People of Meatpacking: Gina Le of Gina Le Salon

Meet Gina Le, a hairstylist with over three decades of expertise in the Meatpacking District. As a charismatic legend in our community, it was only right to highlight Gina in our People of Meatpacking series. Sharing her captivating journey from humble beginnings to salon owner, hear from Gina herself - a true embodiment of creativity and resilience in New York City's dynamic landscape.

MTPK: How long have you worked in the Meatpacking District?

GL: Roughly 30 years ago, after leaving my husband and sleeping on friends' couches, with no money or family, I decided to open a business. I got a little creative with the credit cards. Ha! My first salon was on 14th St and 9th Ave. Now I’m at Gina Le on 13th St and 8th Ave!

MTPK: What do you love about your job? What do you love about the neighborhood?

GL: This neighborhood never lets me feel forgotten. My entire career I have been so wonderfully held by Meatpacking. As for my job- it’s not just what I do, it’s who I am. Nothing brings me more satisfaction and joy than to give back to the community that supports me -and in such a fabulous way! I am so grateful for all the clients who have become dear friends and the powerful family I have created within my little pea-sized salon.

MTPK: How did you get started in your line of work?

GL: From a very young age, I knew this is what I wanted to do. I would play with my moms hair, my babysitter's hair, and with all my friends' hair. I even messed with my own hair- and truly MESSED with it -until my mom had to take me to her hair salon to fix it. That’s when I fell in love. I would spend countless hours in the salon with my mom and be fine. I would feel at home. Fast forward a few years and I got hired at a salon on my FIRST day of cosmetology school! I haven’t stopped working since. Literally!

MTPK: What would be your advice to people looking to update or enhance their hair look?

GL: Consultation is everything! These days, a lot of people get ideas from social media trends. A personal consultation is more effective because it’s tailored to YOU. In my consultations, I focus on two main questions: What do you LOVE about your hair? What do you HATE about your hair? Then I discuss lifestyle and products. For people who just want a shine boost or a noncommittal exploration of color, I usually recommend a gloss! Not only does it make your hair healthy and shiny, but you can play with color without worrying about maintenance. Whichever road we take, we will end up at a cut or color that is right for YOUR hair texture and face shape.

On her salon renovation:

GL: My salon renovation felt like a rebirth. It was particularly important to do after the pandemic. On top of the community suffering, I experienced a lot of personal loss and trials. Cleansing the space was a healing experience. I am so thankful for everyone who supported me through the good and bad times, especially the Meatpacking District association. They have always had my back. I am truly fortunate to still be here in the greatest neighborhood in the world!

Stop by Gina Le Salon on 301 W. 13th Street to get a fabulous new look and spend a little time with Gina herself.