KB's Style Lab

My next period photo shoot will be the late 50’s early 60’s. I need to bring back the Bouffant! Shift dresses, pearls, gloves and clutches. Who’s in?

On Sunday, January 14th, it was a bittersweet day as I shared goodbyes with my favorite clients on what was my last day as a hairstylist. So there is no speculation as to why, I have accepted the decline of my small, detailed motor skills from a neuromuscular syndrome I have lived with for many years. Nothing new. (My percussion playing is only slightly affected)

Huge thank you to my present day clients who shared my last day with me and who have been so very loyal and wonderful for lots of years!!! Clients who have become friends and friends who have become clients! You are the very best and I love you dearly! Dana, Bonnie, Ashley, Andrea, Allison and Alexis!

I have been so incredibly fortunate to have had an illustrious life with both my cosmetology and music careers. I can’t even describe the fun I have had and the incredible people I have had the honor to work with who will always remain my family.

The turning point of my life was when I began to work with Drew James Salon of the Loiacono family in Ft. Lauderdale in 1985. My family for life!!!! While I was here I became part of the design/platform team, Joey and Co. And represented Designer’s Edge International owned by the van Oene family. 4 generations of master shear craftsmen. I ended up marrying the eldest son Gerrit and had two amazing children with him. After divorcing, we remained very close until his recent death in July of 2023.

This is a brief rundown of all my experiences as a cosmetologist, ones I will cherish forever. Also, here are a few photos from my cosmetology career. I will be posting more of DEI and the van Oene family as I put them together.

* 1984: Graduated from Robinson’s Beauty School, Certified Redken Scientific Education System school. Wilton Manors Florida.
* Stylist and Assistant Manager, Hair Cuttery in Plantation and West Palm Beach
* Stylist and Platform Artist, Drew James Salon.
* Aveda Hair Congress Ambassador
* Director of Education, WDG and Co Aveda in FLorida, California and Hawaii
* JOEY AND COMPANY Representing Designer’s Edge International
* (Joey and Co. Was my love and core of who I am today)
* Director of Education Designer’s Edge International, freelance platform educator for Nabham’s Aveda, New England, Bumble and Bumble, Goldwell.
* Cosmetology Instructor at Keen Beauty Academy, stylist at Main Street Salon and Whitman and Co.
* Platform performances and competitions: International Beauty Show, NYC, Chicago Midwest, International Salon and Spa Expo, Premier Orlando, Goldwell NC, Jingles USA.
* Publications: Hair and Beauty News, Aveda, Designer’s Edge International, Salon Magazine.
* Cosmetology instructor at Hair Design Institute.
* Renew Salon and Spa
* In 2007 I became a sole proprietor until present day!
* Dolce Vita Salon (loved)
* Partners with Sarah B, Robert B. Gina L. and Samantha 😎 at Istudio, Port Noir/Salon Lofts (Present) I Love all of you!

The whimsical, beautiful Shan, before and after peek-a-boo Vivid ribbons and my 1970’s “Cooper” cut inspired by Valerie Bertinelli’s character on One Day at a Time!

Porte Noire has transitioned into The Salon Lofts! Same great area, new look. I’m also happy to share that I am working out of the lovely Samantha Jade Studio, still operating under KB's Style Lab! I will be opening up to accept new clients for a while too!

Purple Pixies will never go out of style.

My daughter described a concept for a drag persona she’s creating for a friend, and before I saw her drawing (left) I sketched what was in my head (right). I’m no great artist like she is, but the idea-genes are strong!

Just renewed to my 40th year and coming up on 30 years of a level 4, master stylist. I may be able to do some hair.

Mikey went for the big change so he could elicit “gasps and moans” from the guests at his wedding. Always a prankster. He’s handsome either way!

Stunning

A fresh new look for Xan! You’d never know her alliances lay with the First Order. Now she’s the Pièce de Résistance!

It’s fall. A great time for a big chop. I’m here for some gorgeous TWA styles.