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From motherhood to millionaire, celebrity stylist Dee Michelle is rewriting the rules of luxury haircare—one strand at a time. Her breakthrough technique, Invisible K-Tips, has not only revolutionized extensions but also elevated hairstyling into a full-fledged empire.

When Dee Michelle first encountered traditional K-Tip extensions, she saw more flaws than finesse. Fast forward two years—and a creative rebirth later—she’s now the mastermind behind Invisible K-Tips, a seamless, protective method that’s redefining what premium hair extensions can be. With a new NYC salon, a viral technique, and a thriving education platform, Dee isn’t just styling hair—she’s shaping the future of the beauty business. In this exclusive, she opens up about innovation, entrepreneurship, and building a brand that goes far beyond the salon chair.

You’re known for developing the innovative Invisible K-Tips method—can you walk us through what makes this technique stand out, and how it’s transforming the extension industry?

The Invisible K-Tips method is a game-changer because it uses extensions that are virtually undetectable, offering a seamless, natural finish. While extensions have been around for years, many women have long desired a way to wear them discreetly—without the obvious look. This technique delivers that illusion flawlessly. It not only enhances volume and length but also supports hair health, allowing access to the scalp for nourishment and treatment. Though K-Tips have existed for decades, they once carried a stigma due to their unnatural appearance and the perception that they caused breakage. I refined the method so it mimics natural hair while being protective. With social media helping to amplify visibility, Invisible K-Tips have become one of the most sought-after, luxury styles today. This transformation has empowered stylists to charge premium prices, elevating both the technique and the industry’s earning potential.

What inspired you to create your own method, and how long did it take to perfect Invisible K-Tips from concept to execution?

I discovered K-Tips in 2022 but was initially unimpressed with how the method was applied. After giving birth to my son, I found myself creatively uninspired and searching for something to challenge me. That’s when I decided to reinvent the technique on my own terms.The original K-Tips had a reputation for looking unnatural and even causing damage. I wanted to change that narrative by developing a version that was healthier, more polished, and undetectable. I spent an entire year experimenting with models, tweaking the method until I perfected it. By 2024, Invisible K-Tips had become a signature style—not just for my salon, but as a brand identity that helped reintroduce the technique to a new generation.

What challenges did you face early on as a stylist trying to break into the luxury space, and how did you overcome them to become a seven-figure success?

One of the biggest challenges was the misconception surrounding K-Tips. Many believed they caused breakage or didn’t last, especially based on experiences from the early 2000s when luxury extensions often had a bad reputation. Breaking through that stigma was tough. To overcome it, I had to not only prove that my method worked but also educate clients on how my application process was different—and better. I consistently shared before-and-after content, explained the benefits of the Invisible K-Tips method, and helped my clients understand how this style could actually promote healthy hair. As trust grew, so did my business. Clients saw the results, were amazed, and began spreading the word. That education-driven approach was key to breaking into the luxury space and building credibility.

Reaching seven figures as a hairstylist is no small feat—what were some pivotal moves or mindset shifts that helped you scale your brand to that level?

In 2022, during my pregnancy, I had a wake-up call. I felt stagnant, like I wasn’t living up to my full potential. That season forced me to reevaluate everything; from my personal goals to how I ran my business. I knew I was meant to lead, not just follow trends.That’s when I made a conscious shift. I realigned my vision, sharpened my business strategies, and committed to scaling not just as a stylist but as a brand. I focused on becoming a better entrepreneur, one who could shape trends, create experiences, and ultimately lead in the beauty industry. That clarity was the turning point in taking my business to the seven-figure level.

You often talk about financial literacy being key to your success—what financial habits or lessons do you believe every beauty entrepreneur should adopt early on?

Money management is everything. Early in my career, I noticed a pattern among stylists: money came fast and left even faster. I saw many peers make money, spend it immediately, and rely on the hope that another client would bring it back in. That cycle just isn’t sustainable. I learned to break that habit by watching what not to do. I created a disciplined routine: saving for slow seasons, reinvesting in my business, and spending wisely. By 2022 and 2023, I experienced significant financial growth, but it required extreme discipline. I believe God wouldn’t bless me with seven figures if I couldn’t manage four or five. Every beauty entrepreneur needs to build this muscle early. Treat your business like a business—not just a hustle.

When did you first realize your brand had the potential to grow beyond the chair and become a full-blown empire?

I had my “aha” moment back in beauty school. Even then, I started attracting out-of-town clients, people who were willing to drive or catch a train just to sit in my chair. That showed me this wasn’t just a local buzz, it was the beginning of a movement. Clients entrust their stylists with their appearance, their confidence, and their identity. When people began flying in to get Invisible K-Tips, I realized this was my purpose. It confirmed for me that I wasn’t just building a client list—I was building an empire rooted in trust, excellence, and transformation.

Congratulations on your new salon in NYC! What was the process like—from scouting the space to signing the lease—and what lessons would you share with other beauty professionals looking to open their own salon?

Thank you! To be honest, I didn’t initially want to open a salon in New York—I was leaning toward relocating to the South. But so many of my clients were already based in or frequently traveled to NYC, so it made sense. I worked closely with a realtor for about two months, passing on several spaces that didn’t align with my vision. I was determined to find a location that offered privacy, luxury, and exclusivity—especially for my high-profile clientele. Ultimately, I chose a serene space with earthy, neutral tones and a private entrance. For stylists looking to open their own salon, my advice is to be intentional. Don’t rush the process. Consider your ideal clientele, business model, and the experience you want to offer—and then find a space that aligns with all of that.

What can we expect from your upcoming masterclass, and how are you preparing beauty professionals to elevate their careers and income?

This upcoming masterclass is different from anything I’ve done before. It’s not just about learning how to apply the Invisible K-Tips technique, it’s about combining artistry with real business acumen. I’ve teamed up with powerhouse women like Yandy Smith-Harris and Kendra Robinson to deliver a full-circle experience. Attendees will walk away with practical styling knowledge, marketing tools, legal guidance, and access to funding resources. It’s designed to not only make them expert stylists but also savvy entrepreneurs. This isn’t just a class, it’s a launchpad. I’ll also be offering ongoing mentorship because I want these beauty professionals to thrive long after the masterclass ends.

What does a typical ‘day in the life’ look like for you—from your morning routine to handling celebrity clients and managing your business?

My days are full and nonstop—but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I start in full mom mode: getting my kids up, dressed, and out the door. Then I shift into business mode. I check in with my assistant, manage appointments at the salon, and handle administrative work like emails and logistics.Some days I’m in the salon, some days I’m flying out to accommodate a celebrity client, and other times I’m filming content or strategizing new ways to grow my brand. There are no set hours; it’s all about flexibility and focus. What keeps me grounded is setting and hitting personal goals. Whether it’s delivering a flawless install, making a certain revenue mark, or growing my brand online, I stay motivated by the bigger picture.

Who are a few dream clients you’d love to work with that you haven’t styled yet—and why?

Honestly, I’m already working with my dream clients. I’ve had the honor of styling amazing women; mothers, entrepreneurs, celebrities like Keyshia Cole and Lira Galore; women who truly value what I bring to the table. But if I had to name one ultimate dream client, it would be Beyoncé. Her style is ever-evolving, and I would love to introduce her to the Invisible K-Tips method. She’s a global icon who represents beauty, strength, and innovation, all things I strive for in my brand. That said, working with powerful, everyday women who trust me with their vision is the real dream.

Every woman wants healthy, stylish hair—what are your top 3–5 must-have hair care items that every girl should own?

Healthy hair starts with good habits. First and foremost, invest in a professional-grade shampoo and conditioner. Quality matters; what you put on your hair and scalp has a huge impact. Second, always use a heat protectant. It’s non-negotiable for anyone who uses heat tools. Third, take your vitamins and drink water. Healthy hair begins from within, and hydration is key. I also recommend having a silk or satin bonnet or pillowcase to protect your hair at night. Lastly, don’t skip regular trims, healthy ends are just as important as healthy roots.

What’s the biggest misconception people have about celebrity stylists or luxury hairstyling behind the scenes?

There’s a huge misconception that celebrity stylists are unprofessional or only cater to high-profile clients. Social media has unfortunately amplified negative stories about stylists being late, poor communicators, or providing subpar experiences. That’s not me. I pride myself on delivering A+ service to every client celebrity or not. Every woman deserves to feel valued in my chair. I prioritize clear communication, professionalism, and consistency, and that’s what builds long-term trust in this industry.

If you could go back and give your younger stylist self one piece of advice before building your business, what would it be?

I would tell my younger self: get your business in order from the start. So many stylists jump into the game focused solely on doing hair and making money, but neglect the foundation. Register your business. Open a business bank account. Establish business credit. Set up systems for client communication and payments. These things may not seem glamorous, but they’re vital. Protect your brand legally and financially before you even pick up the comb. It will save you from so many headaches later on.

How do you balance creativity and business—especially as your brand continues to grow and evolve?

Balancing creativity and business is a daily practice. Social media keeps me on my toes creatively, but I’ve learned to time-block and delegate where I can. I surround myself with a strong team so I can focus on both the art of styling and the strategy behind growing my brand. It’s about giving space to both sides; staying inspired while staying grounded. I remind myself often: creativity fuels my brand, but business sustains it.

What’s next for Dee Michelle—any new products, partnerships, or big moves we should be on the lookout for?

There’s so much in store for the Dee Michelle brand. I’m gearing up for an exciting masterclass and just opened my first luxury salon in New York City. Thanks to social media, my Invisible K-Tips method has gone viral, helping me build a rapidly growing, global audience. Next up: expansion. I’m working on opening more salon locations across the U.S. and taking my education program internationally. My goal is not only to teach the Invisible K-Tips technique, but to empower women to become the next generation of hair tycoons and elite stylists. This is just the beginning.

Keep Up with Dee Michelle: @deemichelle__


Photo Credit: Antonio Livingston