Guido Palau, he of the Louis Vuitton afro wigs and creator of the chicest short haircut of all time (Erin O'Connor), recently told me that he is confounded by the obsession that American girls have with blowouts. In London, he claims, there isn't much fuss made about glossy, bouncy hair that can go for days without a wash and makes a gal feel polished and put together, even when she's barely gotten any sleep and hasn't had the wherewithal to put on a stitch of makeup. Naturally, we feel a little differently on this side of the pond. While many top salons easily clear $85 for an encounter with hot air and a round brush, we've uncovered three great blowouts for under $40. They are:Tela Design Studio, $25, with organic conditioning treatment and wine. Available Wednesdays from 4 to 9pm until the New Year. (Regularly $55 to $85.) 31 Little West 12th St, 212.463.8213
De Berardinis, $30. (Regularly $50 and up.) Available through December 31. Even better? Post a favorable review on citysearch.com and your next blowout is free. 155 West 21st St, 212.967.0927
Red Market Salon, $39, when booked through lifebooker.com. (Regularly $65.) Bonus: This Meatpacking district spot takes appointments until 9:30pm on Mondays and Saturdays; and until 10:30pm Tuesday through Friday.
32 Gansevoort St., 212.929.9600
