Celebrity hair stylist Gareth Bromell has worked with some of the biggest names in the entertainment and fashion industries. The 38-year-old multi-award nominated hairstylist is working between Ireland, Los Angeles, New York, Paris and London.
For the 2024 Academy Awards, the Limerick man was tasked with molding Cillian Murphy's gruaig into a style worthy of an Oscar winner.
Off the back of a weekend of celebrations with the Cork man, we asked the stylist to give us some behind-the-scenes details and styling secrets.
When do preparations for the Oscars begin for you?
Prep starts a few days before when we prep the skin with a facial. Flying dehydrates the skin so it is essential we rehydrate before beginning. Travel, in general, wreaks havoc on the face and body so rehydration and soothing with a proper facial is absolutely key. I always remind my clients to drink water, lots of it!
How much time have you got with your client and when does the day begin?
As it's a big day, I like to have two hours to prep for grooming and styling hair. We chat, relax, and don’t feel rushed. It’s a process and an experience.
If we have the luxury of time, there is no need to feel rushed and add to the inherent anxiety of awards season.
What is the secret to a long-lasting style?
Hair, for me, needs to be structured with a good setting product that still allows you to reshape while still holding throughout the night. It’s that perfect balance of hold and malleability. The Dyson Supersonic hairdryer helped with holding Cillian’s volume on the night.
Describe Cillian's style and how you prep for a big event.
My inspiration for Cillian’s look is Cillian himself, and all the aspects that make him the man he is: actor, husband, father, Irishman.
Like all of us he’s multi-faceted - rugged yet refined, grounded yet playful - just like Ireland itself. Quintessentially Irish, his look is traditionally classic but elevated. Polished and masculine.
The road to the Oscars is long and arduous and we all can pay the price - especially our skin.
So, good skincare and some added help are essential. We relied on Sisley and Current Body LED Mask to help soothe and restore Cillian’s natural complexion.
Cillian has the best hair, so we always work to enhance his natural texture, create body, and frame his strong angular face.
What was it like to work with him on such an exciting evening?
I am beyond grateful to be a part of such an amazing time in Cillian’s career. It’s mind blowing. We are such a close team and to share this is extraordinary experience is an absolute dream.
