With childhood memories of cutting and styling hair for family and friends, it’s clear that Robin Capili has always had a natural talent for hair. “It’s art,” says Capili, who specializes in men’s grooming at Sally Hershberger Hair in New York City. “Every head I work on is another canvas to start and finish in one sitting. I can easily get lost in it.” ✂ —Kelley Donahue
What inspires you?
AHA MOMENT
I always wanted to do something creative with my life. At one point, I was doing it all—from illustration and graphic design to hair, photography and fashion. Eventually, I realized I was spreading myself too thin and had to pick one so I chose hair. There’s something to be said about a craft that allows you to feel great while transforming how a person looks and feels in a positive way.
IN TRAINING
After getting my license at The Hair Academy in Manhattan, NY, I continued my studies at the Sassoon Academy and at Sally Hershberger Hair with Mary Brunetti.
BEAUTY MUST-HAVES
A blow-dryer: I always reinforce to my clients that it’s not just a way to quickly dry your hair, it’s a styling tool.
STYLE PREFERENCES
The ’50s was truly an inspiring time for hair and fashion. Everyone wore his or her persona.
MY MENTOR
I try to learn something from everyone I’ve worked for. At the moment, Mary Brunetti is my mentor. She sees talent in me that I don’t and challenges me because she believes in me.
BIGGEST CHALLENGE
Remembering that I didn’t get into this profession for money, fame or the like. I believe that God has led me here to inspire others in whatever it is they love to do. Hair is merely a platform.
BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I EVER GOT
I used to be afraid the industry was going to chew me up and spit me out. Then someone told me, “Just do you.” Since then I let my work speak for itself, and I’ve never looked back.
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Being where I am today in my career is an accomplishment in itself. I came from nothing and worked for everything so receiving amazing opportunities, seeing my name in print, being a role model to my younger cousins and making mom proud makes me feel truly blessed.
NEXT STEP
My cousin and I grew up cutting hair side-by-side, and we’ve always talked about owning our own company. To start together and finish together would be a dream come true.