Salon Vanity ★9.9

About the salon

Salon Vanity has worked the Rittenhouse end of Center City since 2005, when Edmondo Blando opened it on one premise: a cut or color should enhance what a guest already has rather than impose a look on them. The salon sits several floors above the shopping traffic, and its work has been picked up by Elle, Allure and Philadelphia Magazine along with Best of Philly honors and a place on L’Oreal’s list of top American salons.

Services

Cutting is done dry, with texturizing to control weight and movement rather than blunt removal. Color combines several methods in one head where the hair calls for it: balayage, foil highlights, gloss and gray blending. Extensions add length or density, smoothing treatments manage frizz, and the salon runs a full bridal service from trial to wedding-day styling.

Technology and brands

Frizz control is handled with Cezanne, a smoothing system formulated without formaldehyde, which suits guests who want the result without the older keratin chemistry. Edmondo Blando has designed his own signature brush line, handmade and made from environmentally responsible materials, used at the stations and sold at reception. Tools are disinfected between guests as licensing requires.

Team and stylists

Edmondo Blando remains the owner and the technical reference point, internationally trained and known specifically for dry cutting and combination color. Around him works a settled team of stylists and colorists, several of whom have been with the salon for years, and profiles with their specialties are published so guests can match a stylist to the job.

The Space

Being upstairs changes the atmosphere: no street window, no passing foot traffic, quieter than a ground-floor room. The floor is open and bright, guests are offered a glass of wine, and the pace is unhurried enough that a long appointment reads as time off rather than an errand.

Who it’s for

People with fine or unruly hair who need weight managed rather than cut off, guests growing out or softening an existing color, brides who want the same hands for the trial and the day itself.

Questions and answers

Can I book online? Yes, appointment requests go through the salon site, and the phone line confirms details.

How long should I plan for? About an hour for a cut and finish; balayage, extensions or a color change can take several hours.

Do you cut men and children? Men’s cutting is on the menu; ask at booking about younger guests.

Can I combine services in one visit? Yes, cut with color or a smoothing treatment is a routine pairing.

Is a gift certificate available? Yes, gift cards are sold by the salon.

Opening hours