The Art of Hair Color: A Visionary’s Journey Rachael Gilley

In the world of beauty and fashion, hair color isn’t just a trend—it’s an art form, a form of self-expression, and a bold statement. For Rachael Gilley, this journey into the vibrant world of hair color was driven by a love for art, music, and an insatiable curiosity to push creative boundaries.

A Passion Ignited

Originally planning to attend art school at Kendall, Rachael found inspiration in the music scene, particularly in the elder goth and emo subcultures, where bold colors and sculptural haircuts reigned supreme. Eager to start working while honing a craft, she chose cosmetology school right out of high school. What started as an admiration for vibrant, unconventional colors quickly grew into a deep love for the endless possibilities of hair color.

In the early days, hair color education was scarce, making her journey one of trial and error. She spent countless hours experimenting on mannequins, taking on models, and refining her techniques. Even today, her hunger for knowledge remains unquenchable, as she continuously learns through classes and industry advancements.

From Basics to Mastery

Rachael built her foundation of expertise under the guidance of a seasoned stylist who instilled in her the importance of texture, consultations, and precise formulations. From the beginning, she knew she wanted to specialize in color techniques that required skill and artistry, rather than simple DIY applications. She studied swatches meticulously, watched countless tutorials, and committed every step of the way to mastering her craft.

A Signature Approach

Standing out in a competitive industry requires creativity, adaptability, and genuine client collaboration. Rachael believes that the best results come from listening to her clients while staying flexible—sometimes, plans change due to unforeseen factors like color removal challenges. Above all, she ensures that clean technique, precise styling, and attention to detail make every transformation shine.

The Evolution of Hair Trends

From bold rainbows to subtle color blocking, evolving trends keep things exciting. Social media has played a huge role in bringing vibrant hair colors into mainstream acceptance, much like tattoos transitioned from subculture symbols to widely embraced art forms. Today, hair color isn’t limited to youth culture—it’s embraced by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Effortless Color: The Art of Lived-In Hair

For those who want stunning color without constant upkeep, techniques like balayage and baby lights offer natural grow-out. Demi-permanent color also allows for seamless gray blending, creating effortless and beautiful results.

Debunking Hair Color Myths

One of the biggest misconceptions? The fear of bleach. Rachael compares it to driving a car or using a stove—when used correctly, it’s a powerful tool that isn’t inherently damaging. The key lies in proper technique and aftercare.

Memorable Transformations & Corrective Work

Some of Rachael’s most rewarding work comes from color corrections. From fixing uneven home bleach jobs to reviving banded blondes, patience and precision are essential. One particularly challenging transformation involved correcting a pandemic-era DIY bleach job—after hours of careful lightening and toning, the final result was a flawless, smoky ash blend.

The Science of Hair Care

Color longevity is a mix of science and habit. Using cooler water, high-quality aftercare products, and protective measures like heat protection sprays and UV shields can make all the difference. Rachael’s go-to products include Olaplex for bond repair, Amika’s moisturizing masks, and Matrix's Miracle Creator spray for texture and shine.

Lightening Without Damage

A common mistake? Assuming that a higher developer volume leads to faster results. In reality, Rachael follows a “low and slow” approach with bond builders to preserve hair integrity while achieving stunning color transformations.

Drawing Inspiration & Future Visions

Art, anime, nature, and film serve as endless sources of inspiration for Rachael. Every client’s color journey is a personal expression, crafted through conversations about their vision, preferred tones, and desired level of boldness.

Dream collaborations? Rachael would love to work alongside visionary artists like Guy Tang or design punk-inspired color concepts for a Vivienne Westwood editorial. Looking ahead, she sees the industry moving towards creative haircuts, personalized color placement, and a more inclusive approach to beauty for all ages.

With an unwavering passion for continuous growth, Rachael’s journey is far from over. Whether through personal projects, new techniques, or future collaborations, her mission remains the same: to turn hair into a canvas for self-expression and artistry.