Our interview with Los Angeles based colorist Matt Rez who is pushing the standard in the hair industry.
The man behind some of the most famous looks, including IT-GIRL Margot Robbie and her lust-worthy golden blond mane, Rez is expanding the way the beauty world views hair color – proving that it really is an art form.
Specializing in all techniques of hair coloring including the art of balayage, his everlasting passion for the art of painting hair led him to perfect his craft. He is continuously advancing hair and creating the latest hair color trends and has been the celebrity and insider go-to colorist for the most up-to-date professional secrets. Some of his celebrity clients include Margot Robbie and Eiza Gonzalez and he has worked with influencers such as Chiara Ferragni.
Follow Matt at: Instagram or visit his website colorbymattrez.com
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Passionate, dedicated, honest
How and why did you get started in the business?
I have always had a passion for painting and the arts. As a child they couldn’t get me away from crayons and colored pencils. My parents encouraged me but always said that you can’t make a career of it. So I begged to differ and said well, I can if my canvas is a living, breathing, human being (laughs), and that’s when I fell in love with the art of hair and color. I started getting all my middle and high school friends to line up so i could practice with drugstore bought color. A few cheetah prints and round brushes that had to be cut out of their hair, but hey, everyone has to start somewhere.
What is a typical day like for you?
Seeing my lovely clients and having a great time with what I do. I see about 8-10 people a day and feel blessed to have the chance to make a difference in their days!
What was your first job as a colorist?
An assistant at the trendy salon of the time 12 years ago ! I learned a lot from the top colorists there
Any other family member is in the business?
Yes. A sister in San Francisco. She’s been in the game over 20 years
How did you make the transition into working with top celebrities?
I dedicated a lot of hard work and time to prepare myself for the day opportunity came. I made a lot of sacrifices and missed out on a lot of family, holiday and social life outside of work. I would stay at work some nights until 2am, never said no and took any and every client on, worked 7 days a week! Opportunity met preparation and I feel so blessed to love what I do!
Who do you admire?
My friend and client Chiara Ferragni. She has started and built her own empire at such a young age and is one of the most humble, kind human beings. I admire people who reach for the stars but keep grounded !
Now can you give us some tips about Color Change?
Do an in depth consultation with your colorist! Research different colorists and see who’s got your style of color down! Spend the time to find the right colorist for the change because good color is an investment and you want to make sure the outcome is what you want !
What are some beauty/hair things that damage your hair that everyone does?
Flat irons !!! It’s hair suicide !!!!
What are a few of your favorite products you must have in your kit?
Olaplex #1 and #2 in the salon, and every client should take #3 home! 10 years ago we didn’t have true anti breakage technology – now we do. I like to maximize the benefits of it. Also Davines has great hydration treatments and I am in love with the results post color! A must have as well.
Best advice for aspiring colorist or beauty artists?
Find the top salon and or colorist in your area and seek an assistant position with them. Try to be two steps ahead of them always and learn as much as possible. Focus on detail and solid good work- not how fast you can buzz through people. That will set you apart!
What’s the best part of your job?
The ultimate satisfaction is seeing out clients smile from their heart and appreciation of the end result.
Is there someone you would love to work with?
A celebrity? Rosie Huntington and Cara Delevigne
What is your favorite look for the fall?
Warmth ! Let’s all stop running away from the ash already. 9 out of 10 times it clashes with majority Of skin tones
3 things you can’t live without?
My assistants, A tangle teaser, and Olaplex
Top 3 designers?
Alexander McQueen, Chiara Ferragni, and Vivian Westwood
Any future plans you want to share with us?
It’s in the works
What do you like to watch on tv?
World news
Your idea of a perfect Sunday is?
Going to the beach with my significant other!
What do you do in your free time?
Honestly, I love to lounge around and do mindless, stress free activities.
What music do you like?
Mainstream pop music to make the 13 year old girl inside me happy!
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
Having my own color line that would resolve an everyday issue in the hair color industry
Quote: “There is no way to look older than trying way too hard to look younger.”
Food: Chips and salsa
Movie: Devil Wears Prada
Sport Team: I don’t really have one
Song: Believe by Cher
