How’s your hair? Don’t feel badly: If you’re like a lot of people, it’s seen better days. During the height of the pandemic, many folks let their tresses go wild and gray. Now, as society slowly opens back up, more of us are ready to get back in the salon chair, which makes it a perfect time for a fresh new look. Looking to go natural? Or maybe get that hipster mullet? We’ve got you covered with this quick list of salons you need to know about for every hair and beauty need.

CURLS & COILS
Diaspora Salon
Charles Village’s Diaspora Salon is more than your average neighborhood beauty spot. Customers are welcomed to an inviting atmosphere, engaged in open conversation, and leave feeling rejuvenated. Plus, a big part of their mission is to preserve Diasporic cultures and use holistic products. 2412 N. Charles St., 410- 366-8700

EDGY HAIRCUTS
Smoke + Mirrors
To achieve that quintessentially unconventional style, head to Hampden’s Smoke + Mirrors. Stylists here are more than hairdressers: they’re creatives. Mullets, shags, bold color, editorial glam—there’s nothing this salon can’t do. Bonus points for being self- described as “sustainable luxury” and using only the best environmentally friendly products. 725 W. 36th St., 667-930-3974

FRESH COLOR
Ash + Oak Salon
A shiny blonde, a seamless balayage, a bouncy cut: If you’re going for that effortless look, head to Ash + Oak. Over the pandemic, this Catonsville salon actually expanded, opening a second location on Hampden’s 36th Street—and we know why. Amanda Hancock and her team of stylists have that special intuition for crafting styles that perfectly suit their clients’ needs. Two locations, including 700 Frederick Rd., Catonsville, 443-860-9162

ONE-STOP SHOP
Tranquille Hair & Body
Sometimes you need to just take the day for yourself—that’s where Tranquille Hair & Body comes in. Open since 2009, this Towson salon has grown to become a local treasure, offering everything from hair styling to facials, wax- ing, and massages. And they’ve got brides covered, too, with a whole suite of services to get you big-day ready. 414 Delaware Ave., Towson, 410-832-2639

ORGANIC SALON
Laboratorie
Laboratorie is a certified Green Circle Salon, meaning they’re able to divert nearly 90 percent of waste from landfills and can repurpose leftover chemicals, while the salon itself is powered by 100 percent renewable energy. They use several organic hair brands, and, oh yeah, they give really great haircuts, too. 735 Deepdene Rd., 410-435-0805

OPEN

Pilates House: A three-day celebration for the opening of Pilates House in Fells Point will take place from October 4–6. The debut will include refreshments, sales, and of course, plenty of pilates classes. And with its attached boutique, you can shop various products from clothing to beauty essentials before or after an intense workout.

Tortuga: Local boutique owner and TV costumer (see: Veep and House of Cards) Julie Bent has found permanent digs for her mobile shop in Lauraville. You may have spotted Tortuga at various pop-up events throughout the city—selling artisanal finds from independent makers. “It’s our mission to discover and bring to Baltimore beautifully designed goods,” Bent says. “We hope that our thoughtfully curated collection resonates with you.” Join in and discover what Tortuga is all about at a grand opening gathering on October 19th.

EVENTS

Philips House Trunk Show: Visit The Shops at Kenilworth on October 2 for the Philips House Trunk Show hosted by Radcliffe Jewelers. Headquartered in Florida, Philips House is a jewelry company that features unique designs for everyday use. The all-day event from 11am-6pm is a perfect excuse to do some mid-week shopping.

Local Fashion Lecture at the Maryland Historical Society: Settle in to learn about Maryland’s own Claire McCardell and her impact on the fashion industry at this community gathering on October 3. Purchase a ticket and join curatorial assistant Barbara Meger for, Why We Wear What We Wear: The Legacy of Claire McCardell. You’ll hear all about Meger’s research and gain insight on the depth of McCardell’s contribution.

Smoke + Mirrors Opening Party: After four years, it seems natural this trendsetting salon embarks on a new journey­. Announced this past August, Smoke + Mirrors has relocated to a bigger and brighter space. With an expanding team, loyal customers will continue to enjoy impressive cuts, organic products, and a fun atmosphere at their new location just down the street in Hampden at 725 W. 36th Street. Join the team in celebrating the move on Saturday, October 19 from 7pm-10pm.