15 Stylish Hair Stylist Outfits for a Trendy and Professional Look

By Shelby Bonner Jun 17, 2023

As a hairstylist, you want to make a great impression, whether it's a new client or a regular. Your professional image is vital for having continual and ample business.

Like how hairstyles come and go, you want to keep up with the latest trends while still looking composed and distinguished.

The more successful you are, the busier you are, and the last thing you want is for your clothes to hinder you or get in your way.

Some people say a haircut can be life-changing, and you want to create positive change, including creating a great experience and relationship while looking and feeling great.

Here are our top suggestions for stylish and practical outfits for your next day as a hairstylist.

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Black Clothes

If you picture a hair stylist, do you picture them in black? If you do, that's probably because black clothes are the norm for many hairstylists.

Black is a timeless color that works on a wide range of body types. It is professional, slimming, and creates a modern, chic aesthetic.

It is also crucial for creating a natural backdrop for your client. As you stand behind your client, whether they have light hair or dark, black does not alter the perception of other colors near it. In other words, you and your client can easily see their hair for precisely what it is, the color of it will be accurate, and you can see every stray strand.

Black clothes are also practical. As a hairstylist, you deal with different chemicals and dyes all day. Stains will not only be less visible on your black clothes, but they will be easier to wash out. If you get a bleach stain, black is easy to redye to restore to a new state.

Check out these black clothes.

Modest Fits

Whether your clientele is young or old, the last thing you want is to show your client too much skin. Wear tops that aren't so low that they show a lot of your cleavage, and wear pants that aren't so short or tight to restrict your movement or show off a lot.

Part of being a professional is keeping the attention on the client and away from you as you bend and reach through the day.

Dressing conservatively is also practical as a hairdresser. The last thing you want is to spill dye or chemicals on your skin accidentally. Wearing clothes that cover more helps protect you and your client.

Find more tips on how to dress modestly.

Uniform or Dress Code

Depending on your salon, they may provide uniforms or implement a dress code. A dress code or uniform ensures a professional look and creates an atmosphere at the salon.

A uniform will help protect your clothes and will help create an esthetic for the salon's types of clients.

When you interview at a salon, a hot tip is to wear similar clothes as their other stylists to blend in and make a great first impression.

Learn more about dress codes.

Personalize your look

Just because you have to dress or choose to dress in a muted, neutral way does not mean you still can't express yourself.

Even though you may opt for black clothes, it doesn't mean your outfits must all be identical. You can create a brand-new outfit each day with so many different sizes, shapes, cuts, and combos of clothes. Add texture with fringe or ruffles and shape with clothes with flare and cutouts.

The other nice thing about black clothes is they will go with anything. Wear a fun pair of glasses or a headband. Accessorize with different jewelry. Just make sure not to wear jewelry that is too big, too long, or too loose and may potentially get in your way.

Find your personal style here.

Choose Breathable, Soft Material

The last thing you want is clothes that are stuffy and heavy. Choose lighter-weight and breathable materials as you move throughout the day.

Softer materials are key because they are less likely to pick up stray hair and debris.

Consider pieces with specially coated polyester that are easy to wash, quick drying, and will last a long time.

Check out this soft fabric.

Dress For Your Clientele

Just as you want to fit in with your salon's dress style, you also want to dress appropriately for your clientele demographic.

For instance, if most of your clients are young, dressing more casual and trendy is doable. However, a fitted pair of trousers and a blouse may be more appropriate if your clientele is older, wealthier women. They may be more used to and comfortable with a more formal appearance.

Find out other things to consider for your next outfit.

Wear What You Are Comfortable In

Most importantly, you want to feel comfortable throughout the day. Choose clothes that will move with you but aren't so baggy that they will get in your way.

Choose pieces that fill you with confidence and show your style and personality. When you are feeling good, not only will you notice, but so will your clients.

See these ideas for comfortable clothes.

Comfortable Shoes

As a hairstylist, you are on your feet all day. When it comes to footwear, practically is your first criterion. Choose a comfortable, supportive pair, and even breathable to help you as you work.

Also, look for slip-resistant shoes. You are working around water and liquids all day; the last thing you want is to slip.

Try a pair of black sneakers, boots, or flats, and maybe leave the heels for the weekend. Choose closed-toe styles to look more professional and protect yourself from falling liquids or tools.

Try out these shoes.

An Apron

An apron is a handy tool to help protect you and your clothes and store your tools in an easy-to-grab location. Wear black to match your outfit or another neutral color like grey or brown.

Check out these apron ideas.

Short-Sleeve Shirt

A dark short sleeve shirt is the most common choice for hair stylists. It offers coverage while also not restricting movement or getting in the way.

It is also cool and breathable, perfect for when you are around hot blow dryers and flat irons all day.

Why not try an organic cotton t-shirt?

Shorts

Depending on the dress code, shorts may be an option for the summer and if you feel hot throughout the day.

Go for form-fitting without being too tight (skip the bike shorts), and make sure the length is halfway down your thigh so everything stays covered when you bend over.

Wear the shorts on their own or layer them over tights or leggings. Try out different styles and textures until you find what works best for you.

Take a look at these shorts.

Skirt

A skirt is a breathable, loose option for your busy day. It will provide a range of motion and keep you comfortable and cool. Like with shorts, make sure it is short enough and not so long that it is dragging across the floor, picking up spare hair and debris.

Wear a midi skirt alone or a shorter skirt over black tights or leggings. Just make sure skirts are part of the dress code at your salon.

Discover these skirt options.

Pants

Pants are another go-to for hair stylists. With a variety of styles and lengths, you are sure to find a pair that is both professional and practical. Opt for more formal pants with a pair of slacks, or if your salon environment is more casual, a fitted pair of black jeans work too.

Pants are especially a good choice for the colder months and if your salon blasts the ac inside.

Check out these pants.

Check out these black jeans.

Vest or Cardigan

Layers are a great way to ensure you are never too hot or cold. Go for a vest or an oversized overshirt or cardigan to wear over your regular shirt. They will enhance your style and act as another place to store your tools and equipment, especially if they have a lot of pockets.

Try out these vests.

Check out these button-up shirts.

Hair Accessories

You don't want your hair getting in the way or covering your face while trying to do someone else's hair. Go for a classic updo like a bun, or pull your hair back with a scarf or hat. Show off your personality with clips or different style scrunchies.

Check out these affordable and sustainable hair accessories.

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About the Author: Shelby Bonner

Shelby Bonner is a freelance graphic designer and writer who is passionate about fashion, and ethical, environmentally friendly fashion. She enjoys finding new brands, and following the latest styles each season.