Kendall Dorsey is a highly regarded hairstylist known for his expertise in creating stunning hairstyles for celebrities and high-profile clients. He has gained recognition for his talent, creativity, and dedication to his craft in the beauty and fashion industry. Kendall has styled the likes of Yara Shahidi, Solange, Nikki Minaj, Kelly Rowland, Rhianna and many many more. He advocates for inclusivity and diversity within the beauty industry, challenging beauty standards and stereotypes while championing the natural beauty of Black hair.
In this episode, we speak to Kendall about his experience building his career, challenges he’s faced along the way and advice he has for up and coming stylists who want to get into the world of entertainment.
Where to find Kendall: Instagram | Website
The interview
Here are all the questions we asked Kendall so you can fast-forward to the best parts.
[01:00] How did you start your journey into hair styling?
[09:38] How did it feel as you were going through the process of becoming formally trained? And, how did this play a part in taking your career to the next level?
[12:40] What is the difference between a stylist in a salon and a stylist on editorial shoots?
[14:54] How did you get your first opportunity in editorial hair styling?
[23:00] What are some of the biggest challenges that you've faced along the way?
[27:40] What was the biggest learning about yourself during this time?
[30:03] What advice do you have for aspiring textured hair stylists who dream of working in editorial and entertainment?
[35:33] What's the one memory you'll share with your family?
[38:50] What other stylists inspire you to do great work?
[42:02] What advice do you have for the everyday woman who's learning how to better manage their hair?
[45:09] What are the [product lines you would recommend?
[46:25] What are some of the big mistakes you've seen clients making when managing textured hair?
[48:40] What's next for Kendall Dorsey?
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Who has Kendall
Some takeaways
For stylists 💇🏾♀️
In a salon, you have a chance to build a relationship with customers based on their lifestyle (e.g. if they're dating, building their career etc). With editorial styling, it's mainly about art and fantasy, you have to learn how to use shapes and artistry beyond hair styling to become exceptional at what you do.
Take your time and learn the ropes while you're building your career and be respectful of the opportunities that other stylists help you to obtain as well.
Art is subjective and you have to be prepared for artists and entertainers to move on from you to another to obtain a new look. It is not a reflection that you as an artist are not good at what you do, it's just part of the business.
It's OK to not know what your next step is and to be scared about building your career. Often being the only Black person in the room can lead to a lot of pressure, remember that you are there to learn as well as represent. Accepting that goes a long way to helping you find a place in the game.
If you want to make it into entertainment styling, be prepared to move to one of the major cities in the world (e.g. London, New York, LA, Tokyo). Do your research on the agencies in that city and put start building a relationship with those who work at the agencies by getting onto their assisting lists.
For customers 💛
Find a professional in your town and find someone who can help educate you about their hair, but let them be the expert. Make sure hair is part of your monthly budget. Find someone who can fit your space and build a relationship with them.
Tactics for shopping for products -- Look for products that promote hydration as that will go internally into the shaft of the hair. Also, look out for products that are weightless as they will not just sit on top of your hair.
Hair Brands Kendall Recommends
Colour WOW & Curl WOW | these both have a permanent place in Kendall’s kit.
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