Nicolas Flores has carved a niche for himself as a leading hairstylist in Los Angeles, earning the title of “the hairstylist to the hairstylists.” With regular clients that include social media influencers and celebrity stylists, his reputation is solidly built on skill and innovation. Recently, he took a bold step in his career by opening Flore Salon, a flagship location situated just a stone’s throw from Melrose Place. Partnering with Paul Perez, his business and life partner, Flores has created a space that not only showcases his unique aesthetic but also reflects his deep passion for hair styling and design.
The journey to find the perfect space for Flore Salon was no easy feat. Flores recounts the struggles he faced over six months in search of a location that resonated with his vision. Finally, he settled on a 2,400-square-foot building that had previously been occupied by a Danish lingerie company. This transformation from retail to an elegant salon involved collaboration with Studio Four Eleven for design and Raw Builders for construction. The result is a stunning space that combines high ceilings, a striking glass facade, and an interplay of stone and wood, all soaked in natural light, thereby creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Inside Flore Salon, the energy is palpable, especially during peak hours. On a typical Friday morning, Flores can be found juggling up to 25 clients in a single day, with daily foot traffic reaching an impressive 70 to 90 visitors. This bustling environment is a testament to the salon’s popularity and Flores’ skill. Reflecting on the leap to establish his own salon, he admits that it felt daunting initially. However, as his client base expanded, he realized the potential to create something special and unique that aligns with his personal brand.
Originating from Orange County, Flores moved to Los Angeles at age 21, driven by ambition and a desire to immerse himself in the fast-paced world of hair styling. His early years were characterized by a relentless work ethic—accepting every opportunity that came his way and absorbing knowledge from industry veterans. Today, he is particularly known for popularizing the layered hairstyles reminiscent of the ’90s, which have made a significant comeback. “It’s all about this bombshell hair,” Flores states, underscoring his commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends.
At Flore Salon, Flores curates a selection of hair products that align with his philosophy of quality and effectiveness. He collaborates with brands like Rōz by emerging celebrity hairstylist Mara Roszak and Milbon from Japan, ensuring that his clients receive nothing but the best. In his experience, there’s been a growing preference for health and shine, with clients increasingly seeking natural-looking colors over drastic changes. “Everyone wants healthy, shiny hair,” he adds, emphasizing the importance of layers and movement to achieve a vibrant, bouncy look.
As Flores settles into his new role as a salon owner, he remains connected to his roots while also looking ahead. The success of Flore Salon not only highlights his talent but also reflects a broader trend in the beauty industry that prioritizes authenticity and personalized care. With a clear vision and a dedicated team, Flores is poised to further shape the hair styling landscape in Los Angeles, proving that with passion and hard work, dreams can indeed become reality.