TA’COY has an inspiring talk with London Summers about his beginnings, his creative process, and the vision behind the hairstyles that elevates the signature soft-glam of R&B star Tiffany Evans to delivering bold, unforgettable looks for reality TV stars Natalie Nunn and Masika Kalysha.
Exclusively Interviewed by London Summers
HH: Ta’Coy, It’s a pleasure to connect with you! You’ve styled some of the most recognizable women in entertainment from R&B songstress Tiffany Evans to reality TV stars Natalie Nunn and Masika Kalysha. How did your journey in the hair industry begin, and where did your passion for beauty come from?
Tacoy: Thanks for having me London! Since a kid I’ve always had I’ve always had a fascination with hair and beauty. I can remember watching my mom and aunts get ready. From shower to pantyhose to lipstick then it was time for the hair and it just brought it all together. I remember cutting my cousin dolls hair. One time I went with an aunt to the salon and the hairstylist needed me to hold the ponytail while he wrapped it around the hair. From that moment on I haven’t put a comb down.
HH: Take us back to your roots literally and figuratively. Where are you from, and how did your hometown shape your creativity and approach to styling Black hair?
– ADVERTISEMENT –
Tacoy: Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky I come from more of a melting pot. Being the only child for 13 years having a big personality it wasn’t hard to find people that didn’t take on to me. As a young kid I knew I was passionate about hair the finishing part of getting ready. That allowed me to have a strong clientele as a teen. I was able to practice my gift. Doing what I love thought me how to be consistent. Once I became licensed all the tools when into me being a great hairstylist in and out. Built character. Allowing me to style with confidence. Be Bold. Be Different.
HH: Your client Tiffany Evans is known for her soft yet striking glam. What’s your go-to signature look for her, and how do you collaborate to match her style to her music and image?
Tacoy: With Tiffany someone who is multi-talented that allows me to be creative. It could be for a movie role, video shoot, red-carpet, or interview. What we decide to go with normally based off of the assignment. Tiffany being so creative like me we always do Mood boards pulling inspiration from all areas. She’s in her 90’s era now! Listening to the artist connecting researching helps create magic.
HH: When working with bold personalities like Natalie Nunn and Masika Kalysha, what’s your process for balancing their individuality with trends that push boundaries? Any unforgettable moments from set or glam sessions?
Tacoy: Stay in the moment with the client/artist, when Nicki Minaj put Natalie Nunn in a song. I can remember how Natalie was so excited and Grateful. It was such a moment for the C.E.O of Baddies it was important making sure the hair matches the clothes & styling her in her natural baddie beauty. She doesn’t require much. One of my most unforgettable moments is working on Mya with my mentor Joe Exclusive. The way his iconic mind thinks has shaped the culture. I never fan out! I show up to do my job. I remember after we were done on set. I’m like “TaCoy that was Mya. Somebody pinch me!”
HH: The industry is filled with amazing talent, but if you could choose any celebrity past or present to style next, who would it be and why?
Tacoy: Whitney Houston she was always a moment that needed that glam moment to me.
– ADVERTISEMENT –
HH: For our readers who live and breathe haircare, what are your biggest dos and don’ts when it comes to maintaining healthy Black hair under wigs, installs, or protective styles?
Tacoy: Treat your hair! Find time. Proper Shampoos & Conditioner Understanding the cuticle you’re working on. Some hair needs oil some produces its own. Understand the scalp. Using systems thats designed for wigs, installs. Love on your hair. Pay a licensed professional.
HH: You’ve already built an incredible résumé. What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects, product lines, or dream collaborations you’re excited about in 2025?
Tacoy: Inspired by my mom and aunt. T2 Spritz & Glitz finishing agents. Our original Organic Light Hold Spritz & Glitz Sheen that leaves the hair with the most beautiful Shine relaunching early 2026. Rebranding and shaping this new formula has me so excited. Follow me @iamtacoy for more updates! I have a couple of Collaborations with some artists dropping soon can wait for people to see this side of the brand.
Related