We were lucky to catch up with Aj Jones recently and have shared our conversation below.
AJ, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
I started my journey in the beauty industry by becoming a licensed cosmetologist, but my real education came from hands-on experience. Working behind the chair, collaborating with different artists, and stepping into the TV/film and fashion industries exposed me to a wide range of hair textures, techniques, and creative challenges. Every set, every client, and every project has been a learning experience. I’ve always approached hair not just as a skill, but as an art form—studying its movement, texture, and how it interacts with fashion and storytelling.
If I could have accelerated my growth, I would have sought out mentors and industry connections even earlier. The technical skills can be learned in school, but the knowledge shared by seasoned professionals on set, backstage, or in editorial work is invaluable. I also would have pushed myself to experiment fearlessly—sometimes, trial and error is the fastest way to refine your craft. Another game-changer would have been immersing myself in more film and theater work early on, as those environments require quick thinking and adaptability
Beyond technical hair skills, adaptability is key. Every set, client, and project has different needs, so being able to pivot and problem-solve quickly is crucial. Creativity and an eye for detail have helped me bring a unique vision to my work, especially in editorial and runway settings. Strong communication and collaboration skills have also been essential—working in film, TV, and fashion means constantly syncing with directors, designers, and other artists to bring a cohesive vision to life. And, of course, understanding hair health has been a foundation of my work—beautiful hair starts with healthy hair.
Access to opportunities can sometimes be a challenge, especially in industries like film and fashion, where connections matter. Early on, I had to actively seek out chances to prove myself, whether by assisting, networking, or showing up where I knew the right people would be. Another challenge was balancing creativity with the business side of the industry—knowing how to market myself, secure consistent work, and navigate the competitive landscape. But every challenge pushed me to be more resourceful, persistent, and confident in my abilities.
AJ, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m Arielle “AJ” Jones, a licensed cosmetologist and luxury hair artist with over a decade of experience in the beauty industry. My journey started behind the chair, but my passion for artistry, storytelling, and creative collaboration led me into the worlds of TV/film, editorial, runway, and high-end beauty services. I’ve worked on productions like Power Book IV: Force and The Chi, as well as countless fashion shows, magazine covers, and lookbooks. My approach to hair is not just about styling—it’s about creating, shaping, and elevating hair as an artistic medium.
I provide a range of services, from luxury hair styling and on-set hair design to creative direction for editorial and runway projects. I work with all hair types, focusing not just on aesthetics but also on hair health and integrity. Whether I’m creating a sleek, high-fashion look for the runway or developing character-driven styles for film and TV, my goal is always the same: to bring a unique artistic vision to life.
What sets me apart is my ability to blend technical expertise with creativity. I don’t just style hair—I sculpt it, mold it, and bring it into conversation with fashion, movement, and storytelling. I view hair the same way a designer views fabric: considering its texture, density, flow, and movement to create looks that are both visually striking and deeply intentional.
For my private clients, I provide luxury hair services that prioritize both beauty and hair health, ensuring they leave feeling confident and empowered. For productions, I help bring characters to life, creating styles that enhance storytelling and reflect character development. In fashion and editorial, I collaborate with designers, stylists, and photographers to craft bold, innovative looks that push creative boundaries.
Beyond just styling, I also serve as an educator and advocate for healthy hair practices, helping clients understand how to care for their hair properly while still achieving high-fashion looks.
One of my biggest achievements was curating Chicago’s first-ever hair exhibit, the Museum of Contemporary Hair, in Fall 2023. This project was a labor of love—showcasing hair as an artistic and cultural statement rather than just a beauty standard. It was a celebration of creativity, identity, and innovation in hair design.
I’m also incredibly proud of my work in TV and film, helping to shape the visual storytelling of major productions. Seeing my work on screen, knowing it contributed to a character’s development or the overall aesthetic of a show, is an incredible feeling.
At the core of everything I do is artistry, innovation, and inclusivity. I want my clients, followers, and industry peers to know that I am dedicated to pushing creative boundaries, servicing all hair types, and making sure every person I work with feels seen and valued. Whether I’m behind the scenes on a film set, backstage at a runway show, or creating a look for an editorial shoot, my goal is to bring out the full creative potential of hair.
I’m here to inspire, create, and elevate—one look at a time.
Have you ever had to pivot?
One of the biggest pivots in my career—and in my life—was when I made the bold decision to quit my full-time job at the postal service to pursue hair artistry full time. I had been working behind the chair while balancing a stable, traditional job, but deep down, I knew that hair was my true passion. I wanted to fully step into my creative power and build a career that aligned with my artistic vision.
Taking that leap was both terrifying and exhilarating. I didn’t have a guaranteed safety net, but I trusted that my skills, passion, and work ethic would open doors. And they did. Just a month after leaving the postal service, I got the call to day-play on Power Book IV: Force. That moment was confirmation that I had made the right decision. It was my first real taste of working on a major TV production, and from that point forward, I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be.
That one opportunity led to more—eventually, I worked on multiple episodes of The Chi and later secured a full-time position on Season 7. Stepping into the worlds of TV, film, and high fashion was a major shift from my previous career path, but it was a shift that felt natural. I had to rebrand myself, network, and prove my skills in a completely different environment, but every challenge strengthened my confidence and solidified my place in the industry.
Another major pivot came when I curated Chicago’s first-ever hair exhibit, the Museum of Contemporary Hair. It was a moment where I fully embraced my role not just as a stylist, but as an artist and storyteller. That experience pushed me to see hair in a completely new way—not just as a beauty tool, but as an artistic medium with cultural and creative significance.
Each of these pivots required faith, persistence, and a willingness to evolve. They taught me that growth comes from stepping into the unknown, betting on yourself, and trusting the process. Had I stayed in my comfort zone, I never would have experienced the incredible journey that I’m on today.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
From my own experience as a luxury hair artist working in TV, film, fashion, and editorial, I’ve seen firsthand how creatives are often undervalued, despite being the backbone of culture, storytelling, and innovation. Whether it’s behind the scenes on a film set, backstage at a runway show, or curating an exhibit that pushes the boundaries of hair artistry, I’ve learned that while talent and hard work are crucial, support and access to resources can make or break a creative career.
More Investment & Fair Compensation for Creatives
• Respect Artists’ Time & Talent:
Early in my career, I saw how many creatives—especially hairstylists—are asked to work for “exposure” rather than fair pay. Society needs to understand that artistry is a skill, a profession, and a form of labor that deserves compensation. Whether it’s hairstylists on film sets, designers in fashion, or musicians in the studio, creatives deserve to be paid what they’re worth.
• Funding & Grants for Independent Artists:
When I curated Chicago’s first-ever hair exhibit, the Museum of Contemporary Hair, I self-funded much of the project. While it was an incredible experience, I know that many artists don’t have the financial means to bring their visions to life. More grants, sponsorships, and funding opportunities need to be available to help emerging artists take risks and create groundbreaking work.
Access to Spaces & Resources for Artistic Growth
• Affordable Creative Spaces:
One of the biggest challenges for artists—whether hairstylists, photographers, or painters—is finding affordable locations to create and showcase their work. I’ve seen this issue in Chicago, where access to studios, galleries, and performance venues can be expensive and exclusive. More investment in community-driven spaces would allow artists to collaborate, experiment, and showcase their talent without financial barriers.
• Industry Gatekeeping Needs to End:
Breaking into TV and film as a hairstylist required me to network and prove myself in ways that weren’t always straightforward. Many creatives struggle because industries are tightly gatekept. We need more mentorship programs, apprenticeships, and open doors for those who have the talent but lack connections. When I got the call to day-play on Power Book IV: Force just a month after quitting my full-time job at the postal service, it was life-changing. But it also showed me how much opportunity is about access—and how important it is for experienced professionals to pull others up.
Education & Visibility for Creative Careers
• The Arts Need to Be Taken Seriously in Education:
Growing up, creative careers weren’t always positioned as “real jobs.” Many hairstylists, makeup artists, designers, and visual artists are self-taught or forced to carve their own paths because formal education often prioritizes traditional career paths over creative ones. Schools should offer stronger arts programs, business education for creatives, and exposure to career paths in beauty, fashion, film, and beyond.
• More Media Coverage for Non-Traditional Artists:
When people think of “artists,” they often think of painters, musicians, or filmmakers. But what about hair artists, costume designers, set designers, or digital creators? There needs to be more platforms showcasing artists across different disciplines, ensuring that all forms of creativity are valued and respected.
A Culture That Respects & Uplifts Artists
• Shift the Narrative Around Creative Careers:
When I left my secure job at the postal service to pursue my passion full-time, it was a huge risk. Society often encourages people to play it safe rather than follow their artistic calling. But if we want a thriving creative ecosystem, we need to normalize and celebrate creative entrepreneurship the same way we celebrate other career achievements.
• Engaging with & Supporting Local Art:
One of the best ways to support creatives is to actively engage with their work—book the hairstylist, buy the independent designer’s collection, attend local exhibits, share the artist’s content. Small acts of support make a big impact.
Stronger Industry Protections for Creatives
• Freelancer Rights Matter: Many hairstylists, makeup artists, and fashion creatives work gig to gig without stable benefits or protections. Society needs better contracts, fair payment structures, and policies that ensure independent artists aren’t exploited.
Society thrives on art, culture, and creativity. From the films we watch to the runway looks that inspire trends, artists shape the world around us. But to continue pushing boundaries, telling stories, and innovating, creatives need real support, not just appreciation from afar. I believe in building a creative ecosystem where artists are seen, valued, and given the tools to succeed—because when artists thrive, the world becomes a more beautiful, expressive, and inspiring place.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://AJKnowsHair.com
- Instagram: AJKnowsHair
