Name an iconic hairstyle, and chances are Sam McKnight has had a hand in it (quite literally). A true architect of modern hair, he’s shaped the look of fashion and culture one artfully tousled strand at a time, earning an MBE for services to the British fashion and beauty industries. From runway royalty (Kate Moss has him on speed dial) to actual royalty (Princess Diana was both client and friend), Sam is the master of the perfectly imperfect finish.
While his feats of coiffure wizardry are legendary backstage (no one does a bouncy blow-dry quite like him), it’s his signature ‘cool girl’ texture that’s become his calling card. But it’s not just his A-List clientele that keeps followers hooked.
Fans of his personal account will know there’s another (hirsute) star of the show; Stanley, his flaxen-haired cockapoo. For our pet special issue (out now!), we caught up with both – offering Stanley a few well-earned ear scratches while quizzing Sam on the hairstyles that can survive a British dog walk.
How would you sum up Stanley’s personality in three words?
Easy, chilled and friendly
Do you ever take him on set or is he strictly at-home company?
I sometimes take him to my own studio, but it’s too boring for him. He likes a good walk/run and sniffing around the garden.
Who’s really in charge at home – you or Stanley?
I’m definitely 70% in charge. The other 30% is when he refuses to come in at night.
What does a typical dog walk look like for you? Is it thinking time or switching off time?
I have to give Stanley my full attention when we’re out – throwing balls and making sure he’s staying out of trouble. It’s also time for training him. And he knows he’ll get a treat when we sit down at the cafe.
© CAMERA PRESS/Andrew WoffindenDo you ever come up with ideas while walking him?
Yes! The idea I keep coming back to is that all cyclists should have to wear ID and be tested and insured. I’ve seen too many hit-and-runs on park pathways – it’s getting out of control.
Have you ever tried giving Stanley a haircut?
Never – I leave that to the trusted groomers. If he gets dirty, I’ll rinse him off in the sink, but we have a water softener system so I don’t really use products on him.
Quick fix for hat-flattened hair?
Give it a quick shake, flip your parting from side to side for instant lift, and you’re good to go.
How do you make second-day hair look intentional?
This depends on what your hair is doing. If it’s become fluffy, a hair balm such as my Happy Endings Nourishing Balm, £22, can help tame fluff and frizz, or if it’s become lifeless and flat, a styling spray such as my Cool Girl Texture Mist, £28, will give it that instant volume and effortless texture in seconds.
Talking of effortless texture – what’s the secret to undone-but-chic hair?
My Cool Girl Texture Mist! I created it for this exact reason. In just a few spritzes, it enhances texture and volume without looking overworked or overdone. It’s cool girl hair in a spray.
What is the biggest mistake people make with texture?
Overthinking it. Don’t try and make it too perfect – embrace the imperfections!
How do you revive windblown hair?
Most people will need a little taming and de-fluffing, so a lightweight cream to bring everything back together and define is the goal. My Dressed to Kill Define and Defrizz Crème, £26, is my go-to for wind-swept hair.
Best hairstyle for rainy dog walks?
A sleek, minimal twist or chignon always looks chic and doesn’t fight the weather.
Start by misting a little of my Modern Hairspray Styling Mist, £12, into the roots, then brush back into a smooth ponytail just above ear height. I like using a Mason Pearson Popular Bristle & Nylon Hairbrush, £154, or YS Park’s Curl Shine Styler Brush, (from £33.35), to get that really clean finish.
Then, run a medium curling tong such as Babyliss’ Rose Quartz 25mm Curling Tong, £27.99, through the ponytail to make the hair easier to shape, before smoothing a touch of hair crème through the lengths to keep everything polished.
Separate a small section from the ponytail and clip it to the side. Roll the ponytail up and tuck it under to form a soft chignon, securing it with elastic. Comb hair gel through the remaining section and wrap it around the elastic to hide it. It’s quick, elegant and stays put – even in the rain.”
One hair rule everyone should follow?
Don’t follow rules – they’re made to be broken!
