Want to know what it’s like to work with one of the biggest names in Hollywood?
Nigerian Fashion Journalist Dimeji Alara, interviewed Celebrity Hairstylist, Vernon Francois for Elle Magazine South Africa. Check it out!
QUESTIONS WITH CELEB HAIRSTYLIST, VERNON FRANCOIS
With some of Hollywood’s biggest names under his belt including Lupita Nyong’o, Uzo Aduba, Kerry Washington and Naomi Harris, Vernon François joins us as a guest contributor to give us answers from the inside.
When did you read your first copy of ELLE and what year was it?
The first Elle cover I remember clearly was in June 1997 when I was 12. It was Naomi Campbell wrapped in a Union Jack. It was such an iconic image at the time. At 14 I was an assistant in a West End salon and I recall that ELLE was always the magazine the clients wanted to read.
Where are you from and where did you grow up?
I grew up in the North of England. I was born in Huddersfield and spent my childhood in Leeds and Manchester. Apparently, Northerners have a reputation for being the friendliest people in Britain.
What’s the one question women ask you frequently about hair issues?
The question I get asked most often is how to maintain hair outside of the salon. Many women are looking for that silver-bullet answer.
Take us through your journey as a hairstylist
Discovering my ability at just eight years old, I began working weekends in a salon on Oxford Street at the age of 14, and by 17, I was named Black Beauty Magazine Newcomer of the Year. From there I went on to freelance in Paris, Oslo, Amsterdam and Prague.
Tell us about working with Lupita.
Lupita and I have fantastic chemistry. We are both so passionate about hair. It’s always a collaboration between us, which is what always makes her final look complete.
When did you first meet her and what was your first encounter?
I was introduced to Lupita by a mutual friend. I worked with her on one of her first engagements in London before 12 Years a Slave was released. We’ve worked together ever since.
To read the rest of the interview, head over to: http://www.elle.co.za/10-questions-celeb-hairstylist-vernon-francois/