I stumble from the confines of my cave four or five times a year in need of a hair cut. Emerging, lurching across Hotel Street in downtown Honolulu I was horrified to see brown paper blocking out the windows of my favorite hair styling salon. Upon closer inspection I was relieved to read a notice that, instead of falling victim to Hawai’i’s unique economic climate, the esteemed Hawai’i Institute of Hair Design (HIHD) merely moved a few blocks to 1128 Nu’uanu Avenue.
In fact the new digs are quite a contrast to their previous location with much more space for the thirty to fifty students snipping away under the tutelage of three generations of expert educators who “have developed a fast paced education program which prepares confident salon and shop – ready graduates.”
Those that work amidst the hustle & bustle of downtown Honolulu have treasured the Hawai’i Institute of Hair Design for decades. Now you know the secret as to why so many of Honolulu’s top executives sport swank hair cuts & styles — especially women who have discovered HIHD’s great deals and truly affordable prices.
Where else can you get a haircut & shampoo for $8.25? HIHD makes it affordable to keep up with the latest styles with a ‘Formal Hairstyle’ or ‘Flat Iron’ or a ‘Prom Hairstyle’ for $15.50. Those seeking color can get a ‘Retouch’ for $14.95, or those with short hair can get their locks colored for $19.95, those with shoulder length, $25.00, while those whose hair flows past their shoulders can expect to pay $30.00 and up (Lady Godiva call ahead for an estimate).
There are many other services available from ‘Frosting Caps’ $15.00 and up, to various foil highlights, and hair straightening; ‘hair relaxer’ $19.95 and up, and a ‘Straight Perm’ for $120.00 and up. Those with short hair seeking a ‘Permanent Wave’ can find a truly good deal for $25.00, those with shoulder length hair $30.00, and for locks flowing past the shoulders, $40.00 and up. The Hawai’i Institute for Hair Design offers ‘Hair Reconstruction’ for $8.50, hot oil scalp treatment or a facial for $8.50.
The Hawai’i Institute for Hair Design has seen many changes through the years. Beginning as the Hawai’i Barber School in 1942, and it was incorporated in 1956. It acquired its current name in the bicentennial year of 1976, “offering courses in Barber Styling, Cosmetology and Advanced Hair Design.”
Paul Williams is credited as being one of the founders in 1948 and, unique among American businesses, honors a tradition sadly missing from many businesses. HIHD has been owned by three generations of Williams. Currently, grandson Leo not only owns the Institute but also pitches in to clean up at the end of a long day. Leo wants readers to know that on First Fridays, after closing time, the space is available for events. In fact, many artists have chosen HIHD to display their works on First Friday.
The Hawai’i Institute of Hair Design is open Monday thru Friday from 8:15 AM to 5 PM and on Saturdays from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. It is closed on Sundays. It is a bustling place with friendly students buzzing away with clippers, so it is advisable to call ahead for an appointment (#808-533-4326). Give a shout out to Amy Hong who is among the talented instructors training tomorrow’s stars of hair design.
(PS: I have never gotten a bad haircut at HIHD)
Tags: Downtown Honolulu, Fashion, First Friday
