Ruth Roche Talks About Her American Salon Cover Shoot

Roche starting her '40s-style twist

Roche starting her '40s-style twist

The creative inspiration for this photo shoot for the February 2010 issue came from the idea of working with texture in the family of curls and waves. Influences came from different time periods and what fashion designers are showing on the runway. One look is reminiscent of the '20s, one of the '40s and one from the '80s. The six looks are still wearable and beautiful, even though the textures and ideas are quite strong. They are soft and elegant, yet really strong shapes. The muted colors and soft textures in the clothing carries the Pureology look of luxury and elegance with rich ingredients and textures.

We knew we wanted to do something different. Sets of all kinds have been making a huge comeback, not only traditional looks but with alternative textures as well. These textures range from a slight wave to beachy to glamorous. Taking these textures and creating timeless shapes also provided a new twist on the classics.

Roche touching up her "Dynasty" bob

Roche touching up her "Dynasty" bob

To create these styles in the salon, always begin by preparing the canvas. A great cocktail for this is mixing Pureology Powerdressing, Nanoglaze and a small amount of Shinemax to damp hair, and blow-dry smooth or rough dry, depending on the set that will follow. If the look will be more textured, it’s important, especially when going for something with hold or creating an updo, to create some “grab” in the hair. This first step to prep the hair creates structure and shape. Then while working use InCharge for flexibility. To finish the look use InChargePlus for high hold, intense shine and touchable hair. Make sure to stay 10-12 inches from the head—a little hairspray goes a long way!

My favorite look is a tie between the Dynasty-inspired bob and the 40’s-era red twist. I love the simplicity of both, yet the shapes are strong!

Ruth Roche is a salon owner, editorial stylist, platform artist and educator, whose work has appeared in magazines such as Harper's Bazaar, Elle, Vanity Fair, Interview, Self, More and Cosmopolitan. Her celebrity clients have included Sheryl Crow, Claire Danes, Lindsay Lohan, Kelly Ripa, and Mariska Hargitay. With almost two decades in beauty, Ruth has been honored multiple times by the North American Hairstyling Awards, including Master Stylist of the Year, and is featured in the documentary Stars Behind the Chair: The Leading Ladies of Hair. She opened Rare by Ruth Roche/Pureology Salon in 2003.