Australian hair stylists on what makes a look ‘iconic’

“All you need to achieve icon status is a distinctive hairstyle and a dream.”

Growing up, Ariana Grande was the object of my fascination. My sister and I would spend countless hours watching YouTube tutorials on how to recreate her signature slicked ponytail – no easy feat for my natural curls. As I entered puberty with my blonde hair, blue eyes and braces, changing my hairstyle was the closest I could come to emulating my favourite pop star.

When I finally left my ‘Break Free’ era, my inspiration turned to Jennifer Aniston. I had a whole Pinterest board dedicated to The Rachel, showcasing her late ’90s haircuts throughout all seasons of Friends. It was only after watching Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw with her iconic mane of wild, golden curls, that I felt ready to embrace my natural hair.

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Until now, I hadn’t realised the true potential of a good haircut. As the Hollywood Hair Theory goes, ‘All you need to achieve icon status is a distinctive hairstyle and a dream.’ Just like clothes, jewellery, accessories and makeup – hair plays a powerful role in how we see ourselves.

But what makes a hairstyle actually iconic? To find out, I turned to two experts whose job it is to bring our Pinterest dreams to life.

What makes a hairstyle iconic?

When you think of iconic hair, it’s always someone (typically a celebrity) who has consistently maintained the same style for years. It’s also timeless – even after years, people still request that style by name, like The Rachel, Princess Diana and Blondie. As creative director and head trainer at Bob Melbourne, Sarah Purcell, points out, it’s embedded in our visual reference bank. “Even when major celebrities like Kim Kardashian recreate a 90s messy bun, there’s still a strong association with Pamela Anderson, almost as if she owns that look.”

That said, the style doesn’t always have to be something wildly unique — the key is that the person truly embodies the look. “Take Sabrina Carpenter, for instance. Her hairstyle might not be completely distinct, but she wears it exceptionally well. It’s iconic because it’s beautifully done and consistently styled in various ways,” says creative hair artist and founder of Alchemy Salon, Becc Snow.

How should you approach a complete hairstyle change?

Changing your hairstyle can be daunting. Haircuts and colour changes often symbolise different periods of our lives, whether it’s a breakup, a new job or simply the desire to start fresh. Cutting your hair can feel like closing one chapter and opening another.

Snow’s first piece of advice is to choose a salon with a strong track record for the look you want to achieve. “It’s important to do your research and invest in a place you can trust, one that has proven expertise in the specific style you’re after.”

If you’re contemplating a dramatic change, Purcell adds, “Consider if you’re committed to putting in the effort at home, using the right haircare products and dedicating time to styling. If you are then I say absolutely, go for it.”

Can iconic hairstyles be low-maintenance?

If you’re aiming for a low-maintenance style, it’s important to embrace your natural hair texture and colour. “I’m all about the lived-in look which allows clients to extend the time between salon visits,” says Purcell. “Many people are gravitating toward this approach, embracing their natural hair colour more often. Not only is it healthier for their hair, but it’s also more cost-effective.”

“We definitely take inspiration from the photos clients bring in as it helps us understand their vision. But we also consider their lifestyle – how often they want to visit the salon, their budget and how much they’re willing to invest. We tailor the look to fit these factors, ensuring they can achieve an iconic style without needing constant upkeep,” adds Snow.

Can finding your own iconic hairstyle improve your confidence?

Purcell and Snow both agree that one of the best parts of being a hairdresser is witnessing the transformation in their clients. “I see it every day when people come into the salon. We’re a place where clients come ready for a change, and they trust us to bring that fresh vision to life. I can literally feel their excitement building in my chair even when we’re just talking about ideas like a new fringe or trying a different style. When they get up to take a photo, it’s the most amazing feeling. It happens so often,” says Snow.

Purcell adds, “It’s honestly the best feeling when a client comes back and says, ‘That’s the best haircut I’ve ever had.’ When someone walks in after a rough day, ready for a refresh, then leaves with better posture and a big smile it makes such a difference.”

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