My idea was to cut shape into the hair, to use it like fabric and take away everything that was superfluous.
– Hairstylist Vidal Sassoon speaking about his iconic five-point haircut introduced in 1963.
We lost Mr. Sassoon on Wednesday May 9th, 2012. I recently watched a documentary on him and was quite taken with his life story. Talented and gracious, Sassoon studied hair styling because his mother thought that would be a good fit for him. Although initially he wasn’t all that interested, he embraced the opportunity to apprentice with an East End London hairdresser and went on to revolutionize hair and fashion for women.
Thank you, Mr. Sassoon for making us look so fabulous as we set out to conquer the world.
(I highly recommend the Sassoon film not just for a detailed look at him but also for a fun and informative romp into 1960s fashion and style. In addition to interviews with the stylist and his friends and colleagues there are photos, news broadcasts, and commercials from the era. It is a visual treat.)
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