Lauren Loves Chicago Review: Dream Dry Walorf Astoria
When you have as much expensive (code: someone else’s) hair as I do, you don’t trust it to just anyone, even for a blowout. Some stylists aren’t accustomed to working with as many extensions as I have and just don’t know how to tame “the blonde beast”. I trusted DreamDry’s newest Chicago location at the Waldorf Astoria with my locks first based on Celebrity Stylist and my personal Style Icon Rachel Zoe’s part in the business, in addition to the reputation it’s first location has around the city. DreamDry did not disappoint.
Located on the 4th floor in the Spa of one of Chicago’s most stunning hotel’s, the luxurious aesthetics and gorgeous decor—think mixed metallics and chandelier’s that rival many works of art—got me the minute I stepped out of the elevator. It was immediately evident to me that Co-Founders Zoe and Robin Morates picked the perfect location for their newest luxury blow dry bar. “The women of Chicago have embraced DreamDry, and we are delighted to open our second Chicago salon in one of the most glamorous hotels in the world,” stated Rachel Zoe. “It is a dream fulfilled to be part of the Waldorf Astoria family.”
Friendly faces offered me water and lead me back to my chair where I met my stylist Gabi who shampooed me and offered options of a variety of different, blowouts, braids and curls from their “Style Menu”. Each option is a tribute to a woman’s famous name affiliated with the style (ie Juliet is a loose, romantic crown braid, Brigette is big and sexy like the Bardot sharing it’s name). I opted for the “Stevie Undone” as I love loose waves with a bit of curl that have lasting power, which I was advised it has.
While being styled by the lovely and talented Gabi, I had the pleasure of chatting with Dream Dry’s perfectly pulled-together and chic Co-Founder and CEO Moraetes about the blow dry business. When we discussed the location choice for the venue, Moraetes said “The new DreamDry is perfectly situated in Chicago’s chic Gold Coast neighborhood among the city’s most sought-after restaurants and retailers. The salon’s design complements the hotel’s classic Parisian-inspired décor with shimmering gold wallpaper, gilded accents and Jonathan Adler shelving and lighting.”
With her background in marketing it’s clear that she’s a super-savvy business woman that ensures DreamDry puts customer service first, a message that definitely resonates with the friendly staff and entire experience. While the salon is located in an exceptionally high end hotel, I definitely didn’t get the cold vibe that sometimes resonates at high end salons, which makes this a perfect place for even the most inexperienced blow-dry seeker.
While I am always wowed by the inner-workings of a business that has that ability to provide a luxury service with out the “snob factor”, I am also clearly wowed by good hair—and that’s what I got. My blowout lasted 3 days (Tip: I always sleep with my hair in a bun on top of my head post blowout and enlist dry shampoo for staying power) and the all around experience was great. I will definitely return, bring friends (this is a great place to bring out of town guests) and fully intend to book a private blowout party .
Dream Dry Waldorf Astoria has my stamp of approval and the proof is in the pics! Thank you to their team for the great experience…and hair.
After about 5 years of covering celebrity fashion, I’ve only shown you a small fraction of my rather large closet and fashion knowledge. That being said, I’ve decided to dive in to a new “Lauren Loves” features on BigBlondeHair.com. I’ll focus on my outfits, reviews, and Chicago favorites and events. Reviews are unpaid (unless notated Sponsored) and are my own opionion . Please feel free to comment with questions about sizing, retailers, styling or anything else. Xo & Happy Reading
