Strange Powers, Portland OR

Okay, so I wrote a review earlier in the week then took it down because I don’t want to be unkind and everyone has a bad day, but what it comes down to is feeling disrespected so I decided a review is warranted after all. I saw Savannah two weeks ago. I’d never seen her before and scheduled a curly cut with her, which is supposed to last an hour-and-a-half but she only spent about forty minutes on me. I told myself it wasn’t a big deal if she did a good job. I don’t have a lot of hair. However, after a couple days, I noticed a section on the right side toward the back was much heavier than the rest, like she’d totally neglected to incorporate it into the style. I contacted her via instagram for a touch up. No response. I sent the salon a message, ditto. I didn’t hear back for a week, and when she got me in it was clear she didn’t want to make any corrections. She cut a tiny bit off (not even from the section that really needed it). I asked her for more and she cut a tiny bit more from who knows where. Because it was obvious she wasn’t interested in fixing what was wrong with my haircut and I didn’t want to have a confrontation, I told her she’d solved the problem, wished her happy holidays and left, though what’s wrong with my haircut is still glaringly wrong. I understand that everyone has off days, but I gave her a chance to correct a mistake, and instead of taking that chance to work with me and gain a client, she treated me poorly. The experience was stressful and disappointing when it didn’t need to be.

In love with my curly cut from Jaina! Strange Powers is a cute salon, it’s such a neighborhood vibe and everyone was sweet. Very pretty space, great products, good music, and wonderful results. There’s nothing better than a good day at the salon.

If you’re looking for a curl stylist in Portland I highly recommend Jaina. She understands shape so well and can see what my hair is gonna do before she makes a cut. She was able to balance the shape of my individual curls, placement of where that curl will fall, volume, and overall style. We did a shag that wasn’t super high contrast so I can still blow it out when I need to. She really listened to me when I was describing what I wanted and asked questions and made suggestions. When we were drying she taught me all her techniques and after being a curly girl all my life I have never heard of these! So smart and low effort that just lets your natural texture come through.

Loved my experience here! Highly recommend Strange Powers.

GO SEE LARA as their client of many years, I can say the magic they have worked on my hair has not just changed the quality of the hairs on my head but my personal confidence as well. They’ve taught me so much on how to properly care for and manage MY hair in a way that works for ME. Plus they are so understanding and flexible of real life- not the “I expect you back in 6 weeks” type. Thank you for changing not only my hair game but my perception of myself, Lara! You’re the best!

Bethaney, thank you for the incredible transformation cut! This was my first short cut ever. I came in with a few inspo photos, and Bethaney created a gorgeous custom cut! My partner said that i look better than the photo. I wanted to make an appointment with the best of the best for such a big change, and I'm so glad i drove all the way in to Portland for this occasion! I'm in love. Thank you!

Savannah is an amazing hair stylist! I wish I lived in town and could regularly have her cut my hair. I cut off a lot of hair and she helped me through the process and made it look great! The space is also lovely.

Went here for the first time today and got a fantastic haircut from Savannah! Great space, cool vibe, friendly humans - 10/10 would recommend.

The space is open and relaxing. Beth does a great job and is always willing to talk through what I'm looking for or share ideas. Can't see going anywhere else!

Beth is a wizard with my fine hair, which is surprisingly difficult to find. I'm growing out some weird stuff and Beth has been a huge help, getting creative but always within what I specifically ask for or deny. Highly highly recommend.
I've also had friends get curly cuts here and colour and leave beautiful and happy