Art takes on many forms, and here at Who What Wear, we aim to shine a light on the ingenuity within the fashion-and-beauty industry. Its most creative faces, who sometimes fly under the radar, are the hairstylists and makeup artists behind every fashion week show, brand campaign, and editorial shoot.
A hairstylist I constantly look to for inspiration is Joey George. IMO, George is the industry’s best-kept secret. His talent for working with a variety of hair textures and ability to create visually stunning hair art makes him a force to be reckoned with. He’s a master at his craft, impeccably styling the likes of Chloë Sevigny, Taylor Russell, and Nara Smith, but his work on the runway is equally as eye-catching.
“Throughout my entire youth I studied performing arts, theater, and contemporary art,” George told me. “Character development was what inspired me to get into hairdressing. My work is a combination of both classical hairdressing and contemporary art. My personal work is a documentation of both the art of hair dressing and the diverse identities that encompass them. I love connecting with people, and each day is an unique experience.”
At the beginning of his career, George graduated from the Aveda Institute in SoHo and began assisting iconic hairstylist Oribe Canales. To this day, he still loves and swears by Oribe products for all hair types.
Above all else, George celebrates individuality and the best styling tip he can give anyone is to get a solid haircut that suits you. “[One] that has personality and individuality,” he says. “I [also] always recommend haircare products that nourish and enrich the scalp for the healthiest promotion of hair growth.”
George gave me a peak into what’s in his styling kit and what he loves using at any shoot, runway show, or event. Ahead, you’ll find all his favorites, which include the cult-loved brand he swears by for every hair type.
Shu Uemura
Ultimate Reset Shampoo for Very Damaged Hair
This gentle shampoo for dry, damaged hair is a favorite of George’s. It repairs and nourishes with Japanese rice extract while adding strength to the hair.
Shu Uemura
Ultimate Reset Hair Mask for Very Damaged Hair
For deeper hydration, this hair mask from the brand is another product George always keeps handy when creating looks. It repairs and restores hair’s natural luster while preventing breakage and improving elasticity.
Oribe
Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray
George’s go-to heat-styling spray is, of course, Oribe’s next-level formula. It gives the hair shine, softness, and polish while protecting it from thermal damage. Standout ingredients include rose-hip fruit oil and Oribe’s signature complex known to defend hair from environmental damage.
According to George, this is the best gel-oil formula to give curls definition without making them greasy or crunchy.
Davines
Oi All in One Hair Milk
George loves everything from Davines’ Oi line. “[It] smells so good and feels great in the hair!”
This hair milk is a light leave-in moisturizing spray that tames frizz, hydrates, and acts as a heat protectant.
Virtue
Frizz Block Humidity Proof Smoothing Spray
This weightless humidity spray helps keep any style firmly locked in place and is a favorite of George’s. It also helps protect the hair from UV damage and keeps humidity at bay for up to 72 hours.
Act+Acre
2% Stem Cell H-2 Grow Complex Scalp Serum
George also loves the entire stem cell line from Act+Acre. This scalp serum is the key to thicker, fuller-looking hair featuring a blend of stem cells that protect the follicle from damage.
He swears by this duo from Blu and Green Beauty—a dry shampoo and texture dust duo. “One refreshes and one adds gritty ‘cool girl’ texture,” he says.
Mason Pearson
Popular Mix Wooden Brush
I know Mason Pearson hairbrushes are eye-wateringly expensive, but according to George, they’re worth every penny. He loves the ones of the wooden variety for every hair type.
PATTERN by Tracee Ellis Ross
Palo Santo Curl Mousse for Curls & Coils
Although this curl mousse is great for curly and coily textures, George says it works wonders for all other hair types on set. It’s light and weightless but boosts volume, and moisture in the hair while adding hold.
Crown Affair
The Texturizing Air Dry Hair Mousse
“I bought Crown Affair’s Texturizing Air Dry Mousse and loved its application and finish for natural curls that shouldn’t look overly styled or ‘too product heavy.’ This works for contemporary fashion brands that want casted talent to look authentically natural.” — George
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