Q+A with Celebrity Hairstylist Frédéric Fekkai
Frédéric Fekkai on "soft French beauty," his favorite hair styles for different textures, and more.
Originally from France, Frédéric Fekkai is a world-renowned celebrity hairstylist who typically splits his time between his home country and New York City. He truly has run the gamut of experience in his industry, from having several of his own hair salons, to creating his own luxury hair care line, to boasting an impressive client list including Hillary Clinton, Demi Moore, Anne Hathaway, and Gwenyth Paltrow, among others. Read on to learn more about Frédéric's career, as well as his favorite products, his working style, and more!
Q: How did you get into hair?
During a modeling shoot, I met a famous hairstylist who introduced me to the world that I didn’t know. She was extremely talented and offered me an assistant job. I quit law school and joined her team, and it was a great learning experience with hair, wigs, color, and makeup as well.
Q: How would you describe your style as a hairstylist? What’s your beauty philosophy?
I take pride in giving my customers a style that defines their personality and way of life. I call it “soft French beauty”, which means casual, chic, and effortless. My beauty philosophy is all about enhancing everyone’s beauty. It has to feel stylish but real, and achievable at home.
Q: What do you love most about your work?
I love the fact that my creativity helps people feel beautiful, confident, and good about themselves.
Q: Where do you find inspiration?
I used to find my inspiration in watching films and reading books and magazines, but now on social media such as Pinterest and Instagram. Also, just being out about on the street is another fabulous way to get creative.
Q: When you think of all of the looks you’ve created, is there a favorite that comes to mind? What is it?
I do have many looks that I love because I respect different textures: sharp bobs, shaggy bobs, and long hair with curtain bangs for straight and wavy hair. I love the afro style hair and long layers on curly hair.
Q: What are some essential tools and products in your kit?
Dryer with a diffuser, hot barrel, round and flat brushes, wide and thin tooth combs, FEKKAI Brilliant Gloss Crème, FEKKAI CBD Scalp Calming Hydrating Mask, and FEKKAI Full Blown Dry Texturizing Spray.
Q: What are some of your personal favorite products you can’t live without?
FEKKAI Brilliant Gloss Crème, FEKKAI CBD Scalp Calming Hydrating Mask.
Rapid Fire Round
Q: Makeup artist partner in crime:
Brigitte Reiss Anderson.
Q: Product you can’t leave home without:
My old FEKKAI gel (to be reproduced soon) and CBD oil.
Q: Drugstore favorite:
American Crew Pomade.
Q: Worth the splurge:
A 2 hour facial with Aida Bicaj.
Q: Recent discovery:
Natural deodorant from Weleda.
Q: Brand you wish more people knew about:
Bastide, Sakara Life, Blue Land.
Q: Favorite scent:
Verveine Du Sud by Bastide and Bigarade by Frédéric Malle.
Q: Your last beauty empty:
Clarins pre-shaving oil.
You can shop more of Frédéric's favorite products at his shop below:i
