Hair maestro : David Gillson
David Gillson is not only the top hairstylist in South Africa, and was going to take over Belgravia, London, before Covid. We caught up with the maestro of Carlton hair, and spent a few minutes with him.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Eshowe a small town on the north coast of KZN
Why did you become a hairdresser?
Fashion, Styling and creating beauty has away been my passion- hair is the quickest way to transform a person. I always wanted to make people more beautiful.
Was there anything else you ever wanted to pursue?
I am obsessed with fashion and design so if not a hairdresser something in fashion or design.
What have you learnt about life from hairdressing?
Hairdressing has taught me to be a psychologist to connect with people and to really understand people and relationships in a deep and meaningful way.
How do you get inspired?
Travel is my biggest source of inspiration. I love new places and connecting with new and exciting people. This has made 2020 really challenging for me as it is the longest I have ever been in one place, yet I have used this time to look inwards and value what I have at home.
Who inspires you?
People in fashion that break barriers and stereotypes inspire me. My daughter, with her passion for change and challenging the way society is, is a true inspiration.
What is your favorite pastime?
Travel, the joy of discovering new and the unique is my passion.
What is your favorite destination?
London the new the traditional. The cutting edge the history the street style, the embracing of all cultures is always so London.
What is your favorite hotel?
JK Place in Florence Italy , Londolozi in South Africa , The Edition in London.
What music do you listen to? Who is your favorite music artist?
I love dance music, it’s hard to choose a favorite artist
If you can own any piece of art, which artist would you chose?
Jeff Koons. I would love to own anything by him!!!!!
What are your favorite movies?
Pedro Almandovar is my favorite director. I absolutely love all his movies, it would be hard to choose a favorite.
Your favorite books?
I love Deepak Chopra. I’ve grown so much for all his work love, love, love his books.
When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace in the Africa bush, on a game drive surrounded by the sounds of nature.
What do you miss most from life before Covid?
Miss traveling, hugging people, seeing people without masks and going out for cocktails.
What is your favorite restaurant - in the world and here in South Africa?
I love the Duchess in Cape Town
Marble and Tortellino del Oro in Johannesburg
Annabelle’s in London
What is your life’s motto?
Be Grateful for five things in your life everyday.
What is the biggest lesson you learnt in 2020?
. Live in the moment be present as much as possible
What will the biggest trend for hair be in 2021?
Hair will stop being practical and easy - a return to high- maintenance glamour.
Trains, planes, or automobiles? What is your favorite?
Private Jets!
What is your personal wish for 2021?
A healthy safe and prosperous planet
Illustration by Awdray awdray@outlook.com
