Leading hairstylist Andy Uffels offers us an exclusive look into the world of fashion and hairstyling. With his years of experience and creative approach, he has designed countless catwalk shows and photoshoots. Discover the secrets behind his success and the challenges of his impressive career in this inspiring interview.
Linda (Interviewer): Hi, I am Linda and a fellow hairstylist at The Insiders and part of the co-creation team. Today I have the honor to interview Andy Uffels, the founder of The Insiders and an award winning hairstylist.
Andy, thanks for taking the time to talk to us! You’ve had an incredible career in so many different aspects of the hair and fashion industry. You’ve experienced so much in the fashion world, from the catwalks in Paris to TV appearances in New York, working in salons in the Netherlands, shooting for Vogue and so much more. Can you tell us a bit about your experiences at Paris and Milan Fashion Week?
Andy Uffels: Thank you Linda. It’s so great to be here in your salon and share my experiences. Working at fashion weeks in Paris and Milan is definitely one of the highlights of my career. It’s a hectic but incredibly inspiring time. You work with the best designers and stylists in the world and it’s an honor to be part of such a creative process. The atmosphere backstage is always electric. Everyone works under high pressure but there’s also a huge sense of community. Gucci, Givenchy, Yves Saint Laurent were my favorite shows.
Linda: That sounds really exciting! Can you give us a peek behind the scenes? What makes it so special to work there?
Andy: What makes it really special is the 100% energy and passion that everyone puts into it. You see models, designers, stylists, hairstylists, make-up artists all coming together to create something beautiful. There is such a focus and professionalism that everyone can push themselves to the max and feel genuinely proud when the models walk down the runway.
One of the most memorable moments was when I worked on a show for Valentino in Paris. The attention to detail and creativity that went into every look was phenomenal. And then to see it all come together on the runway is truly magical.
Linda: You have also won many awards, including World Champion Hair Styling and 3 X Hairdresser of the Year. How has that influenced your career?
Andy: Winning both the World Championship and Hairdresser of the Year was a huge honour and has definitely given my career a boost. It was also a recognition of my hard work and dedication to the craft. It has given me the opportunity to work with some of the best people in the industry and share my knowledge and passion with others. But the best part is always making clients happy in the salon. That direct contact and the smile on someone’s face when they leave happy, that is priceless.
Linda: You've had the chance to work with many celebrities, models and high profile clients.
Can you share some notable moments?
Andy: Working with celebrities is always exciting because of the high stakes and creative challenges. The most memorable experiences were styling HRH Princess of Thailand, a huge ritual. But also the car ride home from Paris with Doutzen, very special. The show about 10 years ago with all the icons of the 90s with Kate Moss, Linda Evangalista and Claudia Schiffer is also something I will never forget. It was an honor to work with these people.
Linda: That sounds wonderful. At The Insiders we also work together to create products. How do you find that process?
Andy: It’s fantastic to lead a team of experts who are so passionate about hair care and styling. We work with the best colleagues and super inspiring women who give input on our products and test them for us. This co-creation process ensures that we develop products that truly meet the needs of our customers. We want everyone to feel heard and valued.
Linda: You also have a very personal life outside of your work. Can you tell us something about that?
Andy: Absolutely. Balancing work and family is crucial to me. My wife Penny and daughters Lola and Quinn are my biggest supporters. And not to forget my parents. We cherish our time together and love travelling and good food, working out, yoga and we really enjoy our holiday home in Spain. But honestly, my scissors and laptop always come with me. The working life of an entrepreneur never ends and that is exactly why I enjoy life so much. However, like everyone else, I also have sadness and pain. Through conscious inner reflection I try to turn everything positive and draw strength from it.
Linda: That sounds like a very beautiful and full life. Do you have any last tips or inspiration for our readers?
Andy: How great is it to always keep learning and surround yourself with people who inspire you? Stay curious and experiment with new things. And most of all, enjoy the process.
Linda: Thank you Andy for sharing your story and insights. We look forward to creating many more great things with you and The Insiders.
Andy: You're very welcome Linda. Let's keep growing and inspiring together!
