Tastemakers and Trendsetters: Clayton Hawkins, Celebrity Hairstylist and Donna Bella Hair Pro Ambassador

Celebrity hairstylist Clayton Hawkins.

In Tastemakers and Trendsetters, we talk to inspirational leaders in the world of spa, beauty, and wellness. This week we chat with Clayton Hawkins, a Los Angeles-based celebrity hairstylist known for his work on the tresses of Olivia Rodrigo, Meg Stalter, Jenna Ortega, Dove Cameron, and many others.

Hawkins has won numerous industry awards and is also a brand ambassador for Donna Bella Hair Extensions, where he provides pro education and tours, and recently presented an exclusive masterclass in partnership with Donna Bella Hair and SexyHair that offered a closer look into the business of celebrity styling, building a social media presence, breaking into the entertainment industry, and attracting high-profile clients.

What inspired you to first get into the industry?

I’ve been doing hair professionally for over 15 years, but I’ve been obsessed with it since I was a kid. I was always cutting doll hair, making wigs, and flipping through vintage beauty books. Hair has always been my creative outlet.

Is there a signature hair technique or style you’re known for?

I’ve worked with a lot of pop stars over the years so I would say voluminous, tousled, sexy hair is kind of my signature.

Favorite celebrity look you’ve created?

It’s impossible to pick just one. But Meg Stalter’s 50-inch hair at the AMAs this year was pretty memorable.

Tell us more about your Donna Bella masterclass.

The class covered everything from extension techniques to building a career behind the chair. I wanted to teach the things I wish someone had taught me. The response was really overwhelming in a great way!

Why is making pro extensions more accessible through CosmoProf important, and what do you hope stylists take away from the Power of Extensions Tour?

Professional extensions can completely transform a client’s confidence while helping stylists grow their businesses. I hope everyone leaves feeling inspired, more confident in their skills, and excited to keep learning. Education is one of the best investments you can make in your career.

Any tips for hair extension application?

My biggest tip is that placement is everything. Great extensions should be invisible.

Hawkins is also a Donna Bella Pro Hair Ambassador and recently taught a masterclass designed for ambitious hairstylists and emerging beauty professionals.

Favorite Donna Bella products?

I love Donna Bella’s tape-ins because the hair is so dense and consistent, and their Kera-Link system is amazing for adding fullness in targeted areas.

Who inspires you?

I’m inspired by people who stay curious. I pull inspiration from fashion, old films, vintage magazines, art, and even comedy — not just the beauty industry.

Secret to success?

Be consistent, stay humble, and never stop learning. Talent gets you noticed, but reliability builds a career.

Beauty secrets?

Healthy hair will always look more expensive than damaged hair. Prioritize great haircuts, heat protection, and products that actually nourish the hair.

Wellness tip?

Sleep, hydration, and taking breaks when you need them. You can’t be creative if you’re running on empty.

Favorite ways to relax?

I love to write and to swim and to watch my Bravo every night.

For more information about Donna Bella Hair products, visit their website. Follow Clayton Hawkins on Instagram (@claytonhawkins) to stay up to date on his latest classes, news, and more.

[Photos courtesy of Donna Bella Hair]