What Do Hair Stylists Wear
Being a hairstylist is a demanding job, which requires a uniform that meets the comfort, style, and functionality needs of hairdressers everywhere. Busy stylists need a hair salon uniform that not only makes them feel comfortable, but holds up to safety standards, and the image their clients expect.
Hairdressing Uniforms
Hairdressing uniforms have evolved over the years, but the basics have remained the same. Hair stylist uniforms should be comfortable, functional, and easy to clean while also reflecting the salon’s individual brand and style. A great uniform creates a cohesive professional atmosphere that supports the salon’s image.
Hairdressing uniforms typically consist of tops, bottoms, aprons, and shoes that protect the hairdresser from hair clippings, chemicals, and injury. Here, we’re taking a look at what hairdressers wear to work, and how to find the hair salon uniform that meets your needs.
Why Do Hairstylists Wear Black
Have you ever noticed that it seems the standard hair stylist uniform is all black, from head to toe? It’s not a coincidence that this is the common hair salon uniform, no matter where you go – from high-end salons to more affordable options. Black is classic, it’s chic, and versatile, and offers hairstylists a number of benefits.
Let’s begin with the practical. Hairstyling can be a messy business. Between hair styling products, dyes, chemicals, and even makeup smudges from brushing up against a client, hair stylists need clothing that stains and spills don’t show easily on. Black uniforms are also more resilient. Even the products that wouldn’t completely wash visibly clean from a lighter-colored uniform may still be concealed when a hair stylist wears a darker color.
From an image perspective, black is timeless and classic. It never goes out of style, and looks current no matter what the latest fashion trends are. The neutrality of black also leaves little room for hairstylists to express their individuality through accessories, without taking the focus off of the client and putting it on themselves.
Hair salons are meant to be places where clients can sit back, relax, and indulge themselves in self-care. Black uniforms don’t take away from that, and they don’t create the visual distraction that occurs when multiple hairstylists are running around wearing a rainbow of colors and patterns.
In addition to black, other neutral colors, such as grey, cream, beige, or brand-aligned color palettes are making an appearance. However, black remains the gold standard for its style and functionality.
Aprons for Hair Stylists
What do hairdressers wear to work? For starters, aprons are an essential component of the hair stylist uniform. They provide an important protective layer between the stylist, their clothing, and the client’s hair. They provide an important barrier between the stylist's body and potentially caustic chemicals, sharp tools, and heated styling products. They also help to save hairstylists money by keeping the uniform underneath as clean and professional looking as possible.
Aprons are also a hairstylist’s best companion. Large, sturdy pockets can hold a variety of tools, such as scissors, combs, and clips, keeping them in close reach when working with a client.
When choosing a hair stylist apron, look for options that are durable, easy to clean, and have multiple pockets that store hair tools without weighing the apron down or looking clunky and unprofessional. Also, a comfortable fit is non-negotiable. The apron should tie easily around the waist and fit the torso in a way that is comfortable and non-binding.
Hair Salon Tunics
Next on our list of uniforms for hairdressers are hair salon tunics. Not all salons require their hairdressers to wear tunics, instead allowing their stylists to wear their own choice of clothing, as long as it’s aligned with a specific color theme and brand dress code. However, while not as sleek as a nicely fitted shirt, hair salon tunics offer stylists a comfortable, breathable alternative to the traditional uniform.
When choosing a tunic, whether for hair styling or looking for a comfortable option when considering what cosmetologists wear, look for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that can withstand the demands of a busy salon. Also, keep the color scheme and professionalism of the salon in mind when choosing a tunic. Again, black is a classic color to go with.
Best Shoes for Hair Stylists
Hairstylists spend an overwhelming amount of their day on their feet, which means it’s essential to wear the best shoes for hair stylists that are available on the market. Quality shoes serve multiple purposes of providing comfort, function, and safety for those in the hairstylist profession.
When choosing shoes, look for options that offer good arch support and cushioning, with a slip-resistant sole. Closed-toe shoes are non-negotiable in a salon environment, as they protect feet from chemical spills, sharp or hot utensils that might be dropped, and hair clippings.
Hair Stylist Shirts & Pants
At the core of a hairdressing uniform are shirts and pants. Even when presented with a wide range of options, most hairdressers prefer the classic shirt and pants as their hairdressing uniform. Shirts and pants are stylish, and they work well with the busy salon atmosphere. A simple long-sleeved, well-fitting t-shirt style shirt or button-down shirt, paired with well-fitting but comfortable pants is a hair salon uniform that’s hard to pass up.
When choosing shirts and pants for your job as a hairdresser, it’s important to look for breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that can withstand the demands of a busy salon day. Breathable and moisture-wicking is also important for client comfort. A hairstylist is in close proximity to their clients, and all the running around and working with heated styling tools can cause even the coolest of hairstylists to get a little warm under the collar.
Some hairdressers prefer a looser fitting shirt, while others have a preference for one that is more form-fitting There are advantages to each. A looser fitting top will allow for more ease of movement and breathability, but with a more form-fitted top, there is less concern about sleeves or any other part of the shirt hanging loose, and causing a potential mess or safety issue.
Hairdresser pants should fit comfortably, and accommodate the constant bending, stretching, and other movements that a hairdresser makes throughout the day. Some hairdressers prefer pants with a stretchy or elastic waist, due to the constant movement, but this is entirely personal preference. A regular, fitted waist will look more sleek with a top that is tucked in or sits at/above the waistline.
Pants should be tailored to be the proper length, meaning they cover the entirety of the leg and ankle without dangling on the floor. Proper length is important for protecting the hairdresser’s legs, and also for preventing trips and other accidents from wearing pants that are too long. Also, pants that drag on the ground will pick up hair, dust, and other debris from the floor, causing them to appear dirty and unsanitary.
One final feature to consider when choosing pants is if there is a preference for pockets to store hairdressing tools. An apron with sturdy pockets works best for this, but some hairdressers prefer classic, clean-looking cargo-style pants with pockets they can store combs, clips, etc., in.
When considering what hairdressers wear to work, you’ll often notice that it's a combination of all of the components we’ve mentioned so far. Choose a uniform that meets your needs for comfort and style, is safe for the workplace, and is aligned with the dress code provided by the salon you work in.
Things to Keep In Mind
Now that we’ve covered the main components of a hairdressing uniform, let's dive in a little deeper into the key factors to keep in mind when selecting the right attire for the job.
Comfort: This is key. It’s impossible to perform the job of a hairstylist and successfully meet the needs and demands of clients when you’re uncomfortable or your clothing is restrictive in any way. While loose, flowy fabrics don’t align well with the salon environment, a hairstylist should be able to move comfortably and freely in their attire.
In addition to this, breathable fabrics are a must. Hair salons are kept at a temperature that makes for a comfortable environment for the clients, which can be completely different from what a hairstylist who is running around and using heated styling tools needs. Breathable, cool, moisture-wicking fabrics will ensure you stay comfortable the entire day – even during those intense client services.
Cleaning: Stains and spills are the nature of the hairdressing. Choose fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain.
Fabric Types: It’s important to take a look at the label on your hairdressing uniform and choose fabrics that will make your job easier, not more difficult. Try to steer away from dry-clean-only fabrics that will need to constantly be sent off to the cleaner. The best fabrics for hairdressing uniforms include cotton, polyester, and some blends that are known for being durable, breathable, and easy to clean.
Hairdressing Uniforms with Stock MFG
What do hairdressers wear today? A uniform that is focused on comfort, style, and functionality. At StockMFG, we specialize in uniforms for a range of industries, including hairdressing. StockMFG is a one-stop shop for aprons, tops, and pants that will elevate your presence on the salon floor.
Here are a few examples of some of our top sellers that hairstylists love.
Aprons
Black Herringbone Stock Apron: This is the perfect, classic apron for hairstylists. This durable apron features box stitch reinforcement with generous pockets, including a pen slot. It’s made from 100% cotton and measures 32 inches in length for full body coverage.
Black Denim Stock Apron: For hairdressers who are looking for the ultimate in durability and function, our Black Denim Stock Apron is the answer. This apron is crafted using premium raw denim, for premium durability. A chest pocket and ample lower pockets provide plenty of room to store essential tools. This apron is 32 inches in length and includes free repairs for life.
Bottoms
Men’s and Women’s Black Tech Trouser: This trouser, available in both men’s and women’s sizing, offers a classic fit and silhouette, but with the perfect amount of stretch that allows you to move freely. The thighs are cut slightly generously, and then the rest of the leg tapers for a sleek, stylish look. The Black Tech Trouser is made with 75% polyester, 20% rayon, and 5% spandex.
Black Stretch Service Chino: Another option that’s available for both men and women is this classic stretch chino in the perfect black. These pants feature the classic chino silhouette but have a bit of stretch to make them comfy and offer maneuverability at the salon. These pants offer a nicely tailored appearance, with 98% cotton and 2% elastane.
Tops
Men’s Classic Black Pocket Tee: For men who are after a casual, comfortable look as a hairdresser, the Classic Black Pocket Tee is perfect. Available in sizes from extra small to 3XL, there is an option for every body type. This tee features a slim but not overly form-fitting silhouette that offers plenty of room for movement. It’s made with 100% cotton.
Women’s Black Scoop-Neck Tee: This is the perfect, versatile tee for every hairdresser’s wardrobe. The fit is classic and flattering and works well for layering if you prefer to wear a jacket or smock at work. The scoop neck is flattering for all body types and doesn’t risk being too revealing at work. Quarter-length sleeves offer comfort and overage, while the 95% cotton and 5% spandex mix offer great breathability.
Long-Sleeve Coolmax Dress Shirt: Available in both women’s and men’s styles., the Coolmax dress shirt is ideal for full coverage without compromising breathability. The Coolmax technology helps to regulate body temperature and keep moisture away from the skin, meaning you’ll look calm and cool no matter how demanding the client or service. This shirt is also wrinkle-resistant and is an easy-care fabric.
Black Short Sleeve Henley: Available in both women’s and men’s styles, this short-sleeved henley offers form, function, and style. The Short-sleeved design offers the comfort of a t-shirt, but the structured henley design provides a more professional appearance. The fabric is lightweight and made from 65% polyester and 35% cotton.
These are just a few examples of the hair stylist uniform options we offer. We encourage you to visit us at Stock MFG to discover more creative and comfortable workwear options.