j. Brooker Studio

This review is only for Angel. He told my 17 year old daughter at the end of her cut that he didn’t want to do layers on her, in the back (when I asked her if she wanted them) because her hair was “thin and stringy.” Who says that to a client?! And a teenage one at that who is going to be highly impressionable?? And if a client asks for something, can’t you just give your advice, then do it, if asked? Context: I took my daughter to him who just finished her swim season and had been very patiently waiting to get her long hair cut until it was over. She was REALLY looking forward to it. Her hair is fine and was overdue for a cut. She expressed this to him. He then duly cut her hair but decide to dry it with a flat paddle brush rather than a big round brush to give a real blow-out to add volume. (Odd choice.) So it looked particularly flat, unlike previous cut/dries that she has gotten. Then, when he was done, he dismissed her quickly without asking if she was satisfied with how it looked. I was next to them so I asked if she was happy with the layers (that she had planned and planned for) - I could tell she was slightly dissatisfied but didn’t want to say anything. I asked if he could do a little more around the face. He pushed back but did it. Then, when we looked at the back and I just asked my daughter is she wanted any layers, he said to both of us, in an annoyed voice that, “No, you don’t want them when the hair is thin and stringy like this.” Point is: even if that’s the case, say something productive and professional, especially to a kid.

This is the second time I’ve gotten my hair cut by James and he is truly incredible and so kind!! I have a lot of hair, and he really takes his time and is never in a rush. I’ve shown him pictures of wolf cuts and bangs and the cut always ends up exactly like what I’m looking for! So nice to chat with too. And super affordable. Seriously can’t recommend him enough! :) Put the cut I got and what it looked like before (he also cut my hair in the longer look) for some pics!

Olga is absolutely amazing! I wanted to go red with no bleach (I originally had light brown hair with some bleach highlights) and she made sure she got every part of my hair while complimenting me throughout. Her and the receptionist made my experience of dying my hair a bright color for the first time amazing. I have gotten SO many compliments on my hair because of ho well done Olga did the color. The products they used are amazing and left my hair shiny and smooth for 4 days after the appointment. Thank you so much! You guys deserve all the hype

Wonderful salon. They carry an amazing hair line in the shop as well. I just love my new salon. Marisa serviced my hair and was very knowledgeable about products and color choices. She took her time and the results were beautiful! Will definitely be making my next appointment soon with her!

(5/2025): Always my go-to salon if I'm in the area! I got my hair cut by Angel and he was wonderful and friendly. Prices are still reasonable and top-tier service!! (5/2023): I still love this hair salon and Maria! My favorite place in Berkeley. Reasonable prices and amazing service. All the staff are very nice and talented. Totally recommend if you live in Berkeley or are a student! (2022) Maria is amazing! I came in for the first time to get a haircut and I wasn't sure if I wanted just a trim or to go shorter. Maria talked it through with me and suggested some face framing and edge softening to add to the style, and I ended up going short. I am so happy with the result and when I got home and had a longer look in the mirror, I actually squealed with happiness. Maria is so welcoming and you can tell she has a lot of expertise. She made me feel extremely comfortable, and for just a haircut, she spent a lot of time making sure it was perfect. The studio too is very inviting and clean, and the other staff are also very kind. I will 100% return and 100% recommend!