Acclaimed celebrity hair artist Frank Galasso has created some of Hollywood’s hottest hair trends. From sexy layers to chunky face-framing highlights to voluminous extensions, Galasso’s expertise in designing flawless hair has garnered an elite clientele that includes Kim Kardashian, Kate Upton, Vanessa Williams, and Emmy Rossum.

Among his many achievements in a successful 30 years of experience in the hair industry, Galasso has worked as the head of Gianni Versace’s runway design team, opened his own Santa Monica salon (Frank.Studio), and opened a West Hollywood beauty studio (Barnes & Galasso—a collaborative venture with celebrity makeup artist Scott Barnes).

Check out our interview with Galasso to learn more.

BANGSTYLE: What made you want to become a hair artist at the young age of 15? How did you get started in the industry?

Frank Galasso: I’ve always had a passion for style and fashion. Growing up with thick, Italian, curly hair, I spent most of my teenage life chemically straightening my hair and blowing it out. Curly hair was not my thing. I got a job at a salon when I was around 12 years old sweeping floors and cleaning out perm rollers. Eventually, I got to rinse out perms and shampoo hair.

After failing my exams to get into tech school, I walked past a hot new salon that just opened up in a trendy part of town. It was owned by one of Vidal Sassoon’s original apprentices who was well in his 40s back then. I had already spent two years doing hair part-time in a shampoo and set type salon. It all just came easy to me, so I walked in and got the job as [the owner's] apprentice hairdresser.

Before I knew it, I was sporting a new stylish Sassoon haircut and learning how to do those amazing salon cuts by Sassoon’s right hand man.

BANGSTYLE: Do you have a signature hairstyle? If so, how has it evolved?

FG: I have been in this business for over three decades. I have had many signature haircuts, but I have always stayed close to my favorite looks: GLAM ROCK and sexy layers. I was also a big fan of the shag cut.

I tend to be known for my work in transforming gorgeous, sexy, long hair. When I add hair wefts and extensions, I seem to be able to create whatever is in my imagination.

I would have to say that, right now, my signature hairstyle is shaggy, long, layered hair that’s naturally highlighted with lightened tips. I have changed this over the years from a polished, well-blown out version to a just-off-the-beach ‘couldn’t care less’ type of look. I also change the lengths of the face-framing layers—longer to shorter, with bangs, without bangs, etc.!

BANGSTYLE: With extensive experience working with a number of high profile celebrities, on fashion shows, editorial shoots, film, TV, music videos, etc., what would you say it takes to be able to create hairstyles that complement fashion trends?

FG: I always look at the clothes and color to decide on hair. Everything must flow. My mantra is: if you notice it, then it’s wrong. It’s all about DEVELOPING YOUR EYE TO SEE EVERYTHING AS A WHOLE.

BANGSTYLE: Can you tell us a little about working as the head of the design team for Versace?

FG: Working with top designers is great because you become part of the inspiration and the magic that takes place on the runway.

BANGSTYLE: What’s next in hair?

FG: Next in hair is high volume, bold streaks—almost like a retake of the old 90s supermodel era. Remember, you never reproduce it; you reinvent it so it’s current and modern.

BANGSTYLE: Who inspires you, and what influences you?

FG: Fashion influences me. I’m always taken to so many mental places with fashion, whether it’s looking like you’re in Monte Carlo for the day, cruising the streets of Rome, or heading to a black tie event. There’s always an outfit that sets the mood, even if, in reality, you’re only going to work that day. Waking up and putting together a look for the day keeps me living. I am inspired by the evolution of all the hairstyles from our past, and I try to bring them back in a way that makes sense in today’s lifestyle.

BANGSTYLE: As a celebrated colorist and stylist, what would you say are your favorite color trends right now?

FG: My favorite color trend, right now, is naturally highlighted hair with bold overtones—a few chunkier highlights around the face and a little lighter at the ends.

BANGSTYLE: What are the hottest trends in hair right now?

FG: I love Rihanna’s new look, the blonde hair with the dark roots and shaggy—love it. I don’t like all of the bright-colored hair like on Katy Perry or Nicki Minaj.

Check out Frank Galasso’s BANGSTYLE Stylist Profile.