Part I: Interview with a Celebrity Stylist & Colorist
Two weeks ago, we introduced you to Mikael Padilla, a new StyleVise member and celebrity stylist and colorist. To get to know the man behind the chair, we sat down with Mikael over coffee and asked him some questions, from how he got started in the biz to his must-have products to his craziest celebrity story. Continue reading Part I of my interview with him to see what he had to say.
Q. When did you first become interested in hair?
I was bartending in Denver, and many of my friends were going to beauty school. I thought it’d be something I’d like. After beauty school, I moved to New York City. It took two months before I landed my first position as an assistant at Garren. I happened to be at the right place at the right time. I also assisted Christopher John at Garren for two years, which is what sparked my passion for color.
Q. You recently relocated to Denver but are still working one week each month in L.A. Who are your current clients?
Fergie, Sandra Bullock, Naiomi Watts, Jennifer Coolidge, Rachel McAdams, Christian Bale, to name a few.
Q. Can you recall one of your most memorable, craziest stories working as a stylist?
I was in NYC working as an assistant at the time. We were coloring a celebrity’s hair (I won’t mention her name). She appeared to be “on something” and was continually falling over in the chair. As the assistant, I had to hold her head up while we worked. Then, she needed to use the restroom. We took her in the restroom, pulled her pants down for her and left her in private. After only a few moments, we heard a thump. She had completely fallen off the toilet. We had to put her back together, get her back in the salon chair and finish her color.
Q. Which celebrity is one of your favorites?
Probably Sandra Bullock. She’s very down to earth.
Q. Which celebrity are you closest with?
I’d probably have to say Fergie. I went on tour with her for eight months (her first solo tour) and styled her hair every day.
Q. How do celebrities most commonly tip?
It depends. If the celebrity pays for it, they will generally tip 20%. But in most cases, celebrities don’t pay for it. Typically, we will bill it to the studio with a 20% tip included. Most celebrities know they can get it their hair done somewhere for free.
Q. What are some of your favorite products you use?
For color, I really like Wella or L’Oreal. As far as shampoos and conditioners, I prefer Kerastase. I use Bumble and Bumble styling products.
Q. What products do you recommend all women own?
Mouse and leave-in conditioner. I recommend using mouse to add volume and support styling. However, keep in mind that most drug-store brands have many chemicals and high alcohol content. I also recommend always using a leave-in conditioner. It’s important to apply a leave-in conditioner to wet hair before blowdrying to protect the hair from heat.
***Stay tuned for Part II of my interview with celebrity stylist and colorist Mikael Padilla.***
