The Collective

The Collective operates as a cooperative of selected independent stylists at 2115 Piedmont Road NE. The salon states that its goal is a return to salon culture as a community hub, and it describes its feel as a 1990s-style salon with 90s R&B and a community centered on women.

Stylists share clients, techniques and referrals, and they promote one another's work. Every stylist uses Co+Lab Hair Care, so clients can move between stylists and expect the same standard of care. Co+Lab products are vegan and made without sodium laureth sulfate and methyl paraben, and the line now includes CBD. The salon says the Co+Lab line helps preserve and protect color-treated hair.

Booking works best when clients schedule all the services they need for one visit. Virtual or in-salon consultations are available for anyone unsure which services suit them. Clients and stylists have a 15-minute grace period on arrival. Children may come along only when they are receiving a service, and additional guests are not permitted because space is limited. Pricing is listed on Vagaro at the time of booking, and chemical service prices are starting prices that can change with the amount of product used. The salon accepts major credit and debit cards and most digital payment apps. There are two designated spots beside the salon and free parking in the garage.

The salon also operates as a teaching space, hosting classes, brand activations and hands-on training. The event space has styling stations with mirrors, shampoo bowls and salon chairs, with electrical access at designated stations and free on-site parking. Look and Learn sessions accommodate up to 20 attendees, and Hands-On sessions accommodate up to 10, each as a half day or full day. Events take place on Sundays and Mondays and need 45 days of notice, or 30 days for recurring partners. The owner is on-site during events.

Healthy hair is the baseline here. Every service begins with an assessment of the hair's condition, and the salon says it will not sell services a client's hair does not need and will say so when a result is not right.

A 1990s-style salon feel with 90s R&B and a community centered on women.