Hey darlings –
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NEW YORK (July 9, 2009) – In New York City, the global epicenter of cultural and ethnic cross-pollination, there’s never been an A-list salon catering to the collective – yet individual – needs of a multi-textural world. Introducing Hair Rules New York, the first salon where ALLtextures can co-exist under one, welcoming roof and receive unparalleled service from an elite team of stylists and colorists.
Getting to the root of the problem
“From the first day of cosmetology school, stylists are taught to process hair without regard to natural texture,†explains A. Dickey, celebrity stylist and creative director of Hair Rules hair care and styling solutions for a multi-textural world, a brand he co-founded with his best friend and business partner, 1990’s supermodel, Kara Young. “What that means to women with highly textured hair is that their hair is a problem that needs fixing.â€
Generations of women with kinks, curls and waves have spent a lifetime battling their unrulybends into submission – in spite of the downsides (ie dry, brittle, thinning and lost hair, and a flaky, unsightly scalp). In Dickey’s opinion, the hair industry has been slow to evolve its thinking about texture – evidenced by short-sighted products, a divided aisle, aggressive salon processes, inadequate technical training, and marketing campaigns that prey on women’s self-esteem – the result of which is not only damaged hair, but divisive notions of beauty about what’s socially, professionally and fashionably acceptable.
Although the majority of salons believe they cater to a broad clientele, most stylists would admit they’re not entirely comfortable working with the truest classification of naturally kinky hair. And for salons that do specialize in highly textured hair, the landscape is even more fractured, with some trafficking in excessive heat, others in weaves and relaxers, and others still promoting only natural styles such as braids, locks and twists.
It’s time for a new set of rules
“Hair Rules takes everything we know about the hair industry and heads it in the right direction,†says Dickey, who authored a straight-talk guidebook called Hair Rules the UltimateHair Care Guide for Women with Kinky, Curly and Wavy Hair (Random House), now in its third printing. Adds co-founder Kara Young, “Much more than a product line or a salon, Hair Rules is a mindset – a new way for women who have always struggled with their natural texture to learn to embrace it – and truly love it.â€
Hair Rules New York will offer the healthiest approach to hair care and styling based on clients’ natural texture. This translates to nothing short of the best talent in the business, providing an exceptional level of service for all hair types. At Hair Rules New York, no texture is viewed as problematic; services are available from the truest classification of kinky hair to “won’t hold a curl†straight and every texture in between.
“Our goal is to undo years of despair and disappointment by helping our clients re-discover their natural texture, embrace the versatility it offers, and wear it however they choose – but via healthy, responsible methods,†says Dickey, stylist to Minnie Driver, Kelis, Estelle and First Lady Michelle Obama.
About Hair Rules New York
The 2,160 square foot loft space, located in Manhattan‘s diverse Clinton (aka Hell’s Kitchen) neighborhood, features eight cutting stations, four color stations, four drying stations and a comfortable living room where clients can relax and unwind between appointments. The space itself, at once industrial yet cozy and welcoming, is designed to evoke the concept of texture, with an eclectic melding of colors, textures, surfaces and fabrics. “I liken it to a groovy, elegant, multi-textural vibe,†says Dickey.
Hair Rules New York also embraces a modern, green aesthetic by using responsibly harvested bamboo, a renewable natural resource, woven throughout. Other eco-friendly elements include the use of wind power, non-toxic paint and zone lighting, to conserve energy. Additionally, the salon has partnered with the non-profit organization, Matter of Trust, to recycle hair that’s been cut in the production of hair mats, used for cleaning up oil spills.
Hair Rules New York is located at 828 Ninth Avenue (between 54th and 55th Streets). To book an appointment, please call 212.315.2929 or email salon@hairrules.com. For more information, please visit www.hairrules.com.
