The Legacy Salon

The Legacy Salon was founded in Raleigh in 2003 by Judi Troutman, who had first run a salon of her own called Troutman Beauty Affaire. The business was later renamed and is today owned by Taylor Downs. Judi, a North Carolina native, began working in hair in the 1970s and went on to run Troutman's College of Hair Styling. Her competition record includes wins at international hair shows. She took a vice-chair post on the North Carolina board of the National Cosmetology Association, was named Educator of the Year on several occasions, and entered the National Cosmetology Association Hall of Fame in 1999. In March 2007 she obtained the American Board of Certified Haircolorists credential, becoming the first holder in North Carolina.

The salon's approach starts with a plan. Stylists explain what is realistic for a given look and what upkeep it will need, and the team works together cooperatively. Each appointment is preceded by a complimentary consultation to talk through goals, steps, expected results and costs. Consultations run about 10 to 15 minutes for haircuts, 15 to 25 minutes for color, and 30 to 45 minutes for extensions. Color services are priced by hair length, and a blowout is included when color totals more than $100 or when color under $100 is booked with a cut or trim. Haircuts and trims include a shampoo, a hot towel if wanted, and a blowout. Clients who prefer to air dry can use an ION air dryer.

The space has a boutique feel, with a beverage offered and locally made art on display. The salon is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 AM to 7 PM, and is closed Monday and Tuesday. Appointments can be booked online through Mangomint, by phone, or by text. Cancellations need to be made within 48 hours of the appointment, either by phone or in Mangomint, to avoid a fee of 30% of the scheduled service. Arriving 15 minutes late may mean the appointment is rescheduled if there is not enough time left to complete it. Missed appointments and cancellations at or after the start time carry a fee of 50% of the scheduled service. Services are non-refundable, though complimentary adjustment appointments are offered within 10 days of the original service.

The salon sells and uses JT Hair, its exclusive haircare line, which is approved by the American Board of Certified Haircolorists. The line is free of sulfates, salts, gluten, petrochemicals, formaldehyde and parabens and is vegan with no animal testing. Shampoo refills are offered, and the salon keeps plastic use to a minimum.

The salon describes itself as the only American Board Certified Haircolorist salon in Raleigh and one of three in North Carolina, and says it offers the highest quality cut and color in the area. Women's Journal Magazine is quoted praising the salon's technical expertise, client dedication and eco-conscious practices. Educators may be present during services for apprentices, new talent and aspiring stylists, and the salon supports further training and continuing education. Clients are asked to treat staff with kindness and respect.

Plans each look around what is realistic and the maintenance it requires, with a cooperative team and a consultation before each appointment.

A boutique-style space with a beverage and locally made art on display.