We had the good fortune of connecting with Diamond Brown and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Diamond, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I have always loved doing hair. I was the go to person for my family and friends growing up. . It was a natural progression for me to end up with a career as a hairstylist in the beauty industry
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is a reflection of my unique perspective and creative vision. The art of editorial work can be both challenging and fulfilling. It takes a certain level of skill and tons of imagination to create looks to make an image pop on a photo. What sets me a part from others is my foundation. It’s where everything clicked for me. My professional journey began in the vibrant city on the Upper east side of New York. As a hairstylist, I was fortunate to be trained and mentored by the renowned Yusef Williams who works with top talent like Rihanna and her Fenty empire. Through our collaborations I’ve gained the confidence to continue to work with top brands like Disney, NYX cosmetics and Nike women to name a few.
I love a short haircut. I love transformations and creating shapes in hair that help create a whole new version of a person because of a new customized haircut or hairstyle. My latest project I’m most proud of and excited about is a music video collaboration with musician Iniko. Their team trusted me to bring their hair vision to life. When a client trusts you it means the world to hear it.
I love doing fashion shows, music videos and red carpet events. One of my top skills would be hair styling busy business women and top executives. On every level of success everyone deserves to feel “CEO chic”
In 2018, I embarked on a new adventure to Orange County, CA seeking a fresh perspective, and of course the beautiful weather.
Moving from the east coast to the west coast, one of the biggest challenges that I face as hairstylist working in LA is to be seen as a hair artist and not a “black hairstylist”. The beauty industry is very image driven, and my vast training in NY with different hair textures, my exposure to many different ethnicities, and my experience as a hairstylist in this industry, at times, has me feeling like I need to remind folks to not label me as only doing one thing. I can do it all!
I have been fortunate to work along side some talented indivudals in LA who share my passion for hair and creating.
I want the world to know that I aim to inspire others. My brand and story are still being built, but I’m authentic and serious about my craft. I’m always growing and will always seek more. There is still so much more to learn.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I live Orange County, CA so I will always pick the beach!! California has so many amazing beaches and parks to visit. My go to spots to eat breakfast are Bo’s bagels in Huntington beach because they are the closest to New York bagels i.n the OC. Or Mel’s Diner in Fountain Valley for their amazing cinnamon rolls and corn beef hash. I get sushi at least once a week from my favorite spot called Sushi World in Cypress, CA. Some of the best sushi in OC in my opinion.. I also live about 4 miles from Disneyland as well as Knott’s Berry farm and Knott’s Soak city. I prefer Knott’s soak city during the day and Knott’s rollercoasters in the evening. I also love going to Flapper’s in Burbank, for some comic relief. And my most favorite thing is singing karaoke at The Vintage Cocktail lounge or Tomkat lounge.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m extremely grateful and so lucky to have had the opportunity to train with my mentor and friend, Yusef Williams, who is also Rihanna’s personal hairstylist. Yusef is one of the most humble and kind individuals I’ve met, with a patience that allowed him to teach me how to work with all hair textures. He introduced me to the editorial world, New York Fashion Week, and ballroom, opening doors for me and others in the beauty and fashion industry.
I also want to shoutout my partner, Sheldon Wright, who brings calm and balance to my life. His unwavering support and encouragement keep me grounded and motivated, even on the most chaotic days.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mzdiamondbhair?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diamond.brown.507?mibextid=LQQJ4d