Robin Capili

STYLIST

My journey began more than 20 years ago. I was barely 15, and my first time picking up a pair of shears was when my aunt begged me to cut my 8 year old cousin’s hair.

FYI: I had no idea what I was doing.

Rewind: Ever since my first ‘real’ haircut at a local barbershop in Teaneck, NJ, I was fascinated not only by how good a haircut can make me feel, but mostly by the culture, community, and camaraderie that went along with it. It sparked something in me.

As long as I can remember, I’ve always been the creative type—I loved working with my hands—drawing, painting, sculpting, building, etc. On my discovery path, I tried everything that had anything to do with the creative process—from concept to creation—images and ideas coming to life as I saw fit. Art and all—I was hooked. From then on, I knew whatever it was I was meant to do—It was to create.

Fast-forward: I picked up those shears and gave my cousin the worst haircut of his life. I haven’t put them down since.

Most of my career path, I’ve spent exploring my options. The only thing that was absolute—it had to happen in New York City. I’ve done it all: Graphic Design, Web Design, Illustration, Photography, Fashion, etc.—anything I could do that would get my foot in the door of the greatest city in the world.

Eventually, I landed a job at a buzz-worthy barbershop in the West Village. For about 2 years, I built up my skills, my reputation, and a loyal following to top it off. I was then scouted by one of the most reputable hairstylists in the industry. After one quick phone call, I was plucked out of the barbershop world and thrust into a new level of the industry where hair followed fashion—where hair is art.

I was insatiable—I sought out further education wherever I could get it. Following the forms and functions of the industry’s leading company’s like Paul Mitchell, Sam Villa, Sally Hershberger, and Vidal Sassoon. Mentoring with one of Intercoiffure’s Educator of the year, Mary Brunetti—restructuring my foundational skills, honing in on my strengths, and solidifying my calling.

I’ve been blessed throughout my career to have had opportunities to work with world-renowned publications; shooting editorials, fashion shows, look-books; working with artists and actors of all shapes and sizes, and yet, I couldn’t help but feel that there had to be more.

After 5 years in the downtown New York salon scene, I hit the inevitable glass ceiling. I was coming to realize and revisit my childhood dream of owning a business—so the next step was a big leap.

My wife and I got engaged, moved, married, and started a business in the same year. But, that was just another start. Read our ABOUT section to get the low-down on the rest of our story. And we welcome all to follow our journey—for we are kin.