M+B Meets Carmen Amelia
We always have a little fan girl moment in the office when we see one of our fave hairstylists have used Milk + Blush hair extensions on a shoot. Their work is so inspiring and it’s cool to see how many different looks they can create using our sets.
In our new series M+B Meets … we’re going to be sitting these guys down to get all the behind the scenes tips and tricks that you can incorporate into your everyday routine. If it’s good enough for models and celebrities, then it’s good enough for us right?
Today’s guest is Carmen Amelia, a session stylist from London whose on trend looks have us swooning over her Instagram. She’s been doing hair for more than 10 years and got her break working for some of the biggest hairstylists in the industry including Nicky Clarke and Daniel Hersheson. She’s also been featured in OK and Allure magazine as well as on fashion campaigns for Asos and Oh Polly.
Today she’s chatting to M+B about how she got started in the industry, her go to looks and the biggest hair trends to look out for this summer...
MB: Are there any pro tools in your kit that we could incorporate into our daily hair routines?
CA: My secret weapon that everyone should own is my Natural Bristle Denman Brush. It’s amazing for detangling both wet and dry hair, especially if you’ve woken up to a matted mess!
MB: What are your top tips for using M+B hair extensions?
CA: I always backcomb each section I want to apply the clip ins to, this is what keeps them secure all day.
MB: How did you get started in the industry?
CA: I started off as a Junior at a local hair salon in Belsize Park where I was studying for my NVQ. The stylists there were so talented and it’s where I found my passion for hair.
MB: If you don’t have a lot of time to style a client’s hair what’s your go to look?
CA: I’ll do one of my clients favourite styles, so either beachy waves or a classic blowdry.
MB: What do you think the biggest hair trends will be for the summer?
CA: The ponytail but with an edge! I’m really into big messy ponies or super sleek ones. Scarves are going to be huge too, wrapped around the head and tied at the top or used to cover a hair tie.
MB: How do you prep for a photoshoot or red carpet?
CA: Firstly I wash all my brushes the day before and then pack my bag. I always check before bed to make sure I have the right products and tools and I’ll come up with some hair ideas as options.
MB: What do you think is the biggest mistake people make with their hair?
CA: Not investing in a good shampoo and conditioner - this is the number one thing I see clients doing! It is so important to check the ingredients of your hair care products and make sure they don’t contain any silicones or harsh stripping agents.
MB: Where do you get your inspiration from?
CA: I think Jen Atkin is amazing, her style is so unique and fresh. There’s just so much inspo out there these days! I love watching old movies and getting inspired by them but the hashtags on Instagram are always good too.
MB: Your work is so current, how do you research new hair trends?
CA: I usually recreate hairstyles that I have saved on my archives or literally come up with styles on the spot in the moment. Sometimes those end up being the best!
MB: What’s it like working with Oh Polly? Does fashion influence your styling work a lot?
CA: They are a really cool brand to work with and yes, fashion plays a big part in deciding on the hairstyle if you want the perfect look!
MB: We love your editorial work, what are your go-to products for these shoots?
CA: I use a lot of Loreal Tech Ni Art, Color Wow and Redken as they all have amazing styling ranges!
Love this months Milk + Blush meets? Click here to catch up on our interview with celebrity stylist Jake Gallagher.
