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Pierre Alexandre: The Man Who Styled a Generation
7 Feb
Summary
- Pioneered unisex salons and innovative hair coloring techniques.
- Styled celebrities like David Bowie and Rod Stewart.
- Died this week at age 86, leaving a significant legacy.
Swiss-born British hairdresser Pierre Alexandre, a trailblazer in the industry, passed away this week at the age of 86. He rose to prominence in the 1970s and 80s, becoming a celebrity stylist with a distinctive flair that captivated clients and peers alike. Alexandre's innovations included pioneering unisex salons and popularizing the use of foils in hairdressing.
His creative genius extended to iconic hairstyles such as the softened bob and Rod Stewart's spiky look, alongside multi-tonal coloring techniques. Collaborating with prestigious brands like Wella, GQ, and Vogue, he significantly influenced modern hairdressing, with some suggesting his creativity surpassed even Vidal Sassoon.
Alexandre's influence reached beyond styling; he was instrumental in business management and cultivating a 'rock star hairdresser' image. His early career began in Manchester in 1965, expanding to international markets with boutiques in Paris and a film and photography studio in London that hosted shoots for major fashion magazines.
His family highlighted his passion for teaching, with the Pierre Alexandre School of Hairdressing opening in Manchester in 1973. Many former apprentices, like Nicky Oliver, credit him with shaping their careers, emphasizing his generosity and genuine desire to see others succeed. His legacy endures through the iconic cuts he created and the many lives he touched.
