Join us today in Portland as we meet Frank Weathers, an experienced color specialist to chat all things hair, beauty, and fashion in Portland and beyond.

Frank shares his top hair coloring tips from 40 years of experience, why he decided to set up his own hair boutique service, and nominates J-Lo, Jennifer Anniston, and Jennifer Lawrence for our hair and beauty hall of fame.

Enjoy!

Frank, tell us more about yourself

I am a Portland hair color specialist with more than 40 years of experience. After high school, and living with a learning disability and ADHD, I found that the typical academic world was never going to work for me. I met a lot of hairdressers during my ’80s club days and found their independence and creative culture intrigued me. I didn’t choose hair styling, rather hair styling chose me.

I attended the Creative Institute of Design in Eugene and once completed, worked as a hairstylist in several local salons before moving to Portland. There, I saw a major niche missing as hair salons were not catering to the youth and artistic community. So, I opened my own salon here in Portland when I was 27 years old.

That salon was named Leepin Lizards and was very successful from the day we opened the door. The salon was more than just a hair salon. We also served as an art gallery, club promotion, and a safe haven for the LGBT community and anyone who didn’t ‘fit in’ to gather and feel safe.

After eleven years, I left Portland and moved to San Diego where I continued doing hair and eventually opened another successful salon. Through hard work and dedication, that salon was voted the best color salon in San Diego for several years running.

Fast forward to two years ago, I tried retirement but found that wasn’t for me. Last year, I returned to Portland and re-invented myself again. I realized one doesn’t have to “do it all,” but rather, focus on what you love and enjoy doing the most.

My primary focus now is specializing in corrective color, grey conversion, and blonding techniques.

What will clients experience when working with you?

At this stage in my career, I chose not to own a salon or manage staff so now I run my personal business out of Brio Chique Salon off of 23rd Ave in NW Portland.

I enjoy interacting with and being inspired by the other stylists and owners at the salon. I also love the neighborhood, the walkability, the shops, cafes, and restaurants. We are a small salon that welcomes all people. You get a real sense of community.

When my customers come to the salon, they know they can expect a high-quality color experience in a beautiful and relaxing environment.

What specialties are you known for?

I truly specialize in hair color. It’s my passion and something I never take lightly.

Every service starts with a consultation and together, with the client, we work to get it “just right”.

My preference is healthy, natural-looking hair color that is easy to maintain with enough dimension and contrast to add interest.

I continue to stay abreast of the latest techniques and hair technology through continuing my education.

What is your number one tip for a happy, healthy hair and beauty routine?

Do not over-color, or over-process your hair. Be patient. Good hair color requires time and, yes, money.

What Portland hair, beauty, and fashion trends are you seeing right now?

Oh wow! What I love about Portland and the hair fashion is there isn’t one look — it’s as diverse and individual as the people who live here. The one look that is always in style is healthy hair.

What hair and beauty products do you think should be in everyone’s day-to-day routine?

Everyone who colors their hair should have a gentle shampoo, a high-end deep conditioning mask, and a light oil to hydrate and add shine to their hair.

I’m generally not brand specific but two products I’ve been impressed with are Oleplex bond rebuilder and K-18 bond rebuilder. They actually rebuild the hair and conditions better than other products I’ve seen in my career.

Who is your all-time hair, beauty, and style hero?

I don’t have just one. I’ve been influenced and trained by so many great stylists including Beth Minardi, Candy Shaw, David Stanko, Toni & Guy academies, Sassoon Academy, the International Association of Colorists, as well as so many stylists that share their work on social media.

Which current celebrity or public figure is getting it so right with their hair, beauty, and styling?

The three J’s: J-Lo for darker, brown hair and dimensional highlights; Jennifer Anniston for golden, California blonde highlights; and Jennifer Lawrence for extra light blonde hair. For haircuts, I like Anna Wintour and Mark Jacobs as I love how they’ve been able to maintain a style for decades yet still classic and timeless.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our SalonOtter readers?

For examples of my work, check out my Instagram and website – I look forward to meeting you soon!

Where can people get the full Frank Weathers Color Specialist Experience?

I’m based out of Brio Chique Salon, 2383 NW Thurman St, Portland, OR 97210

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Thanks so much, Frank, we can’t wait to visit you at Brio Chique Salon again soon!