Finding a stylist you actually trust is a nightmare. Honestly, we’ve all been there—sitting in a chair, watching far too much hair fall to the floor, and nodding politely while dying a little inside. If you live on the North Shore, you've likely driven past the plaza at 1100 Central Avenue dozens of times. That’s where Gordon Salon in Wilmette IL sits, and it’s not just another place to get a trim. It’s an Aveda-concept hub that has managed to survive the fickle trends of the hair world for years.
People around here are picky. They should be. When you’re paying North Shore prices, you expect more than just a wash and a blow-dry. You want someone who understands that "honey blonde" isn't the same thing as "bleached straw." Gordon Salon has built a reputation on that specific distinction.
The Aveda Philosophy Isn't Just Marketing
You smell it before you see it. That earthy, botanical scent is the hallmark of an Aveda salon. While some people find the "sensory journey" (that’s the hand massage and essential oils routine) a bit much, it’s actually a core part of why Gordon Salon stays busy. They use plant-based products, which matters if your scalp is sensitive or if you’re tired of smelling like a chemistry lab for three days after a color appointment.
Tony Gordon, the man behind the name, isn't just a local business owner; he’s been a massive figure in the Intercoiffure world. That’s basically the Ivy League of hairstyling. Because of that connection, the training at the Wilmette location is notoriously rigorous. You aren't just getting a kid who finished beauty school last week. You’re getting someone who has likely gone through months of internal "Gordon" training before they were ever allowed to touch a pair of shears on a paying client.
They focus heavily on the "Total Look." It sounds like corporate speak, but in practice, it means they actually look at your bone structure. If you have a round face and ask for a blunt bob, a good stylist at Gordon will probably (politely) tell you why that’s a bad idea and suggest a variation that doesn't make you look like a mushroom. That honesty is rare.
What to Expect at Gordon Salon in Wilmette IL
The vibe is professional but not stiff. You know those salons where the stylists are too cool to talk to you? This isn't really that. It’s busy. Especially on Saturdays. If you’re looking for a silent, meditative experience, maybe book a Tuesday morning. Otherwise, expect the hum of blow dryers and a fair amount of chatter.
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Parking in Wilmette can be a total pain, but since they are located in the Plaza del Lago area, it’s usually manageable compared to downtown Evanston or Chicago.
- The Price Tier System: This is where people sometimes get confused. Like many high-end salons, Gordon uses a tiered pricing structure.
- Junior Stylists: Great for a basic trim or a solid single-process color if you're on a budget.
- Master Stylists: These are the veterans. If you are doing a massive color correction or want a technical haircut that requires precision, pay the extra money. It’s worth it to avoid the "fix-it" appointment later.
- Consultations: They actually do them. Seriously. Don't skip this.
It is worth noting that Aveda color is different. It’s up to 96% naturally derived. For some, this is a selling point because it's less damaging. However, if you are looking for neon, "manic panic" style vibrancy, a plant-based dye might have its limits compared to heavy synthetics. It’s a trade-off. Healthier hair usually means a slightly more natural palette.
The Reality of North Shore Haircare
Let's talk money. Wilmette isn't cheap. You can go to a Great Clips and get a haircut for twenty bucks, but you get what you pay for. At Gordon, you’re paying for the education of the stylist and the quality of the products. A standard women's cut can range significantly depending on who you book with.
One thing that sets this location apart is their consistency. The turnover in the salon industry is usually insane. Stylists jump from booth to booth every six months. Gordon seems to keep their staff longer than most, which is a testament to the culture Tony Gordon built. When you find a stylist you like, there’s a high probability they’ll actually still be there in a year.
Dealing with the "Aveda" Experience
If you’ve never been to an Aveda salon, the ritual can be a bit surprising. They usually offer you a cup of Aveda Comforting Tea—it’s caffeine-free and tastes like licorice and peppermint. Some people love it; some hate it. Then there’s the neck and shoulder massage. If you’re in a rush, just tell them. They won't be offended. But if you’ve had a brutal week at work, that three-minute massage before the shampoo is basically therapy.
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The shampoo bowls are also worth mentioning. It sounds trivial, but bad neck rests are the worst. Gordon uses relatively comfortable stations. It’s the little things that justify the price tag.
Common Misconceptions About Gordon Salon
People often think that because it’s a "big name" salon, it’s a factory. It can feel that way during the holiday rush, sure. But the Wilmette team specifically has a lot of stylists who have been in the neighborhood for a long time. They know the families. They’ve cut the hair of three generations in some cases.
Another misconception? That they only do "old lady" hair. While they certainly have a loyal older clientele (Wilmette has a lot of established residents), their younger stylists are very much tuned into current trends like balayage, "lived-in" color, and shag cuts. They aren't stuck in 1995.
- Check the portfolio: Most stylists have Instagrams now. Ask the front desk for the handle of the stylist they are recommending.
- Be honest about your routine: Don't tell them you'll spend 30 minutes styling your hair if you actually just roll out of bed and leave. They need to give you a cut that works for your laziness level.
- Book ahead: Especially for the Wilmette location. Same-day appointments are a gamble.
Sustainable Beauty in Wilmette
The "green" aspect of Gordon Salon isn't just a trend they hopped on recently. They’ve been part of the Green Circle Salons initiative. This is actually pretty cool—they recycle almost everything, including the hair clippings (which can be used to soak up oil spills) and the leftover hair color chemicals so they don't end up in the water supply.
In a town like Wilmette, where environmental consciousness is usually high, this matters. It’s nice to know your highlights aren't poisoning the lake.
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Why You Might Look Elsewhere
Look, no salon is perfect for everyone. If you want a super edgy, "underground" vibe with graffiti on the walls and loud punk music, Gordon isn't it. It’s polished. It’s professional. It’s very "Wilmette."
Also, the Aveda scent is everywhere. If you are someone who is truly allergic to fragrance or essential oils, this might be a tough place for you to spend two hours. It’s an aromatic experience by design.
Finding the Right Stylist at the Wilmette Location
Don't just take the first opening. Call and describe your hair type. Is it curly? Fine? Thriving on neglect? Ask for someone who specializes in your specific texture. Gordon has people who are "curly hair certified," which is a game-changer if you’ve spent your life getting "poodle" cuts from people who don't understand 3C curls.
Actionable Next Steps
If you’re considering a change or just moved to the area, here is how to handle your first visit to Gordon Salon in Wilmette IL without any stress.
- Schedule a 15-minute consultation first. Most stylists offer this for free or a small fee that goes toward your service. It’s a "vibe check" for both of you.
- Bring photos of what you HATE. Everyone brings photos of what they want, but showing a stylist what you find "ugly" is actually more helpful for avoiding a disaster.
- Ask about the "New Talent" nights. If you want the Gordon experience but are tight on cash, sometimes the junior stylists have specific days where they offer discounted rates to build their speed and portfolio.
- Download the Aveda app. You can earn points on the products you buy there, which eventually turns into free services. It’s a slow burn, but it saves money in the long run.
- Confirm the location. Gordon has a few spots (Highland Park, etc.), so make sure you’re actually booking at the 1100 Central Ave spot in Wilmette.
Ultimately, your hair is an investment. Whether you go to Gordon or somewhere else, the goal is to leave the chair feeling like yourself, only better. In the North Shore, Gordon remains a top-tier choice for a reason: they know what they’re doing, and they’ve been doing it long enough to survive every hair fad from the "Rachel" to the "wolf cut."