A Coventry-trained hairstylist to the stars says a trip to London as a young man sparked his journey from the Midlands to the BAFTAs. Michael Gray recalls arriving with little direction but leaving with a willingness to succeed.
Michael, 35, originally from Nuneaton and now based in London, worked at Ross Hair Studio while studying at CWT College in Coventry. He then joined Exclusively Yours from 2010 to 2013.
Growing up without social media inspiration and relying on magazines from Asda, Michael said his early influences were limited. It was only when he travelled to London at 19 for a week-long course that his perspective was completely transformed.
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He said: “My mind was just blown! It was like there is a whole bigger world than the Midlands and Nuneaton. I was captivated by everything.”
Michael packed his bags and moved to London. Although he had few industry contacts, the 35-year-old knew he wanted to be involved in editorial shoots and had a clear idea of where he wanted his career to go.
His breakthrough came as social media transformed the hair and beauty world, opening up global inspiration instantly and changing everything. Michael said: “You can scroll on your phone and just find inspiration from the Met Gala or Coachella.”
One major turning point came when he styled Catherine Tyldesley for the National Television Awards. His career soon took off, bringing major brand collaborations, international travel and high-profile clients such as Geri Halliwell, Mary Earps and Pixie Lott.
Michael works closely with Lioness Mary Earps(Image: Michael Gray)
Michael was also at the BAFTAs, styling Ashley James and Josie Gibson from This Morning, as well as Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt. He said: “It is lovely because they are all so different!
“You see them as them, but then you see them getting married, you see them becoming a mum and all of those things. It is lovely to share that journey with them and create their looks for them and make them feel special.”
Despite the success he has achieved, Michael said he remains motivated by creativity rather than status. He said: “I have always been hardworking. I have always been hard on myself to do better in a good way.”
Michael has worked with Garnier(Image: Michael Gray)
Michael has just returned from the Cannes Film Festival and said it feels surreal looking back on how far he has come from handing out CVs in Nuneaton. He said: “I never imagined myself to be in this position! It is a pinch-me moment that whatever I have done is solely me.”
Michael is hosting the Coventry Hair Masterclass at St Marys Guildhall on Sunday, May 31, featuring live demonstrations of on-trend looks and an interactive Q&A. He said: “It means a lot giving back to the community where I am from and the Midlands.”
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