Beauty Biographies is a column where we ask some of our favourite people to reflect on the beauty items that have influenced their lives and have a sentimental place in their heart. From their grandmother’s perfume to the eyeshadow they wore to their first dance these are the products that have had a significant impact on them and that instantly transport them back to a particular time, place, or person.

Dazed Beauty’s Contributing Editor Shiori Takahashi is a master in the art of hair. Her work reflects a fascination for subcultures that spans from turning kids into punks for Stella McCartney to the grungy looks she created for the Han Kjøbenhavn AW19 show. She’s also the brains behind the club kid extravaganza that was Art School’s AW19 show where she styled bright fuchsia beards and messy hair that looked like it had been caught in a rainstorm embellished with sculptures made using unclaimed lost-property sourced from LGBTQ+ safe spaces across London. With a portfolio that includes campaigns for clients such as Gucci, Marques Almeida, Stussy, and Asai, to name but a few, Shiori’s talent doesn't look like it's going to stop.

TIGI Bed Head Superstar

I first came across this product when started working as a session stylist. I remember being drawn to the smell backstage where I saw so many different stylists using it. It instantly became an important product in my core kit for the main reason that it gives a texture that I really like.

Get it here: TIGI Bed Head Superstar Queen for a Day Thickening Spray

L’Oreal Sensi Balance Shampoo

This shampoo was released when I was an assistant in a salon. My main job was shampooing. I don’t know how many people’s hair I washed every single day. Luckily I enjoy giving head massages and so this scalp cleansing shampoo was my favourite product to use on clients. I really like the smell, It reminds me of working in the salon and dreaming of being a hairstylist.

Get it here: L'Oréal Professionnel Sensi Balance Shampoo

Wella Professionals Perm Lotion

It’s very popular to have a permanent wave in Japan. I loved the smell of perm lotion when my mother and sister used to come home from the hair salon. The smell reminds me of an older woman, or of becoming a woman. I was always wanted to have a permanent wave and look like a lady when I was a little girl.

Get it here: Wella Professionals Curl It Mild Perm Lotion

Chanel Égoïste

My first boyfriend used to wear this perfume. This smell is a memory of my first love.

Get it here: Chanel Égoïste Eau de Toilette

YSL La Laque Couture 1 Rouge Pop Art

I usually don’t wear nail polish as working as a hairstylist means constantly using my hands and chipping my nails and then catching hairs in the cracks. But this nail polish lasts longer than ever, even when applying myself. I love the classic red colour. it makes me wish I could speak French.

Get it here: YSL La Laque Couture Nail Polish in 1 Rouge Pop Art