Behind the Image is an ongoing MODELS.com series taking a more personal look at both established and emerging creative talent.
Pawel Solis | Image courtesy of Artlist
Pawel Solis, Hairstylist
Hometown: Poland
Based: Paris, France
Representation: Artlist
How would you describe your work? What’s your trademark?
Natural, simple, timeless. I’m not drawn to perfection. What some might consider a “mistake” can actually make an image more interesting and beautiful. I also pay close attention to balance; even the smallest detail can shift the entire feeling of a look.
How did you first discover your passion for hair? Was there a specific moment that made you realize this was your career path?
My parents used to cut my hair themselves, which often left me looking quite ridiculous. But I’ll never forget the first time I went to a proper salon. A woman had just opened the first one in our village. I was completely fascinated by the smells of perms and hairspray, the sound of hairdryers, and the whole atmosphere. It wasn’t just about hair; it was a space where the village’s women came together to socialize and share stories. That experience planted the seed.
What’s your process for conceptualizing a look? Do you start with references, emotions, or something else entirely?
It depends on the job. Sometimes it’s a more creative project where I have total freedom, and other times it’s more commercial and structured. I usually start with research and develop an idea that suits the project. Some brands or artists come in with very specific concepts, and it’s my job to use my expertise to adapt those ideas in a way that works for the model, or to offer a fresh perspective they might not have considered. It might sound cliché, but communication is absolutely key to bringing everyone’s vision to life.
What non-fashion influences (art, film, literature, music, etc.) shape your creative perspective?
I often look at archival images to see how people presented themselves in the past and how hairstyles have evolved over the decades. I’m especially drawn to the 1980s. The work of British photographer Tom Wood, for example, really resonates with me. The way he documented everyday life in Liverpool, capturing mothers, daughters, sisters, and the atmosphere of the time. My close friend Marzena Jarczak, an art critic, has also inspired me to explore contemporary art from around the world and discover new artists and unexpected influences for my work.
Can you share your experience collaborating with Lemaire, as you have consistently worked with the brand since 2021?
I met Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran during a Uniqlo shoot, and they later asked me to create a video presentation for them during COVID, when fashion shows weren’t happening. I instinctively understood their vision for the hair; the simplicity really spoke to me. I love the direction the designers take. Their attention to detail is remarkable. For each show, we go through every model individually and decide together what look we want to create. The collections always feel cohesive, but every look is like a character telling their story.
What other jobs have you had?
I grew up in rural Poland, where my parents run a farm. I helped with fruit picking, including cherries, apples, and raspberries. I also attended a technical school, where I learned to design and operate large-scale machinery and work with metal. Before I started hairdressing professionally, I did seasonal farm work around Poland and Switzerland until I got my first salon job in Gdynia, Poland.
What’s one thing outside of your work that you would like people to know about you?
I love baking. I make a really good Polish cheesecake and apricot sponge cake; they’re my favorite things to make and share.
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced professionally?
Like many people in the fashion world, one of the biggest challenges is the lack of routine, last-minute changes, constant travel, and being away from your loved ones. Especially early in my career, learning how to handle rejection was tough. It took time to understand that it’s not something to take personally when a job doesn’t come through.
What advice would you give to aspiring hair-stylist looking to break into the industry?
Make the most of the early stages of your career to explore. Do research, find what truly inspires you, and take time to understand the different directions your work could go. Try out different things until you discover what really represents you. Assist established hairstylists, connect with other professionals, and build genuine relationships. Having people around you to share experiences and offer support makes a huge difference.
What’s something about your job that still excites you after all these years?
Meeting creatives from all different walks of life never gets old. It’s a real privilege to discover places and cultures I never imagined visiting, especially ones completely different from my upbringing. The lack of routine can be a good thing too. Every day is different, and that constant change keeps the job exciting and full of surprises.
Who’s one to watch?
Veronica Liccardi has been assisting me for quite some time now. I really admire her kindness, generosity, and constant willingness to help. More recently, I’ve also been working alongside Andrea Reiss. His energy is unmatched, and he has a way of making everyone around him feel at ease. They’re both a key part of my work, and without their support, I couldn’t deliver the quality I aim for.
Selected Work
Anja Rubik and Małgosia Bela by Juergen Teller, styling by Alastair McKimm | Image courtesy of Artlist
Vogue Poland March 2018 Cover Debut Issue
It was incredible to work alongside two top Polish models. We shot outside the Palace of Culture in Warsaw, and at the time, the image sparked controversy because of its references to communist-era symbolism. The story gained major exposure and marked a real turning point in my career.
Mona Tougaard by Charlotte Stouvenot, styling by Helga Burrill| Image courtesy of Artlist
Pop Magazine #52 Spring/Summer 2025 Covers
This was my first POP cover, focusing entirely on beauty. I’ve been working with Charlotte (Stouvenot) for a while now, and I admire her confidence, clarity, and the strong sense of direction she brings to every shoot.
Bibi Breslin by Tess Petronio, styling by Jane How | Image courtesy of Artlist
Self Service #60 Spring/Summer 2024 Covers
Being involved with the hair and the wardrobe for the cover shoot was a lot of fun. Jane (How’s) approach blew me away. Her preparation, organization, attention to detail, and originality were truly inspiring.
Eva Herzigová by Katja Rahlwes, styling by Eliza Conlon | Image courtesy of Artlist
Purple Fashion F/W 17: 25 Year Anniversary Issue Covers
We shot this story in London, which was a new experience for me then. It was an honor to meet and work with Eva Herzigová who is such an iconic model, and I was incredibly grateful for the opportunity.
Imaan Hammam by Vincent van de Wijngaard, styling by Imruh Asha | Image courtesy of Artlist
A Sense Of Place
We flew to Cairo, my first time in Egypt, and I was utterly stunned by the beauty of the places and people. We shot all over the city, which gave the project a special energy. Imaan (Hammam) was incredibly professional and gave her all, even under challenging conditions.
