Corey Powell

Your career spans over two decades and includes working with some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. How did you first get started in hairstyling, and what inspired you to pursue this path?

I knew from a young age that this was my calling. I grew up cutting my sisters’ hair and experimenting with different styles, always fascinated by how a new cut or color could transform someone’s energy. I started in beauty school, and when I landed my first gig at José Eber, I realized this industry wasn’t just about looks—it was about transformation, connection, and making people feel as amazing as they look. That’s what drew me in, and it’s what has kept me here ever since.

You’ve styled icons like Reese Witherspoon and Margot Robbie. Can you share a memorable moment or lesson from working with these A-listers?

Reese taught me the power of simplicity and elegance. I remember doing her hair for a red carpet event—she was so grounded, radiating confidence without trying too hard. It made me realize that true beauty comes from within.

Margot, on the other hand, reminded me to take risks and have fun with my craft. Working with her was like collaborating on a canvas—she was open, playful, and always brought a fresh, dynamic vibe.

You emphasize hairstyling as a form of emotional self-care. What sparked this philosophy, and how do you integrate it into your work with clients?

It hit me one day—luxurious is an emotion. Hairstyling isn’t just about the outside; it’s deeply connected to how we feel inside. It’s emotional, and there’s a luxury in feeling it.

I see clients transform not just physically but emotionally when they sit in my chair. So, I started thinking about how to make the experience more about their mental and emotional well-being. I connect with my clients, make them matter, and ensure they feel seen. Our time together is about them feeling rejuvenated—and, of course, looking absolutely gorgeous.

In your view, how does outward appearance influence inner confidence, and how can people use beauty routines to foster self-esteem?

That moment in the mirror when I notice how good you feel after a fresh haircut? That’s because outward appearance is both a perspective and an expression of how we feel inside.

A beauty routine is more than skin-deep—it’s a form of self-care and pride that you share with others. Taking the time to care for your hair, skin—whatever it is—boosts confidence and allows you to step into the world feeling empowered and ready to shine.

Your approach transforms the salon chair into a space for authenticity and self-expression. Can you describe a time when you helped a client rediscover themselves through hairstyling?

My approach is to create a lasting impression of rediscovery—a haircut that clients can easily recreate themselves.

Women often seek a fresh perspective after having a baby. I’ve done super blonde, red, or darker transformations. They always want something edgier—they don’t want to just look like a mom; they want to look like a cool mom. It’s all about rediscovering themselves.

It’s also fun to do grey blending on men with white hair—it recreates peacocking, adding a bold, distinguished touch.

You’re a storyteller as well as a stylist. How do you use storytelling to connect with your audience and share your expertise?

Storytelling is the gift of creating meaningful connections. I’m not just cutting and coloring hair—I’m listening, weaving our story into every snip and color choice.

Whether I’m talking about a client’s journey or sharing tips online, it’s all about creating a connection. People want to know why—why this style works, why they should try it, why it speaks to them. I bring them along for the ride, so they’re not just passive viewers—they’re participants in the story.

As someone who blends self-care with luxury beauty, what advice would you give to individuals looking to embrace their best selves through hairstyling?

Start with your relationship with yourself. Hairstyling is an extension of self-care—it’s about honoring who you are, where you are, and what makes you feel confident.

Experiment but do it with intention. Find a stylist who listens, someone who truly understands what you want to express. Hairstyling is a tool to help you feel aligned with your true self.

What trends in beauty and hairstyling are you most excited about right now, and how do they align with your philosophy of personal empowerment?

Wildly Fresh—I’m all about the return of the natural—whether it’s embracing curls, undone waves, or textures that don’t require over-the-top styling. People are stepping into their natural beauty more than ever, and I love that.

It’s about empowering yourself with what you have, not hiding behind layers of product. It aligns perfectly with my philosophy of authenticity and self-expression.

Your work resonates with both industry insiders and everyday individuals. How do you balance crafting iconic looks for celebrities with offering practical advice for at-home styling?

Balancing iconic celebrity looks with practical at-home styling comes down to understanding self-confidence and perspective. For celebrities, it’s about creating bold, standout looks that match their energy and amplify their presence. Every style is a statement, designed to make them feel unstoppable in front of the world.

For everyday individuals, I focus on empowering them with simple, effective tips that boost their confidence without the stress. It’s about helping them shift their perspective—showing them that achieving beautiful hair isn’t about complexity, but about connecting with their own unique vibe. I love sparking curiosity in people to experiment and discover new ways to express themselves through their hair, whether at home or on a red carpet.

In both cases, it’s about helping people feel like their best selves—confident, authentic, and ready to take on the world.

What’s next for you in your journey as a hairstylist and storyteller? Are there any upcoming projects or goals you’re particularly excited about?

As a hairstylist and storyteller, I’m excited to continue my journey of blending creative artistry with personal growth. While I’ll always have a deep love for doing hair, my focus is now expanding my coaching business. I will soon earn my certification as a coach with the ICF, allowing me to guide people in a more holistic way.

I became a coach after witnessing firsthand how something as simple as a new hairstyle can shift someone’s confidence and perspective. That realization inspired me to help others create meaningful shifts in various areas of their lives—small yet impactful changes that lead to lasting growth. My goal is to elevate my clients’ self-worth and empower them to cultivate a more luxurious, fulfilling relationship with themselves.

I work with people at pivotal moments in their lives—whether they’re facing a crossroads, undergoing a transition, or feeling stuck. Many of my clients resonate with my experiences as a seasoned hairdresser, business owner, and member of the LGBT community. I offer support to individuals such as new hairdressers looking to grow in their careers, creatively blocked individuals, and those grappling with identity issues or loneliness.

It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness my clients grow, reclaim their confidence, and embrace their fullest potential. Moving forward, I’m excited to continue expanding my coaching practice, helping people unlock their creativity, and guiding them toward a richer, more authentic life.