Mike Desir’s goal was to bring a French touch and creativity to hair fashion in India.
Renowned hairstylist Mike Desir tells News18 about his experience working with celebrities, how he brings his creative vision to India and which hair looks never go out of style.
From London to Paris to Mumbai, renowned hairstylist Mike Desir has captured hearts with his iconic hairstyles. From the Netflix TV series Emily in Paris to the Ambani wedding, Mike has created magic with his hairstyling on and off screen.
Mike is an inspiration for aspiring hairdressers and his aesthetic has made him a favourite of Bollywood stars. From Alia Bhatt to Kareena Kapoor Khan, his aesthetic has made him a favourite of Bollywood stars. Recently, he styled Isha Ambani’s hair for Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s wedding festivities in July 2024.
An inspiration to aspiring hairdressers, Mike tells News18 about his experience working with celebrities, how he brings his creative vision to India and which hair looks never go out of style.
Has celebrity hair styling boomed in recent years and what has changed in the industry?
When I came to India four years ago and was represented by ANIMA (Anima Creatives), I wanted to bring a French touch and creativity to hair fashion. I wanted to introduce new textures and move away from the traditional wavy styles to edgier and more modern looks, including unique hair parts and wet looks. It is gratifying to see that both the fashion and Bollywood industries have embraced these changes.
You styled Isha Ambani and Alia Bhatt for Anant Ambani’s wedding reception. Take us through your iconic hairstyles.
Working with Isha Ambani and Alia Bhatt for Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s wedding was a beautiful experience. They are both such lovely people. For Isha, I wanted to create hairstyles that she hadn’t tried before. I created an elegant updo with accessories and a half up, half down wavy look with a vintage brooch. Another look was a twisted updo with hair falling down her neck, complemented by a hair accessory.
For Alia, who wore a 160-year-old Ashavali sari, I played with floral elements and embellished her bun in an innovative way with roses and traditional jasmine flowers.
How was it working with Isha Ambani and how would you describe her approach to creative hairstyling?
Isha was truly wonderful to work with. She shared her wishes with me, whether she wanted her hair down or up. After we discussed these initial instructions, she trusted me completely to create her looks with my creativity and expertise. This trust allowed me to experiment and design unique hairstyles for her, with accessories and elegant touches that complemented her style and the splendor of the wedding. Her openness and trust in my work made the experience both enjoyable and creatively fulfilling.
What’s the difference between styling celebrities on screen and in private life? Are there any funny celebrity hair moments that you’ll remember forever?
I feel that Indian celebrities are very warm and caring, so it feels like we are working with family. Everyone is so kind and lovely. I remember Kareena Kapoor often asking about me, where I was and why I hadn’t eaten during the shoot. She even brought me non-spicy food in her van. These behind-the-scenes moments are truly special and I was always amazed by the genuine humanity and kindness I experienced in India.
What advice would you give to aspiring hairdressers?
I always say keep practicing and looking for new ideas. Create mood boards that match the celebrity you are working with or express the mood you want to present as a hairdresser. I still practice and try as many new products as possible.
Which hairstyles do you think will never go out of fashion? And what is trending this year?
Short hair has definitely become a big trend this year. Bob haircuts in particular are making a big impression. Many people are opting for natural textures combined with a touch of curl to create a stylish, modern look. This mix of classic and contemporary styles is gaining a lot of traction and is being embraced by both celebrities and the general public.
