Michael Collis, co-founder of Molton Brown and a key figure in British hairdressing, passed away on January 21st, 2026, at the age of 81. Collis began his career at 15, training at Vidal Sassoon during a period of significant industry change. His talent led him to become Vidal Sassoon's personal assistant and later one of his youngest Top Stylists, contributing to modern hairdressing's technical and aesthetic foundations.
In 1971, Collis and his then-wife Caroline established Molton Brown as an organic hair salon. This venture championed progressive thinking and technical excellence, introducing innovations like the finger-drying technique and the precursor to modern bendy rollers. These developments influenced global approaches to texture and perming.
Collis's influence extended to mentoring numerous hairdressers, including Kerry Warn, Sam McKnight, and Carol Hemming. He retired from hairdressing at 55, adopting the name Harvey Koniak and training as a yoga teacher. He spent his later years in Sicily.
The legacy of figures like Collis raises questions about how foundational techniques and entrepreneurial spirit are passed down in today's fast-evolving beauty sector. His contributions to both technique and salon culture offer a point of reflection for current business owners.
