He’s part of the section of the fashion and beauty industry that’s extremely sidelined. He’s been working endlessly this past month on some of the standout shows from Marc Jacobs and Dior to Prada and Celine. He even created the spectacularly striking headpieces for the record breaking Alexander McQueen exhibition. Here’s our profile on extraordinary hair stylist Guido Palau.
L-R: Marc Jacobs SS16, Prada SS16, Alexander McQueen Savage Beauty Exhibition
It was a rebellious start at the Vidal Sassoon salon that began coiffeur Palau’s career. Getting sacked from the famous brand meant a reality check for the British hairdresser and a new found determination to regard his profession more sincerely. After freelancing in salons it was styling George Michael’s Freedom! ’90 which was a career turn for Palau and an opportunity to work with some of our most iconic supermodels from Naomi Campbell to Christy Turlington. Working with renowned photographer David Sims led Palau to gain a solid name for himself in the fashion industry with major brands Calvin Klein and Versace under his belt. A pivotal individual for the edgy grunge movement of the 90’s, Palau still continues to offer his amazing styles across the fashion industry.
L-R: George Michael Freedom, Calvin Klein, Versace
“I was lucky to grow up in a time where hair was very expressive and you did get these extreme characters”
His talent and artistic ability in the craft has meant he is now one of the most respected hair stylists in the world. His capabilities range from the wacky and unconventional (Alexander McQueen SS11, Prada AW15) to gorgeous and feminine (Dolce and Gabbana AW15, Valentino SS15 couture), glamorous and nostalgic (Versace SS12, Louis Vuitton SS13) and laid-back and simple (Christian Dior SS15, versus versace SS15). He is the innovator behind many fresh new creations from two toned hair and the folded ponytail, hence his title as trend setter. Whether it’s braids, knots, tousles, tease or dye, he’s not shy to experiment and create true works of art from hair, but can also strip back to the minimal. His astute understanding of the fashion houses, rapport with designers and skill of interpreting collections means he’s a trusted regular for many high end brands.
L-R: Alexander McQueen SS11, Dolce and gabbana AW15, Christian Dior SS15
“What I actually like about hair is I can create a character with it, a mystery, an attitude, a fantasy.” Palau (BeautyInc)
A consistent presence in fashion’s biggest magazines and campaigns, Palau continues to work his magic and remain sought after with even Vogue labelling him, “The World’s most in-demand hair stylist.” He is the global style director for hair giant RedKen; which he claims “keeps him in touch with real women”. In 2009 Palau was included in British Fashion Council’s list of 25 Most Powerful People in the Fashion Industry, proving his worth in a competitive, cutthroat industry.
He can make shower hair look sleek, a ponytail futuristic and a 60’s bouffant modern and relevant. Ladies and gentleman, the immensely gifted and skilled friseur that is Guido Palau.
Rukaiyah Dadhiwala