“I’ve always been so fascinated with extensions as my mum has worn them for years. I used to love going to her appointments and seeing the transformation and also the happiness it brought to her, which made me decide to specialise solely in extensions. For me, extensions aren’t all about length! There’s an infinity of things one can use extensions for, such as using them for fullness, strengthening and/or correcting hair cuts, as well as adding colour and texture.
In 2016 I came up with the idea of the ‘hair filler’ – a technique that applies minimal hair to add maximum fullness. The response was great and I gained amazing exposure. I love working with people who have experienced hair loss issues because it gives me great job satisfaction. It’s amazing how hair really can change someone’s life.
In August 2022 I opened my first salon in Seven Dials and built an incredible team. We then expanded and doubled our footprint, still located in Covent Garden on Shelton Street. When I’m not at work I’m at home in Essex with my husband and all of my animals. We have four dogs, two cats and five chickens. I love having the business of London for work and the calm of the countryside – it keeps me balanced.”
Here, the King of Extensions reveals all about the little luxuries in his life…
- When I need to reset, I always… go walking with my dogs in nature.
- To make ordinary tasks feel special, I… always have good tunes playing and have a sing song.
- The ritual that helps me feel connected to myself is… going to the gym, it helps keep my mind clear.
- A piece of art that inspires me… is the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, I think it’s so beautiful.
- My room service order is… a cheese and onion sandwich and ice cream!
- When I’m travelling I always treat myself to… a piece of jewellery to remind me of where I’ve been.
- When I have time to myself, I love to… watch documentaries on history – my favourite era is the Tudors.
- I feel most connected to others when I… am at work – I love my job and working and making people happy.
- My favourite scent is… Another 13 by Le Labo layered with Molecule!
- I love collecting… ’90s game consoles! Nothing beats old games; my favourite is Crash Bandicoot!
- A song that brings me joy… Heaven In The Backseat Of My Cadillac by Hot Chocolate – it’s such a vibe!
- My skincare routine isn’t complete without… Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream! It gives the most amazing glow to the skin.
- I feel the most beautiful when I… shave my hair off! Nothing beats that fresh feeling
- To celebrate, I treat myself to… a tattoo!
- A city with a special place in my heart… is London – I think it’s the best city in the world!
- My favourite food in the world is served… on ice! I love oysters! In fact all seafood.
- On a Sunday morning you can find me… searing off a joint of beef ready to go in the slow cooker for a Sunday roast.
- If I was given £1,000,000, I would… open an animal sanctuary and become a recluse.
Hadley Yates Salon, 11-13 Shelton Street, London, WC2H 9JN