Keith Campbell does his best work while wearing headphones.

"I love loud music," he says, as he dials up cuts from One Republic and Timbaland Collaboration. "It helps me concentrate!"

The self-styled "Hair Architect," who has coiffed the likes of Missy Elliot and Serena Williams, must focus to create meticulous, artistic designs. He always has a vision, as in this shoot with models Belinda and Naima. "I want to create something that is red carpet, but unorthodox red carpet," he says. "Sophisticated
but edgy."

Strong-form cuts provide the foundation for the looks, then Campbell mixes it up with extensions used for color punch. "They make it easy to create a totally different look," he says. "They are quick and to the point."

Campbell places wefts along the halo over the top, just behind the fringe, to allow the highlight color to stand out without dominating the design. To finish, he uses pomade, spray or gel to place lengths and accent texture. Turn it up!

 

Click here to see how he created Naima's design.

Click here to see how he created Belinda's design.

 

Styling assistance by LaWanda Pierre; photography by Roberto Ligresti; make-up by David Maderich for www.mistermakeup.com, with Make-Up For Ever cosmetics; photostyling by Viviana Rodriguez. Naima's silver top by Miss Sixty, striped top and necklace by Club Monaco and vest by Fire Los Angeles. Belinda's silver cami by Niteline, sleeveless shell by Polenci.