A native New Yorker, Mary has worked in top hair salons throughout Manhattan such as Cinandre, Henri Bendel’s, and John Dellaria to name a few. Being brought up in a strict environment of conservative values and constant restrictions at every turn; her escape became the fashions of the time and what a time it was.
The early 60’s were reminiscent of the 50’s, classic in style and design then the mid 60’s took cues from London. The British Invasion didn’t stop with The Beatles; it was a phenomenon that not only changed music, but plummeted into politics, fashion, and culture. By the end of the era it was psychedelic, tie-dye, long hair, and beards. Mary was inspired by the every changing trend and graduated Robert Fiance Beauty School in 1971.
For Mary, the music of the 70’s was an influence. It was the golden age of vinyl records, there were dozens of genres to choose from and the artists themselves were how Mary created her unique cuts and styles. Glam Rock and Jazz were pushing boundaries, some of the best Rock was being recorded, Reggae was starting to emerge, then of course you had CBGB’s showcasing bands like The Ramone’s and Studio 54 where the disco-era’s most “beautiful people” steeped in elitism. Mary was absorbing it all and designing individual looks to fit her clients’ lifestyles.
The experimentation and excess in hairstyles that came along in the 80’s allowed Mary to master her skills in perms, irons for crimping and curls to Madonna’s slightly punk teased chignon then to the other end of the spectrum with the popular asymmetrical haircut. For the men, she was creating Mullets and Mohawks, coloring rat tails in funky shades, and coiffing the perfect new wave, Flock of Seagulls hairstyles. She was able to push the envelope, shaping and molding hair into edgy works of art.
Through the years, Mary continued to use the trendsetters as her muse; staying current with music, fashion, and the every changing “street” style of the chic. Her genuine interest in contemporary culture and drawing from her conventional roots gives Mary a rare ability to transcend all ages and genders. If you ask Mary her secret, “Hair is a fabric and I tailor it to your everyday needs”.
Nowadays Mary continues to set trends with a global clientele that includes celebrities and men and women from the worlds of architecture, fashion, film, television, and many other professions. When Mary is not behind the chair; you can find her taking hair color or other industry classes at the Goldwell Academy, teaching and learning from the staff, roaming an art museum or gallery, catching the latest show on or off Broadway, reading or writing. Mary’s thirst for knowledge keeps her on the fore front of fashion and she has a talent in providing each client with a personalized version of the must have hair trends of each season.
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Scheduled Hours are Tuesday thru Thursday from 10am to Close. Available by REQUEST ONLY on Mondays and Tuesdays.