THE EVENT: “Hot in Jersey”--the search for a salon that represents the recent pop culture and style obsession with all things Jersey.

THE CHOSEN: The Anthony Robert Salon in Verona, New Jersey, opened earlier this year. This eight station salon features floating stations, dazzling European granite counter tops, yummy European leather chairs, a homey color/dining area for clients to process and socialize, a variety of interesting services and a beautiful color scheme highlighted by a fun pop of loud yellow. The open, generously spaced communal area features beautiful touches of design and an inviting retail display.

BUT IT IS REALLY ABOUT THE STAFF: Salon owner Anthony Lombardi, along with co-owner Cathy Giove and salon Manager Filippo Giove, have assembled a fascinating, interesting, and over the top collection of artists that competently deliver the assorted services including weaving and barbering along with the more traditional services like color, cut and style. “We offer something for everyone,” says Lombardi. “Our clients range in age from children to great grandparents and from conservative to edgy. We serve equal numbers of men and women, and our clients are loyal because they are well served at the Anthony Robert Salon.”

THE DRESS CODE: There ISN’T one, other than tight and “over the top!” Each member of the Anthony Robert team makes a STATEMENT with his or her style. Super high heel, over the knee boots, headbands, bandanas, BLING, skin tight leggings, colorful tattoos, bedazzled phones…it’s all there. The hair? EVERY SINGLE FEMALE artist in the salon is either weaved, clipped in or bonded. The hair is big, bigger, long and teased. All are color treated, over manicured, falsely lashed and truly embrace make up. They are all tan. Talk about WALKING THE WALK! This crew epitomizes what most people think of when thinking of New Jersey salon professionals—HOT!

THE LOVE: The team spirit is alive and well at the Anthony Robert Salon. There is drama, but the bottom line, this team serves as a team, and respect Lombardi and Giove. They comment that Lombardi is a great leader, and that they appreciate the advanced education provided, as well as the opportunities to express themselves personally and artistically. And that’s what makes them HOT IN JERSEY.

ALSO LOVED: The Glam Factory in Hoboken is a haven for Make Up Artists. It is the perfect place to learn the latest and greatest in make up design and application. The Depasquale Salon and Spa in Morris Plains, NJ is an oasis for clients looking for maximum pampering. One of our all time favorite NJ salons is the Panico Salon and Spa in Ridgewood, NJ, owned by cover artist Jack Panico. This gorgeous 2 level haven is THE destination for celebrities, socialites and high profile clients in northern New Jersey.

OTHER JERSEY GEMS: The Gatsby in Green Brook, Bangz in Montclair, Dieci in Livingston, Rizzieri in Marlton, Salvatore Minardi in Madison and Martino Cartier in Sewell.