“I absolutely love experimenting with hair textures and seeing how far I can push hairdressing. I love working with structures, shapes and manipulating the hair to do working on commercial hairstyles as well, it’s a different discipline and focus.”
Efi Davies
What country are you from, and where do you reside?
I am originally from Greece but for the past 28 years I have been living in London.
Title of what you do and if you are aligned with a brand or company.
I am an International Artistic Director and head of the Avant-Garde and Long Hair Departments and leader of the Session & Editorial and Styling & Finishing courses for TONI&GUY and LABEL.M, based at the TONI&GUY Academy in central London.
Education background (school, salons, self-taught)?
I visited London and was immediately hooked on the music and fashion scene, so I got a job as an assistant with TONI&GUY in 1998. Who worked at the Mayfair salon where I met Toni Mascolo who ignited my passion for the industry and all things hair. I did all my training within TONI&GUY and now it’s gone full circle, and I teach the next generation.
What is the first creative project that you remember?
I was fortunate – and blessed – to be an assistant for Anthony Mascolo while I was still early in my career. The first bit of creative project was when I assisted the international artistic team for the TV show Model Behaviour. I was totally in awe of being on a TV set, working with these amazing hairdressers I looked up to and working with beautiful models. It was a brilliant experience.
What is your signature style/artistic expression of your work?
I absolutely love experimenting with hair textures and seeing how far I can push hairdressing. I love working with structures, shapes and manipulating the hair to do working on commercial hairstyles as well, it’s a different discipline and focus.
What is the most fulfilling job you’ve worked on or someone you have worked with?
For me, teaching is one of the most fulfilling things you can do, passing on my knowledge and passing the torch to other people and seeing them elevate their skills. When I see a student ‘gets it’ that is incredibly satisfying. When I’m teaching my aim is to make the students better than me and make my own work look old fashioned. When they create something unexpected and beautiful, I know I have had an effect on their career and that is a great feeling.
Do you have a career turning point, big break, or person who has helped your career?
I’ve been blessed to work with an amazing team and I get inspired by them every day. However, Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck has been the one person who helped elevate my career; she gave me the freedom and a platform for me to express my creativity and I adore her for that.
What was the scariest and proudest moment in your career?
The proudest was when I first saw my avant-garde collection on stage in 2005, it was a real turning point for me. Scariest – I’ve not had a scary moment but I do get nervous every time I am starting something new, whether it’s London Fashion Week, a shot or a shoot. I know I can do better than the last shoot or show so there are always nerves there, which is never a bad thing!
What is next for your career goals?
It’s easy to always chase the next thing, but I want to be grateful for what I have got. I have worked hard and I am blessed to do what I love, I never take it for granted but I want the next thing to be a surprise!
What advice would you give to someone starting in your business?
Always practice, keep your game high and stay up to date with trends and techniques. Do your research and give your time to assist . I still assist today as it’s a great way to learn and as hairdressers we are always learning. Push yourself and make yourself available. Assisting will give you experience, experience will give you confidence and confidence will allow your true self and true style to take place.
Learn more about Efi Davies
Instagram: @efidavies
ABOUT EFI DAVIES
Efi Davies, Avant-Garde Hairdresser of the Year, is undoubtedly an innovator in the world of hairdressing. Globally celebrated for her groundbreaking avant-garde techniques and exceptional skill in braiding and hair-up styles, her international acclaim is reflected in the numerous prestigious awards she has earned. She is renowned for her unique artistry within hair, and her creative energy and individuality push the boundaries of session styling, positioning her as a major member of the multi-award-winning TONI&GUY International Artistic Team. In addition, she regularly travels worldwide promoting TONI&GUY ‘s philosophy and education, and acting as an ambassador for its personal haircare range label.m. Her theoretical take on hairdressing has no limits, and when she’s not in the Academy inspiring future hairdressers, she styles hair for a loyal client base at London’s
