Vidal sassoon tributes from leading hairdressers
The hairdressing industry is mourning the loss of its ultimate icon, after legendary hairdresser Vidal Sassoon lost his battle with leukaemia.
As well as the tributes that poured in on the social networks, many of the industry's finest, including personal friends of Vidal, shared their stories and experiences of the great man.
"Our industry has lost a visionary and creative genius, and the world has lost an amazing human being.
"The world rarely encounters someone who had the profound impact that Vidal has had, and everyone in the industry is indebted to Vidal's courage and single-minded vision, the effects of which will be felt for many generations to come.
"All of us at Sassoon will miss him dearly, and will honour his memory by dedicating ourselves to continuing the work he loved so much."
Mark Hayes, Sassoon International creative director
"My life as a young apprentice learning hairdressing started in 1950 at a salon named Romaines of Park West in central London, a stone's throw away from Marble Arch. Vidal happened to join the salon around a year after I did when he came out of fighting the war in Israel.
"I was in the right place (salon) at the right time and I was a very lucky young man as it turned out. I had the thrill and pleasure to learn my craft in two salons that we worked at together as mates.
"Vidal, Gerard and Harold were known as the Three Musketeers. We were trained by some wonderful, dedicated people including Leslie and Connie Green-Frank Blashke Morrie Gross-Len Stein-Albert Simons and Gerry London (the third musketeer) and so many more names to fill a book!
"We worked tirelessly, almost every night training (not on Fridays, as we would go to the steam baths in Holborn and be ready for our Saturday half-day work before we chased off to football at Chelsea.
"We taught ourselves new methods throwing away the large 8- and 10-inch scissors. The thinning shears and razor and teaching one another to cut BLUNT. We moved forward to the 3- and 4-inch scissors in and around around 1955.
"After some 4 years at Romaines he moved to Dumas in Albermile Street off Bond Street Central London. Gerard and Harold followed so as not to break up this bond of work we had together.
"We (Vidal and Harold) have been friends for all our work lives until the very sad news that I have expected for the past months, yesterday.
"My memories of him are tremendous. We used to go dancing on the weekends to many of the clubs, he was a true showman as he did cabaret dancing on the stage with one of his mates. He was a great mover and shaker. When one saw him dancing doing his hair shows for Wella, I remember seeing his first in Birmingham around mid-fifties.
"This is a very brief few words and memories, with my dear friend that has truly been a friend all these years with never a cross word. I truly loved the guy and shall miss him, but have so many wonderful memories that will fill a book in the coming years."
Harold Leighton
"Vidal Sassoon has had a huge influence on every hairdresser today. It takes a true genius and visionary to entirely change the way in which hairdressers cut hair and women wear hair.
"I have known him for many years but we became close friends five years ago when he became Worldwide Patron of Alternative Hair and we made a film together.
"He was a lovely, fascinating man, highly intelligent with an incredible love of life. It wasn't just our passion for hair that made us friends, but also our support for Chelsea Football Club.
"When he was in London we tried to go to matches together. I was in LA a few weeks ago and we watched the Chelsea -Tottenham match at his home. I am honoured to have called him my friend."
Anthony Mascolo
"I had known Vidal Sassoon for many years and he has been a life-long inspiration to my work. With his vision and energy, he is the man who changed the face of hairdressing forever. As a person he had an incredible gentleness and a generosity of spirit that was very special.
"We were very honoured when Vidal agreed to become Worldwide Patron of Alternative Hair, a position that he took very seriously. He was an incredible support and his influence and inspiration will continue.
"It is very poignant that Vidal passed away on the same day as my son Valentino, having both suffered from Leukaemia. And, it is perhaps both special and ironic that we have named our 30th anniversary show, 'Legends'.
"Vidal's influence and presence will remain with us forever, and we will honour him as a friend and a hairdresser.
Tony Rizzo Founder of Alternative Hair & Sanrizz Salons
"I feel privileged to have met Vidal several times throughout my career and I will always treasure those precious memories. He was the most charismatic and charming individual you could wish to meet, with a selfless approach to life and an interest in everyone around him.
"Vidal has influenced so many thousands of hairdressers around the world throughout his time on this earth that his legacy will live on forever. He was a great role model for living life to the full, achieving your dreams and making a difference. The hairdressing industry has not only lost an incredible talent, but a truly inspirational man who was one of a kind."
Charles Worthington
"There are not enough words to say how much I and the hairdressing industry worldwide owes to Vidal.
"He changed the whole concept of how we not only cut hair, but how women looked - bringing a freedom to them and their hair. I feel humbled and privileged to have worked for him for 10 years and to call him a friend as well as the greatest mentor and inspiration that I or any other hairdresser could ever have.
Rest in piece Vidal, you will always be with us."
Stephen Messias
"Vidal Sassoon changed the face of hairdressing, a pure innovator who inspired not only hairdressers but also fashion and lifestyle industries.
"Vidal created a movement that transformed women creating modern feminine looks, a beauty and style that had simply never been seen before.
"His work will continue to inspire through his outstanding photographic archives that exist today.
"On behalf of myself and son Luke Hersheson along with everybody who works at Daniel Hersheson we would like to thank Vidal Sassoon for everything he gave to the hairdressing industry. He was a true icon.''
Daniel Hersheson
"Meeting and interviewing Vidal in November 2011 was a truly memorable experience; to meet and spend time with a man who really did change the face of our profession and whose contribution to our craft cannot be over stated; it was such an enjoyable and incredible experience.
"Vidal candidly shared incredible stories and anecdotes from his long distinguished career and at times I had to pinch myself to remind myself that I was really there and not dreaming. For me as a 16 year-old trainee he was a trailblazing hero.
"Throughout our interview Vidal was such a gentlemen and took time to make me feel at ease as he selflessly imparted his wisdom, knowledge and wit. What struck me about Vidal was the steely determination that was still in evidence even though he was in his 84th year, likewise his sense of humour and fun was certainly intact and made both myself and crew laugh with a very wry take on life.
"During our meeting it was clear that Vidal was still passionate a bout the industry, and clearly genuinely both committed and dedicated in ensuring our young trainees were given the very best in hairdressing training.
"A true legend that's influenced an entire generation of hairdressers, his spirit will continue to live on in every salon that's passionate about our craft - both in the UK and globally.
"Our profession owes this man a huge debt to a man who was prepared to take a risk and do things differently. Vidal we as a profession salute you.
Mark Creed, President fellowship for British Hairdressing
"I would like to pay my respects to an amazing man who I had the great pleasure to meet and have time to get to know. As our industry mourns the passing of Vidal Sassoon, a great man and a great mentor he will be sadly missed."
Patrick Cameron Hair International
"There aren't many hairdressers I can think of whose death would make headline news on both sides of the Atlantic; the fact that Vidal's passing does, just demonstrates his cultural influence on the whole world.
"The word icon is banded about a lot these days, but there are few people in our craft whose iconic status has been palpable on British and worldwide culture in so many areas - music, fashion, photography - Vidal Sassoon influenced all genres.
"The fact the salon and the clients are all feeling a great loss sums up his amazing body of work and just how he helped changed the world in the 1960's and 1970's. Sassoon was the first great 'brander' and regardless of his amazing technical and creative output, we shouldn't forget his business brain and 'never say never' attitude. He believed anything was possible in hairdressing and he was right"
Richard & Hellen Ward, Richard Ward Hair & Metrospa
"What can I say that hasn't already been said, 20 years of inspiration not only professionally but personally. I will miss the laughter the most... and the bad jokes."
John Vial, Fudge Creative Director (who worked with Vidal Sassoon for 12 years and headed up the Asian division of Vidal Sassoon training)
"Vidal Sassoon was scheduled to have dinner and sit with me and Winn Claybaugh, dean of Paul Mitchell Schools, on Monday night at the Paul Mitchell Schools Magic of Memories event.
"Whatever Vidal could do for the professional beauty industry...he did and always showed up. He called three days before the dinner to say he really wanted to be there, but his body was feeling just a little bit too tired and he would be there in spirit.
"Vidal Sassoon was the most famous hairstylist in the history of the world. He has left his earthly body and is now joining his top student and infamous hair artist Cyril T. Mitchell, aka Paul Mitchell, styling hair and developing new looks for the heavenly ones. Good hairstylists never die. Vidal Sassoon and Paul Mitchell will always live on...only in a more spiritual kingdom."
John Paul DeJoria
"We are deeply saddened by the news of Vidal Sassoon's passing. We are so thankful for the love, support, and generosity that he shared with us over the years. Everyone who was fortunate enough to know him or be inspired by his work will miss him dearly but remember him always.
With all my love and aloha, I thank you and miss you Vidal!"
Angus Mitchell
"He defined an industry and even changed how we thought about ourselves! I often say its not about being remembered, it's about never being forgotten. On behalf of the beauty industry worldwide, you, my friend, will NEVER be forgotten!
Robert Cromeans"
"Vidal. What a gentleman! What a legend! He will be sorely missed but will live on forever in the world of hairdressing."
Jennifer Cheyne
"Vidal changed my life; as a 19 year old I switched from the gent's trade into ladies and attended the Sassoon School in Kensington. As I was already into the craft was placed in Bond St Salon.
"Meeting Roger Thompson there and also Josh Galvin were key steps in my development. These men sang the Sassoon song and were evangelists for the new wave that was sweeping through the craft.
"I owe all my development to date to those life changing times with this innovative team. Long may the Sassoon flame burn bright and a heartfelt thank you from a happy convert."
Robert Rix, The Master Barber, Southport
"I am saddened to read of Vidal's passing, He was a colleague to me sharing similar path during the 60s and 70s. He was a great leader in our profession.
We will miss you. God bless you Vidal. I wish the Sassoon family, our warm wishes and long life."
Pierre Alexandre
"The creator of shape and the first one ever to use hair as a fabric... We experience a part of Vidal every time we lift our scissors. RIP to the definitive hair icon."
Darren Fowler, Creative Director, Clipso Salon Group
"I began my career at Vidal Sassoon in 1981, working in the Leeds salon under the tutelage of then creative director, Tim Hartley. Those were heady days. Working for such an iconic man and brand has hugely influenced my career and Westrow as a business, as everything we embody uses the principles inherent in Vidal's disciplines.
"He was a true master of his craft; attention to detail was everything, and his love of precision cutting is something that has never left me after 25 years in business and is at the heart of everything we strive for across the Westrow salon group.
"He always said 'if they don't look good, we don't look good' a true industry mantra, and his impeccable standards and creativity ensured he truly ignited British hairdressing. Without his input the industry would not have been what it is today, and he will be sorely missed."
Steve Rowbottom,
Westrow co-director
"Vidal Sassoon was a true legend in the world of hair. He revolutionised hair cutting and styling in the 60s and left a legacy that is still as relevant today as it was then. He cut hair like cloth, he freed women from roller setting, he invented blow-drying, he pioneered wash 'n' go.
"A true genius whose artistry and inspiration will live on. RIP Vidal."
Angelo Seminara, Artistic Director, Davines
"Vidal Sassoon was an incredible man who touched the world not only with his amazing vision but his profound words of wisdom and guidance.
His strength and determination for perfection through the art of hair changed the world forever.
Anyone who met him knew they were with someone extraordinarily special, he had an amazing aura, the aura of a man you who knew exactly his purpose in life and he certainly fulfilled it. I will never forget him."
Leo Bancroft
"Vidal Sassoon - the crimper with the golden touch. He inspired generations with his craft and put hairdressing on the map. One man and his scissors - he changed the world.
He was the king of hairdressing."
Stell Andrew, RUSH Hair
"I am very sad at hearing of the death of Vidal Sassoon. He was one of the few who truly changed the world, not only of hairdressing but also of how we use product, wash and go, in a modern society. He was someone who continually pushed the boundaries of convention."
Paul Edmonds, Creative Director at Paul Edmonds London
"It was a total honour to have met Vidal many times across my career. We use many words to describe people that have left this world - but Vidal Sassoon was a Global Creative Genius, who revolutionised the hairdressing industry and will continue to do so, even after his passing.
"Vidal was charismatic, a visionary, an amazing speaker, but above all he was a gentle giant and the most humble person I have ever met in our industry."
Beverly C
"I am sure there are many accolades from around the world about Vidal, I will comment on the professional side.
"It is ironic to me as a hair designer that in my view, with all the great things he did, his most important accomplishment was a haircut. At the end of his haircutting career in the mid 1960's he created the Geometrics notably the A-Line bob,5 Point and Asymmetric.
"The 5 Point was his signature cut. What he gave to us was an 'idea' that goes on inspiring serious hair designers today and I am sure also in the future."
Christopher Brooker
"There were two influences in my 52 years of hairdressing. Robert (Eric) Fielding from the business perspective and from the hair and fashion no doubt it was Vidal and the revolution he created and the buzz of working in our industry in the 60's and 70's.
"I would like to take this opportunity to wish the Sassoon family a happy, healthy and long life for the future."
Alan Hemmings MD Alan d Hairdressing
"There is no-one, past or present, that has done more for the hairdressing industry than Vidal Sassoon.
"Since the 60s when he opened his first salon in Bond Street, his influence has touched us all. He was the ultimate role model for anyone aspiring to be successful in our business.
"In his creative innovation he was in a league of his own, his style and personal taste were impeccable, and as an inspirational leader to generations he was truly phenomenal.
"He was a gifted businessman and a brilliant communicator with outstanding qualities of showmanship. In short, he had it all. But most importantly, he had humility... in abundance. Always gracious, generous, thoughtful and kind. Spending time with him will always hold a very special place in my memory. We all owe him an huge debt. I personally, will miss him enormously."
John Frieda
"My background was through the Leonard of Mayfair heritage, which was quite different from the Sassoon pedigree, so I never got to socialise with Vidal until a few years ago. I met him first at a private dinner over at my brother Nicky's house along with the photographer Duffy, who sadly also passed away shortly afte
"Revolution is a much overused word but he truly did bring about massive change in our industry, persisting with his ideas when so many of the establishment were resistant, and capturing the zeitgeist of the 1960s in hair. UK hairdressing still benefits enormously from the position he earned on the world stage.
"Even though he was unwell, Vidal and his lovely wife Ronnie still came to support us at our HAIRraising ball at The Dorchester last year. He charmed all the young journalists who vied to interview him and enjoyed the warm up act by Shane Ritchie who mercilessly teased all the other hairdressers in the room and referred to Vidal as the Godfather of hairdressing.
To know you've created such a positive difference with your life and left a sound legacy, must make it all worthwhile in the end, and hopefully help the passing be more peaceful.
He will be missed.
Michael Van Clarke
Vidal would always refer to great hair cutters as having great hands! His own expressive hands would always be mesmerising as he spoke about cuts, shapes and angles. His hands amplified the passion that he clearly held so strongly in his heart. As a young Creative Director, Vidal asked me to join him for our first show together in Rome.
A woman in the audience said to Vidal that she was fascinated by my hands and that simple moment defined the beginning of my career for Sassoon. Many years later we did so many amazing things together but the hands in Rome remained in the forefront of his memory. Vidal Sassoon the original hands that revolutionised the hair world with a cut will remain in my heart forever.
Tim Hartley
I would like to pay my respects to an amazing man whom I had the great pleasure of getting to know. Our industry mourns the passing of Vidal Sassoon, a wonderful man who inspired thousands of hairdressers across the world.
We have lost the most outstanding member of our profession who set the benchmark in creativity with his love of the craft. His influence will shine through in a little bit of everything we do, he will be sadly missed.
Patrick Cameron