Kristen Shaw is a multi-hyphenate celebrity hair stylist and visual artist—and arguably, one of our favorite women on the planet. Perhaps Shaw is so good with hair because she’s an artist; her methods for cutting and styling hair are unique, and yield a truly incredible finished product. She makes every woman she works with feel infinitely more beautiful and comfortable in their skin.

Looking Beautiful, Feeling Beautiful

Our original Playa Ambassador, Kristen owns the appointment-only salon Cabin in Venice, California. Located right on Abbot Kinney, the tucked away spot is homey, sweet, and impeccably decorated. Really, walking in feels like stepping into Shaw’s idyllic world—she even burns piñon incense because “the scent is nostalgic, home-y, and calming to me.” On the walls are prints of Cabin’s drawings and greeting cards, alongside wares from Venice neighbors like Moon Juice and Tartine of course, the entire Playa line.

“Cabin stands for beauty in the unseen and seen, a home away from home for people to feel comfortable in their own skin,” says Shaw. “It’s a complete connection between nature and beauty itself.” As a celebrity stylist, she’s worked with clients like Chloe Sevigny, Katy Perry, Eliza Coupe, Robyn, Emily Van Camp, Troian Bellisario, Liam Hemsworth, Emma Watson, Olivia Munn, and Shailene Woodley, in addition to many editorial and print projects. Yeah, her resumé is crazy impressive, but we were drawn to Kristen because of her gentle nature and artistic soul. “I love what I do because I get to use my hands to make beautiful things on people who inspire me.”

What to Expect After Booking Your Appointment

So what should you expect if when you walk into an appointment at Cabin? First, know that you’re going to be greeted with a warm hug—you’ll feel like you’re walking into your best friend’s house. Then, settle into the comfortable chair (the only one in the salon, talk about special!) as you chat with Kristen about what you want from your style. Artist that she is, Shaw runs her fingers through your hair, feeling the bumps and curves of your skull. After getting an understanding for the shape of your head and considering the contours of your face, Shaw gets started on your most flattering, unique cut.

First things first—a wash and scalp massage are always in order. Shaw uses Playa’s Everyday Shampoo and the Supernatural Conditioner to cleanse and nourish hair before she gets cutting. Then, she works her magic on your locks, shaping and snipping until your hair looks exactly perfect. Finally, she’ll finish by styling your tresses with the perfect Playa product for your preferred hair texture and style. Want beachy waves? Hi, the Endless Summer Spray is coming your way. Soft and shiny strands more your style? Ritual Hair Oil is your new BFF. And maybe you’re looking for more of a voluminous, classic blow dried style … in which case a combo of the two (plus Kristen’s blow dryer prowess) will give you the look you’re craving.

Yes, we go to Kristen Shaw when we need a dramatic chop, a quick trim, or just a little pick-me-up cut. But we truly love this stylist and artist because of her kind spirit and amazing talent.