Erica Pappas

What drives your passion for haircutting and styling, and how do you incorporate the beauty of individuality into your work?
“I love individuality and personal style and think of a good haircut as the ultimate accessory. Every haircut can be perfectly tailored to someone’s lifestyle and personality, creating a reflection of who they are as an individual.”

How do you innovate classic styles?
“There’s a running joke between me and my clients that the first haircut I give them is a gateway haircut, and from then on, we go shorter and shorter or funkier and funkier. I love providing a space where clients trust my artistic vision but feel safe enough to be vulnerable and brave in expressing themselves in new ways.”

Why is lifelong learning key for you?
“I take classes as frequently as I can. Recently, I took a class from Ira Pope Sage called ‘Perspective is Key.’ I love seeing how other hairstylists may approach something in a way that I wouldn’t have thought of, and RAW’s emphasis on education has always supported my growth.”

What’s your take on trends?
“Since I have a broad and well-rounded understanding of hair theory, I can take modern trends and apply what I’ve learned while also tweaking them to convey my flair.”

What philosophy guides you?
“Collaboration. I always love to ask how my clients style their hair; I’ve learned so many insanely cool tricks from clients and teammates that I would have never considered. Collaboration always makes for a cooler outcome.”

What advice do you have for aspiring stylists?
“Stay humble and curious. Take every opportunity you have to learn from others. Stay disciplined and intentional within your craft. Find your niche.”

What’s your mantra?
“Scarcity can inspire a lot of creativity. When I have strict rules or limits to work within, I create some of my coolest work.”