Chopsticks-Happy Ryoji Imaizumi Talks Haircare, Shu Uemura, and Why U-Pins aren't That Great
In editorial hair styling, being eccentric is the norm. But no other behind-the-scenes stylist has cultivated such a unique skill like Ryoji Imaizumi. The hair magician, who has worked with everyone from Vogue Paris to Lanvin to BMW, is best known for his use of chopsticks--that's right, chopsticks--to create inventive, glamorous styles. We recently chatted with Imaizumi, who's currently on business in Japan--about his life and work. Fashionista: How are you? What are you up to in Japan? Ryoji Imaizumi: Well, my first reason for being here is for my work visa, but I'm also represented by a fashion photography agency in Tokyo. I work with Harper's Bazaar, Figaro, Vogue Nippon, Elle, as well as Uniqlo, Japanese designers and Japanese pop stars and actresses. How many flights would you say you take a year? Do you like traveling? That's always different. For example, I was very busy in NYC this year, so I didn't get to fly as much as I am used to.