Justin’s Japan: Interview with stylist Haruo Noro on NYC’s Lunar New Year Celebration
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Haruo Noro brings his unique stylings to NYC's Lunar New Year Celebration Saturday, Feb. 5. (Courtesy of Julia Dubrovich)
By JQ magazine’s Justin Tedaldi (CIR Kobe-shi, 2001-02) for Examiner.com. Visit his NY Japanese Culture page here to subscribe for free alerts on newly published stories.
Haruo Noro came to the U.S. to open his own salon after finding success as a stylist in Japan and London. Last year, he worked with the networking site AsianInNY on their “Lucullen” Lunar New Year Fashion Show for designer Joyce Huang. Today (Feb. 3) marks the beginning of the Lunar New Year, and to ring in the Year of the Rabbit AsianInNY has teamed up with the Greater Chinatown Community Association to present their Lunar New Year Celebration this Saturday in Manhattan. I caught up with Noro, who is again working with his stylists and make-up artists for this distinguished cultural event.
Please tell us about your journey to New York from Japan.
I was born and raised in Aomori, Japan, within a family of stylists. My initial training, cutting technique, discipline and inspiration was born here as well. As my experience grew, so did my thirst for new adventures. I wanted to see the world of fashion and beauty. I wanted to expand my knowledge and creativity.
The salon sponsored me to continue my education in London at the Vidal Sassoon Academy, which is where I first experienced a full variety of hair types and textures. London opened my mind through its culture and fashion, giving me the confidence with my skills and the possibilities in the styling industry.
I have been lucky to have had an offer as an assistant to a top stylist in New York City, Oscar Blandi, through which my learning experience continued. I fully blossomed into a complete stylist during my time there. I continued on to Rita Hazan and then my path became clear. I opened my very own salon, which is in the vision as I have always imagined. Fashion, beauty, diversity and creativity here is endless.
How did you first get involved with AsianInNY? What events have you worked on with them before and what was the reaction from the public?
I first got involved with AsianInNY in 2010. When I heard about this opportunity, I was very excited to be part of the Lucullen Fashion Show at the Lunar New Year Celebration. I was especially enthusiastic about having the support of the Asian community in New York, which I am a part of. The designer loved our work, a sophisticated braided bun, which complimented the garments and added a stylish flair. We have received many positive reviews and are happy to be back this year as a sponsor for AsianInNY’s biggest Lunar New Year Celebration in New York City, this time doing both hair and make-up for two designers, as well as singers participating in the show.
What kind of styling are you doing for the upcoming Lunar New Year Celebration and who are you working with?
We will be styling for two designers Way Zen and Janet Zheng. I will be working with my salon team. Haruo Noro Salon will be doing both hair and make-up. The hair for Way Zan collection will be simple yet romantic, loose updos. The hair for Janet Zheng menswear will be natural yet edgy. The make-up lead artist Wenya Chang describes the look as a beautiful look that simply emphasizes the natural beauty of the woman. Light shimmery brown on the eyes, with a rosy flush on the cheeks and a glossy natural lip color. Most importantly, a sexy, dewy complexion.
How would you describe your own style in determining the perfect cut? Did you find yourself adapting your creativity in order to match the image of the Lunar New Year Celebration?
I am always inspired by the artistry in the designs and intuitively create what I see as a companion piece of art. I strive to create a masterpiece each and every time.
Click here for the complete interview.
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