Bailey Bute was the first student in her beauty school’s history to graduate with honors in three categories—cutting, coloring and texture—and she’s pretty much been on a roll ever since. “This year, I was named a finalist in the North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA)—that was a real high point,” says Bute, who aspires to eventually become a name everyone in the industry knows. “What excites me about this profession is that it allows me to be creative and empowers me to help make people feel good about themselves,” Bute adds. “That’s the best feeling in the world.” ✂ —Kelley Donahue
What inspires you?Artists, fashion, makeup, photography, nature—literally anything and everything
AHA MOMENTAt age 10, I went to a birthday party at a local beauty school. It was an amazing experience because we all got our hair done. From that moment, I knew that’s what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I fell completely head over heels.
IN TRAINING
I graduated from Paul Mitchell The School in Salt Lake City, then moved back home to Southern California, where I assisted Alexis Thurston, co-owner of Butterfly Loft Salon and Spa. I currently work behind the chair there.
BEAUTY MUST-HAVES
I’m a huge fan of the entire Kevin.Murphy line and especially can’t live without Powder.Puff Volumising Powder.
STYLE PREFERENCES
I love men’s cuts from the 1950s, and barbershops—the cuts created there are truly amazing.
MY MENTOR
My parents have played a big role in my life. Career-wise, Alexis Thurston has taught me so much, as has photographer Mitch Meyer.
BIGGEST CHALLENGE
Taking on too many projects at once—sometimes, I try and do way too much. It’s really hard to focus on just one thing when you have so much going on at the same time.
BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I EVER GOT
My dad always told me, “Never settle.” You always have to strive for more.
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Being named a finalist in the 2014 NAHA Newcomer Stylist of the Year category; working on Sia’s music video for “Chandelier,” which won a Video Music Award; my first celebrity experience with Olympic gold medalists Shawn Johnson and Apolo Ohno; and doing hair for different celebrities at the Sundance Film Festival this year.
NEXT STEP
I want to continue to learn, create and grow as an artist by participating behind the scenes for films and music videos. There’s nothing better than working with creative people who share the same vision and push me to be better.