beauty industry leaders’ spotlight: howard mclaren

Salon industry leader, visionary, education guru, and creative director for R + Co hair care Howard Mclaren answers a few questions about hair and fashion for SQN Salons:

SQN: What is the most important trend in Hair and Beauty happening right now?
HOWARD:  The most important trend in hair and beauty = the trend that has had me excited, is custom fitting.  To be able as a hairdresser, to take elements from different era’s in music and style and bring them into one look that fits the character of the client. This is a big part of the DNA of R+Co, creating the products that support the look, from simple & clean to the ‘Amy Winehouse Beehive’.

SQN: What is your favorite decade of style from the 20th century and why?
HOWARD:  Fave decade… I would have to say the 20’s when women were liberating themselves with bobbed haircuts.  I would chill with my hair hero Antoine of Paris, experience the industrial revolution, Gatsby, and the brilliant architecture.

SQN: What are the 2 must have products in your product line, and why?
HOWARD:  I would say Dallas Thickening Spray, for control, volume, and great for slick or big hair. Second, Outer Space Flexible Hairspray; you can continue applying all day and it’s easy to brush and re-shape. I can do anything with those products, they are my go to in the studio.

SQN: Who is the most influential fashion designer of the moment, and what about them intrigues you?
HOWARD: I have to have two! First, Phoebe Philo, the ability to take a brand, reinvent and shape it into one of the most important brands of the past 10 years is astounding. I love the look of the Céline woman, ease with confidence. Second, Hedi Slimane for his work at Dior Homme and now with Saint Laurent. I just get his guys’ stuff and the idea of music taking the lead is smart. Also, customizing eras into a modern men’s look is perfect.

SQN: What is the one thing you should ask/tell your stylist when consulting for a new look?
HOWARD: Giving a stylist as much information on your regiments as possible. Everything from when you wash your hair, to what you do every day, and on special occasions. Bringing a few pics of textures and looks will be the best way to get a haircut that is right for you and your lifestyle.

Footnote about Howard Mclaren from SQN Owner, Laura B:

Howard Mclaren is my hair hero.  He has had the most impact on me as a stylist and salon owner of anyone in the industry today. Howard is the most inspiring person I have ever had the privilege of learning from.  His ground breaking work in razor cutting and hair styling education, his incredible sense of taste and style, and his MAD skills as a hairdresser, product developer, and photographer have changed and elevated the beauty industry.  We are so proud to be aligned with this industry leader, and can’t wait to see what R + Co does next.