From Paris to Home Soil with Hair, Heart & Iles Formula

By Louise May

Wendy Iles is a uniquely talented celebrity hair artist whose journey from humble beginnings as a hairdresser in Tasmania to the pinnacle of the global fashion industry is truly inspiring. After completing her apprenticeship in Tasmania, Wendy’s passion and dedication led her to Paris, where she has crafted hairstyles for international celebrities and collaborated with major brands such as Dior, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton. Her unique talent has also created campaigns for major international hair brands including Wella, Maybelline, Clairol, Schwarzkopf, and L’Oréal.

Wendy’s Australian roots and humble, beautiful personality shine through in her work; watching her touch hair is like witnessing magic. Her ability to move hair will undoubtedly leave the audience spellbound. In addition to her styling prowess, Wendy has developed her own haircare brand, Iles Formula, authored two books, ARCHIVES 1 and 2, and travels the world as a celebrity hairstylist and brand ambassador. She has contributed to creating some of the most unique and recognisable brand and editorial imagery worldwide today.

In September 2025, Wendy returns to Australia to appear on the HAIR The Movement stage and reconnect with her roots, delivering inspiration and education to the industry. She will also be promoting her luxe haircare line, Iles Formula, which is distributed in Australia through Rogue Beauty, and hosting exclusive masterclasses during her stay.

Louise May, Editor of Mocha Hair, caught up with Wendy to chat about the upcoming trip in September, her approach to artistry, and what the Australian hair community can expect.

Wendy, how does it feel to be coming to Australia in September for the event?

It feels like coming home. Australia is where it all began for me, so to return with the years of global experience behind me, and to stand among such talent, is a full-circle moment. I’m honoured to be part of this event and deeply touched by Sharon’s invitation.

You’ve worked all over the world. What makes this event special for you, and what are you most looking forward to?

There’s something deeply personal about this event. It’s not just another stage, it’s Australia, my roots, and a return to where my journey began. What Sharon has created with HAIR The Movement feels meaningful, it’s not only about showcasing artistry, but about nurturing connection and sharing knowledge.

What I’m most looking forward to is the exchange, standing in front of my peers and the next generation, offering what I’ve learned, but also receiving the energy and passion that only comes from being in a room full of creatives who truly love what they do.

It’s a celebration of our craft, and I feel incredibly honoured to be part of it.

What can the audience expect from your session on the HAIR The Movement stage?

Honesty. A glimpse behind the glamour. I’ll share the techniques that have carried me through four decades, but also the human side, the stories, the turning points, the discipline it takes to thrive in this industry. It will be heartfelt and honest.

You’ve styled hair for major fashion houses and celebrities. What have those experiences taught you about working under pressure?

That calm is your greatest asset. Whether it’s a supermodel backstage or a high-profile client in a private suite, they feel your energy. You must be centred, fast, intuitive, and always make them feel safe. The hair is important, but the energy you bring is everything.

What’s your favourite part about working with hair — on set, backstage, or in a salon setting?

Transformation. Not just the visual, although that’s always thrilling, but the emotional shift that happens when someone feels beautiful, confident, seen. Whether it’s a fashion show or an intimate one-onone, that moment is what I live for.

You’ve created your own haircare brand, Iles Formula. Can you tell us all about it?

Iles Formula was born from necessity. I needed high-performance care that would rescue tortured hair instantly! especially on shoots, where there’s no time for trial and error. The formulas were originally created just for my own kit. But word spread, and demand grew. Today, Iles Formula is a global brand, available online and in select salons and retailers worldwide. It remains deeply personal, everything I couldn’t find, I formulated.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to stylists who dream of working in fashion or with celebrities?

Master your craft, but also master discretion. Be a vault. Talent gets you through the door, but your character keeps you in the room. And always stay curious, the moment you stop learning, you stop growing.

What are you most looking forward to sharing with the Australian hair community during your visit?

I want to share everything I can... techniques, insights, and the honest truth of what this path has looked like for me. But mostly, I hope to share encouragement. I want every stylist to leave feeling more empowered and more connected to their why.

Are you doing any other education while you’re out here? Yes! while I’m in Australia, I’ll be sharing masterclasses and small group sessions for stylists who want a deeper dive into my methods. It’s important to me that what I’ve learned over the years doesn’t end with me. I want to pass it on.

@wendyiles_hair

@ilesformula_hair

@roguebeauty_official