For the past four and a half years Anthony Sorensen worked exclusively in New York City as Martha Stewart’s personal hairstylist. But today you’ll find him embracing a change of pace in the Twin Cities, where he’s a stylist at Juut Salonspa’s Edina location. When he’s not at the salon, Sorensen enjoys the multitude of bike trails that loop throughout the metro area or enjoying a “Jucy Lucy” at Matt’s Bar in the Powderhorn Park neighborhood.
Sorensen is known for creating spectacular blowouts; New York Magazine has recognized him for the “Best Blow Dry” award. The Long Island native began cutting hair in 1997 as an apprentice of the famed Frederic Fekkai. His 16-year hairstyling and cutting career has afforded him many adventures and allowed him to travel the world, styling for celebrities such as Princess Caroline of Monaco, Hillary Clinton, and Kelly and Sharon Osbourne. Edina Magazine interviewed Sorenson to learn more about his recent move to our town, and the secrets behind flawless hair.
When did you develop a passion for hair styling?
My first client was my sister’s Barbie doll. Remember the one with the lavender base, and you cranked it on the side to make the hair grow? I would cut and style it in secret in the basement. My mother always commented that the hair ghost had visited!
What is your hair philosophy?
You wear your hair every day. Make it your best accessory.
Favorite hair trend of the moment?
I’m loving the hair length just a bit below the shoulder when straight and a bit above when wavy. It’s a great length because it’s so versatile. I’m also into soft bangs right now; think Brigitte Bardot.
How did you go from being an apprentice to becoming Martha Stewart’s personal stylist?
My first job out of hair school was at Frederic Fekkai in 1997. I apprenticed under him for three and half years. The educational program there is intense and demands perfection. It was the perfect precursor to my stint with Martha, which started in 2008 until I moved here in May 2013.
What was it like being Martha’s stylist?
Everyday styling for Martha was inspiring. That job was a career dream come true. She’d also give me tips on relationships, or other advice, like where to put the new couch in my apartment, or what butter to use in baking.
What’s the best gift Martha ever gave you?
From Hermes flip-flops to handheld blenders, she was extremely generous!
What prompted your move to Minnesota to work at Juut?
I wanted a lifestyle change: an easier, slow-paced life with more quality time. And it has happened; I love it here! Working at Juut was an easy choice. David Wagner, Juut’s founder, has created something very beautiful and special here, and the staff reflects that. I was literally welcomed into the “family.”
What has been different about working in Edina and Minneapolis, compared to your stint in New York? What makes Edina unique?
Hair will always be my passion, so the salon life feels very similar here in Edina. The guests also have a great eye for style and detail, so it’s been an easy transition. The biggest difference is the time I get to spend with my guests—it has doubled! Exactly what I wanted!
What’s the biggest mistake most people make with their hair?
People think style and length are determined by age. But today, there is no magic age when a woman should have to cut her hair off. It’s all about the individual. I find that often, longer looks younger!
What is your No. 1 must-know piece of hair advice?
This is what I tell all my clients: Get hot rollers! It’s the easiest way to recreate your salon look.
Schedule an appointment with Sorensen Tuesday through Saturday in Edina. Cuts cost $125; blowouts are $85.
Tricks of the Trade
• Don’t wash your hair every day.
• To create shine, rinse hair with cool water.
• The secret to a good blow dry is pulling the hair tight to create tension at the root.
• Use a boar-bristle brush to create body; use a metal brush for pin-straight hair.
• Always use the nozzle when drying to protect hair from metal coils, which can burn your hair and lead to breakage.
