Highbrow Hippie Blog

With Julia, as with all my redheads, no two appointments are ever the same, and coloring her hair all these years has really taught me the importance of thinking outside of the box with my formulations, and always leaving room for things to unfold organically as I paint, because that’s usually where the magic occurs.As a colorist, redheads keep your formulating skills sharp, as there is always a balance to strike of when (and where) to hold back and practice restraint in the formula, and when to just go for it and add pops of copper, gold, or auburn. Whether soft and romantic, or bright and electric, it takes a special confidence (unless you’re one of the lucky 1 to 2 % born with it) to pull it off.

We talk a lot around here about our favorite hair care products, routines, and rituals. As Black women, weekly hair rituals have been a part of our experience for as far back as we can remember. From at-home hot oil treatments, scalp massages, and hair steaming to protective styling and DIY hair masks, we've seen and done it all. Not only are these routines a way for us to care for our hair but they're an opportunity to slow down and focus on ourselves as well.

22 years ago almost to the day (half of my lifetime!), I started my career in this building as a shampoo (and eventually color) assistant at Frederic Fekkai. My goodness-the life lessons, the knowledge gained, and the blood, sweat, and tears that happened in this building. PRICELESS. It informs my work ethic to this day, and literally changed my life.

I was so honored to be a part of this production, especially, as it’s the first time that my work as a colorist has been credited in print as part of the team. Meghan advocated for that, and though I’m MORE than comfortable staying in the background, it’s really nice to be included.

I’ve been doing hair now for 22 years, and next week I turn 44. Half of my life spent learning all I can about my craft, and now, my first Vogue feature!  It’s a milestone that I’m super proud of, and that honestly makes me quite emotional...