Salon and Spa Directory: Julien Farel Setai

There's a new salon in town, and it guarantees to make your next hair experience the best one yet. I'm talking, of course, about Julien Farel Setai. The recently opened salon in the Setai Fifth Avenue, a Capella Managed Hotel (it just opened in late 2010) is one of the most luxurious I've yet to come across.

As I stepped off the elevator and into the space shared by the Julien Farel salon and Auriga Spa (definitely a spa I'll be frequenting in the coming months), I was blown away by the beautiful decor and the relaxing upscale ambiance. The women's and men's salons are divided, so the entire experience feels very catered toward your specific needs and desires in a salon experience.

The women's side has a large circular mirror, around which the hair stations are centered. To one side are the two sinks, each with one of the most comfortable armchairs I could ever hope to sit in while having my hair done! My stylist, Steven Po, adeptly blew out my hair with an oversized round bristle brush, which he said helps to distribute the oils throughout the hair and adds tons of shine. (He was right!)

Although I had asked for a smooth, sleek blowout, Steven actually gave me a fun, bouncy look that I received compliments on for two days! When all was said and done, he said he wanted to give me a look I couldn't accomplish at home on my own. I'm glad he went with his gut -- it looked fantastic!

A blowout at Julien Farel starts at $75. In addition to the new location at the Setai, there is another Julien Farel salon on Madison Avenue. The Madison Avenue location even offers beauty services for bridal parties hosting weddings at The Pierre Hotel. Visit julienfarel.com for more information and to book an appointment.