Catching up with Shear Genius’ Theodore Leaf
By Denise Tong
When Bravo TV’s popular new competitive series Shear Genius debuted in April 2007, viewers met a dozen hairstylists vying for an apprenticeship with Nexxus Salon lead stylist Roy Teeluck, the chance to style for an Allure magazine shoot, and $100,000. One of the youngest stylists, Ohio native Theodore Leaf, immediately distinguished himself with his enthusiasm and innovation.
A graduate of the Paul Mitchell Academy, Leaf started off strongly by winning the show’s first elimination challenge, which was to create a hair work of art. His inventive design was showcased on the show’s Allure Wall of Fame.
Later on, he was able to watch as judge and celebrity stylist Sally Hershberger re-created her signature shag—made famous by Meg Ryan—and duplicate it in a challenge. Along the way he met Roy Teeluck, who was a guest judge, as well as other guest judges and famed stylists Frederick Fekkai and Garren.
The fourth stylist to be cut from the show, Leaf wasted no time in furthering his career by opening his own salon in Los Angeles. Armed with product lines such as Paul Mitchell and Kerastase, he provides numerous cutting, styling, and coloring services to his customers; his specialty is making long hair moveable and sexy.
Since the debut of his salon, he has simultaneously tackled a stream of varied high-profile work. He has served as the key hairstylist for a slew of L.A. fashion shows, private clientele attending the Academy Awards, and an editorial shoot for Genlux magazine. He also recently styled for Target’s Valentine’s Day campaign.
In the wake of the recent, highly-watched Shear Genius season finale, Leaf revealed to Glam Hub his opinions on the final three contestants and divulged his future plans.
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Q: What do you think of the final three—Daisy, Ben, and winner Anthony?
A: I think Daisy is the most well-rounded, Ben is the most random and fun, and Anthony has the most commercial quality.
Q: How would you sum up your Shear Genius experience?
A: It’s funny to see yourself in “the zone” working, creating, and trying to beat the clock. I enjoyed the “Sally Shag” challenge the most. As a newer stylist, it was great to see Sally working and learn something new.
Overall the show was honestly an amazing experience; I really loved every second. It really inspired me to take my work to the next level by opening my salon.
Q: When did you first become interested in hairstyling?
A: Honestly, I just started styling hair on this mannequin at a bridal store during college, and it made me start researching the industry.
Q: How would you describe your personal style?
A: My personal style is a combination of a classic quality, combined with a creative edge. I love pairing Ralph Lauren with Dolce & Gabbana.
Q: You’re a classic movie buff; which one would you say exhibits the epitome of style, scene to scene, actor to actor?
A: The Women. It was filmed in 1939 and it was the first picture with no men. The hair was amazing; the clothes were perfect.
Q: If you could give any celebrity a brand-new look, who would you love to get your hands on and what would you do?
A: I would have a sit-down with Britney and explain to her that a lot has happened here on Earth while she was gone, and it’s time to ditch the belly ring and keep the hair blonde…when it comes back. The back-and-forth is just silly.
Q: What is the biggest hair crime that women commit?
A: One word: PERM.
Q: Is there a universal haircare or hairstyling tip you could offer to women?
A: Everyone needs product of some sort—consult your stylist and buy what they use on you. I just don’t understand spending money on things you don’t know about.
Q: What has it been like to style for all these fashion shows?
A: It’s really exciting and different each time. I usually use students for my hair team; it is great for them to see that side of the business.
Q: What is the most challenging part of your work and what do you think is essential for success?
A: The most challenging part is keeping up momentum and never getting too set in your ways. Consistency is key; if someone comes to you, they expect consistent work each time. If you deliver you will succeed.
Q: What are your future plans?
A: I plan to continue working in my salon while persuing a television career.
Photo courtesy of Bravo.
