When I think of a strong work ethic and a creative mind, several people come to mind. Owen Gould is definitely one of them! To some, he’s known as the guy who’s brought Hollywood glam back to the world of hair, but to me, he’s one of the coolest and most humble guys I’ve met in years. His unique and forward-thinking hairstyles have created a lane of its own. Owen consistently shows the world how hard work and a strong passion for what you do makes for a successful and powerful influencer. As I flip through magazines or scroll through Instagram lusting over his innovative creations for people like Bella and Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Karrueche, and Anna Faris, it motivates me to work even harder. I get so excited just wondering what groundbreaking design he will come up with next, knowing that he will push the limit and create something monumental — making him one of the most sought after stylists.
I still get goose bumps when I see the Interview Magazine shoot featuring Sarah Abney, and I can’t get enough of Priyanka Chopra on the cover of both Elle and Harper’s Bazaar. Owen continues to raise the bar as he creates another outstanding look at this year‘s Met Gala styling Juliette Binoche. Although Owen styles some of the world’s most influential models, actresses, and industry socialites, he still maintains being very personable, humble, and dignified!
Read what I learned about the remarkable man in my StyleChat with Owen Gould.
1. What is it like in the hair/beauty business and what inspired you to get started?
Pouring over magazines as a kid and admiring all that I saw is probably what inspired me to pursue a career in fashion. Being in the hair industry is an exciting and extremely creative business to be a part of; it’s collaborative and can be chaotic at times, but that's what I love so much about it. You’re constantly working with other talented artists to create an amazing image or look – that's why you really need to be a team player to go far in this industry. Working together is so important when trying to create something that everyone will remember. Not everyone is going to love your ideas or see your vision, but the end result is so gratifying.
2. How have things changed from when you started until now?
The biggest change I’ve seen is the rise of social media. It’s pretty much changed the game on all levels. The thing I like about it is the ability to share some of the process with people that follow me, and also some behind the scenes clips with people I've had the opportunity to meet on set. It’s also become a portfolio for your work; I’ve gotten booked for several jobs because of a photo I posted on Instagram. Ten years ago, that wasn’t happening.
3. Who are some of your biggest influencers?
I’ve always loved the old school masters of hair. Oribe, Luigi, Serge Normant. The glamour of the 90’s supermodels has always remained a huge inspiration for me as well. All those old Versace ads with the big hair. I’ll never get tired of looking at those!
4. What has your proudest moment been thus far?
Getting to work with Björk was a really proud moment for me! I remember getting an email from her stylist asking if I’d be interested in working with her. I was like, “This must be a mistake”. My sister turned me on to her music when I was a kid, and I was so in love with those little buns she used to wear all over her head! It was such an amazing experience!
5. Where do you see yourself and your brand in the next few years?
It’s hard to say with certainty but I would love to collaborate on a product line or hair accessories of some sort, and create something that everyone would want to use everyday.
I also recently put out a book called MACHO with a photographer friend of mine. It’s a collection of men’s hairstyles that I’m really proud of and I would love to continue to do more projects like that.
6. What tips would you to provide to someone for an easy day-to-night glam?
I’m a huge fan of dry shampoo. If your hair is dirty or you’ve just woken up, I love to spray the hair liberally and pin it up in small messy sections. It’s a great way to get that sexy bedhead look from the boardroom to the dance floor. It even looks great when you take it all out at the end of the night.
To get styled by the master of hair, email Owen Gould: OwenGould23@gmail.com
Instagram: OwenGould