Michael Beel is a renowned figure in the hairdressing industry, bringing over two decades of professional experience to the craft. His impressive career has seen his artistry showcased on the runways of Fashion Weeks in New York, London, Australia, and New Zealand, while his creative flair has elevated numerous lookbook and magazine covers. Michael’s exceptional talent has earned him multiple accolades, including the Industry Editorial Stylist of the Year in 2016 and New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year in 2020. Late last month, he made history as the first New Zealander to win the prestigious Editorial Stylist of the Year award at the Australian Hair Fashion Awards (AHFAs).

Below, we chat with Michael about the big win, the journey that led him here, and the most memorable moments along the way.

Firstly, congratulations again on winning Editorial Stylist of the Year! How does it feel to be the first New Zealander to take out this prestigious award?

Thank you so much! I’m so overwhelmed and actually can’t believe it! Editorial hair is my passion outside of the salon, and I was up against some very stiff competition from people I admire and leaders within the field of this type of work. I was honoured to be a finalist, but winning was a dream come true!

Can you tell us a bit about the entry submission process?

You need to have at least four different types of editorial work to submit; these must have been published within the awards period. Within that, you need to submit two different photos for each editorial story to reflect diversity in your skill set. You also need to write a few paragraphs about the concept/story presented by the Creative Director/client and how you translated this into the shoot.

Your work has been featured in New Zealand’s most iconic publications. If you had to pick, what would be your favourite editorial shoot that you’ve done so far?

Oh, that’s a really hard question! Each shoot has its own merits and creativity, and a team that’s all striving to achieve the same goal. I do, however, love a shoot where we capture the beauty/cover look within the first two or three shots, when the hair and makeup is fresh and the team is focused. So many times, it’s the last shot of the day, and I always feel it’s slightly rushed! But every time I get a cover, it’s my favourite. Seeing it on the shelves when you’re at the supermarket gives me a thrill. I literally want to tap random people on the shoulder as they walk past and say, “I did that!” Haha.

Throughout your career, what would be some of your other key highlights or memorable moments?

I’ve worked hard to get where I am, and I’m proud that I’ve had the opportunity to do some amazing things. I’ve worked with incredible A-list celebrities such as Sigourney Weaver and Scarlett Johansson, but working with Rita Ora for three months in Sydney is definitely up there, along with working backstage at NYFW many times, as well as in London and Australia. Also, when a designer entrusts you to lead a hair team for their fashion show at events like NZFW, it means the world! My first ever show that I hair-directed was for World many years ago, and for that, I’m eternally grateful, as I felt that it put me on a different level. Since then, I’ve worked with many iconic New Zealand brands including Zambesi, Karen Walker, Twentysevennames, Nom D, Stolen Girlfriends Club, and Wynn Hamlyn.

Talk us through your career journey. When did you first get into hairdressing?

I accidentally fell into hairdressing in the late 90s. I was at Otago University studying Marketing and Psychology, and I was getting over the books. I was in for a haircut with the local hairdresser when she offered me a part-time job sweeping floors, shampooing, etc. Since I wanted more beer money, I thought, why not? I absolutely loved the salon environment and making people not only look better but feel better, seeing that twinkle in their eyes when walking out of the salon…I was sold! I dropped out of university to my parents’ horror to take up an apprenticeship at $5 an hour, and I’m so glad I did!

What does a typical day look like for you now?

I’m based at Salute Hair Skin Spa in Lower Hutt, Wellington. I’m on the floor four days a week, looking after my very loyal clientele. I’m very lucky that they understand that I may need to move them at the last minute for an editorial job. I think they secretly love telling their friends that their hairdresser did the cover of FQ or is off working with “blah blah” haha. I’m part of the management team, so in between running a salon and doing clients, I’m always working towards the next creative project. Spare time? What’s that?

What do you attribute your success to in the field of hairstyling?

I’ve never stopped working hard, I always say yes to every opportunity, and I never expect anything in return. Don’t get me wrong; being paid is great and essential in some cases, but I’ve given up my time, expertise, and knowledge to help open doors for myself in the future. There are times when it’s actually cost me money, like flights and accommodation, but I see it as an investment in my career so that I can charge the $$$ later on.

Who have been some of your biggest mentors or influences over your successes?

For starters, my parents have instilled in me a strong work ethic. I grew up hearing things like “Do a job, do it properly!” and “Say yes to every opportunity that comes your way!” – that has been my blueprint for my life. Hair-wise, it’s Derek Elvy—my friend, my mentor, my business partner, and creative genius. I had the honour of working with him for over 20 years at Buoy, and he had a very unique view of the world of hair and fashion. He tragically passed away from cancer five years ago, and whenever I do something, I always hear his voice in my head saying, “Is this fashion? What’s the point of difference, and what are you trying to say?”

How do you stay updated with the latest cut and colour trends and techniques?

Social media—I adore Instagram! Seeing people’s creativity from all over the world is so inspiring. I also pay to go to places like NYFW to work backstage; it’s essential for me to stay relevant. Working with other hair types, picking up one little nugget of information, or seeing a unique way of doing something enhances my creative arsenal.

What advice would you give to aspiring editorial stylists looking to follow in your footsteps? How can you make a name for yourself in such a competitive industry?

Slide into people’s DMs and say, “I want to assist you on your next shoot.” Don’t expect to be paid, and understand that you may not even get to do anything, but keep your eyes open at all times and become a sponge. Also, come and join my editorial class next year to learn some tips and techniques, and don’t be afraid to try things out yourself (link to register your interest here). Do your own little photo shoots and start building a portfolio because if you want to work the big jobs, you need a strong editorial portfolio—it can’t just be pretty salon hair pictures.

Lastly, we never pass up an opportunity to peek inside the regime of a pro. What three products do you rate most highly in your arsenal?

Moroccanoil: the OG of hair oils! It protects from heat, absorbs beautifully, and makes hair feel so hydrated and shiny!

Color Wow Style On Steroids: The best dry texturing spray to get ultimate volume or the perfect beachy texture.

L’Oréal Paris Elnett Hair Spray: Yes, the $11 can from the chemist!  It brushes out with absolutely no residue, provides great shine, and all the major hairdressers use it backstage at the big fashion shows around the world, so it must be good!