Best Hairdressers in Melbourne City: Your 2025 Guide to CBD Hair Excellence

Picture this: You’re racing between meetings, your coffee’s going cold, and you catch your reflection in a Collins Street window thinking “when did my hair become… this?” We’ve all been there. Finding time for self-care in the CBD is tough, but finding the RIGHT hairdresser in Melbourne City? That’s a whole other level of urban maze.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DEs6unTTI7r/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The good news? Melbourne’s CBD is absolutely stacked with hair talent. From quick lunch-hour touch-ups to full Saturday transformations, from corporate-approved to creative chaos, this concrete jungle has a salon for every style, schedule, and budget.

So whether you’re a Docklands executive, a RMIT student, or just someone who likes their hair appointments with a side of city energy, let’s find your perfect CBD hair match.

Why CBD Salons Are Different
CBD Hair Map by Area
Salon Types & Personalities
Trending Styles & Services
Pricing Guide
How to Choose Your Salon
Top Salons by Specialty

Why CBD Hair Salons Just Hit Different

Look, suburban salons are lovely, but there’s something special about getting your hair done in the heart of the city:

The Convenience Factor
Lunch break root touch-up? After-work transformation? Saturday shopping followed by a fresh cut? CBD salons work around YOUR schedule, not the other way around. Many are open early, late, and weekends because they get that city life doesn’t stop at 5pm.

The Diversity Game
Melbourne CBD stylists see EVERYONE. Corporate lawyers wanting edgy-but-professional, international students craving a taste of home styling, artists needing their next exhibition look – they’ve mastered it all. No request is too wild or too conservative.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CuB9EtwvO5p/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The Speed and Efficiency
CBD salons understand the assignment: you’re busy. They’ve perfected the art of the quality express service. Need a blow-dry between meetings? They’ve got it down to 30 minutes. Full color? They’ll work with your Google Calendar.

The Networking Potential
Where else might you sit next to a startup founder, a Broadway performer, and a Supreme Court judge all getting their roots done? CBD salons are accidental networking goldmines (but also, everyone respects the sacred hair appointment privacy).

Swanston Street: The Style Boulevard

Creative Powerhouse: PUO Salon (Century Building, Suite 604/125 Swanston Street) brings 20+ years of Danny Puopolo’s hairdressing mastery to a vibrant pink-and-red wonderland designed with TYBB Studio. It’s like stepping into your coolest friend’s apartment – if your friend happened to be a colour genius. This isn’t just a salon; it’s an experience that’s become a magnet for Melbourne’s fashion-forward crowd.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DKJkZWsvcN2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Collins Street: The Luxury Lane

If Collins Street was a person, it would have a standing appointment at:

Heritage-listed buildings housing modern hair artistry
Salons where the champagne costs more than your Myki fare
International stylists who’ve worked with those kinds of clients
The type of places that make you feel fancy just walking in

Paris End Perfection: Rakis on Collins (Level 6, 308 Collins Street) is the definition of Collins Street luxury. With 39 years of excellence and over 100 industry awards, they’re Melbourne’s premier destination salon. Their team of L’Oréal colour experts and precision cutters have mastered the art of “expensive natural” – think power player highlights and cuts that grow out gracefully. Open late on weekdays and weekends, they understand CBD schedules.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BlsWH_0lHVg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Flinders Lane: The Creative Quarter

This is where fashion meets follicles:

Warehouse conversions with more edge than a geometry textbook
Stylists who double as DJs on weekends
The birthplace of trends that’ll hit suburbs in 6 months
Appointment-only studios hidden behind unmarked doors

Hidden Banana Alley Gem: H.L.U Hair Nail and Beauty Salon (Vault 5, Banana Alley/365 Flinders Street) brings full-service glamour to this historic location. They’re the Swiss Army knife of beauty – offering everything from hair extensions and permanent straightening to barbering and nail services. Perfect for busy creatives who want their entire look sorted in one stylish spot.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DF_xkNjSYSL/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Men’s Haven: Flinders Lane Barbers delivers contemporary and classic men’s cuts with decades of experience. Located just off Flinders Street Station, they’ve mastered the art of the 22-minute precision cut (perfect for catching trains). Roland and the team are known for their friendly banter and ability to deliver everything from textured crops to traditional side parts.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CnlP6wqvLpt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Insider Info: The best Flinders Lane salons don’t even have proper signage. If you know, you know. Look for the industrial doors and follow the stylish people.

Bourke Street: The Democratic Choice

From mall to mall, Bourke Street serves everyone:

Walk-in friendly spots for hair emergencies
Student-budget cuts that still slap
Multi-level salons that can handle your whole bridal party
Late-night options for the after-work crowd

The CBD Institution: D&Y Hair Design (Shop 1, 146 Bourke Street) has been transforming Melbourne looks for over 18 years. Open until 8pm Thursday-Friday and all weekend, they’re masters of both maintenance cuts and complete restyles. With expertise in everything from bold makeovers to subtle refreshes, they’ve earned their reputation as the go-to for busy professionals who need flexible timing.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DKTkIZBvTDn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Budget-Friendly Champion: JLo Salon is famous for two things: no bookings needed (perfect for spontaneous transformations) and incredible value. With over 21,000 Facebook followers and a 4.8-star rating from 1,000+ reviews, Joey and his team have mastered the art of delivering high-quality cuts and colors without the luxury price tag.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DJdXnSlTeLT/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Luxury Experience: Heaven Salons (422 Bourke Street) brings 45+ years of celebrity styling experience to the masses. Director Jax leads a team specializing in keratin treatments, hair extensions, and balayage. They’re proudly LGBTQ+ inclusive and known for their color correction expertise – perfect for fixing those lockdown DIY disasters.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C8eSHiNvVg7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Creative Collective: Zucci Hairdressing (Bourke Street CBD) combines minimalist design with maximalist talent. Craig brings 25+ years of cutting expertise (especially for curly and short hair), while Jess is an award-winning Aveda color educator with 15 years’ experience. Their team approach means you get matched with the perfect stylist for your needs.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DK0fGS2h4SR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Asian Hair Experts: SUI Hair Salon (Shop 4/235 Bourke Street, RMIT Building) just moved to a new location in 2025 and specializes in Asian hair textures and trending styles from Japan and Korea. Perfect for students wanting authentic Asian cuts and perms at reasonable prices.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DKIyrVDTa8N/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The Arcade Treasures

Melbourne’s famous arcades hide some serious gems:

Royal Arcade Legend: Forecast Hairdressing in the historic Royal Arcade has been serving Melbourne for three decades. Owner Marios brings fashion week experience (Melbourne Fashion Festival regular) and television/film expertise. As a La Biosthetique and Kerastase salon, they specialize in color correction and precision cutting. The location under the famous Gog and Magog clock makes it a true Melbourne institution.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DC5J5iBTLZj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Boutique Excellence: Confidente Hair Salon (Royal Arcade) is the definition of luxury boutique hairdressing. Specializing in on-trend cuts like curtain bangs, luxe brunettes, and expert blonde coloring, they’ve carved out a niche as the go-to for Melbourne’s fashion-conscious crowd who appreciate the intimate arcade setting.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C_wCddozcgH/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Block Arcade: While the Block Arcade itself focuses more on fashion retail and the famous Hopetoun Tea Rooms, several stylists rent chairs in nearby salons and are worth seeking out for their arcade-adjacent convenience.

Cathedral Arcade: Known for its stunning architecture and proximity to Nicholas Building creatives, making it perfect for a haircut between gallery visits.

Hardware Lane surrounds: Perfect for pre-appointment brunching at one of Melbourne’s best dining strips

Little Streets, Big Talent

Don’t sleep on:

Little Collins Style: The quieter sister to Collins Street offers boutique experiences without the crowds

Little Bourke Excellence: No. 74 Hair Salon (108 Little Bourke Street, Level 1) is a boutique salon that’s earned rave reviews for transformative cuts and colors. Their team excels at creating looks that perfectly complement your features, with clients calling it “the best haircut experience ever.” The central location makes it perfect for lunch-hour appointments.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CzKjuXNBDVn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Korean Hair Central: Shine Hair and Beauty (Little Bourke Street) was one of Melbourne’s first salons to bring authentic Korean hair design concepts to the CBD. They’re masters of Korean perms, hair bleaching, and those glossy K-drama blowouts that seem to defy Melbourne humidity.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CSQf1iZl5b0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Creative Hub: Devoue Hair (437 Little Bourke Street) offers the coveted Ceramic Perm and Mucota Hair Treatment. Their creative director leads a skilled team specializing in Asian hair textures and the latest techniques from Seoul and Tokyo.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CxvKaw9y4VQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Russell Place Revelation: Saint Louie Hair (26 Russell Place) is tucked away in one of Melbourne’s most charming laneways, surrounded by cool galleries and eateries. Owners Ivan Constable and Jean-Paul Rosette bring over 25 years of combined experience from fashion weeks in London and New York. Named after Louis XIV (patron saint of hairdressers), this sustainable salon blends soft wood detailing with concrete surfaces for an understated, elegant vibe. They’re part of the Sustainable Salons program, recycling 95% of their waste.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DHpznmnz_2K/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Hidden Korean Gem: Aery Salon (location discreet – true Melbourne laneway style) is where Korean hair expertise meets Melbourne cool. With a director boasting 23 years of experience, they specialize in K-beauty techniques like digital perms, cold perms, and foilyage. Using both Olaplex and K18 treatments, they’re all about maintaining hair health while achieving those Seoul-worthy transformations.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CqCvV9nJclN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

McKillop Street: Still home to some of the best independent colorists who work by referral only

The CBD Salon Personality Test

The “Executive Excellence” Salons

You Know You Need This If:

Your calendar is color-coded and triple-booked
You need to look polished AF for that board meeting
Discretion is key (yes, they’ve done hair for that politician)
You appreciate efficiency without compromising quality

What They Excel At:

Power blow-dries that last through Melbourne weather
Subtle color that says “successful” not “trying too hard”
Cuts that grow out gracefully (because who has time for monthly trims?)
Express services that actually express

The Vibe: Think marble counters, Aesop products, complimentary laptops so you can work while processing, and stylists who understand that “natural” means “expensive-looking natural.”

Your Match: Rakis on Collins ticks every executive excellence box. Their four-point consultation process considers your scalp health, hair condition, lifestyle, and preferences. With L’Oréal Colour Expert Accreditation and late weeknight hours, they’re built for the C-suite crowd who need perfection on a timeline.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DKOZErPz2zx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The “Creative Powerhouse” Spots

You’re Their People If:

Your Instagram is your portfolio
“Boring” is your least favorite word
You’re not afraid of change (or bleach)
Your hair is part of your brand

Their Specialties:

Fashion colors that photograph perfectly
Cuts that make statements before you do
Transformations that deserve their own TikTok
Techniques you can’t pronounce but definitely want

The Energy: Industrial chic meets art gallery, music you’ll Shazam, stylists with more piercings than your conservative aunt can handle, and color bowls that look like artists’ palettes.

Your Match: Edwards & Co (Level 1/22 Punch Lane) is where Sydney’s fashion crowd energy meets Melbourne’s creative spirit. Founded by award-winning stylist Jaye Edwards, this collaborative studio space has become the go-to for models, influencers, and anyone wanting that effortless “I woke up like this” wave. They won Salon Business of the Year at the 2017 Australian Hair Fashion Awards, and their signature balayage is basically Melbourne Instagram gold.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DK33PghzV78/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Color Magic Central: Xiang Hair started as a suburban salon in 1989 and worked its way to CBD prominence. Now with multiple locations including the CBD, they’ve been voted Australian Hairdressers of the Year and specialize in seamless, on-trend color blends that grow out beautifully.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DJoL4jtxkd_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The “Quick Fix” Heroes

Perfect For:

Lunch break warriors
Last-minute date prep
“Oh god, I have an interview in 2 hours”
Regular maintenance without the fuss

They Nail:

30-minute blow-dries
Root touch-ups while you eat your sandwich
Bang trims between meetings
Quick fixes that don’t look rushed

The Scene: No-nonsense efficiency, online booking that actually works, price lists that don’t require a calculator, and stylists who can work magic in minimal time.

Your Hero: Soul Hair CBD has mastered the express service game with a 4.7-star rating from busy professionals. They offer everything from quick trims to color touch-ups, with stylists who understand that “lunch hour” means exactly that. Their efficient booking system and multiple stylists mean minimal wait times.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BaGCkToDL3h/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Budget-Friendly Excellence: JLo Salon (location in CBD) has an impressive 4.8 rating from over 1,000 reviews. Known for great value services and skilled staff who deliver professional results without the luxury price tag, they’re perfect for students and young professionals watching their budgets.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6l12laHEEr/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The “International Influence” Destinations

Your Jam If:

You miss your hometown stylist (from literally anywhere)
You want techniques that aren’t mainstream in Melbourne yet
You appreciate cultural hair knowledge
You’re tired of stylists not understanding your hair texture

They Bring:

Brazilian blow-outs from actual Brazilians
Japanese precision cutting
European color techniques
African hair expertise that’s desperately needed

The Atmosphere: Multilingual teams, global product ranges, techniques you won’t find elsewhere, and that feeling of being understood.

Korean Excellence: Aery Salon brings authentic Korean techniques to Melbourne CBD. Specializing in digital perms, K-beauty colors, and treatments using both Olaplex and K18, they’re your gateway to Seoul-style transformations. The director’s 23 years of international experience shows in every precise cut.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DKL4jx1zgZb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Japanese Precision: JISU offers Japanese-style attention to detail with services including scalp treatments, precision cuts, and styling. Customers rave about stylist Rosie’s patient approach and the salon’s commitment to healthy hair practices straight from Tokyo.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DKUGNiWzsaB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The “Melbourne Professional” Standards

The CBD Bob: Sharp, sophisticated, works with your helmet hair from the morning commute
Power Player Highlights: Subtle dimension that catches boardroom lighting perfectly
The “Zoom Ready” Cut: Looks incredible from the collarbone up
Grey Blending Magic: For when you’re distinguished but not ready to be full silver fox

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKyzGfdz-GH/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The “City Creative” Choices

Money piece highlights (frame that face!)
Hidden rainbow panels (corporate on top, party underneath)
The modern shag (because the 70s are back, baby)
Textured pixies (low maintenance, high impact)
“Expensive Brunette” (the new “Expensive Blonde”)

The “Time-Poor” Solutions

Express root touch-ups (lunch hour lifesavers)
Gloss treatments (shine for days)
Quick trim and blow-dry combos
Keratin express (frizz control for busy humans)
Tape extensions (length without the wait)

Let’s Talk Money (Because We’re All Thinking It)

CBD pricing in 2025 – the full breakdown:

Cuts That Make Sense

Basic trim: $70-100 (for when you just need those ends gone)
Full consultation cut: $100-200 (includes the therapy session)
Creative/precision cuts: $150-300 (art takes time)
Express cuts: $60-90 (30 mins or less)
Buzz cuts/fades: $40-70 (simple but needs skill)

https://www.instagram.com/p/CfYbSuOPLvf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Color Investment Levels

Root touch-up: $120-180 (the every-4-weeker)
Full head color: $180-350 (new you incoming)
Highlights/balayage: $250-500 (dimensional dreams)
Creative color: $300-700 (unicorn tax is real)
Color correction: $400-1000+ (fixing home experiments)
Gloss refresh: $80-150 (the quickie glow-up)

Olaplex/bond treatments: $50-100
Scalp treatments: $60-120
Express blow-dry: $50-80
Event styling: $100-200
Keratin treatments: $350-600
Extensions consultation: $100-150

https://www.instagram.com/p/C5waArWBPgQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

CBD Budget Hacks:

Many salons offer “model nights” with senior supervision
First-time client discounts are common (shop around!)
Package deals save serious $$$ for regulars
Off-peak pricing (Tuesday mornings are gold)
Student/senior discounts with ID
Group bookings often score discounts

Your CBD Salon Survival Guide

Pre-Booking Intel

Research Like a Pro

Instagram stalk (check recent work, not just highlights)
Google reviews (but remember, angry people review more)
Check their COVID policies (still relevant in 2025)
Verify they work with your hair type
Look for consistency in their work

Questions to Ask

“What’s your availability like?” (Good salons book out)
“Do you have express services?” (For the time-poor)
“What’s included in the price?” (Avoid surprises)
“Do you use [specific product] I’m allergic to?”
“What’s your cancellation policy?” (City life happens)

Day-Of Strategy

Timing Your Visit

Allow buffer time (CBD traffic/trams/parking drama)
Book first appointment of the day (running on time!)
Or last appointment (no rush)
Avoid lunch rushes if possible
Friday afternoons = busy AF

https://www.instagram.com/p/C99xyBxTVHj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

What to Bring

Inspo pics (but be realistic about your hair vs. the model’s)
Your hair history (photos help)
Snacks if it’s a long appointment
Charger (for those 3-hour transformations)
Entertainment (unless you love 2019 magazines)

Communication Keys

Be honest about your routine (or lack thereof)
Speak up immediately if something feels wrong
Discuss your lifestyle (gym? Swimming? Helmet hair?)
Ask about maintenance before committing
Get styling tips while you’re there

Post-Appointment Protocol

Lock In That Look

Book your next appointment immediately
Take photos in good lighting
Buy at least one recommended product
Follow aftercare instructions (they exist for a reason)
Leave a review if you loved it (help others find hair happiness)

Finding Your CBD Hair Home

If You’re a Corporate Climber

You need salons that understand:

Early morning appointments
Lunch-hour services
Styles that last through long days
Subtle sophistication
Reliability above all

Look for: Established salons with corporate clientele, online booking systems that work, express service menus, and stylists who’ve been in the game long enough to be efficient without rushing.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C4NdHPZyrbx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

If You’re a Student/Young Professional

Your priorities:

Prices that don’t require selling a kidney
Flexible timing
Trendy but wearable styles
Stylists who get your references
Payment plans for big changes

Seek out: Salons with student discounts, newer stylists building portfolios, group booking discounts, and places that understand avocado toast vs. hair color budgeting.

If You’re Time-Poor But Hair-Rich

You need:

Express everything
Standing appointments
Stylists who remember your exact formula
Minimal consultation (they already know)
Quality at speed

Your spots: Salons with dedicated express menus, multiple stylists for faster service, proven track records with regular clients, and early/late hours.

If You’re After Something Specific

Whether it’s:

Curly hair expertise
Cultural hair knowledge
Sustainable/vegan products
LGBTQIA+ safe spaces
Specific techniques or certifications

Do this: Call ahead and ask specifically, check their website for certifications, read reviews from people with similar needs, and trust your gut in consultations.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CuGj04jvtK0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The CBD Salon Red Flags

Watch out for:

No clear pricing (transparency matters)
Stylists who don’t listen to your concerns
Pushing products harder than techniques
Rush jobs disguised as “express services”
Lack of proper consultation
“We can squeeze you in” for complex services
Dirty tools or spaces (non-negotiable)
Staff turnover higher than a McDonald’s

CBD Hair Trends Actually Worth Your Time (2025 Edition)

The “Practical Pretty” Movement

Cuts that air-dry beautifully
Color that grows out gracefully
Styles that survive Melbourne’s four-seasons-in-one-day weather
Heat-free styling techniques

The “Sustainable Salon” Shift

Eco-friendly color options
Sustainable Salons Australia members
Refillable product stations
Carbon offset programs
Recycled hair programs

The “Express Luxury” Trend

High-end services in half the time
Lunch-hour transformations
Speed without sacrificing quality
Tech-enhanced efficiency

The “Wellness Integration”

Scalp health focus
Meditation during processing time
Aromatherapy add-ons
Stress-reducing treatments
Hair health over hair trends

Making It Work With Your CBD Life

The Morning Meeting Regular

Book first appointment of the day
Opt for styles that can be refreshed quickly
Keep dry shampoo in your desk drawer
Master the overnight curl method
Invest in good hair accessories

The Retail Warrior

After-work appointments are your friend
Saturday morning = golden hour
Quick lunch fixes between shifts
Styles that survive on-feet all day
Consider low-maintenance color

The Student Hustler

Tuesday-Thursday for better prices
Group bookings with classmates
Take advantage of model calls
Build a relationship with junior stylists
DIY maintenance between appointments

The Creative Professional

Portfolio-ready hair always
Quick change abilities
Stylists who understand personal branding
Flexibility for last-minute opportunities
Looks that photograph well

Top CBD Salons by Specialty

For the Color Connoisseur

Edwards & Co (Level 1/22 Punch Lane) - Fashion-forward balayage and “future-proof color” Saint Louie Hair (26 Russell Place) - Personalized color in a sustainable, intimate setting Rakis on Collins (Level 6, 308 Collins Street) - L’Oréal excellence for corporate sophistication

For the Time-Poor Professional

Soul Hair CBD - Express services with exceptional ratings Rakis on Collins - Late hours and lunch appointments PUO Salon (125 Swanston Street) - Central location with flexible timing

For International Techniques

Aery Salon - Korean digital perms and K-beauty expertise JISU - Japanese precision and scalp treatments Saint Louie Hair - London/New York fashion week experience

For Sustainable Beauty

Saint Louie Hair - 95% waste recycling through Sustainable Salons Aery Salon - Focus on hair health with Olaplex and K18

The Bottom Line (With CBD Sparkle)

Finding your perfect Melbourne CBD hairdresser isn’t just about convenience (though that’s definitely a perk). It’s about finding someone who:

Gets your lifestyle and schedule
Understands CBD life pressures
Can work magic in minimal time when needed
Makes you feel pampered even in express appointments
Delivers consistency in a chaotic city
Becomes part of your urban support system

Whether you end up in a Collins Street institution or a hidden laneway gem, Melbourne’s CBD has a stylist who’ll make you feel like the main character in your city story. Because let’s be real – great hair makes everything else easier.

Final Pro Tips:

Book ahead (good CBD stylists are booked solid)
Build relationships (regulars get perks)
Be realistic about maintenance
Invest in quality – it shows
Trust the process
Remember: your hair is the crown you never take off

Now go forth and conquer the CBD with fabulous hair. Your perfect city stylist is out there, probably drinking their third coffee and ready to transform your life (or at least your look).

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best hairdressers in Melbourne CBD?

The top-rated CBD hairdressers include:

Rakis on Collins (308 Collins St) - Luxury salon with 39 years experience
Edwards & Co (22 Punch Lane) - Fashion-forward with celebrity clientele
Saint Louie Hair (26 Russell Place) - Boutique sustainable salon
D&Y Hair Design (146 Bourke St) - 18+ years of CBD excellence
PUO Salon (125 Swanston St) - Creative powerhouse with Instagram-worthy interiors

How much does a haircut cost in Melbourne CBD?

CBD haircut prices typically range from:

Basic trim: $70-100
Full consultation cut: $100-200
Creative/precision cuts: $150-300
Student cuts: $60-90
Express cuts: $60-90

Which CBD salons are open late?

Several CBD salons offer extended hours:

D&Y Hair Design - Open until 8pm Thursday-Friday
Rakis on Collins - Weeknight appointments available
Heaven Salons - Flexible hours for professionals
Edwards & Co - Accommodates after-work appointments

Where can I get Korean/Asian hair services in Melbourne CBD?

Top salons for Asian hair expertise:

Aery Salon - Korean digital perms and K18 treatments
Shine Hair and Beauty - First Korean concept salon in CBD
SUI Hair Salon - Japanese and Korean techniques
JISU - Japanese precision cutting

What’s the best salon for sustainable/eco-friendly hair in the CBD?

Saint Louie Hair leads in sustainability, recycling 95% of salon waste through the Sustainable Salons program. They use eco-friendly products while maintaining luxury service standards.

P.S. - The best CBD salons are booked 2-3 weeks out. If they can fit you in immediately for a major service, ask yourself why.

P.P.S. - That person with incredible hair on your tram? They definitely go to a salon within a 5-minute walk of your office. The CBD is small like that.

P.P.P.S. - Emergency hair situations happen. Keep a list of salons that take walk-ins. Future you will thank present you.

This guide reflects Melbourne CBD’s hair scene as of June 2025. Prices change, trends evolve, but good hair in the city is forever. When in doubt, ask that person with great hair where they go – Melburnians love to share their secrets.