TotalBeauty.com Chats with Rodney Cutler, owner of Cutler/Redken salons in New York City
Q: When did you first discover your passion for hairstyling? How did you first get started in your career?
A: My first interest in hairdressing started in 1983 after having a haircut at a cool salon in Melbourne, Australia called Rifmik. It's where I ended up doing my apprenticeship.
Q: How did you first hook up with Redken and how has that relationship affected or benefited your career?
A: All salons have a relationship with their product manufacturer whether it's retail or color. In Redken's case it's both. The key to a successful relationship is making sure it's the right fit. Both our companies' commitment and passion for fashion and runway work make it the perfect choice for us.
Q: What specifically does your relationship with Redken entail? What do you like about working with them?
A: I have quite a few roles with Redken from being involved with education to various PR and media efforts (i.e. The Hair Files). But there's nothing more exciting than working with the designers to create looks for the runway twice a year.
Q: We always love seeing you backstage during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York. What are you looking forward to most about this month's shows?
A: The most exciting thing about every season is that it's a new season. The pressure and adrenaline to come up with fresh looks that best represent the designers' clothes is scary and fulfilling.
Q: How do you prepare for fashion week?
A: Months before fashion week we really start to think about new textures and new techniques that we feel are going to have a creative place on the runway. Ultimately, it's when you do the hair test with the designer that these ideas come to fruition.
Q: What behind the scenes type of stuff goes on that even the editors backstage don't see? Is there anything that you think might surprise us?
A: The most surprising element isn't the drama but how organized and calm fashion week can be. In order for designers to succeed these days, they have to be professional and have their act together. Over the years I've seen a much more organized, calmer setting behind the scenes. But, there's always that one show that goes awry. Whether it's the models coming late or a change of heart in the creative direction. The critical thing is to be able to make quick, decisive decisions that resolve it.
Q: What are some of the trends you're predicting may come out of the shows?
A: We're definitely going to see a blending of shiny hair with texture. We'll see a play on classics pushed even further.
Q: What must-have hair care and styling products do you think every woman should have?
A: A professional blow dryer with a nozzle, a flat iron that can also curl hair, a bungee cord for ponytails, and bobby pins. And, of course, Cutler Fly Away Stick and Redken Workforce 09 Lightweight Hairspray.
Q: We love that accent -- where are you from? Where do you live now?
A: South of Brooklyn in Melbourne, Australia. Now, I live in Westchester, New York. Moved there for extra space for the kids and love it.
Q: What activities do you enjoy when you're not in the salon or huddled backstage?
A: Time with the family and doing triathlons.
