Saturday night’s latest rollout for Mike Eckhaus and Zoe Latta namesake line Eckhaus Latta brought tactile sensuality through a racy, nonconformist lens. With peeks of skin and see-through knits, there was a refined lewdness that aligned with the spirit of New York cool – just enough audacity to spark awe. The hair vision met the sophisticated mood with key lead, Edward Lampley sharing how upholding each model’s individuality was of the utmost importance to the Eckhaus Latta team. “We sat down and talked about things that we really liked and what would suit the individual,” Lampley details. “It was something we discussed quite in-depth until we found something that everyone was happy with.” Working with the brand for the first season, the hair stylist first got his start assisting Jimmy Paul and a few other stylists while working for Bumble & Bumble. The East-Village show which included a Rachel Chandler selected cast of Alex Consani, Noor Mutsaers, Rubuen Bilan-Carroll, Nina Marker, Cole Mohr, and The White Lotus actor, Jon Gries had models in either sleeked down looks, soft textures, or a combination of the two. We spoke to Lampley about the Eckhaus Latta collaborative process, his inspiration, and how he connects to the next generation of beauty creatives.
What inspires your work in beauty and beyond?
I’m heavily influenced by art & design, and I also have a deep love for being in nature, where I like to spend time and meditate. I also listen to a lot of music spanning several genres that inspire me depending on my mood.
Can you tell us more about the look you created for Eckhaus Latta and how it compliments the spirit of the show?
The thing I love most about the Eckhaus team is their collaborative process. We sat down and talked about things that we really liked and what would suit the individual, as well as the look, whether that be a slick look, or a soft texture, or a combination of both, it was something we discussed quite in-depth until we found something that everyone was happy with. For the actual hair, we created a few looks that were a range of wet-to-dry looks using Mr. Smith Texture Spray and Mr. Smith Paste to play with volume and shapes. Some models had a tight slicked-back look, while others had a greasy grungy or angelic/soft look.
How do you challenge yourself in your artistry and in your work?
I challenge myself to see art and make art as much as I possibly can. As well as continuously work on my craft in the studio consistently.
What do you think about the changing ideals of beauty? Are we in a positive swing?
I think it’s our job as creatives to push the envelope and always challenge the ideas of past generations. I think that fashion is about moving forward, and I think fashion is moving forward in a way that’s positive –– I have witnessed a shift when it comes to inclusion, diversity, and representation, which is a beautiful thing. There is still a lot to be done moving forward but I’m an optimist and hopeful we are heading in the right direction.
Left:Magnus Maxine and Alex Consani, Right: Ibby Sow, Eden Joi, and Nina Marker | All images courtesy of CLM
What do you think people get wrong the most when it comes to working with hair?
I don’t think that it’s people who get things wrong. I think that there’s a way to look and listen. It’s sometimes missed when it comes to hairdressing and the approach to the individual.
What advice would you give to young creatives wanting to connect with mentors already in the business? How do you normally connect with assistants?
I like to connect with assistants in any way possible, but I oftentimes connect with people online. I think the beauty of social media is if there’s an ability to connect and reach people that just wasn’t the reality, say 10 or even five years ago. The opportunities to connect now are boundless.
@modelsdot Have you wanted to see a day in the life of a #NYFW hair stylist? 👀✨ Don’t worry Models.com has you covered. Follow as American hair stylist Edward Lampley takes us through his day backstage at the Eckhaus Latta F/W 2023 fashion show. To see his past and current industry work, head to Models.com. 🔗 #modelsdot #interviews #nyfw #runway #eckhauslatta #models ♬ Dreams (2004 Remaster) – Fleetwood Mac
