Celebrity hairstylist Marcia Hamilton has worked on music videos, red carpets, cover shoots, and countless other projects that have made her a well- known name in the industry. Though her start in the industry was prompted by a totaled car that halted her attempt at becoming a “sexy mechanic,” she has clearly found her calling as a hair artist and has been highly successful in her 12 years in the industry. Find out more about Marcia’s experiences, her expert hair tips, and upcoming projects in our interview!
BANGSTYLE: How did you get your start in the hair industry? When did you know that you wanted to make it your career?
Marcia Hamilton: At age nine, my mother told me I was going to become a hair stylist. I ignored the idea, but I continued to style the hair of dolls, friends, and family. After graduating high school, I enrolled in auto shop at De Anza City College. I had this crazy idea that I would be a sexy mechanic because I loved muscle cars. That plan soon changed when my boyfriend at the time got into an accident and totaled my car. I soon took the advice of everyone and enrolled in beauty school. The first day there I knew I had found my calling.
BANGSTYLE: Did you face any challenges on your road to success? How did you overcome them?
MH: I faced many challenges along the way. Got booted out of beauty school a couple times because of tardies and funky attitudes– basic immature stuff, you know. It took a minute, but I finally wised up, matured, and became focused.
BANGSTYLE: Do you have any advice for aspiring stylists?
MH: My advice for aspiring stylists is stay abreast of trends, test-shoot, and never be afraid of taking risks.
BANGSTYLE: How did your start styling for fashion shoots?
MH: I started out by test-shooting to build my portfolio. Through these shoots, I began to meet make up artists, photographers, stylists, etc. This helped to get my name out there while allowing people to see my craft in motion. Before I knew it, I was being referred for editorials and other related jobs.
BANGSTYLE: What is your favorite type of job to style for?
MH: My favorite type of job is to style for clients. I love being able to interpret runway looks on my celebrity clients when they have to attend red carpet events, press junkets, and especially performances.
BANGSTYLE: Who and what inspires the looks you create?
MH: I draw a lot of inspiration from traveling, people watching, magazines, and old movies.
BANGSTYLE: Any career highlights or experiences that stand out among the rest?
MH: I recently styled Pink’s hair for a Target commercial! I was really excited because it’s the first Target commercial I’ve worked on.
BANGSTYLE: Do you specialize in any certain cuts, colors, or styles?
MH: I specialize in extensions, short funky cuts, and creative color.
BANGSTYLE: Any favorite hair trends and any trends that you’d rather never see again?
MH: My favorite trend, believe it or not, is still the ombre. Absolutely love it in pastel tones. So thrilled the feather trend is over.
BANGSTYLE: Do you have any at-home hair tips to share with our readers?
MH: Rinsing out conditioner with sparkling water makes hair super-shiny. Sleeping on a satin pillowcase prevents split ends. Extra virgin olive oil makes a great hair moisturizing treatment.
BANGSTYLE: How do you stay passionate and keep your career exciting?
MH: I stay passionate by attending trade shows and taking classes. And I keep my career exciting by working Mercedes Benz Fashion Week; it really keeps me on my toes.
BANGSTYLE: Any future goals or plans with your career?
MH: I definitely have some projects on the horizon, so do stay tuned
Check out Marcia Hamilton‘s BANGSTYLE profile, and look out for her future projects!
