Najeeb Ur Rehman, whose hands have created magic with the locks of hair – be it the 89 models in the Miss World Contest – 1996 held in Bangalore, the cast of Monsoon wedding or the likes of Sonakshi Sinha — he is a walking wikipedia when it comes to one’s coiffure.
He comes with a goldmine of experience, working with stylists all around the globe like Anthony Whitaker, Robert Seah, Tyler Jhonston and Tracey Hayes among others. A recipient of the Queen’s Cup, one of the biggest hairdressing awards worldwide, in two categories – ‘Best hairdressing’ and ‘Best evening hairstyle’, Najeeb hides his achievements behind a veil of modesty as he talks about tresses and trends.
How do you trail the hair trend as we go from South to North?
Of course, there is change in the texture and tone, but when it comes to people accepting fashion, I find they are all similar. I have observed that when it comes to medium to lengthy hair, women mostly go for straightening. Most opt for shades of brown for colouring, but talk about darker shades, then there is a lot of inhibition – be it South or North.
Is there any peculiar trend that you noted in Chennai that sets it apart from the rest?
In Chennai, women mostly plait their hair or use bands. It is understandable because of the high humidity. The wavy hair frizzes out by the end of the day.
Any solutions?
Yes, there are solutions to leave it open. It requires a change in the routine. A change in the usual shampoo and conditioner that they use. I would personally suggest Bonacure smooth and shine shampoo that works for coarse, unmanageable and dull hair. Styling products such as the Schwarzkopf’s Osis magic anti-frizz serum also would suit the Chennai hair.
How do you decide on which hairstyle suits each individual?
There are five kinds of shapes when it comes to a face. The hairstyle must complement this shape and profile of the person. For example, for those who have high cheek bones, wispy bangs in the front can help hide it. For those who have broad foreheads, I would recommend fringes and those with small foreheads, a puffed up hairdo would suit.
All this also depends on the comfort of the person of course. The customer’s suggestion is also taken into consideration.
So did you do the looks for Sonakshi Sinha in Lootera?
No, but I have worked with her for a launch. She has a broad forehead, so I went for something loose, with a few strands falling forward.
Have you worked with anyone from Kollywood?
Unfortunately, not. But I did meet many in the Bangalore fashion week recently. I met Vijay and Rajnikanth and many others, whose names I forget now. Very nice people, I must say. I would to do hairstyles for them for some project in future.