Shai is a curly hair genius :)
I'm usually hesitant before I get my hair done, being that its curly and the chances of someone messing it up is very high. But I read the reviews on Yelp and thought I'd give it a try.
I have small (mixed girl) spirals and came in with heat damage (pieces of straight hair and super short pieces in the wrong place) from the flat iron.
But! -- I wanted to keep length though at the same time...
I managed to walk away with a super cute bob. (I actually got several compliments after leaving while running errands. One of which was from a nice french woman who said "you have great style." Well allllright...)
They explained each product (without pressure) they used on me and so now I've got a new favorite bottle of Deva Styling Cream. (Holds, no frizz, still bouncy.)
Vibes were super mellow and friendly (unpretentious and casual but high end feeling) and Shai's assistants were very nice and knowledgeable as well.
Thanks guys!
peace out ;*
It's so weird having such strong feelings for a married man...but I too am a Shai hair groupie.
Before Shai, I decided to try a local salon. All I wanted were highlights and a little shape to my curl. My hair ended up looking like a damned striped art deco afro. The blonde highlights were STARK white and random (not in a good way.) My previously spirally curls were frizzy and undefined. My face was sad.
Stylist: "Oh, the color pattern looks so different when it's dry." No sh*t. You killed it with bleach fire.
My boyfriend: "Your hair looks like that ficus tree we had. After the fungus attacked it and it started turning white in odd places."
I checked yelp and a curly hair site, crossed my fingers and called Shai.
He had a cancellation. He asked me a lot of questions when I got there. He grabbed each individual curl (and I have MANY - think little Orphan Annie, movie version) and somehow cut each one until my hair had volume again. He fixed the color without further damage. His assistant was a doll and so gentle when she finger combed my hair after the conditioning. He gave good advice on where to get hats for my big-headed boyfriend. I swooned.
Seriously? If you have any type of wave, curl, bend to your hair - call this salon (I saw a lot of curlies in there...and if y'all book Shai up, we're going to be yelp fighting. :) )
I'm almost glad the local salon messed up! My hair is looking better than ever and I found my new curly hair home! To Shai's wife - I swear, it's just a curl crush. Pay no attention to the poster in my bedroom.
I apologize in advance for this review being so long, but if you've got curly hair like I do, you would sit and read for hours if it meant you could get beautiful curls that you actually like!
I've had big curly hair my whole life. I've spent 20+ years trying to tame my hair. All I wanted was straight smooth hair. In college I tried various salons in the San Diego area and no one seemed to be able to handle my hair. No one could manage it better than I could. I have a friend who always gets her hair cut on a day when she's going out. I learned early on to do the exact opposite. I knew never to make plans after a hair appointment without having time to go home and fix what the stylist had done....
That is until I met Shai Amiel owner of Capella Salon in Studio City. I had just had a baby and I was looking to wear my hair more naturally. I realized that I just didn't have time to blow dry it, flat iron it, etc. Knowing that as a "curly girl" I couldn't just walk into any old salon, I did an online search for the best curly hair salon in Los Angeles. Capella Salon popped up. I read a bunch of reviews about Shai and the salon and also saw that he had been certified to cut curly hair in the Deva way by Deva creator herself, Lorraine Massey. I decided to give it a try.
It wasn't difficult to get an appointment. Shai even works on Sundays. I made an appointment to get a "Deva Cut" - a process created by Massey in which Shai would cut my hair dry. Makes sense doesn't it? I mean how many of us have been traumatized by salon experiences where the stylist cut our hair when it was wet only to have it shrink up 10 inches to our ears making us look like a cross between Shirley Temple and a poodle?
I was relieved when the first thing Shai did was ask me the history of my hair. I have been in situations before where the stylist was barely listening to what I was saying. Unlike previous experiences, Shai wanted to hear it all! I immediately liked him and felt that he was really taking an interest in my hair and what I wanted to gain from my experience with him.
And what an experience it was! I learned more about my hair during my hour at Capella Salon than I had in my 34 years of getting my hair done at various expensive salons throughout Southern California. Just as described, Shai cut my dry hair curl by curl. As he was cutting he gave me all this great advice about what products to use, when to use them, how much to use. He even took the time to instruct me on how to color my hair at home.
When he was done, before looking in the mirror, he warned me that my hair would look A LOT bigger right after he cut it than after he washed it and styled it. Hearing this I expected my hair to look like I had put my finger in an electric socket, but I was fairly surprised to see that even at its biggest, my hair didn't look half bad!
So, after the cut, Shai took me downstairs to wear they wash your hair. I wouldn't even describe it as "washing" your hair - that wouldn't do it justice. It's more like your hair gets its own mini massage. They used the Deva products on me. The Deva No-Poo, and the Deva One Conditioner. Then they walked me over to the mirror so I could watch as Shai's assistant Amy put two different products in my hair (Deva Arc Angel and Deva Curl Cream). She showed me step by step what to do to make them work the best and answered every question I had regarding the products she was using. Then Amy put clips at the roots of my hair to give it some lift as it dried. Such a smart idea - why hadn't I done this before!
Shai then came over and asked whether I wanted to have my hair air dry, dried with a diffuser or whether I wanted to sit under the dryer. I elected to sit under the dryer. He then pinned a couple paper towels to my head to make sure the dryer didn't create a frizzy halo. Great curls - No frizz. I was amazed. I couldn't believe I was about to walk out of a salon with my hair looking beautiful. The quality of my curls was unbelievable. I was actually happy at that moment that I had curly hair and for the first time I was leaving a salon loving my hair!
Thank you Shai!
I have high maintenance curly hair. I trust two people with my hair: Lorraine Massey (the found of Deva) and Shai Amiel at Capella Salon. When I lived in California it was a four hour drive each way to get to Capella, but boy was it worth it. Shai is a hair doctor, that's for sure. I've also heard him referred to as a magician. Either way, my hair never looked good until he started cutting it.
Also, when you get your hair washed they have these amazing massage chairs and great iced tea!
Shai really has a talent...without cutting much at all, he transformed my badly shaped frizz to lovely curls. Such a nice guy as well. I see why he gets rave reviews. I definitely reccomend him.
Reviewed by Minniecurl
(Wavy Curvy - 2b) on Feb 24, 2012
Shai is a wizard when it comes to cutting curly hair! He has given me the best haircuts of my life. I've moved all over the place, and consequently been to many, many stylists over the years (with some pretty disastrous results) and I am so glad to be back in So-Cal and within driving distance, once again, of Capella Salon. Shai knows curly hair and clearly digs making it as beautiful as possible. His Deva cut is fantastic. I like that he listened and cut off very little hair (I keep it just past shoulders) but still bounced up the curl and created a new shape. Cannot recommend highly enough! Damn, my hair looks good. :)
Reviewed by BeckyS (Curly Twirly - 3a) on Feb 01, 2012
My First Deva Haircut by Shai Amiel at Capella Salon I apologize in advance for this review being so long, but if you’ve got curly hair like I do, you would sit and read for hours if it meant you could get beautiful curls that you actually like! I’ve had big curly hair my whole life. When I was little no one knew what to do with it, but on a little kid big curly hair is cute. As I got older, my curls got even tighter and my hair seemed to have multiplied exponentially. I spent the next 15+ years trying to tame my hair. All I wanted was straight smooth hair – “wash and wear” hair! In college I tried various salons in the San Diego area and no one seemed to be able to handle my hair. No one could manage it better than I could. I have a friend who always gets her hair cut on a day when she’s going out. I learned early on to do the exact opposite. I knew never to make plans after a hair appointment without having time to go home and fix what the stylist had done…. That is until I met Shai Amiel owner of Capella Salon in Studio City. I had just had a baby and I was looking to wear my hair more naturally. I realized that I just didn’t have time to blow dry it, flat iron it, etc. Knowing that as a “curly girl” I couldn’t just walk into any old salon, I did an online search for the best curly hair salon in Los Angeles. Capella Salon popped up. I read a bunch of reviews about Shai and the salon and also saw that he had been certified to cut curly hair in the Deva way by Deva creator herself, Lorraine Massey. I decided to give it a try. It wasn’t difficult to get an appointment. Shai even works on Sundays. I made an appointment to get a “Deva Cut” – a process created by Massey in which Shai would cut my hair dry. Makes sense doesn’t it? I mean how many of us have been traumatized by salon experiences where the stylist cut our hair when it was wet only to have it shrink up 10 inches to our ears making us look like a cross between Shirley Temple and a poodle? When the big day arrived, I washed and styled my hair the way I normally would and let it air dry without pulling it up or putting any clips in it – as I was directed to do. Unused to wearing my hair down, I sat in a chair looking at the mirror thinking “yuck, I should just keep wearing my hair straight.” Luckily I only had to wait a minute or two for Shai to finish up with a client. I was relieved when the first thing Shai did was ask me the history of my hair. I have been in situations before where the stylist was barely listening to what I was saying. Unlike previous experiences, Shai wanted to hear it all! I immediately liked him and felt that he was really taking an interest in my hair and what I wanted to gain from my experience with him. And what an experience it was! I learned more about my hair during my hour at Capella Salon than I had in my 34 years of getting my hair done at various expensive salons throughout Southern California. The first thing Shai did was diffuse my hair till it was totally dry (As any curly girl knows – it takes a lifetime for our hair to dry naturally). Then he started cutting curl by curl. As he was cutting he was giving me all this great advice about what products to use, when to use them, how much to use. He even took the time to instruct me on how to color my hair at home. When he was done, before looking in the mirror, he warned me that my hair would look A LOT bigger right after he cut it than after he washed it and styled it. Hearing this I expected to look like I had put my hair in an electric socket, but I was fairly surprised to see that even at its biggest, my hair didn’t look half bad! So, after the cut, Shai took me down stairs to wear they wash your hair. I wouldn’t even describe it as “washing” your hair – that wouldn’t do it justice. It’s more like your hair gets its own mini massage. They used the Deva products on me. The Deva No-Poo, and the Deva One Conditioner. Then they walked me over to the mirror so I could watch as Shai’s assistant Amy put two different products in my hair (Deva Arc Angel and Deva Curl Cream). She showed me step by step what to do to make them work the best and answered every question I had regarding the products she was using. Then Amy put clips at the roots of my hair to give it some lift as it dried. Such a smart idea – why hadn’t I done this before! Shai then came over and asked whether I wanted to have my hair air dry, dried with a diffuser or whether I wanted to sit under the dryer. I elected to sit under the dryer. He then pinned a couple paper towels to my head to make sure the dryer didn’t create a frizzy halo. About 20 minutes later I was ready to go. When I first looked at my hair in the mirror, I thought, how is my hair still wet? The hair I was looking at looked like my hair when its still all wet and smooth and frizz free. But my hair wasn’t wet at all! It had dried beautifully! Great curls – No frizz. I was amazed. I couldn’t believe I was about to walk out of a salon with my hair looking beautiful. The quality of my curls was unbelievable. I was actually happy at that moment that I had curly hair and for the first time I was leaving a salon loving my hair! (Guess who wished they had made some plans to go out after all!)
Reviewed by NLohman (Curly Spirally - 3b) on Jan 31, 2012
My three friends and I were vacationing in the L.A. area, from North Pole, Alaska. One of our friends, who read the Curly Girl book was in search of a salon that did the "Deva Cut" described in the book. She found out that Shai, at Capella Salon was the only one skilled for that particular cut. So, months in advance, before we even left for our L.A. vacation, she secured an appointment with him. We all were excited for my friend to get her hair done by Shai, because for the past year, she had been on a new journey or taking care of her curls, diligently following the instructions of the Curly Girl book. We all had noticed the beautiful difference in her curls. Her Deva cut would only serve as a catalyst in her curly hair care. The day finally arrived for her hair appointed. This happened to be the same say we were scheduled to go to the beach. For us Alaskan gals, this was a must. But it also presented a challenge. We would have to endured post work L.A traffic from the beach to the salon. Everything about our experience at the salon with our friend proved it was all worth it. When we arrived at the salon, I was immediately impressed with the cleanliness and look of the salon. We all took notice of the ALL NATURAL quality hair products on the shelf (you don't see that very often at salons I have been to). We then joined our friend as her hair cutting experience began. Shai was so friendly and personable. He was very fascinated that we were from Alaska. He was more than willing to explain and demonstrate how we would go about trimming our friends hair in the future, since we told him there are no other salons where we are from that understand curly hair. We watched as he cared thoroughly for each individual curl...and as the hair cut progressed, we witnessed her curls transform into a whole new bounce and beauty. Then, we were blown away. Shai told his all too sweet assistant, Anna, to wash and style our hair. We were not the paying customers, but he went above and BEYOND! As she washed each of our hair, we sat in massage chairs! I don't know if that is common in LA, but it for SURE is not common in Alaska! We felt so pampered! You can tell Shai and his salon people employ expert techniques, and are very knowledgable about what they do. Our friends curls turned out amazing. Our experience was like none other salon experience before. I definitely recommend Shai and Capella salon, and hope we can return in the future.
Reviewed by eskimowaves (Wavy Swavy - 2a) on Jan 30, 2012
Shai Amiel is amazing!!!!!! He knew exactly what he was doing. He took his time and made sure that i was completely satisfied with his work. He educated me on how to take care of my hair and what products to use. He gave me a fantastic cut that looks great wears well. I had never had my hair cut in its natural state before as this is not common practice for African-American kinky hair worn straight. The first time I decided to do a "big chop" to wear my hair natural few years back, it was cut straight as well! The "devacut" concept of cutting curl by curl is brilliant and truly effective! I recommend Capella Salon and Shai Amiel to ANYONE in the Los Angeles area needing a curly hair stylist!!!!!
Reviewed by calichic (Kinky Crimpy - 4b) on Jan 08, 2012
Finally, a stylist who can cut my hair right! Shai is not just a curly hair expert, he's an artist! In my 50+ years on the planet I've been to a lot of curly hair "experts" with results ranging from embarrassing to blah to weird. None came close to the smokin' look I got from Shai. After the second time he cut my hair I asked him what it would take to get him to come to Chicago, where I live. He said 6 curly girls... I said "you've got it!" And he came out here. Now, Shai is flying out to Chicago a few times a year and I'm so thankful! We're booking appointments for his next trip to Chicago so call his Studio City salon if you're interested. To show you how great he is here's my before and after pic.
http://blissingyourbusiness.com/images/before_and_after_shai.jpg
Reviewed by barbara_robins (Curly Spirally - 3b) on Nov 04, 2011
Shai is amazing! This is the fist haircut I have received in which I love! He gave me the Deva cut and took his time, explained things to me and even showed my why my hair was frizzing. I have always hated my curls and I walked out loving them, they were shiny and bouncy! His assistant was adorable and very helpful too. Neither one pushed me into buying or doing something I wasn't comfortable with. If you have curly hair and long to finally embrace them...go see Shai! He is a true artist and worth every penny!
I walked into the salon today a traumatized curly haired mess!!! My family never knew how to fix it, hair salons always always left me disappointed and everyone recommended I flat iron it to avoid the battle with frizz. I love my curls and after about 5 min with Shai it was clear they loved them too. He took his time and gave me great advice on how to best show off my natural curls. They have a wall of curly friendly products ( but they do not push them on you) that are tailored to every curl variation. The ambiance is so tranquil and refreshing I was tempted to take a nap during my shampooing. The staff was very friendly and welcoming I am definitely a loyal patron from this day on.
Before coming to Capella, getting my curly hair cut was worse than going to the dentist. No one knew how to cut my hair! After a google search and tens of recommendations for Shai, I made an appointment and I can't tell you how happy I am! My curls look great! The salon is friendly and convenient. Booking an appointment is quick and easy. I recommend Shai to all of my curly haired friends.
Wow, I just realized that I've trusted my curls to Shai for almost 4 years now! A review is definitely in order here! The best measure of an amazing curly hair stylist is the amount of compliments I receive about my curls. Since Shai got hold of my locks, not a week passes that I'm not stopped somewhere randomly and asked, "How do you get your curls like that?" or "Who do you go to?" My reply is always the same...the secret is the haircut. At least 5 of my co-workers and friends with curly hair now see Shai, and probably countless strangers who got his name from me. I have a very mixed-type head of curls, ranging from course/kinky to straight to wavy, and in my 32 years, I've seen a million stylist who "specialize" in curls. Bottom line, Shai knows how to work with it all, he knows how to read a head of hair, and bring it out to it's curliest and most consistent potential. I can go a very long time between cuts from Shai because of how well he shapes it. I've never had a bad experience with him. He is professional, warm, and always listens. Seriously, there was a time that I thought I was moving from Los Angeles, and one of my biggest stresses was figuring out how to afford a plane ticket back to this guy for my haircuts. lol! So thanks Shai for keeping my curly mane stunning! Five star recommendation!
I have been coming to Shai at Capella for more than 2 years now and he is great! Before Shai, I had always had cuts where the stylist would comb out my curly hair when wet and cut it straight across and add layers. Shai is an expert on curls and cuts the curls when they are dry so that he can see how the curls and layers fall. As a result, the shape is always great with no holes or uneven pieces or layers, and it grows out beautifully (I have longish hair and only get it cut every 3 months). I also get color from Shai - the red I get has faded very quickly in the past from other salons but seems to stay vivid for much longer the way Shai does it. He is also very focused on making the color look natural and applies different tones to the roots, on small chunks, and on my brows to make the color look less like one uniform block of red. Also, the salon is very pretty and relaxing, Shai's assistants are always very pleasant, and the atmosphere is extremely professional with a variety of product lines to try.
I met Shai in August of 2007, in the professional capacity of reviewing his skills with what is known as the Deva Cut, a cut specifically for curly hair wherein the hair is cut dry and in its natural state. VERY FEW people do this technique, and it requires training with the originator in NYC. Not expecting much, I was thoroughly impressed with not only the technique but the man, Shai, cutting my hair. Though curly/wavy girls anywhere on the spectrum should come her for the technique alone, it is Shai's skill but mostly his warmth, humbleness and knowledge that keep me coming back. So much so that it is now three plus years later, and I'm writing my second review. Additionally, I have turned down professional work (and income) to review other cuts because I really don't want anyone else working on my hair. But it's not just curly girls who should come here; anyone should experience his abilities with color and cut. I've repeatedly told people about my friend who has naturally blond hair; however, when you meet her you'd swear she was a naturally born raven-haired beauty. If you know anything about how hard it is to do black, you'd realize what this means. As for the salon itself, it is lovely. Conveniently located on Ventura Blvd. with parking, it is open, airy and full of light. The washing stations are equipped with massage chairs, and the washers skilled, polite and solicitous. I believe there is even WiFi, and though I may be imagining it, champagne on occasion. COME!
What a great salon! Everything from the service to the stylists was awesome. Not to mention the end result of my curly hair = ) I have always had bad experiences when it comes to getting my hair colored and highlighted. So of course, after reading the many reviews for Capella Salon, I decided to make a long trip out there and found the experience to be completely worth it. Shai was wonderful and is very skilled at what he does. I highly recommend him to anyone in search of a great stylist/colorist. He is the only person who has ever got the color I desired and have it look the exact way that I want it. Shai does listen to what you want for your hair and gives you exactly that. The few people who have left negative reviews on this site were probably just having a bad day because I don't know what they're talking about! I can't wait to go back there again. Definitely give this salon a try!
I was so tired of my curly hair never looking curly, the color never being right, and just generally unhappy with many bad hair days. One of my patients came into the office and I adored her curly hair. She gave me the number to Capella Salon and told me to ask for Chai...yeah, yeah, yeah, one more experience in the curly hair saga. I waited a few months and became more exasperated with my curls (or lack of) when I finally decided to make the call. What an experience! I live in Manhattan Beach and Capella is in Studio City, but you know women and their hair!! We would drive anywhere if we were happy! I walked into this very interesting salon and met this cute Israeli gentleman named Chai. He cut my hair dry and he got my color exact. I couldn't believe it! My curls were back and I didn't look like Blondie with roots anymore. My hair had style and the color was blended with dark and light streaks that I had been asking for. I am now a regular of Chai's and couldn't be happier. I would drive for miles and miles and miles and miles just to be with you, dear Chai.
I read all the reviews for Shai and thought he'd be great. I was wrong. I went in for a consultation a week before my appt., and I felt like he thought I was nuts and wasting his time. The day I go in, the receptionist shows me where the smocks are and then tells me to go to Shai's chair. I had no clue where Shai's chair was and he did not come down to get me. So I show him a picture of the bob I want and he won't do it. I am not sure if he didn't know how or if he really thought it wouldn't look good on me. He takes all of 15 minutes to cut my hair dry all the while trying to sell me the Deva products in his salon, then sends me downstairs to get it washed by a new assistant who had no clue what she was doing. He then disappears. After she's done washing and pinning my hair she puts me under a dryer for like an hour and forgets about me. I look in the mirror and she's getting her own hair washed by someone. So finally his other assistant comes over and takes the dryer off me and takes the pins out of my hair. It was parted weird and was crispy. So $$$ later, I would say it wasn't worth the money. The people were not very friendly, my hair didn't look good and I felt guilty for not buying any hair products. Oh and when I told Shai that I came to him because he had good reviews online, he told me he had good writers!!! Don't waste your money!
My dearest curly girls: I have moved a great deal – New York, Boston, Philly- and have always found my hairdressers on this website based on reviews. For the most part, I have been satisfied. I have never been thrilled or excited enough to write a review, though, until now. SHIA AT CAPELLA IS AN ABSOLUTE ARTIST. He understands curly hair, every variety, and appreciates us for our natural beauty. Now, at 32, I finally understand what my hair needs…why did it take this long to find him? SEE HIM. And his assistant, Betty, who is stylish, sweet and brilliant. I STAND BY THIS REVIEW, you will be as thrilled as I am, surrounded by other curlies. He will take you step by step through the process of what YOU need for YOUR CURLS. I have felt so gorgeous since I saw him a few days ago. Love, Maya PS A woman brought her eight year old in to have her curls done. I watched Shia spend time with this litte girl, watched the staff tell her how beautiful she looked, watched the pride she took in her hair. Why didn’t someone do this for me when I was eight? It has taken me so long to appreciate my locks, and she will always appreciate them, because there is a warm, inviting, unpretentious salon where curls are appreciated. GO IF YOU CAN TO THIS SALON. DRIVE AN HOUR IF YOU HAVE TO. PSS I am getting married in five days, yet taking the time to write this…that is how wonderful Capella Salon made me feel.
I've been to this salon before and got a Deva cut from Keyonna. But I wanted to try Shai's style and see which I liked better. I really liked Shai. He did an excellent job cutting and evening out my hair. Layering it so the curls would be more defined. Then his assistant, Betsy, washed and styled my hair. Once again an excellent experience at Capella salon. I highly recommend both Shai and Keyonna for Devacuts.
I am in awe of the fabulous salon experience you have developed with Capella. It was lovely to be warmly welcomed into what is a gem of a shop - very cool and yet totally serene with just the right amount of edge. I had heard only great things about Shai and must say that you exceeded my expectations. His technique is just fantastic and I love that you use the dry-cut process for curly hair. The care he and the rest of the staff took during the entire cut, color, and wash process was beyond great. Adding to that, the kindness, patience, and professional manner taken to relay the 'how-tos' of recreating the salon look and you have accomplished with Capella Salon what I had previously thought impossible: a truly unique and perfect client-focused salon experience.
A great haircut experience last week! I love the cut. I also appreciated his flexibility about cutting it dry and leaving it at that. I liked how it looked and the next morning I just worked a little product into it and the texture was really cool.
I had a very pleasant experience, and received very helpful information about how to reduce the frizz (no more terry cloth towels!) I have to admit that I was very nervous going in, especially with regard to cutting off the damaged hair from straightening, but I am pleased with the outcome. I am attempting to grow out the curls, but will definitely need to revisit the salon (once I get a little more length back) to trim more of my mistakes off. I am just so glad I've finally found a place for curl cuts that won't send me home in tears.
Hello Shai,
I am in awe of the fabulous salon experience you
have developed with > Capella. It was lovely to be
warmly welcomed into what is a gem of > a shop -
very cool and yet totally serene with just the right
amount > of edge. I had heard only great things
about you and must say that > you exceeded my
expectations. Your technique is just fantastic and >
I love that you use the dry-cut process for curly
hair. The care > you and your staff took during the
entire cut, color, and wash > process was beyond
great. Adding to that, the kindness, patience, > and
professional manner taken to relay the 'how-tos' of
recreating > the salon look and you have
accomplished with Capella Salon what I > had
previously thought impossible: a truly unique and
perfect client- > focused salon experience. Btw, I
love love love my hair!
Thank you!
Victoria
"Shai
is one of the few stylists ever to layer my hair
just right to make the curls come alive! I always
thought I just had wavy hair, Shai's cuts have
sprung my wavy curls into real big Hollywood banana
curls that everyone admires!" Thu. Nov 9th, 2006
My curls were looking damaged and dry, I went in for
a cut and style and had heard of Shai from the
website - naturallycurly. He spent 3 hours with and
walked me through step by step instructions on how
to style my hair and what products to use. My curls
have never looked better, he helped me find a simple
styling solution when I used to dread styling my
hair. I got tons of compliments from everyone at
work and people even stopped me on the street
praising my gorgeous curls. For all you girls who
have no idea what to do with your curls or if you
are tired of what you have been doing go to Shai you
will be astounded by his magic finesse with curls.
Pros: great stylists, friendly service, clean salon
- serves wine and their shampoos chairs give
massages
Cons: not a single thing
Stylist:
Shai
Review:
My curls were looking damaged and dry, I went in for
a cut and style and had heard of Shai from the
website - naturallycurly. He spent 3 hours with and
walked me through step by step instructions on how
to style my hair and what products to use. My curls
have never looked better, he helped me find a simple
styling solution when I used to dread styling my
hair. I got tons of compliments from everyone at
work and people even stopped me on the street
praising my gorgeous curls. For all you girls who
have no idea what to do with your curls or if you
are tired of what you have been doing go to Shai you
will be astounded by his magic finesse with curls.
Pros: great stylists, friendly service, clean salon
- serves wine and their shampoos chairs give
massages Cons: not a single thing
Review Date: 03/31/08
Shai
Review:
Thank you Shai soo much for my all new curly hair
experience! It was fun, amazing and stress free!
Watching you cut my hair dry was the most
interesting part. I love my color and the highlights
were just enough (you were absolutely right). Thank
you for making me the happiest I've been about my
hair in a REALLY long time (well, 10 years to be
exact)! I'm definitely a Shai follower from this
point forward!! I'm looking forward to coming back!!
Thanks again!
Review Date: 03/27/08
Stylist:
Shai
Review:
Shai, I LOVE my hair. Thank you so very much. I knew
you would not let me down, but this is genius. Thank
you so very much.
Review Date: 03/05/08
Stylist:
Shai
Review:
Shai, I LOVE my hair. Thank you so very much. I knew
you would not let me down, but this is genius. Thank
you so very much.
Review Date: 03/05/08
Stylist:
Shai
Review:
I love going to the salon because it feels like a
really pampering experience. The salon itself is
beautiful and feels open and calming. The shampoo
chairs are awesome and everyone who's ever washed my
hair has done a great job and made me want to take
them home to give me head massages all the time. I
also feel that it's really important to you that I
like my haircut and that it looks the best it can.
The fact that you are so cool about me coming back
if any stray pieces misbehave is something I've
never experienced and it proves that you really
understand curly hair. Plus you make me feel like
you've been cutting my hair for years which is nice.
I've always had a very positive experience all
around. And your sister is also fantastic and has
done an amazing job on my eyebrows.
Review Date: 03/05/08
Stylist:
Shai Amiel
Review:
I am a consumer tester and free-lance editor that
has made a conscious decision in the last few years
to encourage and embrace my wavy hair. It is
officially wavy; the hair does not curl at the root.
However, with the right product and technique it can
be curly. And in the wrong weather! Anyway, I have
consumer tested several products from Deva Curl
(awesome, btw!), and decided after numerous poor
haircuts (where I was constantly showing myself how
one side of my hair was off), I decided to test
Deva's technique of cutting hair dry and curly.
(Another note, I was completely unable to find any
other stylists at this point willing or able to cut
hair dry, let alone dry while curly). After
interviewing several stylists who are ceretified in
Deva technique, I settled on Shai Amiel, owner of
Capella Salon after watching him work on two
different women with very different curls. What an
enjoyable experience the hair cut turned out to be.
After recommendation of having not washed hair in a
few days, in its curly experience, I arrived at the
salon. He painstakingly cut each curl in relations
to each other until he got the shape he wanted.
Then, after a mimosa, I got my hair luxuriously
washed and conditioned, and then Shai did something
no other stylist has done: showed me that the
technique of dealing with the hair immediately after
washing is just as important. Squishing leave-in
conditioner into the hair, I was then instructed to
fling and flip my hair around a bit, and then taking
product, hanging my head upside down, squishing it
into my hair and then blotting with paper towels
(though a microfiber towel or dry cotten t-shirt is
good or better), and you can actually SEE the curls
forming. After placing pins in the roots of selected
forming sections my hair was dried. This has been
the best cut I've had in forever, and it's two
months in. He says it can go another two to four
months, and I believe him. I can make it very curly,
or just wavy by putting it in a towel without
shaking and scrunching. I've been in multiple
climates, and it just looks good, even without
product.
Review Date: 10/25/07
Stylist:
Shai
Review:
Shai did an amazing job on my superfine, thin and
corkscrew-curly hair. He gave it a great shape
without cutting very much length (maybe an inch?)
and I've had nothing but compliments on it since. He
and his staff explained how to use product to get a
long-lasting style and I really enjoyed the massage
shampoo chair! I highly recommend the stylist and
the salon.
Review Date: 09/12/07
Stylist:
Shai
Review:
I had a great haircut experience with Shai at
Capella Salon in Studio City. My hair looks
awesome-- healthy and full with well defined
spirals. I had almost forgotten my curly hair could
look like this-- great shape without the frizz, fun
and easy to style at home. Wanted to pass a good
thing along.
Review Date: 07/01/07
Stylist:
Shai
Review:
Shai is wonderful and he really knows how to cut and
style curls. He gave me a great haircut and then
took the time to show me how to style it. He's so
sweet and I'd definitly reccomend him to anyone
frustrated by the many stylists who don't know how
to deal with curls. He's a gem! -Sara O.
Review Date: 06/28/07
Hi,
I had a great haircut experience with Shai at
Capella
Salon in Studio City. My hair looks awesome--
healthy
and full with well defined spirals. I had almost
forgotten my curly hair could look like this-- great
shape without the frizz, fun and easy to style at
home. Wanted to pass a good thing along.
K
From naturallycurly.com
"My hair has never looked as fabulous as it does
now. Shai has transformed my hair in to beautiful,
bouncy, curly locks. He also introduced me to Deva
curl. It's the best! " Mon. Sep 4th, 2006
Capella Salon -- Shai
12930Ventura Blvd. (818-784-4247)
"I put off cutting my hair for over a year because I
couldn't find anyone who was willing to cut my hair
dry. Then I found Shai. I walked in feeling
apathetic about my hair. Even my hair color was
boring. Shai asked me what I wanted and I assured
him, I didn't care. I had few expectations--you know
when you have curly hair, you figure, no one can do
anything good with it. I walked out of that salon
with a sassy cut and a deep, rich color. I wasn't
the only one to think so. My husband did a double
take and the following day I literally received 20
compliments. Shai gave me the perfect cut and helped
me to finally feel great about having curly hair.
And, while he cut my hair quickly, I never once felt
rushed. Did I mention that he happens to be a kind
soul as well? " Fri. Feb 9th, 2007
From
naturallycurly.com
"He can go short, he can go long, he can go wavy, he
can go crazy. Shai can do it all -- and he's a lot
of fun, too! " Tue. Sep 12th, 2006
From naturallycurly.com
"Shai at Capella Salon is the best. I've been going
to him for 11 years now and I love to experiment
with my cut and color so he's tried everything I
that would compliment my features and he always has
great input. My hair is naturally wavy but never
curly. During my last visit however he used the Deva
Curl products and showed me this process that made
my hair so naturally curly while maintaining luster
and bounce without any heat damage or frizz. I
looooved it. It took me a few tries at home and a
call to Shai to master the technique but he was
happy to walk me through it again. So you can't go
wrong with him from product recomendation to cut and
color he's fantastic and the salon is so relaxing
too. I always look forward to my next visit." Tue.
Sep 5th, 2006
From
naturallycurly.com
"Shai is the first stylist to not be intimidated by
my hair. I have naturally thick and curly hair, that
without the right cut, could be a disaster. Other
stylists have literally gotten lost in my hair! It's
annoying and embarrassing. Shai is completely
confident, not to mention competant with curls. He
understands that I don't want it "too big" or "too
full." He's cut it short, he's trimmed it long. Shai
is a color specialist as well, and he artfully
highlights my curls to perfection. I don't know how
he does it, but each curl has 3 colors running
through it, but blends beautifully. He never tells
me to wear it straight. He's gotten me to love my
hair. " Mon. Sep 4th, 2006
From naturallycurly.com
"When my hair becomes too long my curls tend to look
lame and drab so I go to Shai at Capella Salon. Shai
is great with my curly hair. He gives really
flattering cuts so that it isn't too short but just
right so that my curls are bouncy and healthy
looking. My hair always looks its best after I go to
him. " Mon. Sep 4th, 2006
12930Ventura Blvd (818-784-4247)
"Shai is amazing. I went in there with a weary set
of curly locks and he made them look the way I had
always hoped they could. You have to remember to go
in with your hair styled and curled the way you like
it (not wet or crazy because he likes to work with
how you usually do it, which is amazing!). He is
great at asking you questions about how you like
your hair and he LISTENS! I have been handing out
his name to everyone and as a new LA transplant with
curlies...I understand how scary it is to go to a
new person! He will quell your fears and redefine
your hair. Well worth it anytime!" Sat. Mar 24th,
2007
"I've wanted to cut my hair for a while now but was
always apprehensive because it's difficult to find
someone who knows how to deal with thick or curly
hair. I read positive reviews about Shai and Capella
Salon and decided to make an appointment. The
atmosphere of the salon is really laid back,
unpretentious, and welcoming. I told Shai what I
wanted and he definitely exceeded me expectations. I
will definitely continue to go to Shai for any
hair-related issues and I will definitely refer all
of my curly friends. I highly recommend Shai and
Capella Salon for anyone with any type of curly
hair. " Mon. Jan 22nd, 2007
From
naturallycurly.com
"Hi, my name is Lisa Bingham and I have naturally
curly long blonde hair. I found my stylist Shai at
Capella Salon over eight years ago and have been
loyal to him ever sense he did my first hair-do at
his salon. I was impressed so much by the way he
could take my ideas and reassure me he could make it
happen so I could wear my curly hair straight and
short if I like and it would still look good when I
wear it natural again. Curly hair needs a special
understanding with the cuts and color, going to Shai
I have tried every hair-do known to man and still
have hair on my head all thanks to Shia. I can not
express how beautiful my hair has been through the
years thanks to Shai. I have tried many places
before and they never listen or give you what you
want but Shai will make it happen he will find a way
and you will love it, I promise. I have all my
friends and the men I have dated through the years
go to him and give him a try because I know he is
what they need. By the way my curly hair is super
rad. Thanks for listening, LISA." Sun. Sep 3rd, 2006
From naturallycurly.com
"I just moved to California from New York and
NaturallyCurly.com has made it very easy. I knew I
could trust the referrals I read here. When I called
Capella Salon, I even had my choice of 3 stylists
who know their stuff when it comes to curly hair. I
decided to go with the owner because he also
specialized in coloring for curly hair. My hair
looks so good. It has shine, bounce and I just love
it !!! The color and haircut are perfect. He knew
exactly what products I needed. I've had my hair
done with the best of N.Y. and I can definitely say
that Shai really impressed me. It was a very good
experience. The salon is beautiful and friendly.
They had great selection of hair products for curly
hair. I am a very happy girl. " Sat. Feb 18th, 2006
From naturallycurly.com
"Here is a guy that understands curly hair. After
going to every single salon on the boulevard, I
think I found a new home for my curls. Before having
my hair done, we sat down talked about curls. I've
learned so much about my hair and it makes a lot of
sense now. I learned how to wash, condition and
style my hair. NO MORE CRUNCHY CURLS !!! He
recommended highlights and my hair has never looked
better. It's fuller and has more of a style. Thank
you Shai and Capella Salon." Sun. Feb 12th, 2006
From
naturallycurly.com
"When my hair becomes too long my curls tend to look
lame and drab so I go to Shai at Capella Salon. Shai
is great with my curly hair. He gives really
flattering cuts so that it isn't too short but just
right so that my curls are bouncy and healthy
looking. My hair always looks its best after I go to
him. " Mon. Sep 4th, 2006
From
naturallycurly.com
"Shai is the first stylist to not be intimidated by
my hair. I have naturally thick and curly hair, that
without the right cut, could be a disaster. Other
stylists have literally gotten lost in my hair! It's
annoying and embarrassing. Shai is completely
confident, not to mention competant with curls. He
understands that I don't want it "too big" or "too
full." He's cut it short, he's trimmed it long. Shai
is a color specialist as well, and he artfully
highlights my curls to perfection. I don't know how
he does it, but each curl has 3 colors running
through it, but blends beautifully. He never tells
me to wear it straight. He's gotten me to love my
hair. " Mon. Sep 4th, 2006
Best
Move Ever!
Posted by metnyc1 on 03/22/2007
I recently moved to LA from NY, where I left behind
a fabulous hairdresser who I had been going to for
over 7 years! I was considering just waiting until I
went back to NY until my next cut...until I came
across Capella Salon on Citysearch and the excellent
reviews on Shai. After reading about how his loyal
client's travel from afar to keep going back to him,
I was reminded of how I would have done the same for
my stylist. I decided to go for it, and I can easily
say it was the BEST move ever! Besides being so
friendly, Shai is a great listener and wants and
asks to hear what you want with your hair. After he
gets your input, he uses his own talent and artistry
to design a beautiful cut. He loves doing hair, he
loves his salon and his clients, and it shows...he's
even using his profits to completely redesign the
salon instead of getting the car he wanted!
Pros: Friendly, inviting atmosphere, parking,
service, price
Cons: Needs more lighting
Overall user rating: Highly Recommended
CITY
SEARCH:
(CitySearch)
fabulous hair
I really look forward to going to Capella. The
people are so nice. Shai my stylist always has great
idea's to make my hair look great. I always feel and
look fabulous when I leave the salon.
Pros: service, atmosphere, over all product
Overall user rating: Highly Recommended
The best salon in the valley !!!
My friend found Capella on citysearch.com and told
me about her pleasant experience so I sent my
husband to see Shai. He came home with a great cut
and some color (he's getting grey) and was so happy.
I went with my girlfriend and I had just a cut, but
my friend got this amazing color. I decided to have
my hair colored for the first time in my life and I
love it !!! It's fun having good hair. A few of our
friends have gone as well. I've seen other people
leave the salon with gorgeous hair. We've found a
new home for our hair. Thank you Shai & Capella
Salon.
Pros: cutting edge, friendly, good parking
Overall user rating: Highly Recommended
Wow !!! I Love My Hair
Posted on 08/26/2004
I found Capella thru a referral and I was so happy
with my visit. Shai was not only the coolest cat,
but an amazing artist. I've never seen such coloring
techniques. He blew me away.
I also had a facial and some waxing with Shani and
was very pleased. I loved everything about this
salon.
Pros: creative approach, quality, parking
Overall user rating: Highly Recommended
