The best hair salons in Melbourne

Think EdwardsAndCo, think touchable, blended ‘rich girl hair’ and light, warehouse-like spaces. You won’t find a list of the best hair salons in Melbourne that doesn’t highlight this celeb-endorsed number (it’s Lara Worthington’s go-to). The salon is particularly renowned for tousled waves and sparkling colour treatments that wear like a dream, a.k.a. “future-proof colour”. It’s an effortlessly undone look that’s perfect for those who don’t want to traipse to the salon every few weeks for touch-ups.

For fresh, modern cuts in a sunshine-filled space, run, don’t walk to Ashburton’s Mitch Studio. The salon is helmed by Tara-Lee Mitchell, an experienced stylist who’s putting sustainability at the forefront of her business. Behind Mitch Studio’s high fashion, wearable ‘dos and luscious colour, you’ll find a certified carbon-neutral operation that recycles 95 per cent of wastage produced. It’s a major feat and makes this spot a sage choice for those looking for ways to make their hair routine more eco-friendly.

A boutique, Black-owned salon located in Brunswick West, Saka Hair Studio is the product of founder Agata Saka’s clear, creative vision. The salon services all hair types - kinky, coiled, curly, wavy or straight - with a focus on creating an artistic, inclusive and empowering space within the hair industry. Saka Hair Studio offers the freedom to reinvent yourself with an editorial look or nurture hair with a style that beautifully complements your natural texture. Standards at Saka Hair Studio are sky-high, no matter your hair goals.

Jumping on the next viral hair colour trend or considering a playful, low fuss cut? Cream can do it all. It’s certainly earned its cult following on the Melbourne hair scene, kitting out locals with Fitzroy-cool, super personalised cuts since 2002. Work with your stylist to dream up a cut and colour matched to your hair fantasies and lifestyle habits for something that’ll hold its own and between visits, whether that’s an artfully mussed bob or a pulse-pounding copper.

Repeated recipient of AHFA’s Australian Hairdresser of the Year Joey Scandizzo is without a doubt one of Australia’s most prolific and inventive stylists. The all-black, ornate exterior of his eponymous salon is located on Toorak Road in South Yarra, and it’s your top pick for a premium salon experience in Melbourne. Get a cut and colour bespoke to your face shape and personal style with the help of their stylists’ expert eye, and step out feeling like a million bucks.

Delilah Hair Studio’s specialty is breathing new life into curls. Its joyful approach to curly hair - kinks, coils and loose waves alike - is infectious. The studio takes pride in providing intimate, dedicated one-on-one sessions with all clients. That means for the duration of your appointment  you’ll have your stylist’s fullest attention, and this dedication translates to striking, deeply personalised results created with techniques like dry cutting and freehand hair painting.

Founder Tom Donato debuted his vision for Xiang Hair in Melbourne’s west in 1989. In the years since, the salon has become a staple for expressive, meticulous cuts and colours. Now boasting four enviable locations, Xiang Hair has a reputation for housing some of the most highly trained and talented stylists in town. The salon's primary objective once you’re in their capable hands? To actualise your truest self image (or alternatively, give you the best haircut of your life).

Trust us… Neel loves curls. After learning the basics of curly cuts in 2005, Neel fell head over heels for all things curly, coily, wavy and afro. He’s made it his life’s mission to cut curly hair excellently and mentor his clients on how to care for their manes like a pro. Appointments at Neel Loves Curls are sought after for a reason - along with an impeccable cut and style (no need to re-do it at home), new clients receive a lesson on how to replicate the look.

With a list of sustainability measures that goes well above and beyond the fundamentals, Grace Gold is sure to satisfy even the most conscientious eco-warriors. 100 per cent of waste is recycled via an assortment of methods, divided into plastic, metal, paper, hair, chemical and food waste, while sister stylists Brittney and Emily specialise in blondes, balayage and dimensional colours that’ll look just as lush grown out. The salon also offers silent appointments - ideal for introverts or those looking to enjoy a quiet moment of self care.

In a serene, minimalist studio setting, Stache’s virtuoso stylists practice “elevated simplicity” - adding an undone, everyday glamour to the sleekest bobs, the creamiest blondes and the most quintessentially Melbourne mullets. Step into the zero waste, low carbon and gender neutral space to undertake a hair transformation or add something extra to your tried-and-true. The team is particularly skilled in dry cutting, working to enhance your hair’s natural texture and shape for a look unique to you.