Hair Stylist Spotlight: KrisLovesColor from Chicago, Illinois
With summer at it’s halfway point, we know some of you are thinking about a hairstyle change to coincide with a change in season. For all you Bantu Beauties who might be looking to switch things up with a new hue for your ‘do, we thought it would be beneficial to hear from a certified color professional. We sat down with Kristen Lowery, a colorist and hair care expert from Chicago. Take a look at what she has to say about hair, color, and the ideal stylist-client relationship!
So, Kristen - tell us a little about yourself! How did you get into hair? What were you doing before, and how did you get from point A to Point B?
My introduction to this industry was kind of out of necessity. I had been working a corporate position and when the recession hit, I lost my job. Obviously I was upset at the time, but now I realize it was a blessing in disguise. It allowed me to circle back to my roots, and fully immerse myself in something I’d always loved: Hair styling and care. It also gave me the chance to blend the technical skills that I honed in corporate America with the artistry I’d been cultivating for years. And so, here we are, and I can't picture myself anywhere else today.
Why natural hair? Why focus on color, specifically?
I actually didn’t start off focusing on color. Cuts were my original specialty, but that changed when I was working in a salon in Lincoln Park. It’s one of the more artistic neighborhoods in Chicago, and you can sort of sense the love for freedom of expression in the air. It was at this salon that I began to see the wonders of color--stylists taking risks and clients being so happy to express their true selves through their hair. It was here that I realized as a stylist, I didn’t want to feel bound by blunt lines. Coloring is fascinating to me. It’s an intricate mix of creativity and technical skill. The chemistry of the dyes, mixing, and application are all technical, but the end result is due to the artistic vision of the stylist. I love that.
Image source: @krislovescolor instagram
Why open up your own salon? Tell us what that’s been like.
It’s been great! I’ve been lucky in that I’ve been able to find so many other people in the industry with a collaborative spirit, like my business partner Ayehsa! We also both share that same entrepreneurial spirit, that ‘by any means necessary’ mentality that you can’t shake. Of course, everyone runs into bumps when running their own business, but when you’re determined, anything is possible. We love the element of being free to do things our way, and we become even more motivated and in the face of challenges.
Why set up shop in Chicago?
Chicago is such a culturally eclectic city. Each neighborhood has its own flavor, and they all fit together to create such a satisfying dynamic. Chicago is so authentic, and its a liberal, artistic hub. I’m from here so I might be just a little bit biased, but I couldn't picture cultivating my craft anywhere else.
Image source: @krislovescolor instagram
What vision do you have for your brand, KrisLovesColor?
What I want people to understand about KrisLovesColor is that the relationship I have with my clients is more like a partnership, and not an assembly line. I take the time to get to know my clients and their hair to establish a healthy working relationship. I let them know that healthy hair is a result of my work and theirs. My philosophy is care and education is the most important thing as far as natural hair, especially because we’ve suffered so much from misinformation regarding our hair in the past. My purpose isn’t to just give clients a new look, but for them to gain a better understanding of their hair as well.
We know that the internet and social media have solidified their place in the beauty industry. Which apps, if any, have played a role in your business? Have you had any negative experiences?
In terms of my business, I really only use Facebook and Instagram. IG has been a major player for me. It acts like an online portfolio for your work, and it lets you interact with potential clients directly. It’s certainly been a major source of new clients for me.
The only negative aspect I can think of in terms of the internet and the hair care industry is the number of graduates I encounter from ‘YouTube University’. Too many people rely on YouTube as their main source of hair care information. That’s a problem. You have a lot of people taking advice from those who aren’t trained professionals and who haven’t studied hair. That’s one of the main things I’ve been trying to combat behind the chair.
To wrap things up, what are some major takeaways you want to leave our readers with?
Good question. First, Color is a luxury service. If you’re thinking about adding color, you have to realize that it’s more than just a one day commitment. Changing your color often times means you’ll have to make minor, sometimes major changes to your hair regimen. It’s worth it, though! You can absolutely rock the color of your dreams and keep your hair healthy!
Second, If you’re thinking about color, go to a bonafide colorist. Anyone can color hair, but not everyone is a hair colorist. We’ve gained invaluable experience from the real world, and spent time training, learning, perfecting, and investing in our craft. All this dedication to our artform will show in the quality of service that we provide.
Also, Check your stylist’s philosophy! If they don’t consider hair health the most important thing when it comes to styling, run.
Lastly, Build a relationship with your stylist! Ask questions, and build trust. Get to know them, and let them get to know you!
Kristen ‘Kris’ Lowery is a professional Hair Care Expert and Colorist located in Chicago. Check out her website and book appointments at krislovescolor.com, and follow her on IG and Facebook at @krislovescolor.
Not in Chicago and want to get a new hair color? You can find a hair stylist in your area on Bantu. Go ahead and download the app.
