Bumble and bumble has appointed Laurent Philippon as its first global artistic director, effective July 1. Philippon, who honed his craft by apprenticing with legendary hairdressers Alexandre de Paris and Julien d’Ys, is expert in classic French hairdressing techniques, and those techniques form the basis of Bumble and bumble University’s styling curriculum, according to Peter Lichtenthal, the brand’s president.
“Over the past 20 years, Laurent’s contribution[s] to Bumble and bumble have been immeasurable,” said Lichtenthal. “He’s done creative imagery both for the brand and in the editorial fashion world and has had a hand in creating some of our most iconic products, including Hair Powder, Prêt-à-Powder, the Sumo family of styling products, Styling Lotion and Spray de Mode. He’s led Bumble styling teams during fashion week. Laurent’s touch will be felt throughout all aspects of our company.”
Philippon said, “I’m looking forward to delving even deeper into the brand and am excited to share the new vision I have for Bumble with hairdressers around the world.” Philippon will continue to be based in Paris and will pursue his editorial career while maintaining a presence with the New York-based Bumble and bumble team, said Lichtenthal. His duties will include influencing education, creative imagery, product development and the company’s editorial and fashion work.
Lichtenthal said he anticipates Philippon’s influence on education, both for the two New York City-based Bumble and bumble salons, as well as the company’s Bb. Salon Network, which currently consists of about 2,300 affiliated salons. “We are a creatively led brand, deep in the stylist voice and leadership,” said Lichtenthal. “Laurent’s expertise will bring enhanced authority to us, so we can continue to elevate our support to our Bb. Salon Network.” He added that “Laurent and a team of key Bumble and bumble stylists will visit select cities with an event called “Voice + Vision” exclusively for our Bb. Network, beginning in Los Angeles, Chicago and New Orleans and continuing through much of his first year in his new role.”
