If you’ve lived in Arlington long enough, you know the drill with local businesses. Some places are institutions because they’re actually good, and others are just there because they’ve been there forever. When it comes to Jon David Salon Lee Heights, people usually fall into the first camp. It’s tucked away in that classic shopping center on Langston Boulevard—which everyone still kinda calls Lee Highway even though the signs changed a while back—and it has this reputation for being the "it" spot for North Arlington hair without being unnecessarily snobby about it.
Honestly, finding a stylist in NoVa is a nightmare. You either end up at a chain where they don't know your name or a high-end DC studio where you have to sell a kidney to afford a balayage. This place occupies that weird, perfect middle ground.
What's the Deal with Jon David Salon Lee Heights?
The salon is part of a small local empire. David S. Inloes and Jon David are the names behind the brand, and they’ve expanded to places like Springfield and Fairfax, but the Lee Heights location feels different. It’s got that neighborhood energy. You see people coming in after a run at Potomac Overlook or grabbing a coffee at Starbucks next door before their 10:00 AM highlight appointment. It’s busy. Like, "book weeks in advance" busy.
Why?
Because they actually train their people. A lot of salons just hire whoever has a license and throw them on the floor. Jon David has a specific associate program. It’s basically a finishing school for stylists. They learn the "Jon David way," which sounds a bit culty, but it really just means they focus on consistency. You won't get a masterpiece one month and a disaster the next just because your regular person was out sick.
The Vibe Inside
It’s sleek. Lots of white, lots of light, very modern. But it isn't quiet. It’s a social hub. You’ll hear the hum of blowdryers—they use high-end gear like Dyson and Twin Turbo—and the constant chatter of stylists who actually seem to like their jobs. That matters. If the person cutting your hair is miserable, your hair is going to look miserable.
The Services: What They Actually Excel At
Most people head to Jon David Salon Lee Heights for color. That’s their bread and butter.
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Whether it's a "lived-in" blonde look or a full-on platinum transformation, they use high-quality lines like Redken and Goldwell. They’re particularly known for their balayage technique. If you aren't familiar, balayage is that hand-painted look that grows out way more naturally than old-school foil highlights. It’s perfect for the busy Arlington professional who doesn't have time to sit in a chair every four weeks for a root touch-up.
But it’s not just for women.
They do a massive amount of men's cuts too. It’s a step up from the local barber but faster than a full "salon experience."
- Color Correction: This is where they really prove their worth. If you tried to box-dye your hair at home during a mid-life crisis, these are the people who fix it. It takes hours. It’s expensive. But they’ll save your hair from falling out.
- Keratin Treatments: NoVa humidity is a joke. It’s basically a swamp from June to September. Their Coppola and Global Keratin treatments are life-savers for anyone with frizz.
- Precision Cutting: They don't just do "trims." They look at face shape. It’s a whole thing.
The Price Point (Let's Be Real)
Arlington isn't cheap. You know it, I know it. You’re going to pay more here than you would at a Great Clips in Manassas. A standard haircut can range significantly depending on the "level" of the stylist you book.
Stylists are tiered:
- New Talent
- Level 1-4
- Master Stylist
If you book a Master Stylist, be prepared to pay a premium. They’ve been in the game for a decade plus. If you’re on a budget but want the Jon David quality, booking "New Talent" is a total pro move. These are stylists who have finished their schooling and are in the final stages of the salon's internal training. They’re talented, they’re supervised, and they’re much more affordable.
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Common Misconceptions About the Salon
One thing people get wrong is thinking they can just walk in. You can’t. Well, you can, but you’ll probably be waiting for three hours or told to come back on a Tuesday. The Jon David Salon Lee Heights location is one of the highest-traffic salons in the zip code.
Another myth? That it’s only for "older" North Arlington residents.
While you’ll definitely see the suburban crowd, the salon draws a lot of younger professionals from Clarendon and Ballston. They stay current on trends. You aren't going to walk out looking like you're stuck in 1998 unless you specifically ask for that. They’re up to date on Shag cuts, Wolf cuts, and whatever else is trending on TikTok this week.
Navigating the Lee Heights Shopping Center
Parking is a nightmare. I’m just being honest.
The Lee Heights shops are iconic—you’ve got Lebanon Pickerel, Arrowine & Cheese, and Pastries by Randolph—but the parking lot was designed back when cars were the size of golf carts.
Pro Tip: If the main lot is full, look for street parking on the side roads like N. Woodstock St. Just watch the signs so you don't get a $50 ticket from Arlington County. Also, try to arrive 10 minutes early. Not just for the parking, but because the salon runs on a tight schedule. If you’re 15 minutes late, they might have to cut your service short or reschedule you entirely.
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Why the Stylist Relationship Matters Here
What’s cool about Jon David is that they encourage you to find your "person."
They have a massive roster of stylists. Some are quiet and focused; others will give you the best gossip you’ve heard all year. When you call to book, ask the front desk who they recommend for your specific hair type. Got curly hair? Ask for the curl specialist. Going from black to blonde? Ask who handles the "heavy lifts."
They use a sophisticated booking system that tracks your color formulas. This is huge. If your stylist leaves or you have to see someone else, the new person knows exactly what $formula$ was used on your hair six months ago. No guesswork. No "oops, your hair is orange now."
Sustainability and Products
They aren't just dumping chemicals down the drain. They’ve made strides in being more conscious about the products they stock. You’ll see brands like Kevin Murphy, which is known for being PETA-approved and using recycled ocean plastic for packaging. It’s a nice touch for a community that generally cares about its carbon footprint.
What to Do Before Your Appointment
Don't just show up and say "do whatever." That’s a recipe for disaster.
- Bring Photos: And be realistic. If you have thin, dark hair, don't bring a photo of a thick-haired Scandinavian blonde and expect to look like her in two hours.
- Be Honest About Your History: If you used a "natural" henna dye at home three years ago, tell them. Henna and professional lightener do not mix. Your hair will literally smoke.
- Check the Cancellation Policy: They have a 24-hour rule. If you ghost them, expect to pay a fee. It’s only fair; that’s a spot another client could have taken.
The Final Verdict
Is Jon David Salon Lee Heights the best salon in Arlington? "Best" is subjective. But it is arguably the most consistent. You’re paying for the training, the high-end products, and the fact that they won't ruin your hair. It’s an investment in your confidence, basically.
The location is convenient, the talent is vetted, and the results speak for themselves. If you can handle the parking situation and you remember to book ahead, you’re probably going to be a regular there for a long time.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Visit
- Book an Initial Consultation: If you’re planning a major change (like going from long to short or doing a vivid color), don’t just book a cut. Book a 15-minute consult first. It’s usually free or low-cost and saves a lot of heartache.
- Check Their Instagram: The salon and individual stylists post their work constantly. Use this to find a stylist whose aesthetic matches yours.
- Sign Up for the Rewards Program: They often have a system where you earn points for every dollar spent. It adds up to free products or discounts on future services.
- Visit Mid-Week: If you want a calmer experience, avoid Saturdays. Tuesday and Wednesday mornings are usually the quietest times in the salon.
- Invest in Post-Care: Don't spend $300 on color and then wash it with $5 drugstore shampoo. Ask your stylist for a sulfate-free recommendation to keep that color from fading in two weeks.