No cutting, no highlighting, no single-process coloring. A blow-dry salon only does one thing, and therefore, should do it well: blowouts. While every salon can wash and style hair, the benefit of a blow-dry concept salon is the convenience. A blowout only takes 30–45 minutes, so the salon is a revolving door of clients—making it possible for you to walk in without an appointment or book one at a moment's notice.
Here are some great places to get one done.
goldplaited in Lakeview
The signature blowout ($38) at goldplaited includes a pampering scalp massage, which is always a welcomed touch. If you're bored of the typical blowout, opt for one of goldplaited's dry style options. For $30, you'll get a braid crown, ballerina bun, faux-hawk, or other festival-worthy ’do. Just make sure your hair is already clean (this service doesn't include a wash or dry). In the evenings, the salon offers makeup and hair lessons like contouring classes and curling iron workshops for under $30.
2803 N Sheffield Ave., 773-880-9180, goldplaited.com
Drybar in Lincoln Park
Ringing in as one of the pricier blowouts on our list at $40, Drybar justifies its cost with plenty of perks: iPhone charging docs, flat screen televisions galore, and a complimentary coffee, tea or mimosa with your service. Drybar's owner Alli Webb is growing her national beauty empire one blowout at a time, and sells her own line of products and styling tools (including the highly-praised Buttercup Blow Dryer, $190) in the salon and at Sephora.
1611 N. Sheffield Ave., 312-288-3087, thedrybar.com
Arch Apothecary in Old Town
This beauty shop may be best known for its retail section of hard-to-find products (Eve Lom, Rodin, By Terry), but it's also a fantastic place to get a brow shaping ($20), makeup application ($50) and a blowout ($35). With that kind of grooming power all under one roof, it's no surprise that Arch Apothecary has become a hotspot for bridal parties.
1359 N Wells St., 312-291-9750, archapothecary.com
Glowout in the West Loop
A former esthetician, Jennifer Dieas owned and operated a successful mobile airbrush tanning company before opening Glowout this year. A blowout ($40) includes a complimentary beverage and a spritz at the salon's perfume bar. Instead of a magazine, an iPad is offered for your perusal. Airbrush tanning ($50) and express manicure and pedicures ($15 and $30) are also available.
160 N. Halsted St., 312-605-0905, glowoutsalon.com
Blowtique in River North
When Blowtique opened in 2012, it was one of the first blow-dry concept salons Chicago had seen. A classic blowout ($35) includes a shampoo, blow-dry, and style with Oribe products. For a classic light-bodied blowout, order the salon’s signature Chicago style, "The Magnificent." Appointments are available from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week.
1 E. Huron St., 312-280-2400, blowtique.com