- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Coffee & Tea |
- All
Bangtown Hair Saloon
Categories: Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Beauty and Spas Barbers Hair Salons, Barbers [Edit]
438 W Pender StVancouver, BC V6B 1T5
Neighbourhood: Downtown
(604) 682-7775
- Hours:
Mon, Wed-Thu, Sat 10 am - 8 pm
Tue 9 am - 8 pm
Fri 9 am - 9 pm
Sun 10 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Good for Kids:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Hair Types Specialized In:
- Coloring, Extensions, Curly Hair, Perms
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
43 reviews for Bangtown Hair Saloon
43 reviews in English
-
Review from Deanna S.
Vancouver, BC
1/28/2012
I just moved to Vancouver and was looking for a place to get my hair cut. I live right downtown and always pass by Bangtown... So when it came time, I checked it out on here. It had great reviews, so I decided to give it a try.
I went in with hair so long that it touched my belly button. I've had so many stylists in the past who didn't listen to me... And my last cut was the one that officially ruined my long hair. It grew out stringy and thin looking.
I met Samantha and told her all about my woes. She gave me a few options, showing me where she would cut to save the majority of my hair if I wanted to keep it long... But was also on board with the short bob I had picked out. All I said for color was "beige blonde highlights that look natural" and she got it bang on (no pun intended)! I couldn't be happier! I also went for the shorter style. The cut was a really drastic change, and she did a great job with it! It looks full and healthy... But she also cut it in a way that it will look good even if I decide to grow it out. The cut and highlights came to just under $200... Which is pretty reasonable considering I was there for 3 hours.
It's a super cool and laid back environment. I had my hair cut at an old piano. The decor is charming, music was great, and one of the stylist's French bulldog was hanging out on a couch. Everyone there seemed to be having a good time. The conversation was good and it didn't feel like I was there for as long as I was.
Oh, and they serve beer. Coolest. Will definitely be going back for my next cut! -
Review from Stephanie M.
Vancouver, BC
12/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
Could it be? Could I FINALLY have found a hair stylist in Vancouver that I will return to? I think quite possibly yes! (Did I mention it's reasonably priced and right downtown, too?)
Alexis was super friendly (I'm really not a fan of hairstylists who don't try to chat with you at least a little bit) and seemed to really understand what I was after with my hair cut. She did a great job and was thorough but efficient.
I also LOVE the vibe in here. Very hip, laid back and unpretentious. There is a very eclectic assortment of art work on the wall to stare at when when you inevitably become tired of staring straight ahead into the mirror at your slightly nervous self getting your hair chopped off. Also, I'm not a beer drinker, but I do think it was cool that you're offered that in addition to coffee, tea or water.
Love the concept, will definitely come back. -
Review from Jennifer P.
12/6/2011
I actually visited Bangtown twice in three days. That's how much I dig it.
For serious, though, my husband and I were in town for a few days and I had recently drawn a line in the sand re: my butchering his hair every time it got too long for him to handle. He agreed to let me buy him a real haircut, so I did some yelping and found a place that was well-reviewed and close to our home base for the weekend.
We came in right when they opened on Sunday and they happened to have about 45 minutes free, so we made ourselves at home. We were offered coffee, tea and beer, and I opted for coffee with a little Bailey's (it was the freakin weekend, ok?). Alexis was our stylist. She was super friendly, was very cool about considering both my husband's preference and my wifely micro-managing, and made him feel right at home--to the point where he's decided I can stop cutting his hair and HE'LL pay next time. Mission Accomplished!
Visit #2 was for me, and happened this morning. I made an appointment with Erynn and she was absolutely wonderful. When I came in, I was seriously considering cutting a bunch of length off my hair simply because it's kind of unmanageable with all the yoga I've been doing recently. Erynn sensed that I didn't REALLY want to chop it, and she spent a lot of time with me planning a less drastic trim/shape, getting to know my hair, and giving me tips for pinning it up in ways that would help my waves do their thing, rather than making my hair crazy and misshapen every time I work out.
All in all, I felt like Erynn was seriously considerate, in an above-and-beyond sort of way, both before and during the cut. She really took her time to make sure things were sitting right AND she kept telling me how in love with my hair she was, which didn't hurt!
So long story short, I just got home to Seattle and had my first real long look in the mirror and my hair looks AMAZING.
We'll both be back for sure...but probably in the afternoon next time, just so we can sample the keg.
12/9/11:
Updating just to say that I went to yoga with half-dried hair this morning and implemented the hair-containment method that Erynn suggested when I saw her. As of right now, my waves look downright magical...like better than they look when I DON'T go to yoga.
THANK YOU, ERYNN! -
Review from Mary L.
DENNY ISLAND, BC
Updated - 1/31/2012
We came back a year later! This time we showed up in the morning. Aaron and Samantha...we requested them this time because of our awesome experience last time...Needless to say, we were NOT disappointed!! Love you guys and we'll be back again.....you can bet your bottom dollar on that, ladies! Love, from Bella Bella
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
10/19/2010
Love, Love, Love this place!! My girlfriend and I live up in Bella Bella and planned a weekend… Read more »
-
-
Review from Eva B.
10/20/2011
I went in with a big mop of unruly brown hair and came out with sleek, smooth shapely brown locks. Basically the haircut was fantastic. On top of that the atmosphere is really chill.
I went in, sat down, put my feet up and read some magazines while I waited my turn. The receptionist came by and offered libations. She quickly went through the list which included tea, coffee, water, beer,
Baileys and hot chocolate. I recall myself replying perhaps a little too loud 'BEER!' and she said 'yup we have a keg in the back'. I declined the alcohol mainly due to the time of day, but was fairly impressed that it was an option.
I liked it so much I think I might just go back. -
Review from melissa d.
10/7/2011
I needed hair help in a hurry; Bangtown delivered. Samantha Fox is brilliant and an amazing artist. She took me from mousy to sassy.
If I lived in Vancouver, this would be the only place I would have touch my hair. -
Review from Mike S.
Vancouver, BC
11/2/2011
I'll admit it, I'm a little anal when it comes to the mop on my head and having my first YVR cut approaching didn't help any w/the hair anxiety... BUT! I remembered my friend Yelp and sought ought recommendations - "and was not disappointed" I must say...
Great cut, great stylist, great space and throw in one more great, ok, two; great location and price! -
Review from Peter S.
Updated - 8/27/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Coming full circle in my salon whoring I finally returned to Bangtown after a two year journey around town.
I booked with the lovely Samantha and after my welcome beverage got right down to business. No BS!
Just a proper cut at a lower price than I previously encountered.
This is the coolest hair place in Vancouver. I found it hard to distinguish between staff, friends, and clients. Which normally would be rather alarming. But it totally works here.
Cheers.Listed in: Groomed but manly
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
9/28/2009
I have been called a bit of a salon whore in the past, so when I say that Bangtown is one of the… Read more »
Comment from Denny B. of Bangtown Hair Saloon 7/31/2010
Thanks for the review Peter! Just wanted to give you an… More » -
-
Review from Elizabeth L.
Vancouver, BC
11/13/2011
I'll start by saying this review covers two visits, and the starred review is only for my second visit.
Sadly, I was super disappointed after my first visit. I should make it clear that if I was only reviewing my first visit, I would have given it a one-star rating.
My first trip to Bangtown started off perfectly pleasantly. When I called to schedule an appointment, I was helped by a cheerful, friendly receptionist who happily booked me in with Erynn. After reading all of the wonderful reviews of Bangtown, I couldn't have been more excited for my first visit.
When I arrived, I was welcomed by another cheerful, friendly receptionist who promptly offered to get me a drink. I thought the salon (er, saloon) had a relaxed, warm vibe and they were playing great music that suited the room..we were off to a good start!
Then Erynn walked over, and that's where the positive experience ends. I should preface everything by saying that I can only presume Erynn wasn't feeling well or was otherwise having a really, really bad day. After reading her bio on Bangtown's website, I thought she would be a fun, bubbly stylist. While I found Erynn to be polite and professional, she seemed reserved, unfriendly and icy, which made my experience awkward and rather unpleasant.
Erynn sat me down and we talked about what I wanted. I have thick hair that sits pretty straight naturally. We had a lengthy chat about what I wanted and to her credit, Erynn patiently talked me through my hesitations and worries. We decided that I would get bangs straight across and the ends of my hair would be trimmed by about 2-3 inches to clean up the overall look.
After that, Erynn gave me the most aggressive, uncomfortable salon shampoo I have ever had. She scrubbed my scalp and jerked my head back-and-forth and side-to-side (think something akin to washing a rag on an old-fashioned washboard) -- if I had been hungover, I probably would have have vomited. Her waist-length hair also fell directly onto my face a lot, which was off-putting.
Then, we got to the cut. More about that later.
Overall, I felt that the entire appointment was super brief. It lasted just over 30 minutes from the time I had my consultation to the time I paid and left, which made me feel that Erynn had not done a careful job of cutting my hair.
Anyway, when all was said and done, I had what I can only describe as a bad "beauty school haircut." The bangs and ends were all 100% blunt, and the ends were especially heavy and thick because they had been cut clear across and not thinned or shaped at all. My straight, thick hair was left just sitting there and it looked like I was wearing a bad wig. I thought to myself that it was a new look and I had to give myself some time to get used to it.
When it came time for me to pay, Erynn shooed away the receptionist who had originally greeted me and personally rang me up at the front desk. This was awkward, especially when it came time to leave a tip. The haircut itself was very reasonably priced ($50 plus HST), but I felt compelled to give Erynn a good tip that she didn't deserve.
Fast-forward to the next morning: I decided that I could no longer handle the awful haircut I had walked out of Bangtown with. I called and got an appointment to get my hair fixed up the next day. The receptionist was (again!) cheerful and friendly, which left me with a glimmer of hope that my next visit would be better than my first.
...which leads to my second experience at Bangtown.
My second visit far surpassed my first. I arrived right when the shop opened up and was warmly greeted by Denny, one of Bangtown's owners. Denny offered me a morning coffee with Bailey's (!) and I was then greeted by Andrea, who was polite and professional like Erynn, but also friendly in an understated way. I was nervous because I felt like one of "those" (read: difficult/bitchy) people because I had asked to get my haircut fixed. Andrea made me feel welcome and comfortable. She sat me down and we talked about how we were going to fix my hair.
Andrea took her time and carefully dry-cut my hair and thinned out my heavy, unflattering blunt ends and also corrected my bangs so they didn't look like I had cut them myself with a salad bowl over my head. She ended up having to cut off a couple more inches in order to fix things, so I now have hair that is considerably shorter than what I had originally wanted. However, I am pleased to say the overall look is leagues above my first cut.
Andrea walked me over to the front desk and discreetly told Denny that she had fixed my previous cut. Without flinching, Denny told me that my service was taken care of, which made me super happy.
So, after a terrible first visit, I was very happy after my second trip and was super impressed by Denny and Andrea's great customer service...I will probably be back to Bangtown! -
Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
7/10/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I think I might be ready to commit to a new hairstylist for my Vancouver home-town cuts. This is huge -- since I've been floating around for a year or so now, trying to decide who to settle down with. And I think I've found her!
Ali has everything I'm looking for in a stylist: she's got rad hair - shaved, long, funky colours, and adorned with what looked like feathers and fabric - perfect. She's earnestly interested in stuff - like restaurants, neighbourhooods, traveling etc. She's a stylist who takes classes and works at her craft. She wants to be a master - I like this in a stylist. She's got well-appointed pricing. It was $56 for a cut (and the credit card machine has the option to tip on either percentage or dollar amount - which takes the math right out of it, of course I picked the 20% option!) And most importantly, she made me feel comfortable right away and I got the feeling that she "got" what I was after. She listened to me babble on about my hair - how I style it, my trouble spots and what I want to be able to do. She then shared her own ideas and away we went. And *bang* I have a great cut again!
So that's Ali - but what about Bangtown? Well I think Ali and Bangtown go hand in hand. Bangtown's what I imagine for a salon: friendly staff, decent coffee, laid back, vintage, funky atmosphere, lots of natural light. Individuality, soft colours. And no air of hoity. Love it!
I should mention, there was a hiccup with my booking. I wasn't in the system which does make sense when I think back to my first experience on the phone with them. The guy was friendly on the phone, but sounded distracted and didn't ask for my phone number. It just made me think this is one of those places that doesn't call to confirm. But, I found out that they do call the day before to confirm, and of course I didn't get a call because I wasn't in the system. Lucky for me that Ali had a cancellation and could take me. And I think that serendipity took hold and sent me to the right stylist for me!Listed in: 'Cos I'm Just a Girl
-
Review from Rommy G.
Vancouver, BC
Bangtown is not only the coolest place I've ever gotten a haircut, but it's one of my favorite places to hang out in Vancouver.
Seriously.
My hair grows ridiculously fast. I can't explain it. I feel like the kid from The Peanut Butter Solution: http://www.youtube.com.... (For the record, that was the most horrifying movie. I was traumatized by it for YEARS after seeing it. Don't see it. Actually, do see it.)
Anyways, I stumbled upon Bangtown a few months ago after buying some furniture just a few doors down. I walked in and was instantly taken aback by the decor. The old family photos from the 70s, the comfortable couch, the photo of his holiness Pope John Paul II, and a 3-D Jesus hologram.
The day I arrived, I hadn't booked an appointment, but Lisa happened to be available. Instantly I was smitten...by her epic scissoring and clipping skills. A good listener, she took a few minutes to understand exactly what I wanted. Then she got me a beer (A BEER!) and worked her magic on my mop.
It was the perfect haircut. I mean, she cut it exactly as I wanted it. She's also a fantastic conversationalist. She helps me to understand my commitment issues while I weep in agreement with her professional evaluation. Just kidding. We usually talk about dating and the total douchebags in this city and what an awesome guy I am. Then I run home crying as I recall what a douchebag I really am.
In short, Bangtown keeps me looking forward to my next haircut, a free beer, a psychological evaluation, tears and laughter, and that little Boston terrier who roams around the store.
PS - Make sure to book appointments ahead of time. -
Review from Dee B.
Updated - 6/5/2011
Ali:
I ask for Jessica Biel's hair and guess what I have? JESSICA BIEL'S HAIR!!!
As usual, you are incredible. See you again soon.Listed in: Best of Vancouver Beauty
3 Previous Reviews: Show all »
-
1/26/2011
Dear Ali,
Thank you for doing my hair for my wedding. It was amazing, glorious, hot and amazing (yes,… Read more »
Comment from Denny B. of Bangtown Hair Saloon 9/25/2010
Thanks for the feedback Dorothy. We do use fresh, clean… More » -
-
Review from Carly S.
Vancouver, BC
8/7/2011
I'm a floater when it comes to hairdressers. Usually they cut too much off or give me the wrong colour or just fry my hair. But I'm a blonde, and I started to get brassy and the ends were frayed, so I had to go somewhere. I checked yelp and the best ratings were for Bangtown, so I booked.
ALI was phenomenal! She was super chill, really interesting, and was still a solid professional. And instead of bleaching my hair, she convinced me to tone it up and add some blonds so we wouldn't fry it, then trimmed all the dead ends and gave me bouncy curls! I can't even exaggerate when I say it was the most beautiful hair ever.
I'm booking Ali again soon! -
Review from Hilda L.
Updated - 9/14/2011
I scheduled a 'bang trim' 1.5 month after my initial cut to clean up my shave and when it came time to pay, Alexis tells me that it's complimentary! You. made. my. day.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
8/12/2011
They say getting a makeover post-heartbreak is therapeutic and I'm so happy that I came here for my… Read more »
-
-
Review from Sarah A.
9/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
Bangtown is a great salon, as many others on here have mentioned. My stylist Alexis gave me a great cut. She listens to what you want and takes her time making the cut work for you. The staff here are very friendly and accommodating (they even offer you a beer while you wait). The decor is fun and the price list is not that bad, especially compared to some of the other salons I have been to in Vancouver. I think I have finally found a Vancouver salon that works for me.
-
Review from Awesta M.
8/14/2011
I'm unfaithful...to my hairstylists. I've been through at least half a dozen here in Vancouver. I had the guy who gave me the equivalent of a mullet, the stylist who couldn't stop talking about how great they were and the stylist who didn't speak English (we used pictures).
Except for the mullet none of these hairstylists were bad per se. We just weren't making a connection. So as it got to that point where my hair was beginning to look like a poodle on my head, I turned to Yelp for some advice. Let's be honest, once the first Yelper said "Free beer with haircut," I was sold.
I walked into the really funky, fun vibe of Bangtown and was put at ease (that might've been the beer, but whatevs). My stylist Samantha walked up and introduced herself. Her hair was shaved on one side and dyed blonde with black undertones, I was worried my hairstyle of choice would bore her. But as I sat down in her chair and told her what I wanted she was like, "No, totally I see it and we can definitely make it happen." Honestly, have sweeter words ever been spoken? The answer is no. She nailed what I wanted to a T. I walked out loving my hairstyle and wanting to go back.
Now I've gone back for haircut #2 which was a drastic style change from #1 and...NAILED IT, AGAIN!!! Honestly, I wasn't sure if she'd be able to top the first cut, but she outdid herself. I've gotten so many compliments and one of the main ones has been, "that's a true hairstyle by someone who knows what they're doing." So yeah, I'm in love. Butterflies and bunnies are all I see when I think of Bangtown. -
Review from Charlotte B.
Vancouver, BC
10/9/2011
After reading the reviews I was really excited to check Bangtown out. Every one on the phone and front desk seemed really friendly, but when I met, my stylist, Andrea I was a bit disappointed. She seemed really low energy and to be honest a bit frumpy for someone who is supposed to be in the beauty industry, right away my excitement dwindled and turned into fear. She did not seem very receptive to what I wanted done and even hurt me when we she buzzed my neck to clean it up. When I left my hair looked as though it had barely been touched and I had two red marks that stung and burned on my neck, Hot. That being said, I saw other people leave with nice hair cuts, but this was not the case for me.
-
Review from Sadie G.
Vancouver, BC
11/8/2010
Worst Color I have ever gotten!
I moved to Vancouver 2 1/2yrs ago and have been on a mission to find an amazing stylist who cuts and colours hair just as well as my So-Cal stylist dose!
I gave Bangtown a try after reading y'all reviews.... unfortunately I'm still searching for a stylist!
The stylist I got was Danielle - she's young and super funky. She can blow out you're hair like nobodies business - but colour is not her thing at all. I had a full head of highlights done by Danielle - well what I really had done was; chunks of hair that started blonde by the root but as it progresses down the shaft it turned into a brassy orange - ew. It was horrible. I was running a bit late for a date so decided not to give her a second chance and bounce....
so the search goes on....
Like I said she can do a blow out for me anytime,but I just can't get over the armature colour.
Do not get you hair coloured by Danielle at Bangtown!Comment from Denny B. of Bangtown Hair Saloon 3/25/2011
Hi Sadie, So sorry to hear about your unfortunate… More » -
Review from Shelly M.
Vancouver, BC
5/7/2011
This is a cute salon where, as noted below, you can get your choice of adult or non-adult beverages while getting your hair coiffed. It's intimate and cozy, not pretentious at all.
Good: Cost was good to average for the location.
Cut was good, nothing great.
Stylist was adorable--very socially conscious and forward thinking.
It was a Saturday morning, the place was a bit damp and cold. Could use some updating or tidying up a bit.
Overall a very good experience- would go back but I'm not committed. -
Review from Fonny C.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 8/8/2011
And Ali does it again. What do you do with colour damaged, frizzy, overgrown hair? CUT IT ALL OFF!! But, with edge and pizazz of course. How? Go to Ali at Bangtown.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
4/3/2011 ROTD 7/2/2011
This is way overdue and as much as I want to keep Ali and Bangtown a secret, it is just not fair to… Read more »
-
-
Review from Kirstie P.
Port Coquitlam, BC
11/8/2011
After moving to Vancouver I've been on a hunt to find a hairdresser that I can connect with and obviously one that knows what they're doing. After being turned onto Bangtown I decided to give them a shot. I called to book an appointment and got in for that same day with Erynn, who I was hoping to get in with after reading her bio on the website. Erynn sat me down and asked what I would like done, I told her that I really like the beachy wave/texturized look but because my hair is shoulder length I want to grow it out long. She explained to me that in order to grow my hair I would have to save the texturizing for later. I could tell Erynn really knows what she's doing and I appreciated that she sat down and took the time to explain hair to me. We got along well and had much to talk about due to both of our interests in health and wellness. I could not be happier with Erynn. I look forward to my next appointment with her all the time! It doesn't hurt that the salon has decor that I would never imagine for a salon, which I love. I highly recommend Bangtown and I highly recommend Erynn.
-
Review from Lynn H.
Vancouver, BC
9/2/2010
This was one of those haircuts where, about half-way through, I started to get nervous. Let's just say I lost a lot of hair yesterday and I had a bit of chopper's remourse at half-time.
The Back Story: It has been a while since I got my hair cut (about 6 months) and I grew it out significantly over 3 months in Malawi. So when I got back to Vancouver it was time to carry on my epic search for a good hair-dresser. It is not that there arent good hair dressers in Vancouver it's just that they charge way to much and chatter incessantly (no my idea of good service does not include being talked at for hours... hairdressers of the world take note!)
I Yelped for a highly reviewed salon and Bangtown was up there so I booked an appointment with Melissa. WHAT A GREAT PLACE!
The receptionist was friendly and offered me a "coffee, tea, or a beer"... I got tea but the beer was tempting if only for the novelty. Melissa and I talked about what I wanted and she seemed to have a really good sense of where to go with the cut. I was incredibly un-specific and so she took "shorter" and "something that looks good with my face shape" and "not boring" and made magic! When I got home with my new wavy bobish cut (note: perfect heavy bangs!) I kept walking my mirrors and reflective surfaces to get a peek at the new do.
Bottom Line: Bangtown is great and I urge you to give them a try. They are open till 8 and they take drop ins (I asked Melissa and she says there is usually someone available. So pull up a chair, grab an cold-one and enjoy!Listed in: Ironic Eats and Meets
-
Review from Kat S.
9/15/2010
I love my hairdresser and I followed her to Bangtown a couple years ago from her old salon. Even though downtown isn't very convenient for me, I make the trip because Bangtown and Michele are so worth it.
Any salon that has free beer with your hair styling is good in my books. Or if you just need a pick me up, you can get a tea or coffee. Yay!
Bangtown is friendly, comfortable and inviting. It doesn't have the cold, sterile (not that this place isn't clean, it is) feeling that a lot of salons have. Here you sit on a comfy couch while you wait, and make yourself at home. There is lots to look at and the staff are really nice.
Michele is my go-to girl for my hair and she never lets me down. Check out her finger nails while you are there, as they are always pretty wild, and often in theme with the season.
My review wouldn't be complete without a trip to the bathroom. Theirs is tiny but full of character. The toilet is gold, just like a throne. =). -
Review from Tien L.
Surrey, BC
8/3/2010
For the past 5+ years, I have been in search of a great hair stylist to work with my hair.
I have my reservations about who with scissors can come near my hair and work with it. I also never know what to do with my hair, as I have always had it short for most of my life.
Since moving out to Toronto and coming back again after 2 years, my hair has grown pretty long (bangs in eyes, touching the nape of my neck) cause I could never find a hair stylist I was comfortable with out there.
When getting a haircut, I will usually leave it up to the hair stylist to decide what to do with it. I mean they should know how to make me look good yah? But after going to Zeal and a few other places, while they were good, I was never truely relaxed while getting it done.
My last hair stylist Emily Roop was great but I happened to walk by this 'Saloon' and was automatically intrigued. Out came the Blackberry for some yelp research and quickly noted this place as a must visit.
I was finally able to find some time to book an appointment and came in for a haircut with Samantha. I was the last for her day, but she was extremely friendly and hospitable. She did a quick consultation about my hair and what I wanted, what she liked and what I am comfortable with. I just told her, it's all up to you :)
Without a hesitation, she was able to give me a great rundown about what she would as well as some suggestions about what she would do next visit, to go even more funky if I am comfortable with the one she was going to give me.
Big Plus there. She chatted and washed my hair. Then it was onto the cut where I was offered and presented with a beer :) Plus point #2. I was able to relax and not worry. Point #1000
Also, most shockingly, Samantha was new to the shop by a few months, from talking to the owner, they would usually never hire someone like her since she is the tender age of 19. I can see why they did anyways though!
Being aware of the hair industry for a while (my mother is a licensed BC hairdresser) I can only forsee great things for Samantha as she grows and learns from the rest of the crew @ Bangtown Saloon.
Samantha was a great hair stylist, and I she has become my newest hair stylist. Sorry Emily! I will see you soon Samantha! :) -
Review from Sara M.
8/26/2010
Bangtown causes my hair to swoon. Seriously.
I booked an appointment with Ali on a friend's recommendation after my regular hair gal peaced out on a trip around the world. Ali is delightful and made my hair so happy!
Ali is competent, creative and fun to chat with. I have long hair, and it's usually a struggle with certain stylists as they always want to chop it off. She was keen to give me a fun cut and still keep my length.
The Saloon has a vintage vibe and plays great music, a welcome change from all the typical "club" type salons I have visited. It really does feel saloonesque. They recently just threw a kick ass party to celebrate their anniversary - complete with fun music, cheap bar and fun peeps. How cool is that?
After tax and tip, mind you this was prior to HST, my cut came to around $64. In my 'expert' opinion this is incredibly reasonable for a girl's cut in this city! I am ashamed to say I was previously paying about $40 or more!
Thanks for being awesome Bangtown. -
Review from Kyle S.
Vancouver, BC
1/15/2011
Love this place! After a few bad experiences looking for a new salon/barbershop a friend recommended Bangtown and I feel like I've found a place to call home.
The space is terrific (they call it a saloon with good reason), with high ceilings, creaky floorboards, mismatched furniture groupings from your grandma's house and work stations made from vintage vanities. Great taste in music (no satellite techno!!!) and an overall relaxed vibe. Bonus points for Bobo the resident Boston Terrier and complimentary boozy drinks.
Of course, it goes without saying that the cuts are great. You're not going to get this sort of loyal clientele if the cutters don't know what they're doing.
The owners must be doing something right because the staff are uniformly friendly and seem to genuinely enjoy working there. In the personality-driven hair industry it takes a lot of hard work to make everything/everyone click as well as they do at Bangtown. Hats off to these guys. I'll be back. -
Review from Amelia C.
Vancouver, BC
8/20/2011
I like my haircut. Matt F. did it. He listened and discerned my truest wishes and executed them masterfully.
He also made tactful suggestions in terms of caring for my hair without trying to sell me anything.
Very graciously he brought me my drink and lead the way to his chair, the sink, and finally the counter where I gladly paid the reasonable cost plus tip. -
Review from Daniel S.
Vancouver, BC
8/23/2011
The bottom line is Bangtown is the sweetest hair salon I've ever been to. With a great atmosphere and great team of stylists to boot I've never had a better experience getting my haircut. I've been here three times and been to two different stylists; Melissa T and Samantha. Samantha was recommended to me by Melissa as she was on vacation for the month. Both stylists were perfect and did exactly what I wanted everytime I went. They even go beyond the call of duty and suggest other things to make what I want even better.
I'm the type of guy who jumps around a lot and am pretty picky with hair but I've never had an issue here. They recommend great products and are extremely helpful with any questions I've had. They also are great conversationalists and I've never had better rapport with two different stylists. Samantha and Melissa are also pretty much the only two stylists I've ever had that have used a hair product on me that I really loved. Major props for that.
I'd recommend this place to just about anyone. The price is right for what you get and it's a fun place to be. I'll be going here every time I'm in Vancouver and my only hope is that I can find a place even half this good in any other city I go to.
Consider me a fan. -
Review from Olga B.
Surrey, BC
7/6/2011
This place is awesome! The one thing I love about it most is that the owners obviously look at quality as the most important aspect rather than just money as many other businesses do. All of the stylists are unique in their own style and have a lot of talent. This place really sells itself, I would definitely recommend it!
I had an appointment with Samantha, and I showed her pictures of what I wanted. She did my hair EXACTLY as I had shown her in the picture, where other stylists had told me it may not be possible with my hair. She was confident, a risk taker and clearly passionate about her work!
My nervous butterflies about the dramatic hair change were also calmed by the glass of beer they gave me, which was a plus.
I am definitely coming back here! -
Review from Courtie E.
Vancouver, BC
7/20/2011
I read a lot of the yelp reviews and decided to book my own Bangtown experience and I was not disappointed. As someone not good with giving direction, my stylist Matt was able to take my vague request not to look like Justin Bieber and customized a short, feminine but not bland hair style. He spent ages with the scissor work as I sat sipping my beer. It was completely tailored to my face shape which was a nice surprise. I would absolutely go back again. Price is right for an hour haircut at an even $56.
-
Review from Rachel P.
Vancouver, BC
4/9/2010 ROTD 5/12/2010
Bangtown Saloon. Gosh, I always wanted to be an outlaw.
My cowboy boots may look no more authentic after my visit to Bangtown, but jeepers creepers, my hair looks hot!
Malissa is a doll. Cheerful, professional and a babe.
She gave me advice on cute drinking spots, lounges to while away evenings and spots to camp in the BC wilderness as well as an amazing cut and colour for a reasonable $128.
My hair feels healthy, my cut is exactly what I wanted (not too much off!) but she gave me dramatically different bangs that satisfied my craving for something NEW without chopping off all the length I have waited so very patiently to grow.
Where else would one go for killer bangs other than Bangtown???
Cans of beer on arrival. Cool, eclectic decor.
Love, love, love you Bangtown...xxxxxxxx -
Review from Tim L.
6/23/2009 7 photos
For my 700th review and my 400th first (ah the careful coordination this took) I thought I would review the hair salon that I go to whenever I visit my hometown.
-----
If you're sick of the ultra trendy super slick Euro inspired hair salons along with the equally ultra trendy super slick hair stylists, then this is the place for you.
The moment you walk by and peek inside the big storefront windows you can immediately tell this is a different beast. With a name like Bangtown Hair Saloon it's pretty evident you're in for one bad-assery rock star experience.
The decor which is equal parts Dodge City, vintage pinup, and various knick knacks makes for a perfect backdrop while you get your hair done.
The stylists working here are unpretentious and as equally varied as the things that adorn the walls which makes for incredible conversations.
It certainly has more of a laid back vibe here, where it feels more like a friend is doing your hair versus a business. Don't get me wrong though, they're very professional.
Whether you want the same old look or want to go for something different, I've always gotten great advice on what would or wouldn't look good. Then again I am a guy and my hair is probably less complicated than those with longer hair or more intricate dos.
I always end up making my appointments with Melissa T, who has always done a great job. Especially with my Asian hair which can be tricky for less experienced stylists.
Being one of the last customers of the day I managed to snap some awesome pics of this place. Check em out!
They have this kickass video commercial: http://www.youtube.com...
What free beer / champagne with hair cut?!Listed in: Review Milemarkers
-
Review from Fehkor M.
Victoria, BC
11/19/2010
What more can I say about a hair saloon that gives you a free beer (or coffee and baileys) with any free service?! Sadly, the receptionist forgot my drink.
That being said, I was really happy with the service and the cut. Since this was my first visit we took 20 mins to go over what type of hair I have (short hair) and what would work best. The stylist did a great job and was receptive to my wishes to go shorter!
The saloon itself is full of wonderful kitsch. It's total eye candy, if you love the strange and delightful. -
Review from Linda R.
Surrey, BC
Updated - 5/6/2011
Wow so glad I found this treasure of a hair salon. I was in again last week and this time took a photo of the new style I wanted to try. Melissa did a fabulous job of making me look like a star. With very short hair I will be back in again in a couple of weeks to maintain my new cut.
Since I got my new "do" only a few days ago I have had many compliments on my new style.
See you soon Bangtown.2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
-
5/5/2010
WOW this place is getting busier and busier, last time I was there every stylist was busy with… Read more »
-
-
Review from Kate P.
Vancouver, BC
4/19/2011
I decided to get my long hair cut short (pixie style, like Carey Mulligan in Wall Street), which is a terrifying thought since I'd had it cut short once before many years ago and though it made me look like a boy. I headed over with cautious optimism to Bangtown after reading the positive reviews on yelp.
As the other readers have mentioned, the staff were very nice and offered all sorts of beverages. My appointment was with Samantha and she was great. She seemed to know exactly what she was doing and made sure I was getting the cut that I wanted. I was very happy with the result. Bonus points for the free bang trimming when I need to go back. -
Review from Laura D.
11/22/2010
Bang Town has it all! Cool salon fit out, lovely unpretentious friendly staff who (most importantly) are willing to do whatever you want done with your hair. I walked away with the exact cut and colour I wanted, which is a rarity in hairdressing I find. Plus they have the cutest dog who will literally jump up and sit on your lap. Bang Town is now my regular salon.
-
Review from Trischa A.
Vancouver, BC
12/1/2010
This is an amazing salon! I had my highlights redone by Samantha and she did an amazing job. They are the only salon to offer alcoholic drinks which is a little odd, but interesting!
-
Review from K K.
Port Moody, BC
1/14/2011
I have been going to this place since it first opened and have been a Melissa t follower! The place is funky, the people are all very nice, and Melissa T is a doll. She is super easy to talk to, does an amazing job on both cuts and colours and is always on time. She always makes sure you leave happy. Free drinks for those needing a beer or tea any time of day. Highly recommend this place.
Btw the first time I went I was a bit scared of the alternative atmosphere as I was used to paying higher prices for my hair at shi shi places ( and often it wasn't done the way I liked it after spending a load of $$) but it doesn't take long to grow on you... -
Review from Minna E.
Vancouver, BC
9/25/2010
I was interested in getting the "Brazilian Blowout" for the first time and had done a bit of price comparison at some of the salons. What first attracted me was the 15% off discount, which made the price at this salon a bit cheaper than other places. Without the discount, it's pretty comparable to the other salons I called.
First I had a consultation with my future-stylist Erynn, who explained the process to me, broke down the cost (including the need to use the BB line shampoo, but some alternatives to use for conditioner), and checked out my hair. I have mid length wavy hair (longer than chin, but shorter than shoulder length), which is fine but I have a lot of it so it gives off the illusion of actually being thick. Because of this, Erynn said she would probably have to use a bit more product. If price is a concern, definitely get a consultation so you have an idea of what to expect because the price is based on how many capfulls of the product is needed.
The process itself for me took about 2 1/2 hours. First she applied a special shampoo, then she sat me down and applied the product section by section. She blow dried my hair with a round brush, then flat ironed all the sections. By this point my hair already felt amazingly smooth. She then rinsed my hair, and for the first time ever, blow dried my hair straight without having to use a brush or a flat iron.
My hair has NEVER blow dried straight, it has a stubborn wave in it and it gets frizzy and wavy at the first feel of moisture. But Erynn blow dried my hair the way I do it (i.e. with her hand, not a brush) and my hair felt amazing. Later in the evening I took a bath and my hair got damp, but I let it air dry and AGAIN for the first time, my hair air dried straight.
I woke up this morning, and my hair is usually a crazy mish mash of hair in every direction, but it was still completely straight. This product is a miracle and Erynn was a great stylist and I would recommend it (and Erynn!) to anyone. I will follow up in 2 months to let everyone know how the Brazilian Blowout has fared.Comment from Denny B. of Bangtown Hair Saloon 9/25/2010
Awesome! Thanks for the review and we look forward to… More » -
Review from Margo D.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 5/11/2010
Once again I went back to Melissa T. and she did a great job again. I wanted to have a vintage hairstyle for a friend's wedding and when I called and told her what I wanted she did some research before I came in. She had great ideas and executed perfectly. I am now totally sold.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
4/12/2010
Bangtown was just what I needed. I had Melissa T. and she did a great job. I knew exactly what I… Read more »
-
