Interview with Flavien Heldt: Celebrity Hairstylist
Flavien Heldt, a renowned hairstylist from Lyon, France, recently led the hair direction for Nexxus New York at the Hyundai India Couture Week 2026. He has a rich portfolio, working with notable figures including Isha Ambani and Katrina Kaif. Here are some insights from his recent conversation with t2ONLINE.
Where did you study hairstyling? Was it always your first love?
I trained in hairstyling in Paris but was mostly self-taught. I learned by immersing myself in shoots and fashion shows, absorbing knowledge from fashion magazines. My passion for hair stems from its transformative potential through a blend of technique and creativity.
Who were your icons?
Artists like Guido, Luigi Murenu, and Gregory Kaoua have deeply influenced my approach to hair, instilling a disciplined yet unconventional mindset towards shape and texture.
Who was the first supermodel you worked with?
The first supermodel I styled was Izabel Goulart. That experience taught me the importance of understanding the individual behind the hairstyle.
What did your global assignments teach you about beauty in diversity?
Working internationally revealed that beauty is not universal. Every individual’s hair texture and cultural background requires an appreciation of diversity, enhancing unique attributes instead of imposing a single aesthetic.
When was your first visit to India?
I visited India for the first time in January 2020. I was struck by the rich beauty culture, especially the significance placed on long, healthy hair intertwined with fashion and celebration.
Who was your first celebrity client in India?
My first client was Bhumi Pednekar. We created soft waves, a process that felt genuinely collaborative and thoughtful to ensure her hair complemented the overall fashion statement.
How has your time in India been?
My time in India has been incredibly inspiring, creatively and personally. I’ve worked with unique personalities and gained a deeper understanding of local hair textures and beauty traditions.
How have you blended your Parisian aesthetics with Indian sensibilities?
My Parisian style focuses on restraint and effortless movement, while Indian beauty values richness and ornamentation. I strive to create hair that feels polished yet still resonates with the wearer’s individual personality.
What was your approach for the Rahul Mishra show?
The hair for the show needed to appear effortless and expressive, harmonizing with the intricacies of Rahul’s couture. The bespoke magnolia accessory, inspired by Nexxus New York, seamlessly connected the hair to the couture theme.
What makes Rahul Mishra truly global?
Rahul’s work combines traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary visual language, preserving cultural integrity while making it universally relatable.
Additional Insights:
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Sobhita’s Look: Polished yet effortless, featuring healthy hair and a curated magnolia accessory that complemented the couture.
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Hair Hack: Start with Nexxus Promend Oil Resurrection for smoothing, shine, and natural movement before styling.
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Favorite Tool: A good hairdryer with a precise nozzle is vital for control and styling without excessive heat.
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Bridal Hair Basics: Prioritize comfort and longevity in styling to maintain the bride’s natural feel throughout her special day.
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Strange Hair Experiment: I haven’t done wild experiments on myself but have styled friends with extreme cuts and color transformations.
