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.

Which performers or models are you most looking forward to seeing on Saturday?

I’m looking forward to seeing the new faces of this year, and watch them blossom in the future. I’m also excited to hear PaperDoll and Pamela J. Powell’s performances.

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.

Who are your influences or idols in the world of style?

My influences are nature and Japanese street fashion. My idols are Oribe and Fumio Kawashima.

In my experience, Japanese expats here will insist only on other Japanese cutting their hair, waiting as much as a year or two before returning for a trim on visits home. For those who have never been to a salon in Japan before, please tell us about how that experience differs from the U.S.

Japanese stylists understand the needs of Japanese clients such as how to texture and style Asian hair according to deep knowledge of all the current trends. Japanese salons have very high standards when it comes to customer service and pampering. Clients in Japan experience an extra massage as their hair is being washed in addition to a relaxing shoulder massage. Male clients will receive a hot towel on their necks and faces. In general, Japanese salons offer a pleasurable atmosphere through an extremely polite staff where one will always feel at home.

Which of these elements are most important to you in your work, and how do you try to incorporate them here?

I definitely use the exceptional cutting techniques and also follow my favorite Japanese trends. A little extra massage as the clients’ hair is being washed adds to their luxurious experience. My clients feel fulfilled with their beautiful cuts through a pleasurable experience. I think this is very important.

To you, what are the biggest differences between trends and preferences in styling in New York, London and Japan?

I would say that New York is more conservative, and the hairstyles tend to be longer, utilizing highlights. Japanese style and preference is more individual and edgy. London hair trends are shorter and utilize colors like mahogany and copper without many highlights or, in many cases, no highlights at all.

In what ways have you observed Japanese culture become more mainstream in the West since you’ve been working here?

I can find authentic Japanese restaurants here in New York. I have found that foods such as sushi and ramen noodles have become very popular and well-known. I am very happy to see Uniqlo in Soho, which is where I shop for my favorite socks and underwear whenever I’m in Japan. Kinokuniya Book Store is amazing and has great varieties of Japanese fashion magazines and design books. I find that especially the younger generation has a lot more interest in Japanese pop culture. Baseball players such as Ichiro Suzuki and Hideki Matsui are making an appearance and growing in popularity in the U.S.

What are some of your other plans for this year regarding shows, events or appearances?

New York Fashion Week!

Any other words for our readers?

After my experiences in Japan, London, New York and now with my own salon, I feel Haruo Noro Salon has a lot to offer to a client. I take the best that I’ve learned and combine it to give each individual what they seek. People want to feel special and when they come to me, they are special. Once they gaze at their new look in the mirror, they know they’re special and my job is done.