Behind the Image is an ongoing MODELS.com series taking a more personal look at both established and emerging creative talent.
Matt Benns | Image courtesy of Total Management
Matt Benns, Hair Stylist
Hometown: Auckland, New Zealand
Based: Brooklyn, New York
Representation: Total Management
How did you first discover your passion for hair? Was there a specific moment that made you realize this was your career path?
My journey began in the UK, where I first stepped into a salon at seventeen. I eventually returned home to New Zealand to complete my formal apprenticeship, but my perspective truly shifted when I moved to New York. Assisting my mentor, Jawara, was a turning point. Being immersed in his process and surrounded by a community that championed risk and creative exploration changed everything for me. It was in those spaces that I realized I did not just want to work in this industry, I wanted to contribute to it.
How would you describe your work? What’s your trademark?
My work blends natural texture with structural fantasy. I love augmenting reality with wigs, hairpieces, volume, or length. For me, hair is limitless.
Having been on tour with Charli xcx, how do you prepare hair for the demands of touring and ensure it remains long-lasting throughout?
1. Plan in advance.
2. Changes happen quickly.
3. Always have a plan B prepared.
4. I work with products that are reliable and that I can count on and trust.
What’s your process for conceptualizing a look? Do you start with references, emotions, or something else entirely?
I usually lead with emotion. I believe it allows for a more authentic result. Conceptualizing an idea usually starts with a conversation, and from there, my ideas begin to form. I have albums of references saved in my phone, galleries of images of people on the street, sculptures, fabrics, shapes, and images from books or paintings.
What non-fashion influences (art, film, literature, music, etc.) shape your creative perspective?
A lot of films recently. Again, cinema draws out an emotive response. I am drawn to how film constructs identity through visual cues, and I apply that same rigor to my work. For me, styling is about character development. It is the art of molding a version of someone that feels both aspirational and authentically connected to who they are or can be.
What’s something outside of your work that you would like people to know about you?
I have a green thumb – sort of (I try). I have a little greenhouse where I’ve grown a lot of my own vegetables and flowers.
What other jobs have you had?
Hair is the only “official” job I’ve had. I used to help my mum’s best friend at her Thai restaurant during high school. I loved it, honestly.
Selected Work
Charli xcx by Aidan Zamiri | Image courtesy of Total Management
Vanity Fair U.S. November 2025 Cover
This Vanity Fair shoot by Aidan Zamiri, with styling by Max Ortega, is one of my favorites. It feels really special to me because this felt like the beginning of Charli’s new glamour actress era.
Charli xcx by C Prinz | Image courtesy of Total Management
Charli xcx – Chains of Love music video
A day that I really put my hairography skills to the test, running around with the cameraman and my windblower.
Joan Smalls by Aidan Zamiri | Image courtesy of Total Management
Nothing Precious
Working with Joan Smalls was mega. She is a dream, and she really moved into this hairstyle. It felt so beautiful to watch. This image is from makeup artist and friend Marcelo Gutierrez’s book Nothing Precious and was photographed by Aidan Zamiri.
Lorde by Wera Nowak | Image courtesy of Total Management
Dazed Magazine Autumn 2025 Covers
Being part of this team with a longtime friend, Ella (Lorde), felt really special. I remember vividly being an apprentice in Auckland, New Zealand, and seeing her first cover with Dazed 10 years ago, and being so excited for her. It felt really surreal being there for this one.
Charli xcc by Henry Redcliffe | Image courtesy of Total Management
Charli xcx at the 2025 Met Gala
I was obsessed with this look and glam, the texture of her hair was beautiful. Charli wore Ann Demeulemeester styled by Chris Horan, I loved the feather pieces.
