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[title]Street cred Over the past 20 years, George Gonzalez’s clients have included Oprah Winfrey, golfers and their wives on PGA tours, as well as everyday people. Never one to set limits or boundaries as to what he can create, Gonzalez says he doesn’t believe in having just one specialty or signature style. “Honestly, I try to do different looks on different people and really focus on what [they] want. I like to do all different types of hair,” he says. Gonzalez not only helps people look good outside, but his services make you feel good on the inside, too. By offering free services to domestic violence victims and partnering with several shelters and organizations, such as the On Your Feet Foundation and Between Friends, Gonzalez hopes to help victims of domestic violence not only create a better life for themselves, but ultimately regain their self-esteem. “I knew that when I got a salon I wanted to use my talents and my team’s talents to give back to the community,” he says.
Why we love him “Every girl knows how hard it is to find a great hair stylist. Once you find that one, you’re happy,” says NBC Chicago meteorologist Cheryl Scott. She moved to Chicago about a year ago and started going to Gonzalez a few months later. “From the moment you meet George you realize that hair is not only his job but also his passion. When you’re in his chair you feel confident and comfortable,” she says. “He just has a gift for what he does.” Hair styling with Gonzalez starts at $75. George the Salon (23 W Hubbard St, fourth floor, 312-923-9444).