Tampa's blow dry bars help fix your hairdo without the hassle

It's summertime in Florida, which means good hair days are still months away. It’s simply too humid this time of year to maintain the perfect do. But if you can’t wait months to get your hair in order, try out one of the new blow dry bars around Tampa. 

You might not find craft beers and drink specials at these dry bars (though being served a glass of wine is not uncommon). Instead, you’ll be served up blowouts, scalp massages, face waxing, and braids.
 
The locally owned Crown and Mane in Hyde Park offers bespoke blow drys ($45), dry styles ($30), updos ($75), and a handful of other pampering services. Owned and operated by Kelly Sultenfuss, Kerry Allgire, and Tanja Catoe, Crown and Mane opened in May 2018. Floor-to-ceiling renovations helped give the place a luxury salon setting. 

"In recent years, blowouts have gained in popularity, with new ones opening in large cities around the country," said Sultenfuss. "Meditative in nature, a blowout lasts up to four days and helps reduce stress ... From the moment you walk in, you are immersed in an environment of pampering and luxury.

With more than 15 years of combined experience in the beauty industry and affiliation with two other local salon brands in Tampa, the owners of Crown and Mane know what they’re doing. Customers who sign up for the $150 monthly membership can stop by once a week for a blow dry. “We fully understand, appreciate, and have a passion for this industry,” Allgire said.

A few blocks away on South Howard Avenue, Drybar Tampa sells similar services like blowouts ($45) and updos ($80). Opened in December 2017, Drybar Tampa is part of the national franchise that began in New York in 2010. For customers on the go, an app lets you conveniently book an appointment from your phone. Like at Crown and Mane, Drybar Tampa members can get two blowouts a month (plus perks) for $75.

"We were really excited to open a shop in Tampa," says Alli Webb, Drybar founder. "Nestled in the heart of the Soho Collection between downtown and the business district, we knew it was the perfect place to be among some of the best shops and restaurants in the area."

For a more full-service experience, try Blo Blow Dry Bar near the International Plaza in the Westshore area of Tampa. This franchise offers standard blow dry bar services but with the option for manicures, pedicures, and makeup.