Tastemaker: Vincent Phang

Vincent Phang has been revolutionizing the Toronto hair scene since opening SeeFu Hair Salon on Spadina, a go-to destination for cuts and colours for many of the city’s most stylish trendsetters. His loyal customers are now following him to Yorkville this month as Phang opens his salon’s second location, SeeFu Yorkville, on renowned Cumberland Street. Known for his precision and cutting-edge techniques, Phang is looking forward to adding serious style to the city north of Bloor with his new Japanese-inspired salon…

How did you get started as a stylist?
I’ve been a hairstylist since I was 16 years-old. I started in Malaysia, where I’m from. I didn’t fall in love with it right away, but after about a year I really started to love it. I moved to Toronto in 1995, and I’ve been a stylist here ever since. I’ve been happily based on Spadina at SeeFu Hair Salon, and I’m thrilled to be opening a second salon, SeeFu Yorkville, on Cumberland.

What are you best known for as a stylist?
I do cuts, colour, and everything. Anything the customer wants I can do. We do everything from digital perms to ombre colouring at SeeFu. Many of our customers are in their late 20s and are interested in the latest trends in hair.

Are there any hair products you swear by?
John Masters is the best. Organic is the way to go.

Do you have a favourite city in the world for inspiration?
Osaka and Tokyo in Japan are amazing. It’s fun to just sit on the street and watch people as they walk by. From their cuts to their hair colours, the people in both of those cities are very cutting edge and inspiring.

What hairstyle trends are you currently obsessed with?
I really like movement with hair. I love when it looks natural. I really like looks that are timeless and classic.

How would you describe your personal style?
Clean and simple. I like all black as far as clothing goes. That’s what we wear at the salon – all black.

Are their any celebrities whose style you admire?
I’ve always liked Meg Ryan’s style. Her short hair never goes out of style.

What trends are upcoming for hair?
Short hair was the trend for last year. Now the trend is less about bobs and more about volume, but still short.

What’s your favourite restaurant?
Ruby Watchco. The food is terrific, and the service is always very good. I work late hours and don’t get to go out for dinner as often as I’d like, but when I do I usually go there.

Let’s get social for a mo’. How do we stay up-to-date with you?
We just launched our new salon, SeeFu Yorkville, on Facebook and Twitter. We’d love for you to follow us there.