Hairstylist's Guide: Rocky Vitelli, Mexico City, Mexico

Toronto-area stylist works beauty shows for Farouk
By Melissa Brazier and Tina Christopoulos

Rocky Vitelli, co-owner of Mane Society salons in Thornhill and Maple, ON, and global artistic team member for Farouk Systems, is a staple on the mainstage of Mexico’s largest beauty trade show, Expo Beauty Show (EBS). An experienced traveller, Vitelli was so impressed by Mexico City after his first EBS show in 2008 that he’s gladly been back twice since.

What keeps drawing you to Mexico City?
Mexico City’s EBS show is one of my favourites because hairstylists get recognition there. They’re held in as high regard as doctors, for example. The show attracts over 100,000 people over two to three days and it’s very common to come offstage after and be asked for your autograph. It’s insane!

Can you tell me a particular memory that stands out from your travels in Mexico?
I remember my assistant only spoke Spanish and I was kind of nervous working with a translator. I was onstage and wasn’t sure how much time we had left. I thought she said 15 minutes so I rushed to get my model finished. When I was done she looked at me and said, “You now have 15 minutes left onstage,” and I had no model to do! I quickly grabbed someone out of the audience and created this fabulous updo. As I walked away I could see all kinds of cameras flashing and that sent shivers down my spine.

What can Canada’s hair industry learn from Mexico’s hair industry?
How to dress and style long hair. There, long hairstyling is done in a classic, pulled back, smooth way. Mexico also does very inspirational fantasy and avant garde hair.

Why do you think international work is so important for hairstylists?
Travelling abroad and being able to share your talent and seeing that response from a packed audience is really great for your self-esteem. You bring that back to your salon and it creates a huge vibe of positive energy. It reignites that spark and passion for hairstyling.