Vidal Sassoon, a legendary British hairstylist and entrepreneur, was born on January 17, 1928, in Hammersmith, West London. Growing up in a working-class family, Sassoon's childhood was marked by hardship and struggle. At the age of 14, he dropped out of school to help support his family, working odd jobs as a messenger and playing football in his spare time.
Despite facing numerous challenges in his youth, Sassoon discovered his passion for hairstyling at a young age. He began training as a hairdressing apprentice in London's East End, where he honed his skills and developed his signature cutting techniques that would revolutionize the industry.
By the 1950s, Vidal Sassoon had established himself as a prominent figure in the British hairdressing scene. His innovative approach to hairstyling, which focused on precision cuts and geometric shapes, set him apart from his peers and earned him a loyal following of clients.
In 1963, Sassoon opened his first salon in London, which quickly became a hub for the fashion elite. His iconic "wedge-bob" haircut, inspired by the Bauhaus art movement, became a global sensation and solidified his reputation as a trendsetter in the industry.
Throughout his career, Vidal Sassoon expanded his empire beyond salons, launching a line of haircare products that bore his name. His innovative approach to marketing and branding revolutionized the beauty industry, paving the way for future generations of entrepreneurs.
In addition to his business ventures, Sassoon was also a philanthropist and advocate for social change. He founded the Vidal Sassoon Foundation, which supports education and training programs for underprivileged youth, and was actively involved in various charitable initiatives throughout his life.
Vidal Sassoon was married to Ronnie Sassoon, a Procter & Gamble executive, and together they had four children: Catya, Eden, David, and Elan. Despite his busy schedule and demanding career, Sassoon remained dedicated to his family and cherished the time he spent with his loved ones.
Tragically, Vidal Sassoon passed away on May 9, 2012, at the age of 84. His legacy, however, lives on in the hearts and minds of those he inspired. His innovative cutting techniques and bold vision continue to influence hairstylists around the world, cementing his status as a true pioneer in the field of beauty and fashion.