BG staffers had the honor of meeting Federico Calce, hairstylist to the stars, recently at his chic uptown salon. He came to New York from Milan in the early eighties and became a fixture at runway shows including Fendi, Valentino and Armani. Since then, he’s cultivated a celebrity following: his clients include Kelly Ripa, Eva Longoria, Nicole Richie, Catherine Zeta-Jones and more! (If he could work with any celebrity bride, it would be Angelina Jolie).
The pro hairstylist sat down with us and gave us the inside scoop on what he recommends for all of his brides, famous or not.
1. Why is your wedding-day hairstyle important?
“Hair is an extension of personality. It’s the first thing a person notices when they look at a face,” said Calce. It’s important to look like yourself on your wedding day; for example, if you usually wear a sock bun or a ponytail, then a top knot would be a fabulous wedding hairstyle idea for you. However, if you never put your hair up in your day-to-day life, it’s probably not the best idea to start on your wedding day.
2. What advice do you have for the hair trial?
Calce recommends trying five different looks at your hair trials. Take photos of each hairstyle — “In person, they may appear one way, but the camera will give a different effect,” said Calce.
Each look is catered to the specifics of the dress and the bride’s hairstyle preferences. Brides should bring photos of their wedding gown (including both the front and back views). They should also bring any headpieces, veils, or accessories they might want to use on the big day.
3. Why are extensions a good idea for the big day?
Extensions add more body, volume, and length. Extensions are also weather-proof! “Whatever hairdo you choose to do with extensions (curls, straight, etc.), it will remain intact no matter what weather the bride encounters. Only natural hair is affected by humidity,” said Calce.
4. How much time should brides block off to get ready on their wedding day?
They should set aside at least two to three hours.
5. What are some of your favorite products that you would recommend to brides and grooms?
“Fa’Briq hairspray along with Fa’briq anti-humidity, and strong hold curl spray. For men, I recommend the Fa’Briq moulding mud to give extra shine. I also prefer to use zip ties instead of bobby pins to hold the hair,” said Calce.
NYC brides, Federico’s salons are located at 57th Madison, and in the Benjamin Hotel on 50th and Lex.
