Full Disclosure
Parisian Alain Pinon knew that he had found his calling when he discovered the hairstyling industry at the tender age of 17. He began his career at Jean Louis DeJorges and quickly moved on to Paris’ elite Bruno Dessange Salon. “I was immediately drawn to the hairstyling industry because it enriched my creative impulses. I knew every day would present a different creative challenge, which I loved.” His early training in Europe focused on the importance of client consultations. “Before picking up my scissors, I talk to my client to get a better understanding of their personality, lifestyle and preferences. My goal is to create a look that enhances their overall style.” After a few years in Paris, Alain crossed the Atlantic Ocean to work at Bruno Dessange salons in Washington, D.C. and its New York headquarters, before moving to the Bergdorf Goodman Salon.

The Total Look
“The key to a good haircut is communication,” says Alain. “At Salon A·K·S we continually challenge ourselves to be good listeners and good communicators. A client feels most at ease when they know that their hairstylist is on the same wavelength as they are.”

What Moves You
“The streets, all around the globe, are a constant source of inspiration because they are filled with so many different kinds of people, each with their own sense of style. I love to take an element of something I see and then translate it into an entirely new look. My style mantra is that less is infinitely more.”

Hair Essentials
“Hair should always look natural, even when it’s styled. Finishing product such as light creams are a must because you don’t need a lot to get a clean look. Brushes with natural bristles are critical tools for the health and look of hair. And, a great colorist can work wonders with hair color, enhancing your skin tone, eye color and haircut.”

Beyond the Salon
In addition to his work at Salon A·K·S, Alain maintains a packed schedule filled with cover shoots and features for major women’s magazines, is often consulted for fashion and beauty spreads for the likes of Vogue, Self and Allure and is also relied on as an expert by major hair care brands. He has also been called on by top fashion designers to create their runways looks including Oscar de La Renta, Giorgio Armani and Ralph Lauren. And, in addition to his New York following, Alain maintains a strong client base in Palm Beach, traveling there once a month to coif South Florida's elite.

Model: ASHLEY
Description: Ashley has a feminine look, but at the same time prominent bone structure. I wanted to work with that contrast, drawing on the wild texture of her hair and adding chunky blond highlights to create a style that's not only strong and original - but also a lot of fun.