MANE MASTER: RIC PIPINO
by JUSTINE MARJAN 04 . 21 . 15
If there’s someone who knows how to create beautiful, effortless, and sexy hair, it’s Ric Pipino. Having started his career nearly 30 years ago in Sydney, Australia and London, England, Ric moved to New York city where he pursued his dream of editorial styling. Having led shows during New York and Miami Fashion Week and been published in Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, Vogue, and GQ, Ric went on to open flourishing salons in both Miami and New York City. He now travels the world as one of the leading hairstylists for Alterna. Despite his busy schedule, Ric was able to spend some time with Mane Addicts and give us some insight into his remarkable career.
How did you get your start in the industry?
I was fortunate enough to have an older brother, Marc Pipino, who was a hairstylist and co-owner of Pipino Buccheri Salon in New York. He gave me the opportunity to work at his salon and introduced me to his hair and makeup agent Bryan Bantry. Bryan gave me my first editorial job for The Sunday Times (the fashion issue) which then led to many other editorial opportunities for magazines such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and Elle.
What was one of your biggest career challenges and how did you overcome it?
Owning two salons in two separate states and maintaining a high standard of work and quality customer service. I trained senior staff members a set of standards that needed to always be in place with or without me being there. Once I was clear in these brand standards, then things became much easier and clearer.
Who are some role models who have inspired you?
Vidal Sassoon, Donna Karan, Madonna and my ex-wife Heidi Klum.
Do you have a signature look or style that you are known for?
My long layer, sexy haircuts and how well they grow out – the cut just keeps getting better and better.
Which hair products or tools are always in your kit?
Alterna Haircare Caviar Perfect Texture Finishing Spray, Caviar CC Cream, and Bamboo Kendi Dry Oil Micromist.
What advice would you give yourself 10 years ago
To focus on one thing at a time. We creative people tend to have amazing ideas all the time but we need to stay focused on one thing at a time rather than trying to do all of them.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received? What advice would you give to new stylists?
To always stay true to yourself and what you believe in.
Before you advise a client of their hair, you should always listen and learn from them. They live with their hair every day and know their hair better than you do!!
What is the next chapter for you?
Working on TV show that will showcase different cultures of hair and beauty.
How would you describe your beauty and hair philosophy?
To create versatile, healthy, sexy hair that works for their lifestyle and culture.
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