By: Valerii Khomynskyi
When it comes to innovators who have made significant contributions to the art of hairdressing and introduced fresh ideas to the field, one name frequently stands out: Elmira Idrisova. A hairdresser and stylist with more than 24 years of experience, she began her career in her home country, where she opened both a school and a salon. Soon, she went on to gain international recognition—a distinction noted by Ukraine’s Professional Union (SPU)—reflecting her commitment to sharing cutting-edge techniques while showcasing her considerable expertise worldwide.
From the outset, Idrisova viewed hair as a “canvas” for creativity. Her drive to accentuate a person’s natural beauty led to her first major triumph in 2006, when she won the Grand Prix at the “Charyvna Zachiska” (“Charming Hairstyle”) National Competition in Odesa. Two years later, she earned first place at Ukraine’s renowned Wella Trend Vision Award (2008) and then presented her work at the international finals in Lisbon. That achievement helped solidify her reputation abroad and opened doors to new collaborations. By the following year, she was invited to Berlin as a juror for Wella Trend Vision 2009—an honor that highlighted her influence at one of the industry’s most respected events.
Despite building a solid reputation at home, Idrisova has always pursued ongoing professional growth. She has completed multiple advanced training programs and studied at Dolores Academy (Moscow), where she learned intricate color techniques. Combining that knowledge with her own experience, she developed a signature approach to men’s haircuts called “Working With Shadows Using Scissors, Without Clippers.” The method focuses on clean shapes and smooth transitions while leaving room for creative experimentation. Additionally, Idrisova established a beginner-friendly course that demonstrates how—with proper guidance and motivation—many can master hairdressing, whether they are fresh out of school or embarking on a midlife career change.
An Educational Project, Her Own Salon, and Industry Accolades
As demand for her signature methods grew, Idrisova founded her own hairdressing school in Kyiv in 2010. Soon afterwards, she opened a salon under the same roof, creating a hub where novices could practice with real clients and experienced stylists could refine their craft under her guidance. This hands-on learning approach helped many students reach professional levels more efficiently and develop a loyal clientele.
Idrisova’s reputation was further strengthened by her publications in leading trade magazines, including Zerkalo Mody (Fashion Mirror) and Your Hair. In the former, which has a print run of around 60,000, she introduced step-by-step cutting and coloring guides that gained attention from both stylists and the wider public. Your Hair—a magazine honored with a Press Award and widely regarded as a leading voice in the hairdressing world—also featured her work, further establishing her profile among seasoned professionals and salon owners.
Overcoming Obstacles and Showcasing Professional Growth
Running both a salon and a school required Idrisova to balance creativity with strong management skills. Artistic personalities often benefit from a flexible system—one that preserves individual flair while maintaining high standards. One notable example was a 57-year-old woman who, after losing her previous job, enrolled in Idrisova’s “zero to professional” course. Within a short time, she not only mastered the fundamentals but also advanced to become a highly skilled stylist as Idrisova points out, carefully structured training can help unlock many people’s potential, no matter their age.
In recognition of her influence, organizers of major events increasingly invited Idrisova to serve as a juror. In April 2012, she judged stylists from across the nation at the “Kryshtalevyi Yangol” (Crystal Angel) Beauty Festival in Kyiv, and in 2015, she headed the judging panel at the Ukrainian Hairdressing Championship during the Estet Beauty Expo. These events showcased a wide spectrum of talent and reinforced Idrisova’s expanding role in shaping industry benchmarks for quality and style.
A Mission-Focused Expansion in the United States
Idrisova’s belief in “bringing beauty and love into this world” is evident in her philanthropic efforts. Even during challenging times, she has found ways to support peers and students by offering free workshops, aiming to ensure they remain skilled and marketable. Now in the United States, she continues that mission by helping those eager to learn the craft of hairdressing or expand their existing expertise.
Alongside her charitable work, Idrisova is actively developing new projects in America. She is in the process of opening both a school and a salon, with the goal of merging her extensive European background with local market demands. Industry professionals have begun to recognize her as a valuable addition to the U.S. beauty community, given her distinctive blend of personal technique and grasp of modern trends—an approach that may offer newcomers a robust foundation and seasoned stylists new opportunities for growth.
Elmira Idrisova’s story illustrates how passion, continuous learning, and a willingness to share knowledge can lead to a far-reaching venture that brings together people from different countries and cultures. From her early competition wins to launching her own training programs and expanding to the United States, each step in her journey suggests that lasting success often comes to those willing to transform themselves—and the world around them.
Staying true to her vision of beauty and her faith in every student’s potential, Idrisova continues to inspire hair professionals everywhere. Her example shows that professional progress can coexist with creative freedom and social responsibility—a balance she maintains while exploring new paths in the global beauty industry.
Published by Joseph T.
