Scissor & Fork

The salon was started in response to burnout and exploitation in the hair industry. It describes itself as built around ethical labor, collective care and community gathering, and says its artists should have autonomy, fair pay, rest and respect.

The café is open to the public, not only to salon clients. Drinks are made with locally roasted coffee and tea, and the menu includes bites from small bakeries and pastry chefs, with vegan and gluten-free options. Clients may enjoy a drink or small bite during their appointment when possible. Café hours are 7:30 am to 2:00 pm on Mondays, Fridays and Sundays, 7:30 am to 5:00 pm on Tuesdays, and 7:30 am to 4:00 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Hair services are appointment-only and booked with individual artists, whom the salon describes as seasoned stylists who lead with skill, care and integrity. Walk-ins are not accepted, so advance booking is recommended. A free 15-minute consultation, in person or virtual, is offered to talk through color or haircut goals before booking. Major transformations, color corrections and vivid color may require a consultation first. The salon is cashless and accepts major credit cards and digital payments.

Clients must be 12 or older. Cancellations more than 48 hours ahead carry no fee. A late cancellation due to illness or emergency becomes a credit toward the next appointment with the same provider, valid for 12 months. A no-call, no-show is charged the full service cost. There is a 15-minute grace period for late arrivals by clients and stylists, and concerns about a service can be raised within 7 days for possible adjustments. Clients may be photographed or filmed for social media or education, and can tell their stylist if they prefer not to appear. The salon prefers contact by text, email or Instagram and has no traditional phone line. The Irving Park Blue Line station is about a 10 to 15 minute walk away, with Irving Park bus 80 and Pulaski bus 53 nearby. The salon is near the Kennedy Expressway, and street parking is typically available on Elston Avenue and Irving Park Road. The café and salon have ground-level entry and accessible pathways.

Built around ethical labor, collective care and community gathering, with artists given autonomy, fair pay, rest and respect.