If you’re not familiar with the name, Jennifer Covington-Bowers is a New York-based hairstylist who first came on my radar when she partnered with the brand Hairstory, best known for its detergent-free alternative to shampoo. Via a private Zoom meeting set up for journos last month, I got to see Jennifer in her element where she gave some A-star hair advice during her Curl Collective Masterclass. Keen to find out more about her experiences as one of the industry’s leading all-round hairstylists, I scheduled a one-to-one chat for the full lowdown.
Jemima (JC): Hey Jen, hope you can see me OK? I’m pretty new to Zoom.
Jennifer (JCB): I can see you crystal clear hun. What special times we live in.
JC: Do you feel that travelling for work will ever be the same after COVID-19?
JCB: I don’t think it will ever be the exact same and it feels like the new enforced health and safety measures pre and post travelling are the new normal. I can’t wait to be allowed to travel internationally again.
JC: What was your first photo shoot after lockdown like?
JCB: In the US we experienced different degrees of lockdown depending on the state. So for instance, I had the chance to assist for a celebrity client. This meant taking an express COVID-19 test before I could be cleared for the set and there were naturally a lot of sanitation guidelines. But once I started working, I realised how much I’d missed it.
JC: You have a very varied portfolio from European hair to Afro hair, men’s grooming and wigs. As a black stylist, do you feel that there are preconceptions about the kind of hair that you work with?
JCB: Most definitely! I had the huge opportunity to work on the Chanel 2020 haute couture fittings and shows under French hairstylist Damien Boissinot. I was one of just two black hairstylists at the atelier and during the show, one non-black stylist commented; “Oh, you took my spot because they had to have a black person for the black models”. Even though I’m trained and experienced in working with all hair textures, it’s assumed that black hairstylists are only around for afro hair. The reality is that the majority black stylists – myself included – have worked even harder to perfect our skill level on all hair textures.
JC: So, do you feel like having black stylists on a job is reassuring to black models?
JCB: Yes. I remember my first time working at a show in Paris. The black Parisian models told me that having a hairstylist of colour was a rarity. They were so happy and relieved I was there because they knew I’d bring products that work for all hair textures. A bit of home from home.
JC: Speaking of texture, how often should natural hair be washed and conditioned?
JCB: Wash weekly with Hairstory’s New Wash (Rich) and then, if desired, every two weeks with New Wash (Deep). This is formulated with apple cider vinegar and argan oil for a deeper cleanse that won’t strip the hair of moisture.
JC: Besides hair, what are your passions?
JCB: I love interior design and this passion has only grown since I’ve been spending more time at home. I’ve managed to complete a lot of interiors projects including refreshing the décor. My husband is never quite sure if he’s walked into the right apartment!
JC: I know what you mean. I change my hair so much my partner doesn’t know who he’ll be meeting next week.
(Both end the video call in stitches of laughter).
Follow Jennifer’s Instagram @pincurlsandpaint
