Industry Insider: Nadia Albano
When it comes to style, NADIA ALBANO is a triple threat. She’s a professional makeup artist, fashion consultant and hair stylist. Nadia has has worked with UFC, the NHL, the wedding and fashion industry and has been featured on W Network as the runner-up for the Ultimate Expert Challenge. I recently caught up with Nadia to find out more about her newly opened boutique salon and to get her take on all things fashion and beauty.
Tell us about Nadia Albano Style Inc. and what we can expect to find at your full service salon?
Nadia Albano Style Inc. is unique in that it offers a wide range of beauty and style services for men and women in four categories; hair, makeup, fashion and training. In addition to the usual salon services like hair cuts, colours and makeup, clients can also enjoy services such as special occasion lessons and services, one-on-one personal shopping, wardrobe consulting and style development, professional development workshops, makeup and style training.
What is your background and how did you get to become a style and beauty expert?
I’ve always been into fashion and beauty. At 16, I did my first of three beauty pageants; which is what solidified the vision of being a makeup artist, hairstylist and a fashion consultant. I found the entire process so exciting! Around the same time, I started working in the cosmetic and apparel retail industry and quickly moved into management roles. I worked for many wonderful companies such as The Bay, Estee Lauder, Club Monaco, Artizia, Make Up For Ever and Holt Renfrew. I learned so much about the business from customer service, store operations and merchandising to fashion forecasting, styling, hair and beauty. It was the best training I could have ever gotten. Meanwhile, I studied Makeup Artistry and Hair in Vancouver and honed my skills by working on countless weddings, fashion shows and photo shoots.
In 2007 I developed the Makeup Artistry Certificate at Vancouver Community College where I am the lead instructor and Program Coordinator. I love learning new things and constantly pursue higher education as it inspires and fulfills me!
Top three trends you’re loving this summer?
I’m loving anything blush color. I think it’s flattering on all skin tones and it’s feminine. It’s the summer version of the LBD! For hair, I love Balayage highlights. It’s a subtle and natural way of brightening up the hair and looks fantastic when the hair is styled with a very loose, tousled wave. For makeup, it’s all about the bold pops of color! Bright yellow, blue or green on the eyes or bright red and neon lips – trés fun!
Most client requested celebrity look?
Giselle Bundchen, SJP, Kim Kardashian, Eva Longoria, Taylor Swift and Rihanna. They all have amazing hair, flawless makeup and a unique sense of fashion.
What do you think makes Vancouver a fashionable city?
Vancouver is very diverse. We are surrounded by beautiful landscapes and influenced by so many wonderful cultures. I feel that we have an easy, organic style sensibility with a subtle edge. We’ve got some great shopping districts such as Yaletown, Gastown, Main Street, Robson and Kerrisdale (to name a few…), which accommodate all of our style and budget needs; from vintage to high end. I love that there are so many amazing local designers that are really making a name for themselves locally and internationally; it’s very exciting!
Who are your style icons and why?
There are so many to choose from! I’ll have to say Sofia Lauren, Coco Chanel, SJP and Jean Paul Gautier. I think that they are a good representation of my own style DNA; sexy/feminine, fashion forward, classic and edgy. They are muses; very inspiring!
Most rewarding part of your job?
It’s all rewarding; I love what I do and I love my clients! My line of work is creative, inspiring and forever changing. Most of the time it doesn’t feel like work – I’m really blessed.
Nadia Albano Style Inc.
Unit 100 – 825 Granville St, Vancouver
604.682.3016
