'I Was Born To Be A Hairdresser'

RACHNA VIRDI in conversation with Mexican hairstylist Ivan Rodriguez about his experience of styling the Miss Universe contestants and more.

- Rachna Virdi

Mexican hairstylist Ivan Rodriguez is a reputed name in the world of international hairdressing. As a stylist specializing in cut, color, and hairstyle, he has studied in different schools of national and international prestige in Spain, Australia, and Mexico. With more than 20 years of experience in the beauty industry, he has been in charge of the hairdressing area in various beauty contests such as Miss Mexico, Miss USA, and Miss Universe. Ivan has also created catwalk looks for several events and Fashion Weeks and received multiple awards.

Ivan shares his dedication to hairdressing with his other great passions—education and training— that have led him to impart seminars, courses, and workshops in Asia, Latin America, and the United States. He has also presented new and diverse hair cutting techniques, color, hairstyles, bridal hairstyle and avant-garde looks at seminars, courses, and workshops. Being one of the selected few to style the participants in Miss Universe contest recently, we interacted with him about his inspiration, experience, professional journey, and global hair trends.

Excerpts from the interview:

Q Tell us about your work and your journey with hair over the years.

A I love my job. I started at 15 in a little house in my hometown and fell in love with my hair and everything I can create with it. This is the best trip of my life!

Q What inspired you to become a hairstylist?

A Nothing and no one. I think I was born to be a hairdresser.

Q What do you love the most about being a stylist?

A I create, innovate and contribute in the mood and happiness of people and I love this fact.

Q How early did you start experimenting with hair? Tell us about the initial years?