Finding Free and Low-Cost Haircuts in Manhattan

In today's down economy, budget minded fashionistas based in Manhattan can still find ways to have the latest hair styles. For those who can't afford to pay hundreds of dollars to for high-end salon haircare can save a fortune by having their hair cut by a stylist in training at a high-end salon or training institute.

A few places in New York City that have ongoing teaching sessions where one can get actually a free haircut with very good to excellent results include Salon Ziba and the Cutler Salon. The website Salon Apprentice (http://bit.ly/9ZtZS0) is comprehensive listing of stylists-in-training looking for models. Also, Time Out New York features their listing of Five Ways to Get a Free Hair Cut (http://bit.ly/Jx1Qn). In addition, stylists often list model calls in the free stuff" and "volunteer" sections in NYC Craigslist.

A few caveats to bear in mind when searching for a free cut. In most instances, these students are looking for specific haircuts and want people willing to undergo more than a simple trim. For example, one will always find plenty of requests for bob style and other very short haircuts because that is the first type of cut that a stylist needs to master. Those with longer hair wishing to keep their locks may find themselves out of luck some of the time. While the haircuts are free, in most instances, one will need to pay at least $20.00 for highlights to cover the costs of supplies.

For those looking for a low-cost fee, check out the Aveda Institute at 233 Spring Street in Soho. Haircut start at $20.00 with color starting at $40 and color foils beginning at $45.00. As an added plus, the stylists are trained to offer free hand and massages along with Aveda tea. Other salon services are available such as facials, wax removal, and make-up. For more information, go to their website (http://bit.ly/bPtEhb),

Another low-cost option would be the Carsten Institute of Hair & Beauty (http://bit.ly/9XWyyL) located on 22 E 17th Street near Union Square. While their prices are somewhat lower than Aveda Institute, the atmosphere is a bit more utilitarian and they don't offer the full range of services one finds at Aveda Institute. Also, the students often forget to do the little perks like free massages. But the students are still supervised and one can leave with a professional looking haircut and highlights.