Expert hairstylist and licensed cosmetologist, Jean Barbee Dawkins, is a proud DC native, planting her creative roots in the DMV, and currently spreading her wings to places far beyond.

 

Jean started with humble beginnings as a top student at the Arlington Career Center, where she studied cosmetology. Upon graduation, Jean was accepted to Virginia State University, where she studied vocational industrial education with a concentration in cosmetology. Jean always yearned for more, and as a result, the instructors created a special curriculum to challenge Jean.

 

In December 1987, Jean graduated with a Bachelor of Science. Following graduation, Jean’s burning desire to become a hairstylist grew stronger! She was hired by her cosmetology teacher, Mrs. Julia C. Pryor, who had owned one of the top salons Alexandria, Virginia. Jean worked diligently to build her clientele, ultimately becoming self-employed in 1991.

 

Three years later, in October of 1994, Jean opened Salon Montage, located in Del Ray Alexandria. Salon Montage became a community staple, a place where not only your look is transformed, but your life as well. Every client is surrounded by joyous, talented, and compassionate creators who dedicate their lives to the happiness of others. Notably, after leasing the salon space for three years, Jean purchased the building and officially calls this community staple her own.

 

Throughout the tenure of Salon Montage, Jean has earned several awards for outstanding hairstyling and leadership. Salon Montage was named one of the “Best” in Washingtonian Magazine and voted one of the top 100 salons in the nation.

 

Jean’s hairstyles have traveled the world in publications, and her talents have led her to teach and style hair throughout the United States, South America, and the Caribbean. Her vested interest in each client guides Jean to identify the inner workings of each person to enhance the beauty of their outer appearance. Listening carefully, especially to what’s unsaid, and leading with wisdom and creativity, has birthed and maintained lasting, satisfied clientele.

 

Jean shares, “Knowing that I am doing what God has called me to do is what drives me. When a client walks over my threshold, it’s like the Spirit tells me what that person needs most in and apart from styling. I trust what is shown to me and take what I’m feeling to create an awesome look and style for my client.”