GUIDO PALAU
From working the ’dos of iconic supermodels Christy, Naomi, and Linda in George Michael’s “Freedom! ’90” video to shaping trends on runways from New York to Milan, Guido Palau has had a hand in creating some of fashion’s most memorable images. Here, the c
Your five must-have products for women? They’re all Redken. Thickening Lotion, and Argan Oil, a multi-purpose oil that strengthens the hair as it gives it a nice shine. Powder Refresh, a dry shampoo, is very easy to use. It makes your blow-dry last longer – it’s a must. And I know women don’t like hairspray, but there’s one called Fashion Work 12 that’s a pliable spray. It’s soft but has hold, which I love. Don’t be afraid of hairspray. And Quick Tease is a great texturiser that I normally use. It gives volume straight to the root.
Do you prefer long or short hair on women? I like that collarbone-length hair, really. It’s not long, it’s not short; you can do anything with it. But then these girls like Miley Cyrus and Rihanna change their hair every five seconds, and I like it all.
I’m thinking of going really short. Should I? I think women should have guts and try something new. If you never try something, you never know. I mean, don’t go crazy. You could try a wig first.
What is a good go-to hairstyle this season? Don’t underestimate the power of the pony: It’s classic, it’s versatile, it’s the hair equivalent of the white T-shirt.
The best way to try out a new product? Try new products the night before, when your hair is dirty and you’re going to wash it later.
What is your least favourite hairstyle? I hate the kind of spiral curl on women that looks like their curls haven’t been brushed out and they kind of bounce around. The ringlets. I really hate that. It’s almost like wedding hair. You’ve worked with some incredible people. What’s your most memorable professional experience so far? Working with [Alexander] McQueen was amazing. Designing headpieces for ‘Savage Beauty’, the exhibition of his work at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, was a shift in my career, too.
If you weren’t a revered hair genius?
I would be a potter.
What do you think of Harry Styles’s hair? It started out good, but now it’s grown into something else. I think that with people who are known for usd their hair – especially when they become famous – it morphs into something bigger than it should be. I mean, who am I to argue with a million n young girls about Harry Styles’s hair? I’m sure they’re completely right. You know, with some celebrities, their quiffs get bigger when they become more famous. I guess it’s pretty hard to keep proportional when you’re that famous.