Today we’d like to introduce you to Dalanie Downing.
Hi Dalanie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
For as long as I can remember I have always been so drawn to the artistry that is hairdressing. Growing up in a very small west texas town I looked at starting a career in hair as a way out of that small town and into a big city. I started my journey in Dallas going to cosmetology school and getting to work under some of the most influential people that I have ever had the privilege of knowing. Over the years of traveling to Austin for music festivals and hair shows, there was something about this city that I fell in love with. Austin has such unique and incredibly relaxed style as a city, which is ultimately how I would describe myself as a stylist.
In 2019 I dove in head first and moved on a whim. After working in Austin for many years now I can truly say that I am still so in love with this city. Over the years I have gone through different favorite services to provide to my clients but these days I gravitate towards working with my razor and natural texture, grey blending and of course the modern shag, a haircut that feels quintessentially Austin to me.
I now live in New Braunfels with my family while working at Salon Rosé on South Congress three days a week. Growing up coming to Whimberly to visit family I have such a special place in my heart for the rivers that run through our hill country, and now I am closer to them than I ever thought would be possible and for that I am truly grateful. This Career has given me so much but the greatest thing it has done for me is the opportunity to be a positive energy in someones life and the privilege and trust that is given to help someone see the beauty not just on the outside but within themselves.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has been anything but smooth, but looking back now I don’t believe that it was ever supposed to be. The wonderful thing about this industry is that it is ever-changing and evolving into something different. Working as a service provider during Covid was something that I never thought I would be challenged with, I don’t think anybody thought they could foresee a change of that magnitude.
Even with the struggles that came with navigating a situation like that just showed me that this industry is filled with the most resilient people. Some of the greatest struggles that I feel a lot of hairstylist face ebb and flow throughout ones career, building and maintaining a loyal clientele while also dealing with the intense physical and financial strain of the job is something I have to always be aware of. Making sure that I take care of my mental and physical health so that I am completely capable of giving my clients the service that they deserve.
“Miss Truvy, I promise that my personal tragedy will not interfere with my ability to do good hair.” -Steel Magnolias
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
If you were to take a look at my work from my instagram you would see that I definitely don’t have one particular type of hairstyle that I like to showcase (I will say that the shag is my number one asked for haircut) but I do pride myself in being able to offer many different services. I love to help people embrace their natural texture if that is something they are looking for, but I will never turn down a big beautiful blowout. Doing alternative block color styles is also something I love to do, but I also love a natural sun kissed highlight that can be worn for 6 months or longer. You could say I am a jack of all trades when it comes to hair, something I have worked my entire career for is to not specialize in any one thing, but to learn about all different hair types and be comfortable woking with many different types of hair.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
So many amazing artists over the years have taught me so much, my very first mentor I had 11 years ago comes to mind (he was a fan favorite on the show ‘Shear Genius’ a show I was wildly obsessed with growing up) so needless to say he is a wildly talented artist but more than anything he helped me learn the art of people. The way he is able to communicate with the people in his chair is something to behold and a skill I have always tried to implement into my own craft. And now I am currently working for a women/stylist owned salon and that has been so inspiring to be apart of.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.salonroseaustin.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dalanielou?igsi=MXVkeGVwZXNzcm82Zg==
