Nevena Rothe started her career at an early age, and by 19 she had her own hair studio. After this, Nevena got the chance to work all over the world, with Italy being the first on the list. As she grew into a talented young artist she began to grow out of the small town she grew up in, Sofia. Coming to Chicago for a summer, she ended up staying and now calls it home.
Trained under Vidal Sassoon and Louis Llongueras, Nevena specializes in precision cutting. As a part of the International All-Star Team for American Crew she appreciates the artistic precision involved in their technique and travels all over the world teaching just that. She frequents LA, NY, and Europe but when she’s not traveling for editorial and fashion projects you can find her at her salon, Custom Hair Lounge + Spa in Chicago. Learn more about this All-Star American Crew Educator below.
Can you tell us a little more about you and your styling background?
Although I specialize in precision cutting, with my artistic vision and impeccable attention to detail, I enjoy tailoring styles to meet each client’s needs.
I am formally trained in the famous American Crew Method and am a member of the elite International American Crew All-Star Team of educators—1 of only 12 in America. I continue to improve my skills through global education and I'm constantly working on my own innovative techniques by pushing the boundaries of our craft. As an expert in curly hair, I can work magic with every possible texture!
What drew you to hair styling?
I fell in love with the connection to the people. With an immense desire to elevate inner strength and beauty, as well as the ability to increase someone’s confidence through a look and the way the clients feel after a visit with me.
What is your favorite technique to use?
Dry cutting, attention to detailed precision techniques as well as styling hair using hair stitching with a tread and needle.
What has been your biggest defining moment in your career?
Becoming an educator was a wonderful moment for me. Aside from this, working on magazine editorials and the Academy Awards and Fashion Week as a professional stylist. Participating in challenging events when time is of the essence pushes you creatively and it is through this that you learn more about yourself as a stylist and an artist.
Is there a specific area you often find yourself looking to for inspiration?
Museums and the artwork of the masters, travel and submerging yourself into different cultures and scuba diving because you push your human boundaries and face your fears. And above all else, nature; where you respect the beauty of the world!
What is the one product/tool that you can’t live without?
My hands… but really my YS park Combs and Hattori Hanzo Shears.
How do you use styling to enhance your images?
I am to not overthink it. Being behind the camera you begin to understand that beauty has many shapes and forms. Perfecting these shapes and keeping clean forms is key when styling for a still shot.
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
I would love to have the ability to teleport, so I could be at many places at the same time!
What is your favorite cutting technique?
Trained by Vidal Sassoon and Luis Llongueras, I love the contrast of precision but also breaking texture.
Who were your mentors along the way and how have they shaped your career?
I have had many mentors and they’ve all shaped my career in various ways:
Guido Palau for changing hair texture, his power of invention and interpretation of the shapes and the blend created between female and male looks. Aldo Coppola for the discipline and philosophy of the beauty of education and his methods. Annie Humprey and learning her science behind coloring techniques. And Luis Llongueras with the recognition of sustainability and a well rounded point of view of the world.
What do you think is next for men’s grooming?
We will see long hair, more movement, details, and length. Beards are still heavily in style and create confidence. The 70s are coming back, and I am finding that really anything to do with handsome, sexy shapes is in.
What hair/color trends can we look forward to this Spring?
Spring will be about lots of neutral beige colors, babylights, dimension, and incorporation of bright, interesting complimenting colors placed next to each other!
For even more inspiration and hair tips, be sure to stalk Nevena Rothe on Bangstyle!
