Dar | President & Master Stylist
Passion. Innovation. Leadership.

For Darlene—known simply as Dar—these are not aspirations. They are instinct, they’re simply how she lives and leads.

As the owner and Master Stylist of Calgary’s multi–award-winning salon dk.envy, Dar has spent over two decades shaping not only hair, but standards. The daughter of a 30-year industry veteran, her introduction to the craft came early. After graduating from Hair College at 18, she quickly cultivated a devoted clientele, opening her first home-based salon in 2003.

Growth followed—swift and undeniable.

The launch of dk.envy’s first 1,000-square-foot retail salon marked a turning point, driven by word-of-mouth reverence and Dar’s signature, forward-thinking approach. When a serious wrist injury threatened to end her career, Dar defied medical expectation, returning with renewed precision and purpose. The industry—and Calgary—was better for it.

By 2008, dk.envy expanded into its current 1,900-square-foot, urban-inspired space—an energetic, urban atelier that has since become a creative hub for education, mentorship, and influence. Dar continues to mentor emerging talent while remaining deeply immersed in advanced training and global trend development.

Her work has earned extensive recognition, including multiple Top Choice Hair Salon awards, Calgary’s Choice Best Salon and Best Employer honors, and repeated global placement with Behind The Chair’s ONESHOT Awards—Top 25 in the World eight times and Top 100 eleven times. A L’Oréal Professionnel Trendsetter and L’Oréal Color Trophywinner (ranking first in Alberta and top three nationally), Dar’s artistry has extended to New York Fashion Week and international stages.

With more than 26 years of experience, 24+ years of advanced industry training, and local, national, and international acclaim, Dar remains a commanding presence in the beauty industry—respected, influential, and unmistakably envy’d.

“To every client who has trusted me with their hair and their time, thank you! Your loyalty, your stories, and your support have shaped not only my career, but the heart of dk.envy. Every appointment is a collaboration, and I’m endlessly grateful to create, evolve, and grow alongside you. I remain committed to delivering artistry, integrity, and care in every detail.”
— Dar

Come check me out on Instagram @the.original.dk