Wendy Iles is an iconic figure in the world of hair artistry, she has been featured in publications such as Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire. Wendy has worked with hollywood A-listers such as Dita Von Teese, Chloe Sevigny, Hilary Swank, Eva Longoria and Penelope Cruz. Iles is one of the most sought after hairstylists and has worked on editorial campaigns for Dior, Cacharel, Hermes, and major hair brands like L’Oreal, Wella, Schwarzkopft and more. I was fortunate enough to be able to interview Iles and she shared some of her favorite tips and trends with me.

1. What are your favorite fall hair trends?

I love the easiness of the hair this fall season. Ponytails worn lower on the nape of neck, hair flowing naturally allowing any natural movement like curl to be free.

2. What individual products and brands you’re “addicted” to at the moment and you use on a daily basis?

I discovered a shampoo and conditioner by accident called Number 4 L’eau de mer. Its totally PH balanced neutral and leaves the feeling like spun silk. Its expensive but worth it. I also like all Khiels products.

3. What are some of the most basic but effective hair care tips that you have, that are really important?

a) Always use a conditioner after shampooing. In today’s climate we all need to condition because of pollution in the air, chemicals in our water, etc. Even oily scalps there are conditioners that are adaptable to oily hair.
b) Keep ends of hair (especially when growing long) cut or trimmed every six weeks. It prevents split ends, keeps hair in maximum health and aids in getting long healthy hair faster.

4. What are the biggest hair care dont’s?

Don’t use too much hairspray. One looses the suppleness and control in the hair if its over sprayed. Be sure to use a non-detergent shampoo. Often a good test is the more bubbles a shampoo gives the more detergent is inside.
Don’t use pure elastic rubber bands on your hair or your children’s hair. It will break the hair instead always use fabric or thread coated bands.

5. What hair color do you recommend for the upcoming season?

This fall season it’s all about “chocolate” colors. So it’s the time for brunettes to shine! Even the blondes can have milk chocolate lowlights or white chocolate (that’s a beige color) toners. Hair is less sophisticated in style this fall, more relaxed less constructed so ultimate healthy shiny hair is important.

6. Would you share with us a few your best hair tips or insider secrets?

For me personally I have long natural curly hair. To control the curl and take away the frizzies plus keep the hair in perfect condition I’ve discovered the best way is to use a condition mask not a styling mousse as it makes hair crunchy to touch or frizz ease serum as the hair becomes greasy. The hair mask I use is L’Oreal Kerastase lightly skimmed over the surface of damp hair. Comb through place curl the way you like it fall. Don’t touch again till dry. The result is great.

7. What is your life motto, any words of wisdom that get you by in life and professional career?

Always do your best, and one will eventually succeed.

Iles recently published ARCHIVE: A Book about Hair, available at  Rizzoli  bookstore in NY or directly online from publisher printkultur.com .