Iles Formula Hair Talk with Kattia Solano from Butterfly Salon

Iles Formula welcomes legend hairdresser Kattia Solano owner of Butterfly Studio Salon in NYC.
With over 25 years of experience, Butterfly Studio Salon founder Kattia Solano is a female industry pioneer who embodies a strong and fearless entrepreneurial spirit.

These words from her bio say it all. "I feel extremely grateful that I can use my art to help transform people's lives by focusing on inner beauty, confidence, empowerment and self esteem. Throughout my career in the salon, as an editorial stylist, and educator, my ultimate goal has always been for hair to represent the person's true essence.
I love a personal approach to hair by exploring textures, visions, and individual hair goals to create a customized style for each client. I love working with hair to make it look beautiful. Hair can have its own personality at times. It can be sassy, calm, wild, lovable, sexy and even moody which makes styling so exciting." said Kattia Solano.

@kattiasolanostylist
@butterflystudiosalon

IF: Tell us what you think is the biggest challenge in hairdressing today?

Unfortunately our industry is being diluted due to easy access to minimally trained technicians. Today you could order a hair service right from your phone. Convenient? Yes. But you probably aren’t getting the best quality work done.

IF: What is the most enjoyable part of your job?

As an artist, I’m so grateful to have a career that encourages me to create everyday- and I’m not just talking about hair. I get to create relationships, trends, and a community of artists who are genuinely in love with the work we do. Whether it’s color, styling or even photographing the work, I’m always excited to get hands on and watch something come to life.

IF: Why did you choose the path of hairdressing, and was it easy to fall into this work?

I can confidently say I’ve always known I’d commit my life to the beauty industry. I grew up in a house full of Costa Rican beauticians. As a child I couldn’t wait to follow in their footsteps. I feel extremely fortunate to have always known my purpose in life.

IF: If you had not made the decision to be a hairdresser what would you have been?

Fashion has always been a second love for me. I would have likely followed my grandmother’s footsteps and designed clothing. My grandmother, Mercedes, was a well known bridal seamstress in Costa Rica. I grew up watching her bring looks to life and I knew I had to continue the….

IF: What is your greatest strength?

I embrace change, in every aspect. The beauty industry is constantly evolving and you need to be willing and able to welcome change. For example, I try to encourage my clients to try new looks and experiment with trends outside of their comfort zone. I also stay updated on any new techniques or

IF: Your favorite hairdressing tools?

The Dyson, professional blow dryer is definitely my go-to. It’s lightweight, and  it doesn’t overheat and cause unnecessary breakage. It’s also visually sleek and modern. It’s a blowdryer I’m proud to pull out while I’m with a client to ensure them they’re having a high-end service.

I also love my Marcell 1.5 inch curling iron. These are my everyday tools.

IF: Tell us about your relationship with Iles Formula. How you discovered us and which formula is your favorite?

I am honestly a genuine fan of this line. The proof is on my station at work and in my bathroom at home. ILES has definitely become a staple in my haircare routine. I also love that it’s a female owned brand. I grew to love Wendy’s story and commitment to this line. I related to that devotion so much, and I’m certain that’s the reason ILES is as successful as it is today!

The original Step 3 Serum is my go-to. I haven’t seen it fail me yet!

IF: What was the most challenging job you’ve ever made?

The day I decided to be a salon owner was the first day of my most challenging job. Though it was always a dream project of mine, I didn’t realize how much of a lifelong, daily commitment Butterfly Studio Salon would become. With that being said, I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

IF: What was your worst hair moment and why… privately or on set/stage or in the Salon?

No bad moments. Every challenge is a learning experience I’ve been grateful for.

IF: If you could style anyone’s hair, who would it be and why?

Oprah or Michelle Obama. I love surrounding myself with powerful women. I would love to be part of enhancing their natural elegance. It would be an honor to have either of these two women in my chair. I consider them inspirations.

IF: Where do you pull hair inspiration from?

Short answer? Everywhere. I believe inspiration is where you choose to see it. Living in the heart of NYC is also a main focal point for my daily inspiration. The music, the fashion, even the food. This city is all about uncut self expression and I like to bring that energy into my work space.

IF: Thank you Kattia for sharing with us.