GYPSET LIFESTYLE: A Glimpse Into the Wanderlust
In the fashion industry there are hair stylists that come and go, but few have the staying power that Serge Normant has demonstrated. Normant is undeniably one of the top stylists in the industry today. Regularly booked for styling the hair of starlets and super models for fashion magazines like Vogue, Elle and Harpers Bazaar. Leading his scope of work Normant has a long history that includes working with such famed photographers as Herb Ritts, Annie Lebovitz, Richard Avedon and Mario Testino….just to name a few. 😉
His career has taken him to the far reaches of the globe like Greece and Japan. At times to Jordan to style the queen, a long time client of this master of contemporary and innovative hair design.
I’m fortunate to call him my stylist and have had first hand experience with his uncanny knack for technique. I’m always truly amazed how he can cut my usually sun-damaged hair and give it a fresh healthy look, while appearing to keep it the same length! He really is a magician!
I celebration of his recent salon opening in the new location at 336 W 23rd St. here in NYC, I sat down with Serge to talk about his globetrotting.
GG: Serge, you’ve been doing my hair for about 8 years now and in that time we’ve had conversations about everything from fashion, family and politics. But, we always come back to travel. We both love the sights, sounds and smells that tend to intoxicate us from different cultures. Tell me Serge, what does travel mean to you?
SN: Travel to me means freedom. It not only helps me to stay current, but keeps me aware of everything that is going on in the world and that helps keeps me young.
GG: What is your favorite destination and why?
SN: Greece, Mykonos. Why, because it represents the real vacation as I remember as a kid. It’s a mix of surreal sophistication and completely unsophisticated at the same time. Also I love the pure blue water.
GG: Who would be your favorite travel companion dead or alive?
SN: My favorite travel companion would have to be my mother.
GG: That’s very sweet, you’re a good son.
SN: I try! (laugh)
GG: Given the choice, what would be your favorite mode of transportation? A plane, train, automobile, boat or spaceship?
SN: A train if it could go as fast as a plane! I really love the comfort of a train and to feel grounded. I really need to feel the ground. You’ll never get me on a big boat. A cruise is not for me!
GG: What is your must have item with which to travel?
SN: You know I always try to bring a little bit of home with me when I go. So it used to be candles, but now its mostly a pillow spray. It’s that sense of comfort that I use at home with aromatherapy that I love. So, when I go to bed sleeping is very important for me, so it makes me feel like I’m still at home.
