In our most recent spotlight interview, we had the opportunity to learn a little more about Sylvester Bailey; a highly connected and inspiring stylist within our community. In 2014 Sylvester Baily kicked off the year as South Flordia’s 40 Under 40 Black Leaders of Tommorrow and in 2015 became Design Essentials Associate “Educator of the Year.” Bringing a mixture of leadership and raw talent to the floor; the managing partner for All Dolled Up Salons shares his journey and passion for innovation and success with us.

Professional Spotlight – Sylvester Bailey

Where are you located, what’s (the name of) your salon home-base, plus your area of expertise?

I’m located in Ft Lauderdale, Florida. I’m a managing partner of All Dolled Up Salons and Stores. I specialize in short hair cutting and coloring.

How did you begin your career, what was the ‘ah-ha’ moment for you that this was your path?

I ‘m a second generation beauty professional. My mother started her business in 1985. I saw it grow into a multi-location business with a cosmetology school. I graduated from college and instead of looking for a job, I enrolled in our company’s cosmetology program. The “ah-ha” moment was my first day in class. I saw myself being very successful in the beauty industry.

Do you have a trusted mentor or icon whose worked with you or helped you refine your skillset?

My mother is my trusted mentor. She helped me establish a core set of ethics and principles. I use that foundation in all of my decision making activities. She showed me that there are so many opportunities in this business but it starts with a healthy understanding of what makes beauty professionals and their clients tick. Our Company slogan is, “We add a personal touch to dolling you up”. She taught be her signature cutting and extension specialties which has led to my success,” behind the chair”.

In terms of trends for 2015, what do you forecast as being “hot or not” in the coming year?

Texture, texture and more texture. I’m into everything with texture. I love the transition conversation. My clientele is being educated into the latest advances in textured hair services like Design Essentials Strengthening Therapy System and Natural lines. I see a rebirth of curls, sets and waves. I see the modern hair enthusiast embracing volume with texture, color and volume.

What hair trends would you consider “classic”? Are there any DE products you’d recommend to achieve this look?

Classic waves are definitely the talk in the short hair realm. We build our clients style with HCO Leave In Conditioner and Compositions Foam Mousse. We are setting more hair and letting it flow. After drying we build in high gloss sheen with Silk Essentials and Nutriment Rx Pea Sprout Creme and finger style.

What would you consider to be your client’s biggest hair challenge? How do you help them problem solve for these challenges?

Our clients’ biggest challenge is this changing weather climate that has been creating dryness and frizz. We solve this problem by promoting the latest technology in texture control via Design Essentials Strengthening Therapy System to reduce frizz and keep hair tamed in any weather.

What tips would you give to aspiring hairstylists?

Aspiring hairstylist should embrace the concept of partnership and changing technology. The industry has become fragmented in some areas causing a increase in salons and schools to fail. Stylist should seek out partners that provides education, resources and personal development opportunities. Design Essentials is a great example of how to find a partner in the industry. They provide tons of support in education and quality product knowledge. I also would say, “stay inspired”. This business is all about passion!

What’s your next big-step, in terms of career focus?

My next big step is sharing my knowledge with my industry peers. I’ve been increasing my traveling to shows across the globe teaching and learning best practices in the industry. I bring those philosophies and techniques to our salons to help foster growth with our salon teams. I’m looking forward to a natural evolution into more exciting projects in the beauty business and building lasting partnerships. I’m also looking to increase my creative activities with self-published editorial projects for my body of work.

What is one thing everyone should know about Sylvester Baily?
The one this everyone should know about Sylvester BAILEY is that I live by my last name. BAILEY stands for Bringing, Aspirations and Inspirations In Love! Everyone is Young! Life , Laugh and Love!

Find Sylvester Bailey and the rest of the All Dolled Up crew on social, here:

facebook.com/sbaileyjr
twitter.com/iamteambailey
instagram: baileyiam
www.baileyiam.com
youtube.com/MrBaileyiam
teambailey.tumblr.com/
https://www.pinterest.com/baileyiam/

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