How did you get into hair?
I used to work with a photographer who used to be a hairdresser. It was interesting to see a new form of creativity. I turned to hairdressing originally just to fund the photography, but as I continued in the industry it has become a real passion.
What do you love about your job?
The duality of creativity and energy through my fashion work; the wholesome and poignant side of working with people in the salon and transforming their confidence through hair. I love the transformation it can make on a person or a model and how you can change the atmosphere and perception of a person completely with a different style.
Any gripes?
The majority of jobs and agencies pay after 90 days. Invoices often lapse into six months-plus (I currently have three which are over a year). It’s unacceptable and creates issues of only the rich and privileged being able to work in our industry. We must start pushing for it to be the norm to be paid within 60 days of invoicing.
What have you been up to this year so far?
I’ve been first assisting Adam Garland’s shows in London, the highlight being Erdem A/W24 – beautiful hair in the British Museum. I joined Gary Gill’s team for the first time this season, which has been a great experience, and I’ve also been assisting the amazing Syd Hayes – we recently had a shoot with Kate Moss, which was definitely a bucket list moment.
Who in your generation do you look up to, and why?
The Hair Bros for their blending of business and creativity – their style is unique and they have a great way of presenting how they do hair. Lucy Muyanga (@thehair.co) is a peer, amazing hairstylist and friend. She’s killing it and I’m really excited to see where she goes. Finally, Emma Sommers in my salon, who balances three kids with a busy column and does it all off her own back and graft.
What makes you proud about your generation of hairdressers?
Curls and coils are becoming much more accepted, educated on and celebrated. We’re going away from the need for a “specialist” for Type 3 and 4 hair and we’re educating ourselves to deal with all types of hair. Progress in the right direction!
How does it feel to be part of the cohort that’s rewriting the rules of hairdressing now?
The rules of hairdressing don’t need to be rewritten. I feel it’s important to respect the history of hair and the key people who’ve developed our craft. It’s important to evolve the industry from the foundations that we have, to keep pushing boundaries and focusing more on the equality of hair and hairstylists.
Any advice for someone just starting out in hair?
Throw yourself into as many experiences as you can, make sure you have your fundamental foundations of hairdressing locked in and learnt, don’t forget manners and kindness go a long way with hairdressers and clients alike!
What made you enter the It List?
My boss, Louise Howard-Long, insisted I should go for it. I normally shy away from awards but with the age limit coming up and 2023 having been a great year for my career, I felt it was important to go for it!
Any advice for the 2024 entrants?
Choose imagery carefully, write with eloquence and make it more than just hairdressing. Add more to your application and career and look at the bigger picture!
