Jamie stevens reveals all about the x factor
Published
24th Oct 2011
by rachael
As resident hairdresser on The X Factor, Jamie Stevens has had the opportunity to bring hairdressing to the mainstream, sharing his styling secrets with the nation and revealing how hair can transform a look.
In the first part of an exclusive interview, we speak to Jamie about how he works backstage at The X Factor and how the contestants have handled their hair makeovers.
Describe a typical Saturday or Sunday when you're filming the live shows...
It's completely mental! For example in week one, I had 27 contestants to style plus 20 dancers who had to be changed five times. That means in total I had to manage 97 different hairstyles.
My hair room only has five chairs and just one basin so with all the stylists, contestants and the camera crew, it can be absolutely insane but it's all such a great experience.
Are the contestants all open to your styling suggestions or have you had to convince any of them?
I have had a lot of criticism about Frankie's styling but obviously you have to balance the judges' wants and needs with those of the contestants. We couldn't just cut all his hair off because it wouldn't suit his style or personality.
I also had a hard time trying to persuade Jesy from Rhythmix and the girls from Two Shoes to let go of their extensions, but most of the contestants have been really open to my suggestions.
Which was your favourite style this week?
Sophie's big bun was my favourite hair look this week - it was huge but was all her own hair. I did it using lots of dry shampoo and it's similar to one of the looks in the Somerset salon's BHA collection. It was much more on-trend for Sophie; she's young and needs a cool style.
Check back next Monday for more from Jamie about styling the hair for TV's biggest talent show.
