Biography
Elgin Charles, known the world over as the "Emperor of Hair", is a visionary impresario whose upscale beauty salon in the heart of Beverly Hills has been an iconic fixture amongst the Cartiers & Pradas of the glitzy Rodeo Dr. shopping district for more than 20 years. A native of San Antonio, TX, Elgin has always been both analytical and creative; this due in part to rearing from both his mother, an award-winning blues singer, and his father, a biochemist. He walked away from a highly successful career in finance at Smith Barney, along with a keen interest in theology, to follow his passion - hair!
Elgin's innovative styles and techniques have made him one of the most sought after celebrity hairstylists in the industry today. His clients include: Joan Collins, Diahann Carroll, Drew Barrymore, Serena Williams, Gabrielle Union, Joy Behar, Estelle, Verdine White, Star Jones, Natalie Cole, Baroness Monica von Neumann, and many others. Staffed with a talented group of master stylists, the Elgin Charles Salon effortlessly handles the rigorous demands of its diverse clientele. With a background in biology and chemistry from St. Mary's University, Elgin has also created a full line of luxury hair care products that cater to varying styles and types of hair. His styling principles can be found in his book, "Believe It, Conceive It, Achieve It", an everyday approach to attaining ones goals both in styling and life in general. These principles have been celebrated by his clients and his family alike.
Elgin and ex-wife, television icon Jackée Harry, have a son together, Frank; a graduate of Beverly Hills High and an aspiring professional boxer. In addition to family, Elgin, a known philanthropist, is always giving of his time and resources to a number of causes. One such charity in particular is Daughters of Power, a non-profit 501c3 organization that assists young women from disadvantaged backgrounds in becoming self-sufficient. Will and Jada Pinkett-Smith sit on the organization's board, with Elgin at the helm as its President.
Elgin is also a very giving performer, with his talents venturing far beyond the beauty industry. He has made appearances in Chris Rock's critically-acclaimed documentary "Good Hair", the Style Network's "Split Ends", countless talk shows, including "Oprah", "The View", "The Talk", and "Wendy Williams", and has even starred in his own top-rated VH1 reality series, "Beverly Hills Fabulous".
