A Passion That Started Early
For Nina-Simone Jones, hairstyling has always been more than just a profession—it’s an art form and a means of self-expression. Based in Queens, NY, Nina specializes in hairstyling and wig creation, offering both machine-made and custom wig units through her online collection. What started as a childhood fascination with styling Barbie dolls evolved into a full-fledged career, solidifying her place in the beauty industry.
Even though she explored different career paths—including nursing, law, and graphic design—her love for hair never faded. It was during her time volunteering at a salon, gaining the necessary experience for her cosmetology license, that she realized hairstyling was what she wanted to do every day. That moment transformed her passion into a business.
Overcoming Challenges and Demanding Her Worth
Like many entrepreneurs, Nina’s journey was marked by trials and lessons learned the hard way. Early in her career, she often provided free services—supplying hair, coloring it, making the wig, and installing it, all to build her reputation. What should have been jobs valued at $500 or even $1,000, she often did for little to nothing.
Now, with years of experience and mastery of her craft, she has set firm pricing for her services. The transition from giving away her skills for exposure to demanding fair compensation wasn’t easy, but she learned that her time and expertise are just as valuable as anyone else’s. This realization allowed her to confidently charge what she deserves.
Timeless Beauty Over Trends
Nina’s hairstyling philosophy stands out in an industry dominated by fleeting trends. While many stylists follow viral styles, she remains committed to timeless, elegant, and sophisticated looks. Voluminous curls, layers, and curtain bangs define her aesthetic—styles that never go out of fashion. Her approach ensures that her clients always look polished and refined, rather than chasing trends that quickly fade.
“I intentionally stay away from trends because they die,” she explains. “Every few years, people reintroduce old hairstyles with new names. I prefer styles that are effortlessly classic.”
Educating Clients and Elevating Haircare
Nina believes that hairstylists should do more than just create beautiful styles—they should educate their clients. Too often, clients are left to guess what works for their hair. She takes the time to teach them about proper hair maintenance, moisture retention, and the importance of deep conditioning.
“A lot of hairstylists expect their clients to know everything, but this is our profession, not theirs,” she says. “It’s our job to guide them in improving their hair care routines.”
Her ability to balance creativity with education has earned her the trust of her clients, who appreciate not only her skills but also her willingness to share her knowledge.
A Viral Moment and Industry Recognition
In 2019, Nina’s work unexpectedly went viral. A brown-to-orange ombré wig she designed gained widespread attention, making her name recognizable even to other stylists.
“I didn’t even realize it was going viral,” she recalls. “Another stylist recognized the wig before she even knew who I was. She told me, ‘I knew Hair Goes Nina before I even knew you were a person!’ That was a defining moment.” That viral success reinforced Nina’s reputation as a skilled colorist and wig creator, further elevating her status in the industry.
Branching Into Digital Products and Education
With years of experience under her belt, Nina is now shifting her focus towards digital education and online products. She has already hosted hands-on classes in wig-making and glueless wig workshops and has even taught about the science behind hair color at a school science fair for grades 6-12.
The encouragement she received from a woman at the science fair further ignited her passion for teaching. “She told me I was a great teacher and that I should share my knowledge with others,” Nina recalls. “That moment made me realize that education could be a significant part of my business.”
Now, she is working on developing digital courses and resources, allowing aspiring hairstylists and everyday clients to learn from her expertise without having to travel.
Long-Term Goals and Defining Success
In the long run, Nina envisions stepping away from the chair and focusing on product sales. Her goals include launching a premium hair extension line, developing a hair care product range, and even venturing into the fragrance industry. While she still enjoys doing hair, she aims to take on only select clients as she transitions into a broader business model.
When asked what success looks like to her, she gives a simple yet profound answer:“Relaxing.”
Advice for Aspiring Hairstylists
For those looking to break into the beauty industry, Nina offers three key pieces of advice:
Don’t follow trends. Develop your own style and focus on longevity.
Be selective with collaborations. Ensure that any partnerships align with your brand and long-term goals.
Use slow seasons wisely. Instead of stressing over slow business periods, use the time to refine your craft, build your brand, and improve your skills.
Leaving a Legacy
As Nina continues to build her brand, she hopes to leave behind a legacy of education and empowerment. She wants to be the mentor she never had, providing aspiring hairstylists with the guidance and knowledge they need to succeed.
“I didn’t have anyone to teach me when I was starting out,” she says. “Now, I want to be that mentor for others.”
Through her work, Nina-Simone Jones is not just styling hair—she’s crafting confidence, educating clients, and redefining beauty standards. Her journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of knowing your worth.
Connect with Nina-Simone Jones
📍 Website: www.hairgoesnina.shop
📍 Instagram: @HairGoesNina
📍 TikTok: @NoonieLove
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