Charlie Brackney

Ask around: If you’re ready for a hair change, those in the know are likely to suggest Brackney, who has a knack for cutting beyond the comfort zone, but in the most thoughtful way.

“I always ask clients how they describe their style. Some will rattle it off. Some have no idea. I had a woman tear up when I asked. I’m helping guide people to express themselves.” You wouldn’t know it from his gladiator sandals, but Brackney is a sixth-generation Texan. He got his first salon job at 15, and felt at home. “As a gay person, I was immediately accepted for who I am. I felt so at ease.”

It was the same feeling he had upon moving to Minneapolis to attend the Aveda Institute. “I can’t speak enough of the creative legacy of this town. I’m a spiritual Midwesterner.” That extends to Brackney’s wardrobe, which he says is too practical to include many designer labels. “I’m not super brand loyal. Give me tight-fitting black denim, a looser shirt, and a well-cut blazer. I like a sense of simplicity . . . with a surprise.” This fall, Brackney will begin dividing his time between his über-popular south Minneapolis salon and the second HAUS Salon, opening in that hipster haven we call the North Loop.

"I REALLY WANTED TO CREATE A PLACE WHERE WE COULD ENGAGE HAIR DRESSERS IN THEIR ARTISTRY. WHEN YOU NEED TO BE INSPIRED, COME TO US."

CHARLIE SHOPS

Of course he believes in all the product lines sold at his Haus Salon and Blowdry! Blowdry Bar. But if his own bathroom cabinet is any indication, you’ll be sure to find Kate Sommerville Skincare, Number 4 shampoo, and Baxter of California pomade. And consider putting away the hair straightening agents this fall—“We’ve been blowing out hair, making it very polished. Women want to stretch that blowout out for a long time, so on day 3, you add more texture. We saw it in the Resort 2015 collections too—that undone texture.”