Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Rocco Reyes. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Rocco, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So, let’s start with trends – what are some of the largest or more impactful trends you are seeing in the industry?

Thankfully, for both stylists and clients alike, hair and scalp health have taken center stage in modern hair trends. In the past, the focus was solely on achieving a specific look—whatever it took. Ultra-cool silvers and pure white blondes were the goal, regardless of the damage they inflicted. But now, we’re seeing a shift. The new standard? Hair that thrives—shiny, full, and soft. And with that comes a resurgence of warmth.

I love this movement toward healthier hair and all that comes with it. Face-framing highlights are in, with deep, rich tones at the crown. Bright, buttery blondes, rich caramel brunettes, and deep coppers have become my most requested looks. This shift toward low-maintenance color not only enhances natural beauty but also allows hair to flourish. We’re also embracing scalp oiling, rosemary water treatments, and light therapy to stimulate growth—because full ends start at the root! Even in the world of extensions, keratin-tips have evolved into the most seamless, versatile, and, most importantly, healthy method available.

One of my favorite client transformations showcases this trend perfectly. She, like many, had fallen into the trap of chasing the ultra-ashy blonde—only to experience breakage and dryness. When she started sitting in my chair, I slowly transitioned her to a more balanced, golden-beige blonde while swapping her damaging clip-in extensions for concealed bead wefts. Now, just over a year later, her hair is significantly longer, unbelievably shiny, and incredibly soft. With a scalp-conscious extension install, she truly has the hair of her dreams.

I can’t wait to see where this trend takes us, but one thing is certain—the future of hair is healthy, thriving, and radiant!

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

For those who haven’t met me yet, I’m a hairstylist with over five years of experience, specializing in luxury color and extensions. My journey in the beauty industry started with formal styling for weddings and special events, where I developed a deep appreciation for the transformative power of hair. Over time, I discovered my true passion in color and extensions—two services that, when done correctly, can completely change not only a person’s look but also their confidence and self-expression.

Today, I work behind the chair at Bellibone Salon in Maywood, NJ, where I focus on creating low-maintenance, dimensional color and healthy, scalp-conscious extensions. This is also where I met my mentor and educator who not only took me under her wing, but inspires me to keep pushing to better my craft. My approach is rooted in the belief that beautiful hair should also be thriving hair. I specialize in techniques that enhance a client’s natural beauty while prioritizing hair and scalp health—whether that means seamlessly blended, lived-in color or extensions that feel as natural and comfortable as they look.

Beyond the salon, I’ve had the incredible honor of styling for four consecutive seasons at New York Fashion Week, where I’ve worked behind the scenes of some of the industry’s most exciting runway shows, and even been honored on the runway this Spring ‘25 season. In 2024, I was recognized as Stylist of the Year by MyFavStylist, an achievement that reflects my dedication to my craft and my clients.

What sets me apart is my concierge-style approach to client care. I believe in not just doing hair but also educating my clients on how to maintain and enhance their look between visits. I take pride in offering a luxury experience—one where my clients feel heard, understood, and completely confident in their hair journey.

More than anything, I’m passionate about helping people love their hair while keeping it healthy and strong. Whether it’s a client who has struggled with breakage and finally sees their hair flourish, or someone who feels more confident than ever with a seamlessly blended color, those transformations are why I do what I do.

I can’t wait to continue evolving in this industry, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible while always staying true to my commitment: gorgeous, healthy, thriving hair.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

The profound impact of social media on our culture is both a blessing and a curse. A blessing because it is arguably the most powerful and versatile marketing tool for businesses today. A curse because, for that very reason, it demands constant, 24/7 engagement, strategy, and content creation.

Establishing an online presence—even as a beauty school student with only a couple hundred followers—allowed me to reach the right people, opening doors to the opportunities that have shaped my career and helping me build the clientele I have today. A social media portfolio isn’t just beneficial in this industry; it’s a necessity. It serves as both a digital resume and a first impression, showcasing not only technical skills but also personal style, expertise, and the client experience.

However, simply posting before-and-after photos isn’t enough. The real game changer was finding ways to go beyond static content and truly engage my audience. I focused on creating content that offered value—whether through education, transformation stories, or insights into my process—while also fostering a sense of connection. I wanted potential clients to feel like they knew me before they ever sat in my chair.

Consistency is everything. Showing up every single day, interacting with followers, and maintaining a strong presence has a direct payoff. When I see new client inquiries coming in, I know it’s a reflection of the hours of effort put into building my brand online. Social media isn’t just about visibility; it’s about trust. And when people trust you, they book with you.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

There are so many aspects of my art that bring fulfillment, but above all, I’m grateful that I can even call it my art—my passion. I recognize how fortunate I am to have found a career that not only excites me but also allows me to make a meaningful impact while achieving success. Getting to share that passion with every client who sits in my chair is the most rewarding part of what I do.

It’s not just about the recognition, the brand collaborations, or even the financial success—though those are incredible milestones. What truly fuels me is the transformation I get to witness, not just in my clients’ hair, but in their confidence. Seeing their faces light up, watching them carry themselves differently, and knowing I played a role in helping them feel as beautiful as they look—that’s what makes this work so deeply fulfilling.

Hairdressing is more than just an external transformation. It’s about connection, trust, and the emotions tied to how we present ourselves to the world. It’s about creating a space where clients feel heard, valued, and confident in their own beauty. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my clients, and I’m endlessly grateful for every single person who trusts me with their hair and their confidence.

At the end of the day, that’s the greatest reward—knowing that my work has the power to uplift, empower, and bring joy.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @hair.by.rocco
• Other: Text: +1 (551) 282-0535