Ariana Madix's Hairstylist Breaks Down Her 'Love Island USA' Looks
“Through hair, we can create different moods, characters and energy from episode to episode.”
Whether it’s the hours spent in the girls’ dressing room or the makeup details we associate with each islander, there’s no denying that beauty is an integral part of Love Island USA — and in its eighth season, the show’s host Ariana Madix has established a signature visual identity through outfits, makeup and hair. With the help of her hairstylist Carl Bembridge and BELLAMI products, Madix uses hair as a tool to tie together her cult-favorite on camera ensembles.
Although the very sight of Madix can strike fear in the hearts of contestants, stans of Love Island USA have a very different reaction to the Vanderpump Rules star. After becoming the show’s host two seasons ago, Madix has become synonymous with her jaw-dropping looks — ranging from sultry backless dresses completed with voluminous tresses to sleepover-inspired babydoll dresses and Pamela Anderson-esque updos. For Bembridge, hair is very much embedded into the DNA of Madix’s appearances as host.
Ahead, we speak to Carl Bembridge about the inspiration behind Ariana Madix’s beloved hairstyles and all of the looks he’s yet to execute.
On the Importance of Hair in Ariana Madix’s Love Island USA Looks
Hair is such an important part of Ariana’s overall look — it’s the finishing touch, the cherry on top of the cake. For me, the hair should always complement and enhance the final look, so I like to tie each look to the outfit she’s wearing. If the outfit feels super feminine and romantic, I’ll lean into that with softer, prettier hair. If it’s something more fashion forward or edgy, I’ll reflect that in the hair styling too.
One of my favourite things about working with Ariana on Love Island USA is the opportunity to showcase versatility. Through hair, we can create different moods, characters and energy from episode to episode. Over the years, Ariana and I have developed a really collaborative creative relationship. We’re constantly sharing ideas, discussing references and brainstorming looks we haven’t explored before — which keeps things exciting and fresh each season.
On Channeling Different Characters Through Hair
There isn’t one single inspiration behind this season’s looks. For me, every outfit tells a different story, and each one inspires a different hair direction. Some looks call for a rich brunette finish with a sultry, sophisticated feel like the modern-day Bond Girl look. Other times, I’m drawn to something more effortless and sun-kissed, with soft texture and movement that feels natural and undone. In those moment this season, I have mixed different BELLAMI extension shades to create dimension and that lived-in, beachy finish. I love having the ability to play with length, volume and tone without compromising Ariana’s natural hair, because it allows us to create a completely different mood from look to look.
On What’s to Come
My favorite look so far has to be the Bond Girl Blowout. It was the first look of the season, but more importantly, it was a direction we hadn’t really explored in previous seasons. There was something incredibly powerful about it. What makes this season especially exciting is Ariana’s brunette era. That change alone has completely shifted the mood and aesthetic, opening the door to looks that feel richer and sexier. As for what’s coming next, expect plenty of versatility. We’ll continue to play with different lengths, textures and silhouettes — and there are definitely a few looks still to come that we’ve never done before. One thing is for sure, I have a gorgeous hair look in mind which will definitely be a stunning moment!
