Brunette Specialist Adele Nuzzolese (@adelencolorist) shares the five things that inspire her work behind the chair as a hairstylist.
Courtesy of Adele Nuzzolese
On Instagram, Pennsylvania-based hairstylist Adele Nuzzolese (@adelencolorist) is known for her rich, scroll-stopping brunette color creations, but it took some time for her to develop her craft. Nuzzolese began her journey in the beauty industry by earning her cosmetology license and starting work in a salon during her senior year of high school. Since then, she has honed her skills and become an expert in her field, committed to sharing her knowledge with other stylists through her online and in-person classes. From her family to the community she's built in the hair industry, below, Nuzzolese reflects on what's inspiring her work behind the chair.
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On Instagram, Pennsylvania-based hairstylist Adele Nuzzolese (@adelencolorist) is known for her rich, scroll-stopping brunette color creations, but it took some time for her to develop her craft. Nuzzolese began her journey in the beauty industry by earning her cosmetology license and starting work in a salon during her senior year of high school. Since then, she has honed her skills and become an expert in her field, committed to sharing her knowledge with other stylists through her online and in-person classes. From her family to the community she's built in the hair industry, below, Nuzzolese reflects on what's inspiring her work behind the chair.
1. My Parents
Adele and her familyCourtesy of Adele Nuzzolese
My parents came to the United States with little to their name, wanting to give their kids more opportunities than they had. As a kid, I always really struggled in school. It wasn’t until I got older I was diagnosed with dyslexia. They always went to bat for me, supporting me in my life and career. Having parents who took the risk of moving to a new country inspires me to be fearless and take the leap, so they can see the rewards of the sacrifices they made.
2. Fall/Autumn
A gorgeous chocolately brunette clientCourtesy of Adele Nuzzolese
My absolute favorite season is autumn, when the leaves start to change colors. This means most clients are ready for my favorite service: going darker and warmer. From the rich color of hot chocolate to the warm reds and coppers of the leaves, I love when my brunettes are in their element enhancing what they naturally have!
3. Creating a Safe Space for My Clients
Adele helping a client pose for a pictureCourtesy of Adele Nuzzolese
One of my absolute favorite compliments is when clients tell me how comfortable they feel in my chair — how they feel safe during their appointment and can get anything off their chest. Although many times I cannot provide much help, I will always make sure to provide a judgement-free zone for them and a confidence boost by giving them pretty hair. My clients have taught me there are so many things people go through that make them the strong women they are today.
4. Community and Collaboration
Adele at a Brunettes and Blends education eventCourtesy of Adele Nuzzolese
I remember when I was in high school I thought it was so weird my brother had gamer friends online. I never understood it. How are you friends with someone you met on the internet? Then, I started my Instagram page as a hair professional. I saw there was an amazing community out there. I connected with girls who had similar things in common with me and were so supportive, even though I was basically a stranger to them. These are girls who I have now made amazing memories with inside and outside the hair world. I love seeing them grow personally and professionally, watching them run a business, educate and see clients while still making time for their families.
5. Personal Growth and Experience
Brunettes and Blends education eventCourtesy of Adele Nuzzolese
I started working in a salon at 17. I went to my local tech school as a freshman and was able to pass the state board and be part of our co-operative program by my senior year. I remember feeling so intimidated because I was the youngest. I thought I would go into this industry dominated by women and be greeted with their love and support, only to find out not too many would be so kind. I saw the ugly side of this industry. I remember stylists would make comments about my age to make it seem like I was clueless and incapable. After about nine months, I remember going up to my parents and starting to bawl my eyes out, telling them I wanted to stop doing hair, which was devastating because this has been my dream career since I was four. I had such a bad taste in my mouth. I loved doing hair, but the environment tore me apart.
After taking a break for about a year, my parents convinced me to try again. This time I wanted to have an impact — I wanted to learn and be able to help stylists. I wanted to be a person in the industry who stylists could reach out to and ask questions without feeling judged. My initial experience in the industry pushed me to create a space where we support each other’s successes. I created Brunettes and Blends, an online education platform where stylist can reach out whenever they have any questions, and I’m happy to share any of my knowledge to help! “Supporting someone else’s success won’t ever damper yours” is a quote I stand by.