Illusions of Shirlington

Specialties

Curly hair, smoothing treatments, color & styling

History

Established in 1993.

With a goal to create a different atmosphere, Irma Wheeler took over

her first salon in 1991. She has striven to create a salon environment

where guests can relax, and her team can truly bond and work together.

In 1993, Irma opened her flagship location, Illusions of Shirlington.

Over 20 years later, the Illusions name has become a staple in the

Northern Virginia area. Voted «Best of Arlington», her mission is clearly

working and she created something different. With her team at her

side, Illusions is a place where guests feel at home, and stylists bounce

ideas back and forth between each other, ensuring that guests receive

the best in customer service and a look that fits their lifestyle.

Now that philosophy has grown with the help and passion of her son,

Justin Wheeler. Justin grew up in the salon, sharing in every moment

of growth. Because of that, he brings an entirely new passion into his

family business. He truly cares for each and every person that walks

through the door.

Meet the Business Owner

Irma W.

Business Owner

With over 30 years of experience, Irma has become a jewel in the beauty industry. She built her first salon, Illusions of Shirlington, from the ground up over 20 years ago. She takes pride in educating her team and creating a salon environment that is fun, relaxing, and inviting to all. Her focus on teamwork and customer service makes her truly ingenious within the world of beauty. She is the queen of short hair, with a bit of a cult following, taking mediocre styles to red carpet ready in record time. Irma’s passion and enthusiasm for the business is evident in everything she does, whether she’s creating new hairstyles, planning salon events, refreshing tired makeup, or teaching guests the latest in skin care — Irma’s got it all.