Los Angeles continues to get beautified from international brands, and Robertson Boulevard is the latest stylish retail stretch to welcome another self-care haven. New blowout bar Kova is slated to open its doors in December, bringing with it Paris-meets-California-cool vibes. (Update: It's now expected to open in early 2020.)
Founded by model-turned-entrepreneur Emma Moquet, the luxe space will offer blowouts and other hair styling services as well as host networking events and charitable initiatives. Pressed juice and champagne will be served, and the hair menu will offer a variety of 'dos inspired by iconic women, from the Vanessa (sleek and shiny straight hair) and the Rita ("the ultimate Hollywood demi-dramatic waves") to the voluminous Catherine and the Brigitte (half ponytail or bun with volume and waves).
Pricing will range from $45 to $60, and there'll even be options for little ones ($35). Memberships for $9 per month will also be available; perks will include $10 off adult blowouts, $5 off hair masks and kids blowouts, a free birthday blowout, 10% off products, and more.
A bit more about Moquet: After kicking off her career as a model at 15, she eventually ventured into luxury real estate and owned three agencies in France by 25. The frequent globetrotter also founded her own fashion label, Maskali, inspired by her bohemian lifestyle. She recently relocated with her family to the City of Angels this July to start her new beauty business on the iconic L.A. shopping haunt, along with the goal to eventually expand into haircare products and franchises.
Here, the new L.A. transplant and mother of two sat down with us to chat more about Kova, the French connections that drew her to open on Robertson, and more. Read on below (and keep scrolling down to see the full address), and peep @kovahair to get an idea of its hair inspo.
Why did you choose Robertson Boulevard for your first blowout bar?
When I thought of Los Angeles and where I wanted the first Kova salon to open, Robertson specifically stood out to me. It's between West Hollywood and Beverly Hills and that strip of Robertson holds some of the most iconic brands to Los Angeles and Paris. Our location is across from the celeb-favorite, The Ivy restaurant and Kitson, and down the street from Chanel and The Kooples.
How have your past experiences working as a model and as an entrepreneur in fashion and real estate influenced your decision to open Kova?
As a model, I have had the opportunity to work with many renowned hairstylists and I've always had an admiration and respect for the industry. The entrepreneurial spirit in me was inspired to take that experience I had and make it accessible to more women.
What is the experience that you hope to create and Kova?
A glamourous yet reachable experience that all women deserve. I would like women to be empowered by their experience at Kova and support them in all aspects of their lives and helping them realize their true potential by making them feel their best.
Can you share more about the design and decor inspiration for Kova?
Working alongside my friend and architect, Corinne Baginski, Owner of CTBdesign, we have designed a welcoming and open space that has pockets of privacy throughout for the clients who prefer a more intimate experience. I was inspired by the '70s era with a combination of Hollywood glamour and Parisian style.
This story was updated on Jan. 9, 2020 with new information on pricing and the opening date.
Kova Hair, 132 South Robertson Blvd., L.A., 90048