Preston Wada is a Los Angeles-based hairstylist known for his incredible versatility and polish: from red-carpet glam to artful hair concepts, Preston’s mastery of cut and color, texture, styling, and wig design has garnered him a loyal clientele of the world’s biggest entertainers and cultural tastemakers. With 11+ years in the industry, he has honed his trademark to be abstract and fashion-forward; yet, he is equally passionate about crafting soft, wearable looks that speak to timeless luxury.

Preston’s fascination with hair began when he was old enough to start playing with dolls. At 17, he followed his dreams to the Aveda Institute of Los Angeles, where he refined his technique and broadened his influences under the school’s elite training and mentorship—becoming an expert in Aveda coloring and the Vidal Sassoon style of cutting. Though the salon helped him hone his skills, eventually pursued his first love: styling avant garde hair.

Preston started assisting in music videos for artists such as Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj, David Guetta, and Tinashe, where he built lasting relationships that led him to the editorial world—and the opportunity to work with renowned photographers such as Ellen Von Unwerth and John Russo.

Preston also became the go-to hair stylist for Aveda’s Global Artistic Director of Color, Ian Michael Black, who appreciated his unique eye. He was named the key hairstylist at Ian’s Aveda show in 2016.

Preston is the key hairstylist to Grimes, Kehlani, Kesha, Tove Lo, and Rico Nasty. His clients include: Jennie of Blackpink, Peggy Gou, Michelle Zauner (Japanese Breakfast), M.I.A., Coi Leray, Haim, Tinashe, Leona Lewis, and Ashnikko. He has previously worked with Naomi Campbell, London Grammar, Brock O’Hurn, Carlson Young, and Isom Innis (Foster the People).

His work has been published in Vogue, Paper Magazine, Nylon, Schön, Playboy, L’Officiel, NME, Uproxx, King Kong, Exit Magazine, Salty, THEM, and Fault Magazine 

@prestonwada