.
ON
11/19/2008 8 photos
Want the black clothed, hipster haircut scene without the black clothed hipster cost? The Aveda Institute offers premium haircuts for $18 and colour and highlights for around $30! The only thing is...students are cutting your hair. Sure, you have to sign a waiver when you arrive, but don't worry, I've been there several times both for colour and cut and have yet (fingers crossed) to have anything but a perfect hair experience.
Do keep in mind, it's a great place only if you have the time, the students take a bit longer, but they do concentrate awful hard so that means less mindless chit-chat (if you're like me and hate that sort of thing). Plus the music is always good every time I've been there (last time, Queen's Greatest Hits). Oh, and if they ask if you want something to drink, I recommend chamomile tea. That + a head massage + Bohemian Rhapsody = pure bliss.Listed in: CHEAP Toronto
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Review from Farheen K.
Toronto, ON
4/16/2009
Alright, so based on the raving Yelp reviews about this Aveda Hair Institute, I took the plunge and booked an appointment for a colour and a cut at Aveda. They gave me split appointments,a colour at 1:30 and a cut later in the afternoon since nothing else was availalble.. which I was mostly ok with.
My colour technician was Vos who was absolutely the nicest/professional guy ever and I put him on a very tight 1 hour timeline and he delivered! In the end, my colour is darker than what I wanted but the service I got from Vos and his instructor is definetely making up for the lack of 'chocolate brown' in my hair.
Now comes the 4:30 appointment for my haircut. This is where everything went wrong. I dont know HOW you guys rave about Tristan on this board. He is absolutely the worse instructor ever!. He barely spoke 5 words to me, he barely spoke 5 words to his student. I gave the girl cutting my hair and Tristan a picture of the haircut I wanted. Usually, if you go to ANY salon (including First Choice might I add) with a picture of a haircut, they will give you that cut with a few adjustments for your hair type and face. Tristan gave his apprentice some strange instruction and walked off to attend to his own client.
The apprentice then barely cut my hair (a total of 5 minutes to trim my ends), she called another instructor halfway to look at what she had done, who herself had no clue of what I wanted. Not only did I have to repeatedly explain what kind of cut I wanted and have FOUR people cut my hair, I walked out of there with a 5 year old's front bangs (WHICH I DID NOT WANT) and a cut that my 5 year old niece might have done better!
Needless to say, I wont be going back to Aveda and probably wont be buying much Aveda either. Bad taste in my mouth. Yuck. -
Review from Nicole H.
Toronto, ON
4/28/2010 11 Check-ins Here
Before you go to the Aveda Academy/Institute (the upstairs levels, at any rate), remember that this is a learning institute and you must be clear and communicative about what you like/dont' like and what you want out of your visit. The students aren't allowed to touch a hair on your head until they go over what you want with their supervisors, so it's up to you to be attentive during the consultation!
I've been to the top academy level where there are new students, and also the middle academy level with slightly more advanced students. I find the middle level is better for haircuts, but the colour i've received in both has been just fine. Appointments will be shorter the more advanced the student, of course.
If you find someone you like in the earlier stages of their program, stick with them! They'll remember you, know your hair, and be able to style you with ease. The last time I visited, my stylist was about to graduate - i'd only booked in for a cut, but she managed to squeeze in a refresh of my colour as well without ruining the quality of the service, or my experience as a visitor.
I enjoy going to the Aveda Institute because I know i'm getting a good quality product for a more reasonable price than their retail salons. I also like the little touches like hand/shoulder massages. Of course, the students are required to pimp their products out to you - just remember, you're not obliged to buy a thing! I've gotten a couple of shampoo/conditioner products to maintain my colour though, and i'm really glad they recommended it to me.
Like any hair salon, your experience will depend on the stylist you get (and to a certain extent their supervisor). However, I would rather go to this Academy/Institute than to any budget or upscale salon anytime! -
Review from Connie T.
Toronto, ON
8/24/2008
I've had my share of bad haircuts, and I vowed I would never spend more than $8 on another lousy cut-and-style ever again.
Then a couple of hip friends recommended I visit the Aveda Institute to soothe my hair woes.
I knew the drill with these shops -- it could take a long time, but for only $16.00 for a wash, modern cut, and style by a keen, fawning student, this was totally my kind of place. The service included an in-depth consultation about the style I wanted (don't make my face look any fatter than it is, thank you very much) and what would work with my hair. This was soon followed by the instructor's visit to agree or disagree with any consensus we came to.
Despite my stylist's lack of confidence, she did an amazing job. For the first time in a couple of years I had someone who actually listened! It also helped that the instructor himself returned enough to pretty much frame the basics of the cut, and never let anything get out of hand.
Plus, if you feel a little more encouraged by students with a bit more experience, you can try the Aveda Academy, where you can get a style by specialist students for only $30. Score. -
Review from Caitlin R.
Scarborough, ON
11/26/2009
Best of best haircuts.
Book an appointment with one of the students at the institute and you get professional treatment as well as a fantastic hair cut.
Everytime you go in, you DO have to sign a waiver (just so you can't run back in tears), but once that initial frightful step is over, you are welcomed into the arms of a cascade of colorful people with the most interesting hairstyles.
At each appointment, you are asked if you would like tea, coffee or water, which they are all to cheerful to get for you. You receive a mini-massage that calms and relaxes you.
They all listen intently when you explain what you'd like, and they all have to double check with their professors before starting anything.
The only part I would be wary about is the time. I've had a hair cut there last three hours. Not that I mind, but if you have plans later that day, you may want to rethink the choice.
I'd say about 90% of the time I come out with an awesome hair cut.
Definitely recommend this place.
Total I believe is $16 for wash, cut, style& blowdry. -
Review from Grainne M.
Toronto, ON
11/14/2010
It's fair. I just went for colour having had a VERY bad experience with an Aveda Institute cut in Washington.
My hair was previously coloured so probably isn't the easiest. I just wanted an all-over colour to cover the grey though; nothing complicated. Signing the waiver which basically absolves them of all responsibility should they totally ruin your hair is a bit concerning but I took a deep breath and went on!
There was no real wait and my student was nice. Cannot remember his name though-Eric? He showed me where to put my coat and gave me a gown, then brought me back to the ground floor. I picked a colour myself-he didn't really seem to have much of an opinion one way or the other. His instructor popped over briefly and gave some instructions. I got coffee and he got on with it.
He was careful to protect my hairline from dye and applied carefully. The dye was a bit burny but not too bad. He planned on emulsifying it for the lengths and ends so just applied to the roots. I got a nice scalp massage to get it out which is always good. Blow-dried straightish. I couldn't for the life of me see the violet tones that were meant to be in the colour but reckoned they might be better after a few washes. Instructor didn't come over to check work, even though he asked her.
A few weeks later, it wasn't particularly violet but the fading was very obvious as were the patches of hair that were getting a "dye holiday". The whole emulsifying idea didn't work very well. It wasn't awful but I can miss bits all by myself. Also, it's not particularly cheap at $50/$55 for just a straight colour. I think I'll just stick with L'Oreal.....Listed in: Pampering and preening
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Review from N.J. G.
Toronto, ON
2/18/2009
Yeah, I definitely recommend this place to all my friends.
The low-down is that you need to give yourself 2 hours if you are with the 2nd floor students. -$18
The 1st floor students have already graduated from the 2nd floor and so, work like your typical stylist.-$30
I recommend going to the 2nd floor if you have the time. The students there are super eager to get the cut you want. They listen, they take their time and they are guided every step of the way.
I have very thick, curly hair which most stylist don't know what to do with. (Including a student from the 1st floor, hence why 2nd floor is better) Every time I have gone to Aveda Institute, I have gone in with a clear idea of which style I want and the student, with the advice of the supervising instructor, has crafted a new style to suite me. Some of the best cuts I've ever had were here.
Also, those who don't know Aveda, it's a studio that uses a line of their own all natural products. They leave your hair smelling, feeling and looking great but at salon prices! Beware.
When booking, remember to specify which floor of students you want and be sure to leave an extra big tip since the cut is so cheap!!
-and yes, the reception does tend to make many mistakes. -
Review from Elaine Y.
10/11/2009
FIVE STARS: haircut and partial highlights. Carly, a graduating student, did an amazing job giving me the haircut exactly the way I wanted it. She was very friendly and meticulous, and she really listened to what I wanted. The highlights were great too and I just love my hair right away - there was no awkward "adjustment period" at all!
MINUS ONE STAR because the receptionists were a little disorganized. I called for an appointment at 1pm and specifically asked if it would be ok if I wanted to get highlights later and she said it was fine. However when I got there I couldn't get highlights on the same day because Carly was "booked for the rest of the day"... that was a little annoying. -
Review from Hana B.
Updated - 10/2/2009
Went here again for a trim, basically kept the same style and shortened the layers. Nothing too complicated.
The bangs turned out great! and the cut is fresh and safe, just what i wanted. Love this place for maintenance in-between bigger-price-tagged-haircuts.Listed in: Feelin Pretty in the GTA…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/5/2009
I went to Aveda a couple of months ago for a haircut. I just wanted a basic trim and some more… Read more »
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Review from Margs L.
Toronto, ON
10/21/2008
I use the Aveda Institute as my usual place to get a haircut. I don't know what everyone is saying about the cuts being 16 dollars, I have always paid 25 - 35 dollars there.
I never had a bad experience and they even did great off the wall colour for me a few years ago which I was very happy with.Listed in: Beauty Goodies
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Review from Greg F.
Toronto, ON
2/9/2009
My wife usually spends at least $150+ on her hair! I understand that it takes a little to make your hair look good....but please $150!!!
So this is where the Aveda Institute comes into play...My wife can get her hair done by a stylist in training for less than $50! Cut and Colored! What a great deal. Now you might think to yourself - " it costs $50 because some 18 year old wannabe hair stylist is doing their best Edward Scissorhands routine!". Well your completely wrong! Each Stylist is completely trained by some of the best in the world. Plus the trainer usually does the majority of the haircut for you.
This has now lead me to become a client myself. I was thoroughly impressed with all of the staff and the methedologies they provide when cutting the golden locks off my head!
There is a down side - make sure you have plenty of time! -
Review from Skipper G.
Toronto, ON
8/26/2008
Disclaimer: The last review I wrote (http://www.yelp.ca/biz...) was Hair Salon related so to stick with the same theme I decided to review my favourite hair salon in Toronto.
Many people have yet to discover The Aveda Institute. I would describe this salon as a "hidden gem" to say the least. Of course, my story is nearly identical to every other Aveda clients story; "I had my hair botched, then someone told me to try out Aveda, now look at me!". But still, I wish to share some of my most pleasant experiences in this review in an effort to persuade more Torontonians to give Aveda a shot.
The first time I ever went to Aveda was to get my hair straightened. *I urge you to read my last review to get an idea of what I've gone through to find a good salon that can actually straighten my Amanda Marshall like curls*. To be honest, seeing how Aveda is an Institute for learning, I didn't expect much - and to be frank, my standards were so low that the stylist/student could have done a sub-par job and I would have walked away happy. But to my awesome surprise, the lovely and dedicated stylist/student did such a great job that I PRE-BOOKED several more appointments for the same service that very same day.
Other services I have had performed include cuts, highlights, full hair dying and an amazing and trendy service Aveda also offers called "natural styling" (in this case your stylist will choose a variety of natural hair products to help your hair reach its maximum style potential in its most natural form. In my case, huge curly hair). I love the Natural Styling concept because it encourages natural beauty within their clients, a concept which is rarely celebrated.
What I love most about Aveda is the customer service. They have every element necessary to operate a hugely successful hair salon. The funny thing is, I just realized, there are one too many compliments I can give Aveda, so to keep you readers interested, I have developed my own personal "Top Ten Reasons why Aveda is the Answer". Enjoy.
Top Five Reasons why Aveda is the Answer:
1. Superior Customer Service and a very effective chain of command. You will never find a stylist walking around with nothing to do, and you will always see a salon full of cheerful and dedicated to-be stylists.
2. Low Cost Operation. Due to the fact that this is a school for esthetics (but mainly hair), Aveda are able to charge their customers on a sliding scale, based on the level of the student.
3. In Depth Constultation/Stylists who actually CARE. The stylists at Aveda are all hand selected for a reason; their Passion for hair. That says it all.
4. It's all Supervised! Believe it or not, (most people don't believe me when I tell them this), there are instructors walking around the entire salon while clients are having their hair done. As a matter of fact, PRIOR to your service, an instructor will visit you at your styling chair, introduce themselves, and go through the steps (verbally) with you AND your stylist - just to make sure you feel comfortable, and to ensure the student (stylist!) is on track.
5. Excellent Complaint Policy. Whoa whoa wait....they get complaints? Don't worry -- I didn't complain once. But my mother a.k.a Manager's Worst Nightmare complained, and guess what? They offered to have an Instructor re-do her entire head of hair for no additional charge. She left happy.
I give this salon a well deserved, extremely well earned DELICIOUS.
Your Friend,
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Review from Tamar F.
8/23/2009
This is the Aveda Institute that all of the American Avedas should learn from. I started coming here in grad school, and really wish that the ones in LA and SF took a cue from them. First off, Torontonians may be hapy to hear that in the other Avedas I've been to, students both know about the Toronto location and mention how good it is. You have to book a few weeks in advance for a cut, but it's totally worth it. They use quality products, you get a scalp massage, and the students that cut my hair were always really talented and personable. I got some excellent hair cuts here - I just wish some of those students would migrate to the west coast so that I could go back to getting awesome hair cuts that are uber-affordable. Plus, the educators here are great. The ones that I've seen other times (in SF & LA) were pretty hands-off, not all that encouraging, and if a student was struggling just let them struggle. These educators stepped in when necessary, but were also very encouraging and seemed to actually be teaching the students along the way. My first haircut here was from one of the girls' first, and although she lacked some confidence, the educator would reaffirm her skills and I LOVED the end result. The educator pushed her just the right amount, and when I saw her a few months later she seemed even more at ease.
You can't get a better deal than this. For only a couple of dollars more than TopCuts, they'll a) do a good job b) wash your hair and c) let you enjoy the experience. And they never even took an absurdly long time cutting my hair (usually start-to-finish was an hour, whereas at other locations its been 2-3 hours at times).
I'm getting married in Toronto, and if they do bridal hair, I'll book them in a heartbeat!Listed in: Where to Go in To-Ron-To
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Review from Soma A.
Toronto, ON
7/28/2009
I will NEVER go back to this ridiculous place again. And don't think this is from one bad experience. No, this is from not one, but two bad experiences. First time I went I made the appointment I told them that my hair was dyed a medium chocolate brown and I wanted some caramel highlights. I knew that having dye in my hair would not make the highlights exactly caramel, so my expectations were rational.
The instructor was present for the first five minutes then disappeared, until the student started to panic a bit and he showed up to shrug his shoulders a little then walked off. In the end I was left with three toned hair, NO highlights, and my hair was fried. I've had highlights done before (under similar hair circumstances) and this has not happened. I however didn't know that they had ruined my hair until I got home and realized what had happened (better light). I called them the next day to ask about what they could do for me, and all they could offer me was to come back in the next 7 days to have the colour corrected. Which was unacceptable because I had to work and could not be in their salon in time, and besides my hair was already over processed to be dyed again. The woman on the phone was not empathetic with me at all, and did not see the fact that not only was I out $100, I was also now an extra $60 in the hole because I had bought some hair masks to treat my over processed hair. They were rude and were not going to try and rectify the issue with me at all.
The second time was last September. My friend was getting married and being the person that I am I gave Aveda Academy another chance. I made the appointment almost three months in advance for a simple cut and style (no colour, I learned my lesson). The week of the wedding my Nana died so now I was going to a Funeral and a Wedding all in one weekend. That Saturday as I walked to my appointment (early in the morning) I got a call from them telling me that my hair dresser had been in a minor accident, and that my appointment had been canceled. I asked them if they had anyone to just trim my hair and give it a quick blow dry. I expressed my sincere concern about the injured stylist, but then explained my problem of having the Wedding and Funeral. After all this I received ZERO empathy and not even an iota of effort to try and help me.
So I was left wandering around the city trying to find a stylist, with a Wedding that afternoon and my Nana's Funeral the next day.
I think that it's a 50/50 thing there. I have friends that have had amazing experiences there, and I've encountered people who have had ones like mine. So it's worth it if you don't mind a gamble. Me... I won't be gambling with this place again. -
Review from C M.
Montréal, QC
2/5/2010
awesome! this place is inexpensive and the stylists are nice. They're also really cute and shy because they just graduated, which only means that they're going to take more time and care cutting your hair. The head and neck message was a nice added touch too!
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Review from Les P.
Toronto, ON
12/14/2010
It's more like a 4 and 1/2 stars!
It was my first time at Aveda Institute and I decided to give it a shot since I felt relatively open to change and not committed to my current haircut. For my first time, I even risked it with the $18 students but I left quite happy and impressed for the price and their level of experience. It does take longer than your regular salon, but I knew that coming in and made sure I had ample time to spare for the appointment.
My stylist was sweet and attentive. She really wanted to get a good idea of what I wanted, and the instructor goes over everything before she even begins. I love the little things like the offerings of coffee/tea/water and mini ritual massage. I enjoyed seeing what everyone else was getting done - looks like a lot of people go there for their colour. I'm a colour virgin.
My stylist also recommended products I'm not familiar with and explained what products she was using in my hair to help style it.
It was interesting to listen to the instructor explain why to cut the hair a certain way and at certain angles and even where to stand in relationship to the hair and scissors. You really get a better idea into what goes into cutting hair and how the hair stylist achieves the result you want. I like the fact that there's always help around whenever the student needs it, and the instructor also offers great tips for the students and myself.
The only downfall is the chemical smell of the place because of product and such.
Don't be afraid - just come in knowing what you like and want and clearly communicate with them!
