I have a problem. I have very a short hair style that requires frequent cutting but I don't have much disposable income. The shape of my face does not adjust according to my financial situation: I maintain my pixie cut even when long hippie hair would better suit my budget.
To save myself some cash without completely sacrificing my appearance, I rotate between three different haircut price points. I get the $13 deal at TopCuts at College and Bathurst in between more expensive cuts. Poison Ivy is my mid-range place ($45). When I want to be my most polished, I visit a guy who works independently outside of salons. He does very artistic styles for $65.
So, that's my system. At Poison Ivy, I have had excellent cuts by Sabrina, Calindy and Suzete (the owner) over the years. They are all very attentive and talented. There has been just one unflattering haircut by another stylist whose name I have forgotten (it was an unrequested and unsalvagable marine enlistment buzz cut). But keep in mind that only one dud out of so many visits is a great record.
Poison Ivy is a regular no-frills salon: the decor is very mid-90s, don't expect a scalp massage or posh products. If you need fanciness, go elsewhere and pay more for the same quality cut.
I'll keep coming back here. Poison Ivy is, in a word, reliable.