Pierre Michel

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In its more than 40 years in existence, this venerable salon has been the training ground for hair-gurus like Oscar Blandi and Louis Licari. Though it has been based in the Trump Tower, The Plaza Hotel, and Bloomingdale’s throughout the years, in November 2009 the salon settled into an expanded 10,000-square-foot space on the third floor of 135 E. 57th street. After donning a robe in the velvet-lined private dressing room and picking up a cappuccino or glass of Champagne from the marble coffee bar, clients are led through the sprawling black-and-white service area, which wraps around the exterior of the floor. Rows of mirrors are brightened by frosted light fixtures and floor-to-ceiling windows, and each station is outfitted with dark oak shelving and a modern black leather chair. Over thirty stylists call the salon home, each touting a roster of high-wattage clients (Calista Flockhart among them) and a portfolio of magazine editorials. The veteran spot prides itself in upscale details, like the beige calfskin benches in the mani/pedi room, massaging, reclining shampoo chairs, and aerodynamic Dyson handdryers in the restroom. The roster of stylists are accompanied by over 100 other staff members, including colorists, estheticians , and assistants; services extend beyond hair to include facials, makeup application, and eyelash extensions. — Lauren Salazar

Yolanda Palmer is the bridal coordinator at this salon known for great manicures, haircuts, and color. In-house hair and makeup start at $150 each; on-location styling for the bride starts at $300; hair and makeup trials start at $125.

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Best of New York Awards

• Best Manicure (2002)