Benjamin Michaud, the acclaimed French hairstylist and 2012 winner of La Biosthétique’s International Beauty Stylist Award for Best Colorist, is a luminary in the world of luxury hairstyling.
With nearly two decades of experience spanning Paris, Versailles, and Geneva, Michaud has cemented his place as a master colorist, celebrated for his innovative techniques and ability to elevate hairstyling into an art form.
Currently at the creative helm of Sofia Coiffure et Beauté in Geneva, Michaud is renowned for his ability to merge technical precision with avant-garde artistry. His philosophy emphasizes a holistic approach to hairstyling: “Finding the right color involves understanding the person’s style, mood, and way of being,” Michaud explains. “It’s about enhancing not just the hair, but the entire persona.”
Michaud’s artistic journey began in Paris, where his early exposure to haute couture profoundly influenced his creative vision. Working alongside iconic fashion houses during formative years, Michaud developed a signature style that combines timeless elegance with contemporary flair. In 2010, he was selected as a key hairstylist for the House of Zuhair Murad at Paris Fashion Week, where his romantic and sophisticated styles perfectly complemented the intricate craftsmanship of Murad’s haute couture collections. This role highlighted Michaud’s ability to seamlessly integrate heritage with modernity, a hallmark of his work that continues to define his career.
The pivotal moment in Michaud’s career came in 2012, when he won the La Biosthétique International Beauty Stylist Award for Best Colorist. Held at the prestigious Salle Wagram in Paris, the competition featured top stylists from over 20 countries. Michaud’s winning entry, celebrated for its masterful use of colorimetry and innovative balayage techniques, drew international acclaim. Judges lauded his ability to craft personalized, complexion-enhancing shades that harmonized perfectly with each model’s features and lifestyle. This accolade solidified Michaud’s reputation as a global leader in hair artistry, setting the stage for collaborations with some of the industry’s most prominent names.
From 2017 to 2022, Michaud served as a senior stylist and colorist at the prestigious Cazance salon in Geneva. During his tenure, he launched his groundbreaking Couture Collection, a transformative line that redefined the salon’s approach to luxury hairstyling. Drawing inspiration from icons like Brigitte Bardot, the collection seamlessly blended retro elegance with bold, modern aesthetics.
Julie Clausi, the former director of Cazance, describes Michaud’s impact as transformative: “The Couture Collection was a masterful fusion of retro elegance and modern innovation. Benjamin’s ability to push creative boundaries while maintaining the highest standards of excellence elevated the salon’s reputation and attracted a discerning clientele.”
Michaud’s contributions extended beyond creative projects to business innovation. He introduced advanced color service protocols, trained junior stylists, and spearheaded the salon’s social media strategy, significantly increasing its brand engagement and visibility.
Michaud’s influence transcends the salon, encompassing high-profile collaborations with luxury brands and notable clients. In 2023, he partnered with Marine Sayard, who was crowned Miss Grand Switzerland. Michaud crafted a custom color palette and styled Sayard for her title-winning appearance, earning widespread recognition for his ability to enhance her natural beauty with sophisticated, competition-ready looks. Sayard credits Michaud with playing a pivotal role in her victory: “His expertise was instrumental in my success. Benjamin has an intuitive understanding of how to elevate an individual’s presence, both on and off the stage.”
This success led to ongoing partnerships with prestigious brands such as Vacheron Constantin, Zenith, and Chanel, where Michaud’s styling consistently meets the high standards of luxury and refinement expected by these iconic names.
Industry peers also praise Michaud’s artistry. Chérif Messaoudi, a distinguished stylist who collaborated with him on a 300-guest wedding in Zermatt, Switzerland, highlights his unique expertise: “Benjamin’s technical precision and creative vision are unparalleled. His ability to diagnose client needs and execute flawless results sets him apart in our field.”
In his current role at Sofia Coiffure et Beauté, one of Geneva’s most esteemed salons, Michaud continues to innovate with advanced balayage, highlights, and color correction techniques. The salon’s focus on enhancing natural beauty aligns seamlessly with Michaud’s philosophy, emphasizing artistry that complements rather than overpowers individual features. His mastery of natural extension systems such as Great Lengths and HairDreams further exemplifies his commitment to technical excellence and client satisfaction.
Looking ahead, Michaud aims to expand his influence to the United States, bringing his unique French aesthetic to a new audience. “My goal is to introduce a touch of French elegance to American hairstyling while contributing to the evolution of the beauty industry,” he shares. Michaud envisions a future where his innovative techniques and artistic vision inspire a new generation of stylists and elevate the global standards of hair artistry.
Benjamin Michaud’s career is a testament to his extraordinary talent, innovation, and dedication to excellence. From his award-winning color techniques to his high-profile collaborations and leadership roles, Michaud has consistently redefined what it means to be a hairstylist. As he sets his sights on new horizons, Michaud’s legacy as a pioneer of modern hairstyling continues to inspire, promising a future where artistry and innovation remain at the heart of the beauty industry.
Whether crafting couture-inspired creations or setting trends for luxury salons, Michaud’s contributions to the field are unparalleled. His journey from Paris to Geneva—and soon to the United States—underscores his commitment to pushing boundaries and leaving an indelible mark on the world of hairstyling.