
Rodrick Samuels on The Silent Work, Modern Beauty Education and Why Empathy Wins
MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.
How to create the looks seen at Richard Chai's Spring/Summer 2013 show, with Frank Rizzieri and Kevin Ryan for Aveda--plus we talk to male models backstage about their experience!
Some of the best shows at New York's Mercedes Benz Fashion Week are the ones that feature both female and male models--it's the best of both worlds! Richard Chai's show on September 6 at Lincoln Center definitely delivered!

JON GURINSKY FOR AVEDA
The males wore slicked-back hair with well-defined partings--here's how you can recreate the look:
1) Prep damp hair from roots to ends with Aveda Pure Abundance Style Prep; blow dry hair smooth toward the back of the head with a Mason Pearson brush.
2) Flatiron hair in one-inch sections, working from sides to the top of the head, and brushing hair backward.
3) Emulsify a quarter-sized dollop of Aveda Men Firm Hold Gel and massage throughout the hair for shine and hold.
4) Create a left side part with a fine-toothed comb. Comb hair so it lays flat to the head.
5) Make another parting slightly off-center, from the hairline moving back diagonally, to create two asymmetrical sections on top of the head.
6) Flatten flyaways with a fine-toothed comb, directing hair toward the back and maintaining well-defined partings. Hold in place with Air Control Hair Spray.
7) Finish with a generous coating of Brilliant Spray-On Shine for a high-sheen, polished look.
While backstage with the models, we stopped Malcolm and Ben as they were having a break outside to chat with them about what it's like to be a male model. Afterall, they don't have to wear the painful heels or worry about tripping in a long gown on the catwalk--so what IS the experience like? We find out!

JON GURINSKY FOR AVEDA
The female models wore high-shine ponies with asymmetrical partings secured low on the nape. At first glance, the ponies seem relatively simple--and though they weren't extremely intricate, they certainly paired beautifully with Chai's fashion. CLICK HERE to watch a quick recap of the show!
1) Prep damp hair from roots to ends with Aveda Pure Abundance Style Prep; blow dry smooth then flatiron.
2) Create a square section on top of the head by parting hair along the parietal ridge. Secure on top of head with an elastic.
3) Smooth out bottom section with a fine-toothed comb and mist with Aveda Air Control Hair Spray to control flyaways.
4) Secure bottom section into a low pony at the base of the head; flatiron loose ends to completely smooth out the pony. Hold in place with Air Control Hair Spray.
5) Release the top section of hair and flatiron to remove any kinks. Brush toward the right ear, making a clean parting on the left.
6) Emulsify a dime-sized dollop of Flax Seed Aloe Gel and smooth over the top of the hair for shine and hold.
7) Starting at the point where the left parting meets the forehead, make another part diagonally across the head, creating two asymmetrical sections on top of the head.
8) Pull each section back and secure into the pony at the nape,maintaining clearly defined partings.
9) Flatten flyaways with a finetoothed comb or soft brush and Air Control Hair Spray. Finish with a generous coating of Brilliant Spray-On Shine for gloss.

MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.

"The mistake people make is treating AI like a vending machine instead of a personal assistant." Digital marketing expert Scott Moon shares how beauty professionals can use AI while staying authentic

Real-world advice on creativity, consultations, color, burnout, business, boundaries, inclusivity, client care, and career growth from educators and industry experts.

Today's clients are hearing more about longevity, biohacking, inflammation, and healthy aging than ever before. This article explores the science and language behind the skin longevity movement, and what it could mean for client consultations, treatment recommendations, and professional credibility.

Licensed to Thrive, Anna Manukyan's all-in-one beauty career and financial masterclass, is being gifted to professionals who enroll in L'Oreal LEVEL Rewards for a limited time.

From breaking free of external validation to creating joy-based goals, discover a more sustainable and fulfilling path to success.

A full day of education for hairstylists and salon pros focused on pricing, personal branding, client experience, social media, and long-term career growth.

From working backstage at multiple Paris Fashion Week shows to collaborating on four creative collections and expanding her international stage work, Michelle Bowden has had an incredible year of growth. Here, we break down her approach that drove her momentum, offering a framework for stylists looking to elevate their own careers.

This marks Ulta Beauty’s first scholarship partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, building on years of enthusiastic support for the organization and its mission.

Locally owned Great Clips salons offer a wide variety of career opportunities, competitive compensation, supportive salon teams and opportunities to grow your skills, both technically and professionally.
Sponsored by Great Clips

Salon suite consultant Karen Kaminski explains why cheap salon suite rent can destabilize the salon suite business model and why value-based pricing may be a smarter strategy.

These stylists practice hairdresser magic, transforming clients into unicorns, mermaids, rainbows and living works of art.

Keratin Complex is taking education on the road in 2026 with the launch of KC on Tour, a live event series featuring industry icon and salon business coach Tabatha Coffey.

Modern professionalism is evolving beyond hard skills. Technical training is essential but about 85 percent of job success comes from soft skills. In a world where AI and automation are increasing, human connection becomes more valuable, not less.

In his new book "The Creative Mastermind," a writer and creative executive behind brands such as "Top Chef," "Fear Factor," and "Real Housewives," shares his insider knowledge for navigating today's chaotic content landscape.

Personalization is no longer just the cherry on top; it’s the whole sundae. If clients don’t feel like you designed and personalized the experience just for them, they’ll find a salon that does.

Ulta Beauty is always innovating to meet professionals where they are. Amazing transformations happened at The Salon at Ulta Beauty in 2025, and Ulta Beauty artistry and education will be everywhere you want to go in the year ahead. Come see all The Salon at Ulta Beauty has planned for you in 2026!
Sponsored by Ulta Beauty