Get to Know May's Young American: Sean Metcalfe

Beginning when he was just a kid in Northern California, Sean Metcalfe was drawn to the worlds of fashion and beauty. Sophomore year of high school he discovered hairstyling, apprenticing under an Aveda stylist and educator before getting his first salon gig at 18. Now, he is one of Tracey Cunningham’s rockstar colorists at Mèche Salon in LA. His story is only just beginning.

AHA MOMENT

I got my first subscription to W at 12 and have always been drawn to the models’ hair in the editorials. In high school I got a job as a salon receptionist, and I quickly realized my passion for hair and fashion.

TRAINING DAYS

School was never my strong suit, so I entered an apprenticeship program at a top salon in San Francisco. After graduating to coloring and styling on the floor, I knew I wanted more, which led me to move to LA and work under the queen of haircolor herself: Tracey Cunningham.

CLAIM TO FAME

Having my work appear on TV and film. As for what I’m known for, I have a preference for a natural look. Have fun with trends in your clothes and accessories instead.

SOCIAL  BUTTERFLY

You can follow me on Instagram at @seanmetcalfehair.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

Never say no to a job. It’s easy to forget, but if you don’t make it happen, someone else will!

SECRET WEAPONS

I can’t do haircolor without Olaplex. I live for Ouai Texturizing Hair Spray and Ouai Matte Pomade. I think I could style any length of hair with these two products.

Tracey Cunningham

MY MENTOR

Tracey Cunningham. She is hands down the hardest-working person I know and has shaped and created the look and techniques that I see most colorists using today. 

BRIGHT FUTURE 

My goal is to partner with an agency. Another dream is to come up with a product line that blurs the line between in-salon and at-home haircolor.