Having styled the tresses of Wicked superstar Cynthia Erivo, influencer Chidera Eggerue (AKA The Slumflower), and singer-songwriter Tamera, Lisa Farrall is the first choice of many Afro and textured-haired celebrity clients for advertising campaigns, red carpet events and music videos. But it’s not her famous client roster that won her the prestigious Afro Hairdresser of the Year award at the 2024 British Hairdressing Awards – it’s her elite skill level, forged over 25 years in the industry; her natural creativity and authenticity; and her commitment to inclusivity and equality, elevating Afro hairdressing and promoting education for hairdressers of all backgrounds.
Her latest collection, THIS IS ENGLAND, highlights the versatility of Afro hair and draws on the experiences of strong women in Lisa’s life. From a tousled mullet to the inclusion of Afro combs sculpted into a finished style, each look is incomparable to the next.
Below, we talk candidly with the multi-award winning hairstylist about career highlights, getting emotionally attached to a client’s hair, and the biggest celebrity in her phonebook (hint: it’s not who you think it might be).
What’s the best part of your day as a hairstylist?
I love the excitement that everyday is different. I love meeting new people and having new conversations with different people. It really opens your eyes as a human to have so many different interactions.
And the worst?
I don’t really have one! Maybe forgetting to eat on a busy day is the worst thing to do.
What has been your career highlight?
There’s been so many… but one that springs to mind is being on Usher’s music video in Bel Air looking over the whole of LA – that was pretty special.
What’s your advice on keeping calm under high pressure?
Just remembering that this is what I do. We are all humans – and I’m here for a reason. Doing my absolute best every time. We are humans and we all deserve kindness. Roll with it!
Have you ever had to talk a client out of a bad haircut?
I always say there’s no such thing as opinions, but there’s always someone else’s lived experience. I will always give my advice on what I believe is best, but ultimately, if you want something, I’ll do the best version of it that exists. If I don’t agree with it strongly, I won’t do it. You have to be passionate.
How do you handle a client who refuses to take your advice?
That’s ok. People have to make their own mistakes and tell their own story.
Do you ever get emotionally attached to your clients’ hair?
Yes! Hair is not everything… but it’s EVERYTHING, and such a personal experience. To share that with someone, it’s hard to not get attached.
Have you ever had to fix another hairstylist’s mistake?
Maybe. But I wasn’t there 😂
What’s the most dramatic hair transformation you’ve ever done?
There have been a few! A lot actually involve wigs, as they’re probably the most transformative. Giving Ed Sheeran a mullet was definitely a big transformation.
Is there a haircut or colour trend you wish people would stop asking for?
Not really, I think it’s great that clients are so engaged with their hair. I would just say stick with a picture and show your stylist, and leave all the names for new trends to the internet.
AI images are taking over! Do you think they give clients unrealistic ideas of haircuts and colour?
Technology is fantastic, and used in the right way it can be amazing for our industry. However, it’s down to the stylist to educate on what’s achievable with the clients hair type and base shade. When you break things down, it’s easy.
What’s the biggest misconception about being a celebrity hairstylist?
That everyday is glamorous and I’m just sipping Champagne on a private plane hahaha! Although that does happen, it’s definitely not a daily routine. There’s no such thing as a soft life for a busy stylist. It’s hard work.
Who’s the biggest celebrity in your phonebook?
My mum 🤪
Your latest hair collection is called ‘THIS IS ENGLAND’ – what does the word ‘England’ mean to you?
I really wanted to play on ‘This is England’, because to me, England is a mixing pot of different cultures, backgrounds and lived experiences. This collection was about showcasing what England is: its unity its strength and its powerful womxn. This collection was a story of strong women I know, with their own stories. To me, this is England.
How would you describe winning Afro Hairdresser of the Year?
Wow, it feels amazing! For an advocate and Afro hairdresser who has been doing Afro hair for over 25 years, I feel honoured to be recognised amongst my peers and industry greats. It feels correct, hahaha!
What’s the best way to get into textured hairstyling?
Just do it. I started hairdressing at 13 and I worked in an Afro hair salon for years from the age of 17. Your education is on you. I earnt my stripes and wanted to do every single hair type, and it’s never stopped.
What motto do you live by?
Be nice, be honest and be authentic.
Image credits:
Creative Direction and Hair @lisafarrall
Photography @richmilesphoto
Creative Direction @lisafarrall
Make Up @laurenkay.co.uk
Stylist @lrcfashionstylist
Hair Assistants @anniefranklinhair @hannahmarciaa
Make Up Assistant @by.tobiaro
Colour & Styling using @schwarzkopf
From Lisa’s Hair collection THIS IS ENGLAND
