For most people, the start of the year is a time to reset and recharge. But for celebrity hairstylist Matt Benns, January marks the beginning of his busiest season. With awards shows filling the calendar from November through March, Benns is booked solid, styling some of the biggest names in entertainment.
A Star-Studded Client List
Benns’ roster includes Charli xcx, Kim Kardashian, Pamela Anderson, and Elliot Page. His work has graced red carpets at the Golden Globes, Oscars, and countless premieres. Known for creating looks that balance timeless elegance with modern trends, Benns has become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after stylists.
The Stress of Awards Season
While the glamour of red carpets may look effortless, Benns admits the most stressful part of awards season is the weather. “Generally, the red carpet is outdoors, so we are thinking of ways to combat humidity and rain — we know that moisture is generally a hairstylist’s worst enemy,” he tells PEOPLE.
That often means scrapping ideas at the last minute and adjusting plans on the fly. Still, Benns says the process is rewarding. “From the inception of ideas to the moment she steps onto the carpet. Watching the reactions, hearing the gasps, and knowing that she feels confident and beautiful. There’s something so ceremonial about doing glam before a red carpet event, ritualistic even.”
Inspiration Everywhere
Benns draws inspiration from unexpected places. “I have albums of references. I take photos of people on the street, photo books, art, sculptures, films, flowers and plants,” he explains. For Charli xcx’s Golden Globe look, Benns referenced an old Cher music video, creating a modernized version of her iconic blowout.
Trends on the Rise
Like fashion, hairstyles cycle back into popularity. Benns notes that “the blowout is back,” with healthy shine, bounce, and movement defining current trends. He also sees more clients embracing extra length, with really long hair making a comeback on red carpets.
His Daily Routine
Despite the chaos of awards season, Benns starts his day with morning stretches, walking his dog, and coffee. When traveling, it’s a quick espresso before heading straight to the airport and then directly to set. His schedule is packed, but he emphasizes the importance of preparation and balance.
Red Carpet Hair at Home
For those trying to achieve red-carpet-ready hair at home, Benns recommends investing in treatments, smoothing creams, and heat protectants. His go-to blowout routine includes Tresemme’s A-List Collection Smoothing Cream paired with bonding oil, blow-dried through damp hair for smoothness and shine.
The Bigger Picture
Awards season may be stressful, but Benns thrives on the artistry and ritual of creating looks that make stars feel confident. His ability to adapt, find inspiration everywhere, and deliver timeless styles ensures his place among Hollywood’s top hairstylists.
