How Amy Winehouse Got Her Iconic Hair

Amy Winehouse was one of the most important artists of the 21st century. Her music, performance, and talent marked an entire generation. Despite her personal struggles, Winehouse's authenticity and vulnerability resonated deeply with fans, making her a beloved icon. From the rhythmic melodies of "Rehab" to the heartbreaking honesty of "Back to Black," her songs continue to evoke powerful emotions and inspire countless artists. Winehouse's influence extends far beyond her tragically short life, cementing her legacy as an unforgettable artist.

On May 17, nearly thirteen years after Winehouse's tragic death, the premiere of Back to Black, a biopic based on her life, will offer a deeper insight into her tumultuous yet remarkable journey. While some may argue that the film cannot fully capture the complexity of Winehouse's experiences, it undoubtedly serves as a tribute to her enduring legacy. So, in honor of her indelible impact, L'OFFICIEL delves into the history of Winehouse's signature hairstyle. 

Her faithful hairdresser, Alex Foden, gave an interview to Sunday People to recall interesting facts in her memory. Among them, he shared that the "Valerie" artist's iconic beehive hairdo started as a joke between them.

“As a joke, I backcombed her hair massively and put an extra packet of hair in," said Foden. However, as soon as Winehouse appeared in front of her friends, the exotic look became a source of praise and approval. "I said, ‘There you go, let’s go and show the finished look’, taking the piss obviously, and as we came out the trailer everybody went, ‘Oh my God! That is it, that is the signature look.'"

“It was never meant to be that big so I said, 'Let’s turn you into a caricature.' I’d get two packs of synthetic hair, which is light, put hair nets around it, and sew those together. We called them fur balls,” revealed Foden.

The professional, who at the time had known Amy for five years, also joked about the singer's hair being a "black hole." He recalled, "She once couldn’t find her ­mobile for three days. She scratched her head and it was inside her beehive.”

And even in her most difficult moments, Alex recalls that she was very proud of her appearance and wouldn't leave home without her classic cat-eye eyeliner.

Winehouse's signature Brigitte Bardot-inspired look made such a significant impact long before her untimely passing. A prime example of her influence ocurred at Chanel's Pre-Fall show in 2007, where Karl Lagerfeld, inspired by Winehouse, deliberately showcased models adorned with beehive hairstyles, drawing direct inspiration from Winehouse. Lagerfeld himself acknowledged her significance, stating, "She's a style icon." "She's not only a muse; she's a genius. She's one of the greatest voices today," he added.  As the muse of such a titan of the fashion world, Winehouse's status as a cultural icon remains undisputed, a testament to her enduring impact on both music and style.