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SEARCHKaty Samuels has spent 14 years proving that creativity thrives when you stop searching for the "right" way and start trusting your own instincts. Known for her creative color work and signature Headband Prism technique, Samuels encourages beauty professionals to embrace mistakes, refine their craft and develop a style that's uniquely their own.
"Once you understand the fundamentals, it's up to you to decide what YOUR 'right' way is." — Katy Samuels
Katy Samuels believes the beauty industry's greatest artists aren't the ones who follow the rules; they're the ones who understand the fundamentals and confidently create their own. A creative color specialist and creator of the Headband Prism technique, Samuels has built her career around innovation, education and helping clients express themselves through color.
Named to the MODERN SALON 100 in 2018, Samuels says trusting yourself, refining your work and investing in quality tools are key ingredients for building a successful, fulfilling career.
Name: Katy Samuels
Location: Los Angeles, California
Years in the Industry: 14
Specialty: Creative color and Headband Prisms
Instagram:@k.s.colors
MODERN SALON 100: 2018
Determined. Creative. Visionary.
This is a lesson I learned the hard way.
For years, I thought there was one "right" way to do everything. I was constantly taking classes, searching for the perfect technique or formula. Eventually, I realized there is no right or wrong way. Once you truly understand the fundamentals, it's up to you to decide what your right way is. Use those foundational skills to create, experiment and focus on developing your own craft.
Welcome mistakes.
Every mistake teaches you something, and every mistake makes you better.
Having a model who comes in regularly and gives me complete creative freedom.
It keeps me inspired, pushes me to experiment and allows me to continue growing as an artist.
Buying cheap shears.
When I finished assisting, I saved up and invested in a pair of $1,200 Hikari shears. It's still one of the best investments I've ever made. I've tried many brands over the years, but nothing has compared in quality or longevity.
High-quality shears.
I know I mentioned them already, but I truly can't overstate the value of investing in great tools. Quality shears have paid for themselves many times over throughout my career.
Attention to detail.
I used to think certain finishing touches weren't worth the extra time and that clients wouldn't notice. Now I know that refining your work is your secret sauce. Those small details are what set you apart.
My Headband Prism technique.
Seeing it take off has been incredibly rewarding. It's encouraging women, including many who never imagined wearing vivid color, to try something fun and expressive for the first time.
That we're all on the same team.
Leadership.
Invest in your stylists and assistants. As a leader, you're responsible for helping them grow. Treat them well and fill them with education and opportunity.
Trust yourself.
Refine your work, keep improving your craft and you'll see your own signature style begin to bloom.
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