When Kadi Lee opened her Highbrow Hippie salon in Venice in 2019, she faced skepticism from potential clients, particularly those accustomed to the glitzy scene of Beverly Hills. “The Beverly Hills women were not OK,” Lee recalls, explaining how she persuaded them to make the trek to her second-floor atelier on Abbott Kinney, assuring them it would only take about 20 extra minutes. Those who eventually made the trip found themselves enchanted by her salon’s serene atmosphere, featuring elements like crystals—particularly pyrite—and outdoor hair stations nestled under a fig tree, which contribute to a relaxing and private experience.
At the heart of Highbrow Hippie’s appeal is Lee herself, a hairstylist reputed for her magical touch with diverse hair textures. Celebrities like Julia Roberts, Meghan Markle, and Matt Bomer are among her clients, and even Brad Pitt seeks her expertise when contemplating a color change. Gwyneth Paltrow, who has been a loyal client for four years, attests to Lee’s prowess. “She does the perfect blond,” Paltrow says, sharing her own journey of hair recovery after experiencing damage from bleach and hormonal changes. By adopting Lee’s recommendations, including using a specialized hair serum and reducing shampoo frequency, Paltrow has successfully revitalized her hair.
Lee’s approach to hair care transcends traditional styling; she emphasizes a holistic perspective on beauty and wellness. “I’m always talking about inside and out,” she says, pointing to her supplement that combines fermented GABA and ashwagandha, aimed at enhancing both gut and hair health. Her clients are not just passive consumers; they are deeply invested in her vision. Before launching her brand, Lee conducted thorough market research, identifying specific needs among her clientele. Some even became financial backers, such as a client of over two decades who contributed $250,000.
In October, Lee expanded her product lineup with a new duo: a hair mask and a herbal tea, both infused with ingredients similar to her supplements. Paltrow expressed her enthusiasm for the hair mask, sharing a personal ritual: “[I] put it in and sit in the sauna for 30 minutes and come out with the silkiest, healthiest-looking hair.”
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Lee explains that the concept behind the mask and tea was to encourage a regular self-care routine, one that resonates particularly with Black women who traditionally engage in such practices on weekends. Looking ahead, Lee envisions the organic growth of her brand, driven by a commitment to meet her clients’ needs while ensuring her products remain effective for a broad audience. “If it can work for me, and Gwyneth and Julia, then I’ve got gold,” she asserts confidently.
The success and vision of Highbrow Hippie reflect a unique blend of luxury and holistic wellness, carving a niche that appeals to a diverse and devoted clientele.
