This is my very first interview, and I’m thrilled to start this new venture by talking to my longtime friend and go-to hair stylist, Alessandro Vicini. For some time now, I’ve wanted to add interviews to my site because I love talking with people I admire. Alessandro, who is also launching his own line of hair products these days, seemed like the perfect person to kick off this series. We’ve shared a professional journey spanning three decades, witnessing each other’s growth and evolution in our respective fields. Alessandro’s passion for his craft and his ability to inspire with every creation is truly remarkable. I loaded a couple of films in my camera to portray him at his salon, and the talk began. Read on!
Marco: We’ve known and worked together for about 30 years. I was just starting out as a photographer, and you were already working as a hair stylist. But you’re not that much older than me, so when did you start?
Alessandro: Marco, it’s incredible to think that 30 years have already passed! I started my career as a hair stylist at 15, attending a hairdressing school in Rome.
Marco: Hold on a second. So, you’ve got about forty years of experience under your belt now. I remember when we met at the photography fair. I was at the ISF and Polaroid stand, unrolling a roll of film, and I asked you to create something. In just a few minutes, you came up with a hairstyle incorporating the film into the model’s hair. It was amazing, and you were full of energy. Fast forward to today, and you still have that same energy. Don’t you ever get tired? What keeps you inspired?
Alessandro: I remember that moment perfectly, and I remember your look of amazement, the same look you have now as you recount this story. Your eyes light up. That’s what inspires me. Seeing the satisfaction in the eyes and on the faces of the people who trust me. How could I ever get tired of that? I love what I do so much that I think I manage to convey this passion.
Marco: Absolutely! And speaking of satisfaction, what has been your greatest one?
Alessandro: I’ve always been fascinated by cinema since I was a child. When I started working as a hair stylist, my dream was to be on a film set, behind the scenes. I imagined myself working with the hair of actresses and actors. I never thought I’d be lucky enough to make that dream come true. Now, I frequently collaborate with productions, especially with the rise of streaming. This, for me, is not only a great satisfaction but also an additional motivation to grow and strive to improve constantly.
Marco: And now you’ve launched your own line of hair products. That’s a big step. What motivated you?
Alessandro: Yes, and I’m extremely happy about it! I wanted to bring together all my experiences and listen to the needs of my clients of all ages, from students to homemakers, to actresses and bank managers. In the end, everyone wants to feel good about themselves, and well-maintained, vibrant, and beautiful hair helps you feel good. That’s how my line of hair products was born. The goal is always the same: to provide well-being and see the satisfaction on the faces of those who trust me.
Marco: From a technical standpoint, was the process of creating these products difficult?
Alessandro: Of course, I didn’t just play the little chemist in the back of the salon, mixing various concoctions! As I mentioned before, I listen a lot to the requests and needs of my clients, so I had a clear idea of what these products should be like. I tested different formulations from various manufacturers, working closely with them to achieve the products I had in mind. This was the longest part because I didn’t want any compromises. There shouldn’t be a “yes, but…”. The quality has to be total. There has to be that wow factor! And in the end, it was my clients who gave the final approval.
Marco: It’s not always smooth sailing. Have you ever faced moments when things went wrong, and how did you deal with them?
Alessandro: Without mistakes, we don’t learn, and without falls, we don’t rise. Sometimes, unexpected events have a significant impact. I’ll never forget the worst moment. Years ago, a serious family problems heavily affected my business, almost leading to closure. But I love this job too much and didn’t want to give up. I was fortunate to have friends who supported me, even financially. To them, I am eternally grateful. I reset everything and started again with more enthusiasm and determination. Thanks to these negative events, I have much more experience. I’ve learned firsthand that what we call failures are actually great lessons and opportunities to do better. The important thing is to get up after a fall and never give up.
Check out Alessandro Vicini’s website to explore his new line of hair products. They’re well worth a look, and you might find something perfect for your hair care routine.
