The Salon

“...you can expect to be transported to a whole new dimension while you’re here...”

— Rob czlapka (owner of rcnq)

Looking for a hair salon that's out of this world? Look no further than RCNQ! Our salon in Manchester's Northern Quarter is the perfect place to come and let your hair down (literally) while we work our magic on your locks. Our team of stylists are experts in all hair types and we embrace diversity and inclusion like it's going out of style (which it never will!). Plus, we're not just a salon, we're a party! You'll have so much fun getting pampered, you'll forget you're even getting a haircut. So, if you want to be part of the in-crowd, come join the fun at RCNQ, Manchester's leading hair salon. Your hair (and your social life) will thank you!

Our salon is more than just a place to get your hair done, it's a playground for your senses. Our decor is inspired by the colorful worlds of Anime and Kpop, so you can expect to be transported to a whole new dimension while you're here. Our rainbow mirrors will have you seeing yourself in a whole new light, and our fluffy clouds will make you feel like you're floating on air. And if you're worried about feeling like you're in a salon, don't be! Our playful space will have you forgetting all about your troubles and tapping into your inner child. Come join us at RCNQ and experience the rainbow-colored magic for yourself!

“Whether you have curly hair, straight hair, or hair that’s somewhere in between, we’ve got you covered”

— ROB CZLAPKA (OWNER OF RCNQ)

And let's not forget our nostalgic playlists! From 90s boy bands to early 2000s hip hop, we've got all the classics covered. Did we mention that we're queer-owned? That's right, we're proud members of the LGBTQ+ community and we're here to make sure that everyone feels like they can express themselves however they want. So come on in and let us take care of you - we can't wait to see what fabulous look we can create together!

At RCNQ, we don't discriminate against hair types or textures. Whether you have curly hair, straight hair, or hair that's somewhere in between, we've got you covered. And we don't just stop there! We're constantly expanding our knowledge to ensure that we're able to cater to everyone's specific needs. If you have any requests or requirements, just get in touch and we'll do our best to accommodate. We're proud to offer non-gender specific hairstyles, protective afro styles like braiding and twists, and gender-affirming hairstyles. We believe that all are welcome at RCNQ and that our salon is a community where you can feel comfortable being yourself.

Hi! My name is Rob…

**He/Him**
Salon Owner / Stylist
**£80 an hour**
Owner of RCNQ and Barber Below — this is way more than just work for me, it’s what I live and breathe.
As an **Autistic and ADHD creative**, I’m all about seeing the world (and hair) a little differently. I love enhancing the **raw, natural texture** in every haircut — letting hair do what it *wants* to do, not forcing it to fit a box.
I’m known for my **razor work**, lived-in **fringes**, effortless blended colour and those perfectly undone **shaggy shapes**. When I’m not with a client, you’ll usually find me deep-diving into **anime** or singing my heart out to **K-pop** somewhere (probably both at the same time).
My personal motto is ***“Be the change you want to see in the world”***
**Book a session with Rob ➝**

Hey, Jade here…

**She/Her**
Receptionist
Like Drew Barrymore in Scream, she’s the iconic queen on the other end of the phone when you call
Professional **receptionist**, part-time nail tech, full-time chatterbox. I’m the friendly face (and probably the first voice on the phone) here at RCNQ, making sure everything runs smoothly and everyone feels right at home — just don’t expect me to be fully functioning before my **morning coffee**.
When I’m not holding down the front desk, you’ll usually find me **experimenting on my own nails**, hunting down **vintage lipsticks**, or watching **Man United** (with varying levels of stress). I once worked at Legoland — safe to say I much prefer grown-ups — and I once ate a worm on a dare… so I like to think I’m pretty fearless.
Most of all, I just love making people feel welcome, cared for, and leaving with a smile (preferably not because of the worm story)
My personal motto is ***“It’s a bad day, not a bad life”***

Hi, Bronia here…

**She/Her**
Stylist
**£70 an Hour**
@bonbon_hairstylist
I’m all about creating hair that feels as fun, fearless and *authentic* as you are. My style leans into the **quirky, edgy and totally unique** — specialising in **vivid and experimental colours**, bold transformations and **tape-in extensions** for when you want that extra bit of drama.
As an **Autistic** creative, I see the world (and hair) a little differently — and I love using that to help people express their truest selves. Nothing makes me happier than helping someone leave the salon feeling completely *them*.
Oh, and if you really want to know me — I can **twerk like a diva**, fit my whole fist in my mouth (don’t ask 😂), and I’ve got a soft spot for **Elvis** and all things old-school.
At the end of the day, I just want to be remembered as **kind**, a little bit **crazy**, and unapologetically me — a genuinely unique soul doing what I love.
My personal mantra is ***“This is life, not heaven! We don’t have to be perfect!”***
**Book a session with Bronia ➝**

Hey, Mary here…

**She/Her**
Stylist
**£60 an hour**
Catch me outside work and I’ll probably be at a **beach club**, eating sushi, sipping sangria and chasing a good tan ☀️🍣🍹 — or snapping an *aesthetic* pic for my Instagram, obviously.
In the salon, I’m your go-to girl for all things **blonding** — from soft **balayage** to full **scalp bleach**, **peekaboo colour**, or saving you from that *at-home bleach* moment (we’ve all been there). I *love* a challenge and there’s nothing better than a full **colour correction glow-up**. Bleach on my face? Standard. Perfect blonde on your head? Always.
Music on? It’s probably **Celine Dion** or **Whitney Houston** getting me through a long day 🎶. Quiet appointment? We’ve got you. Want to join in the weird and wonderful RCNQ conversations? Even better. I like to think I’m the person people can come to for advice, a laugh, or just a little moment of calm — oh, and I’ll definitely remind you I’ve got a great tan and lovely blonde hair while I’m at it 😜
My personal mantra is ***“Here for a good time, not a long time”***
**Book a session with Mary ➝**

Hey, Jamie here…

**He/Him**
Stylist
**£60 an hour**
**@jamiebanninghair**
If I’m not at work, I’m probably **hungover in bed**, binge-watching *Rick & Morty* and trying to break my own record for how many **packets of crisps** I can eat in a minute. Talented? Absolutely.
Outside the salon, I’m all about **music and performance** — whether I’m **DJing**, in drag, playing **keyboard or guitar**, or having a sing (usually to **Gaga, Dua Lipa or Rihanna**, obviously). Once saw a **Lady Gaga tribute** in Canal Street and genuinely convinced myself It was at the real thing. It was a moment.
In the salon, I love creating **vivid colours** and soft **balayage blends**, plus I’ve got a soft spot for a **shag cut** or a bold **mullet** — the more personality, the better. If it’s fun, fresh and a little bit edgy, I’m *all* over it.
My personal mantra is ***“Slay today, resurrect tomorrow, and mind your business”***
**Book a session with Jamie ➝**

Hi, My name is Sam…

**He/Him**
Stylist
**£60 an hour**
**@samjuddershair**
I like to think I’m pretty **humble**, very **motivated**, and — according to *everyone* — I’ve got **“good curls”**. My proudest skill? Honestly… sleep-eating. Leave snacks in my room and I’ll probably eat them in my sleep and have *zero* memory of it come morning 🤷🏼‍♂️😂
When I am awake, you’ll find me behind the chair at RCNQ, where I’ve been personally trained in **razor cutting** by Rob himself. So if Rob’s fully booked (happens a lot 👀), I’m a great alternative for that lived-in, textured vibe.
When I’m not working, I’m usually at a **Raye** concert, collecting **jewellery**, or living my best life at a theme park 🎢. I once worked as a **lifeguard** — can’t say I was very good at it, but I definitely looked the part. If I could have any superpower? Easy — the ability to **predict the future** (mainly so I could win the lottery and retire early).
Approachable, helpful, and kind — that’s me (unless I’m asleep… then it’s every man for himself).
My personal mantra is ***“Trying and failing is better than not trying at all”***
**Book a session with Sam ➝**

Hey, Alix here…

**He/Him**
**Barber @ Barber Below**
Green-fingered, cake-baking, karaoke-loving legend 🌿🍰🎤 — that’s me, Alix! Whether I’m pottering in the garden, reorganising the house (again) or belting out a bit of **Kate Bush** in the kitchen, I’m all about good vibes and getting stuck in.
My *not-so-secret* talent is definitely **gardening** — tropical plants, houseplants, you name it, I’ll keep it alive (or at least try). I’m also a bit of a **general knowledge** nerd, a lover of **pop princesses**, and a proud collector of the world’s most **hideous charity shop ornaments** — the tackier the better.
Fun fact? I once worked for a **kinky PVC fashion brand** with my mum for a summer — it was *exactly* as chaotic as it sounds. My dream superpower? The mighty **Dark Phoenix** 🐦‍🔥 (and yes, I like to think I’d handle it better than Jean Grey). At the end of the day, I just want to be remembered as **kind**, a little bit **funny**, and always up for an adventure.
My personal mantra is ***“A jobs not worth doing unless your gonna do it right”***
**Book a session with Alix ➝**

Hey, Francesca here…

**She/Her**
**Salon Assistant**
When I’m not styling hair, I’m probably out walking my little dog **Archie**, dreaming of sunny getaways and planning my next iconic moment — kind of like my **Grease-themed 4th birthday party**, which honestly set the bar pretty high 🎤💅
In the salon, I’m your girl for **bouncy curls**, **beach waves**, and effortless, **natural styling**. Whether you're after that fresh-from-the-ocean vibe or something soft and timeless, I’ve got you. Bonus skill? I’ve been able to **rap “Ice Ice Baby”** since I was 4 — make of that what you will.
If I could teleport anywhere, I’d be stretched out on a **cabana**, ABBA playing, cocktail in hand. Until then, I’ll be right here — **smiley, kind**, and always ready to help you feel like your best self. Because you *are* what you surround yourself with... and great hair is a pretty good start ✨
My personal mantra is ***“You are what you surround yourself with”***

AFRO STYLING

Below are some visual references of the various coily styles we offer.

HAIR BRAIDS MANCHESTER

Braids

Braiding is a protective style that comes in many forms. You can add different colours to your hair, extend the length or experiment with styles. From box braids and goddess braids to triangle braids and knotless, you’re in safe hands with our experienced stylists. Braids are great for all curl patterns and will last up to 8 weeks with the correct regular maintenance.

Learn more

CORNROWS MANCHESTER

Cornrows

Cornrows are a great way to protect the hair. These will last up to 6 weeks depending on the type of cornrows requested (Stitched or extended) and with the correct regular maintenance. These are great for all curl patterns

LOCS AND FAUX LOCS

locs

Locs and Faux Locs are a great protective style. Whether you’re looking for goddess, interlocking, butterfly, distressed or more, we’ve got you covered. These will last up to 8 weeks with the correct regular maintenance. These work best on curl patterns 3C, 4A, 4B and 4C

BEST AFRO HAIRDRESSERS MANCHESTER

twists

Flat, 2-strand, Passion or Senegalese. The opportunities are endless A protective style that works best with 4A, 4B or 4C hair. These will last up to 8 weeks depending on the type of twists requested and the correct maintensnce/home care.

Bantu Knots / Chiney Bumps

Bantu knots are a great protective style that can be worn in many ways. We can add hair, create different sectioning patterns, integrate braiding and more. These will last for up to 2 weeks with the correct aftercare. These are best on hair types 4A, 4B or 4C.

Shingling

This is a method where we use products and tools to ‘capture the curl’. This will create a more defined finish to your natural curls and coils. We will also apply a treatment to the hair (under a steamer) to keep the hair hydrated. This protective style will last for up to 2 weeks with the correct home care. This is great for curl patterns 3C, 4A, 4B and 4C

AFRO HAIR SALON MANCHESTER

SILK PRESS MANCHESTER

Silk Press

Silk presses are a style that will last until your next hair wash (with the correct aftercare). We will go over each section no more than twice to ensure the least amount of damage and we begin the process with a treatment processed under the steamer to help the hair become more malleable. This service is great for all hair types.

CUSTOM MADE WIGS MANCHESTER

Wigs

Wigs are a great way to protect the hair from damage. Whether you’re looking for a sewn-in wig or something removable to wear on occasion, we will custom make your wig to ensure it fits your needs.

AFRO HAIR SALON MANCHESTER CITY CENTRE

Maintenance

Do you want your new hair to last up to 8 weeks? Of course you do. We are here to share all the tips and tricks you need to make this possible.

First and foremost you will need to get yourself a bonnet, durag or hair net. Don’t panic if you’re unable to get one, you can protect your hair the old school way - using a pair of tights. You might feel ridiculous going to bed with a pair of tights on your head, but when you wake up in the morning and your hair still looks as good as new, it will all be worth it.

The whole purpose of protective hairstyles is to protect your hair and let it grow, so for that reason make sure to keep your hair moisturised. This can be done by using leave-in conditioners, hair creams and oils on your scalp in that order.

When you get your new hair the first thing you want to do is try all sorts of styles and take as many selfies as you can. But if the style is too tight and its pulling on your delicate baby hairs, this is not protective - it’s the opposite. Try a different style with a little less tension.

recap

Use a silk bonnet, durag or hair net when sleeping
Leave in conditioner on roots
Hair creams on roots
Oils on roots

Use the form below to get in touch and we can discuss different Afro styling options

Book Now

Click below to book with either Oghosa (£30 an hour) or Rob

Name

First Name

Last Name

Phone Number

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Transgender Friendly Salon

Trans Friendly Hairdressers Manchester
RCNQ is Manchester’s best salon for gender affirming haircuts. RCNQ was built on celebrating individuality. We’re always here for our transgender and non-binary customers, regardless of where you are in your transition. Our gender neutral pricing structure and use of pronouns in our booking system, creates a space that is trans and non binary friendly. Transgender and non-binary people are always welcome at RCNQ, and our team have been trained to respect your pronouns and identity, regardless of where you’re at in your transition.

Gender Neutral Salon Manchester
When polled 200 people who identified as transgender or non-binary about their experiences at hair salons. The majority (93%) said they felt anxious about visiting one and were unable to achieve their "dream hair" because they had been misgendered - meaning they had been referred to as belonging to a gender with which they do not identify.
We will work with you to educate you fully on how to style and look after your hair while transitioning. What products work best for you and how to apply these to get the desired results. Consultations with our stylists to guide you through what styles work best for you. Hair texture, face shape and lifestyle will all be taken into consideration while your hair plan is created. Haircuts are traditionally divided by gender: Women go to salons. Men to barbershops. Gender affirming haircuts are a large part of transitioning, and with salons and barbers traditionally being specific to gender, it can be a daunting experience when booking your first appointment.

From wigs to braids, we can also offer a range of hair extension services which can help the transition period, and give you all the tools you need to find your ideal look.

Our stylists are also skilled in afro hair styles, and our part within the Black LGBTQIA+ community means that we can provide transitional hair styles for all hair textures. We understand how having long hair doesn't make you more of one gender — having hair period doesn't make you more of any gender! We strive to create accessible hair that gives you the confidence as your best self to go out into the world.

Book now

Points Win Prizes!

RCNQ’s Reward Scheme is our way of showing appreciation for you beautiful humans. Earn money to spend in the salon through salon visits and online support.

“For every £250 spend you’ll receive a £10 reward”

— RCNQ

Do you know how awesome you are? We think you’re awesome. As a way of saying thank you for your awesomeness, we have created an awesome Reward scheme for our loyal client base which gives you the ability to accumulate money off your visits.

From now on, when you visit RCNQ you will build your reward balance based on your spending within the salon. For every £250 spend you’ll receive a £10 reward which can be redeemed for services and products. If that wasn’t enough, there’s also the opportunity to gain BONUS points from supporting the salon via social media posts, reviews, and more! (more info on this below)

As a client of RCNQ, You’re automatically enrolled into this scheme, How easy was that!?. All that's left to do is book an appointment to pop in and start building those points.

RCNQ REWARDS

HOW REWARDS WORK

We apply the rewards total to any products or services you’d like to receive discount from

Your rewards balance will be shown on all emails and receipts

You don’t need to do anything, you’re already building your reward balance as you visit us

TERM AND CONDITIONS APPLY

HOW TO EARN BONUS POINTS

Whenever you’re supporting RCNQ, we want to reward you! That’s why each of the below actions will earn you A BONUS £10 worth of points to spend on your hair. Recommend a Friend (£10 each)

Google Review

Give us feedback on the appointment (via QR code)

To redeem, show us your proof/review and we will add the points to your account. These points can be redeemed instantly

HOW DO I FIND OUT MY POINTS BALANCE?

All emails, receipts and invoices will showcase your points balance. If you want to use this balance against your next appointment, just let us know at the checkout and we’ll remove any discounts you’ve earned