WE CHAT HAIR AND OTHER IMPORTANT ISSUES WITH STOFFEL VAN WYK:

The psychology of the importance of hair is a complex subject and history is rich with stories, but what do you think compels us to spend so much time worrying about our hair?

For most of us it serves as a security blanket. Unconsciously many of our emotional security or rather insecurities are defined by our hair. Other than our clothing, it’s the only noticeable variable of our choice. Therefore one day it’s good and one day it’s bad. Unsuccessful hairdos can cause life long trauma. Believe me.

Do you feel like a psychologist to your clients?

No , more like a psychiatrist. We often have to prescribe home care and even tablets………

What do you think the biggest hair trend is our time? What is history going to remember us by?

Most definitely the ever fresh “beach waves” and for the guys and hipster short hair lovers with their “comb over; undercut; faded pompadour”

What has been your favourite time in hair “history”?

The 70’s. I absolutely love an AFFRO.

If you could do anyone’s hair, who would it be?

May I choose 2?

Sophia Lauren and Cindy Lauper.

What gets you up in the morning, motivates you to keep going?

I love what I do and I’m grateful to do what I love!

A hairdresser cannot have an “off’ day on the job, how do you keep staying on top of the cutting game?

Education, Exchange, Excellence!

What tips would you give clients to get the most out of their relationship with their hair stylist, i.e.to get a hairstyle they are happy with?

First of all. Don’t believe everything you read. Especially about someone else's hair. If your hairdresser doesn’t consult with you about your hair thoroughly on the first visit, something is wrong and you should run. Your hairdresser should continue with “touching” in consultations. Be curious about your hair and be honest with your stylist . Never allow only trivial discussions only. Its your crowning glory after all.

Your career started off in art and fashion, how do think that helped in making you one of the top stylists in the country?

Oh Thank you! Hairdressing is another discipline of Art or Design. It requires a subtle balance of all design elements: Colour; Contrast; Texture; Line; Shape; Proportion. In this training and execution one’s eye gets used to recognise design. I’m convinced that my design background helped me develop a sense of creative balance.

What “trend” do you wish will end?

I must say the wavey stuff on all platforms and …… OH NO! The irresponsible, untrue, technically impossible representation and postproduction of hair make overs and colour images needs to be punished by death. (Instagram filters) All it does is create false expectations in our clients. That damages the trustworthiness of our industry. That trend must stop.

Which hairstyle would you want to make a comeback?

For short looks I’d like to combine the French crop and a mullet.

For long looks I’d love to welcome the SHAG. All of these…… WITHOUT the moustache, ok?

Does hair colour say anything about a person’s personality? For instance, why are so many woman enamoured with blond hair and most scared of red hair?

Well, once a blonde always a blonde….inside and out!

Yes there are a few distinct groups. Blondes; Redheads (obvious reasons); Naturals; Adventurous;🤪 Grey haters; greys and the Raven Blacks. All of these are descriptive of the personal caracteristics.

Do you think grey hair ages a woman?

Not necessarily. Depends on the grey and the percentages of grey and ofcourse the individual. I love grey hair. Different shades of grey are my ultimate favourite colours.

What do you miss the most of our lives BC, before Covid?

Social interaction. Emotions and unspoken communication does not just lie in the eyes. A mask is called a mask for a reason. I despise a mask. Alas, what can we do?

You set out becoming a fashion designer, what surprised you most about your career as hair stylist?

Oh thats easy! I’m an instant gratification junky. A hairdo is much quicker than a ball gown.

Who are your favourite fashion designers?

Definitely Alexander McQueen and Fear of God Sneakers by Nike.

Stoffel is available at Terenzo Suites, Bompas Road, Dunkeld, Gauteng. 083 255 9632