Our Story

Founded in 1999, Fiddleheads has been a space where curls are celebrated, individuality is honored, and clients feel at home. What began as a passion for understanding the beauty and complexity of curly hair has grown into a salon dedicated to empowering every person to love their natural texture.

Our philosophy is simple — hair should move, breathe, and reflect who you are. From precision cuts to personalized curl care, every service is rooted in education, artistry, and genuine care. We take pride in helping clients rediscover the beauty that’s already theirs.

Nestled in the heart of 17th Street, just off Dupont Circle in Washington, DC, Fiddleheads has become more than a salon — it’s a community built on trust, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re embracing your curls for the first time or have been on this journey for years, we’re here to guide, support, and celebrate every twist and turn along the way.

How “Fiddleheads” Got Its Name

The name Fiddleheads was born during a family trip to Montreal for my father’s 60th birthday. I spotted “fiddleheads” on a menu and learned they’re the curled tips of young ferns — delicate, full of potential, and beautiful as they unfold. Mishearing it at first as something to do with hair, I joked that it would make a perfect name for a salon since we “fiddle with heads.” My father smiled in agreement, and the name stuck. Like its namesake, Fiddleheads has continued to grow and flourish ever since.

A woman with shoulder-length curly dark hair, smiling and winking, sitting indoors in front of a window with green scenery, wearing a colorful patterned top and black shorts.
A black and white photograph of a man and a woman sitting at a table in a restaurant, smiling and looking at the camera, with food and drinks on the table.
Black and white photo of three women smiling and posing together, dressed in stylish clothing.

Archives of family images taken around 1999 when I opened Fiddleheads Salon.

A wall-mounted mirror in a salon or spa with decorative puppet figures hanging from strings around it, and various framed pictures and bottles on a light pink shelf below.

Let’s bring your curls to life—book your appointment today.

Business Hours

Sunday: Closed
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 9AM-6PM
Wednesday: 9AM-6PM
Thursday: 9AM-6PM
Friday: 9AM-6PM
Saturday: 10AM-5PM

 

Visit Us

1515 17th Street NW
2nd Floor
Washington DC 20036

Leave a message

(202) 805-0520 (text is best)