Source: Myesha Evon // @myeshaevon
Lurissa Ingrid’s journey from a small-town dreamer to a sought-after celebrity hairstylist is a testament to perseverance, passion, and artistic vision. Hailing from Upstate New York, she carved her path in the hairstyling industry through grit, creativity, and a deep love for her craft. Now, she’s living out her wildest dreams at New York Fashion Week’s biggest shows.
The Journey
“I’m a single mom from Upstate NY who had a dream to be a celebrity hairstylist,” Ingrid shares, reflecting on her beginnings. “I started in the ’90s, styling my friends and family in high school so much that my father built a salon for me in our basement.” This early start paved the way for a lifelong career, with her first child at 18 becoming the catalyst for transforming a hobby into a full-fledged profession.
Source: Courtesy of Lurissa Ingrid / other
Fueled by hair magazines like Hype Hair and Black Hair, Ingrid envisioned her styles gracing the pages one day. After graduating from a local hair school, she owned her salon for ten years. She gained valuable experience backstage at Brooklyn and New York Fashion Weeks. These experiences solidified her passion for hairstyling, bringing her to the vibrant role she holds today.
The Creative Process
As a lead hairstylist for Fashion Week, this mommy mogul’s creative process is about crafting a cohesive look that brings together the elements of makeup, fashion, and hair. “I need to see the total look—what the makeup will be and the necklines of the clothes—so the hair can complement the look rather than compete with it,” she explains. Working closely with lead makeup artists and designers during hair tests, Ingrid ensures the hairstyles enhance the overall vision, creating runway magic.
When asked about the proudest moment in her career, Ingrid quickly points out that it’s not just one highlight that stands out but the journey itself. “I’m proud of my journey and all that came with it. I’m proud that during the times where I wanted to give up, I persevered,” she says. This season is particularly special for Ingrid. Her first-born child will be assisting her backstage—a true mother-daughter duo in action.
Managing the pressure of Fashion Week is no easy feat, but Ingrid has developed a solid strategy over the years. “The first thing is to find an assistant you trust, who knows how you work and can anticipate your needs,” she advises. She emphasizes the importance of building a strong, talented team to ensure everything runs smoothly. “Countless meetings, Zoom calls, text threads, and Google Meets ensure clear and precise communication so nothing is missed. And I ask a ton of questions!”
Leading the Charge
Styling for renowned designers like LaQuan Smith and Maui x Lolita is a career highlight for Ingrid. “Both designers have worked hard to build a brand that’s so inspiring. The opportunity to partner with them is amazing,” she shares. Her approach to collaboration is simple yet effective: “I listen to what they want. As artists, we bring their vision to life to the best of our ability, pivoting as needed.”
As a Black woman leading in a dynamic industry, the native New Yorker finds deep meaning in contributing to the culture. “Black women in the industry have come such a long way, along with how hair has evolved over the years. Each era sings a song, and the hairstyles are the lyrics. I love having a part to play in that,” she reflects.
For aspiring Black hairstylists looking up to her journey, Ingrid offers heartfelt advice to trust your journey. “You may see other stylists doing what you dream of, but remember they started where you are. Stay focused, determined, and vigilant in your education. Never let a bad experience plant doubt that you don’t belong here. What’s for you is for you. Keep God first, and all things will be added. I believe in you!”
With her unwavering determination, artistic prowess, and commitment to uplifting others, Lurissa Ingrid continues to inspire not only through her hairstyles but also through her journey of resilience and success.
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