The iconic hairstylist to the stars, Allen Edwards, is at it again, creating one of a kind looks and hairstyles that are changing the way women feel about themselves and the definition of beauty. (Image credit Robert Valentine)
In the ’70s Allen Edwards crafted Farrah Fawcett’s signature feathered look. The “Farrah” and its subsequent adaptations continue to remain as one of the most popular and copied hair styles to date. With success, Edwards quickly became one of the most sought after celebrity stylists and spokesperson for such companies as Clairol, KMS, Sun Silk, and Aveda. Having worked with Hollywood’s finest over the years it is no wonder that celebrities such as Renee Zellweger, Laura Flynn Boyle, Leah Remini, Donna Mills, Raquel Welch and many others have sought the expertise of Edwards and his team to always keep them looking their best. Furthermore, Edwards’ large celebrity clientele has paved the way for appearances on television, such as Oprah, E!, Style Network, and Regis & Kathy Lee to name a few. With well over 1,000 appearances, Edwards continues working with many of the leading makeover and reality shows lending his talent and ability to help others look their best.
We spoke with this style maker to learn more about the art of hair.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What are your inspirations?
Allen Edwards: I love creating new fabulous styles. I love cutting hair. I get inspired by clients who are willing to change their looks completely. It is amazing to see the dramatic effect this has on a person’s life when they go through a style transformation. They start getting attention and admiration they never knew existed. This really excites me!
Beverly Hills Magazine: What is the Allen Edwards Hair philosophy?
Allen Edwards: We believe clients should change their look all the time. To look and feel beautiful, you have to do what is in fashion. Your hairstyle has to be new, so you feel stylish today. When you go shopping you don’t buy old clothes, do you? It’s the same with hair. Don’t ask for old looks and styles. At our salon, we do trendy new things for our clients; we create styles that fit their face, their body, while giving them a new fresh look that is in fashion with modern style.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What are current hairstyle trends in Hollywood?
Allen Edwards: We are seeing a lot more short hair in Hollywood. Those with long hair are opting for strong defined lines or layers. The biggest trend is that today’s Hollywood celebrities are changing their looks dramatically. Jennifer Lawrence, for example, went from long wavy hair to completely short. That’s brave for a star, and we love it! In the past, celebrities would have one look for their entire careers. That’s boring. Today’s Hollywood stars are not attached to an image; they are taking risks with their hairstyle choices. I think it’s important to do something exciting for yourself, change your style whenever you want to!
Beverly Hills Magazine: What are some of your favorite hairstyles?
Allen Edwards: My signature cut is a Jennifer Aniston style bob, with longer front and shorter back. Lately I have been doing a lot of really short hair cuts too. For long hair, I recommend keeping it just past your shoulders with blunt lines, not all the way down your back. I am also a huge red and dark hair color fan. No matter what style you get, it should make you feel good about yourself.
Beverly Hills Magazine: Tell us about your product line, SHEAR FORCE?
Allen Edwards: The product line is specifically designed to thicken hair and make it shinier. It thickens the hair shaft without making it oily or greasy. All the products are made to give your hair more luster and body.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What are your best hair care tips?
Allen Edwards: Here’s my list of hair care tips…
- If you have long hair, don’t be afraid to trim it. You can make your hair thicker and healthier looking without taking 4-5 inches off. A really good trim can work wonders. Keep the front layered.
- If you keep your hair up all the time, cut it off. It’s better to have a style, than no style at all.
- Don’t be afraid to change the color of your hair; violet red tones look great with dark skin, and Irish red hues look fabulous on white skin.
- Condition your hair every day, but only shampoo every other day. You want to let your natural hair oils come in.
- Change your hairstyle ALL THE TIME. Wear it curly one day, straight the next, up one day, down the other. Always have a new look and style. It keeps you interesting.
- If you have a bob style, always use a flat iron to give it that sharp modern look.
- Always wear lipstick…It brightens the face.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What makes a stylist great?
Allen Edwards: Constant education is key, and so is PR. A great stylist is one who is motivated everyday to give their client something new that will make them feel great about themselves. You’re an artist, so create something beautiful. Then tell people about it! If you cut a celebrity, it’s okay to tell the press. You are important, always remember that. Last, the most expensive cut is not always the best. I keep my rates affordable, so I can make more people feel great about their looks. That’s why I do what I do, and I love it!
With extensive knowledge and unmatched passion for hair, Allen Edwards who created one of the first training programs, now offers consulting services to salons that are seeking guidance in taking their business and beauty to the next level. Contact Allen Edwards Hair to book your next appointment to transform your style or schedule a consultation with Allen Edwards himself.