Biography
Biography
Born in Perth/Australia of Italian origin, Franco always had a keen interest in art and sculpture, so it was no surprise he excelled in it at a young age, and was selected for a placement into a specialised art school at the age of 12. Leaving school at age 15 to start his apprentice in combined hairdressing. Franco trained as a men’s barber first before training in women’s hair. He later studied his certificate in art and design at Perth Technical College, while finishing his training in hairdressing. His keen eye for colour and perfectionism of sculpture soon began crossing over into his hairdressing. He progressed from a stylist and colourist into artistic director, working on photo shoots and educating for companies such as L’Oréal.
In 2000 ten years after working and training in Perth and Sydney, he moved to London, with one goal set in his mind, to work in fashion. It wasn’t long until he began working on various hair campaigns and fashion shows as well as photographic advertising campaigns and fashion shoots. In the process he has gained invaluable experience and inspiration from assisting some of the industry’s top session stylists and agencies.
Franco continued to study, sharpening his skills he has gained qualifications in hair extensions, make-up, grooming, business management, holistic massage and in 2009/10 Franco took a year out to concentrate on his teaching. As well as gaining a qualification in “teacher training” he taught City & Guilds Salon Services Level 1.
Franco has gained a number of accolades for his work including finalist in the Australian and U.K. L’Oréal Colour Trophy as well as being in the 2004 Fellowship for British Hairdressing F.A.M.E. Team.
His career has taken him around the world. He has been a regular on the fashion circuit New York / London / Milan / Paris for years. He has worked on numerous hair and beauty campaigns worldwide as well as known for his extensive list of advertising clients, campaigns, fashion editorials, men’s grooming and his magazine shoots. He also has a list of hair colour clients and is known for his colour expertise.
Based in India between 2016 and 2020 he was hairstylist to the A-list Celebrities he regularly worked on Movies, TVC’s and iconic magazines covers as well heading the hair team for Mumbai’s Lakme Fashion Week. He has educated hairstylist at all levels. Working and educating companies and working with hair and make-up academies throughout London, India and Australia. His masterclasses and workshops are both inspiring showcases of his talent.
Franco consistently seeks the newest techniques and products, keeping him at the forefront of his business. He thrives on the challenging environment of his work and has the ability to deliver original ideas that inspire those around him.
He is currently based in Perth Western Australia and opened his own salon in mid April 2024 Palais De La Muse in Perth’s uber cool suburb Leederville. He is still represented by Faze Management in Mumbai, India.
Franco’s creative and unique style has featured in publications such as Attitude, Cosmopolitan, Elle, Esquire, Glamour, GQ, Harper’s Bazaar i-D, Instyle, Marie Claire and Vogue.
He has worked with brands such as Adidas, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Coca-Cola, Crombie, Dove, H&M, Harrods, Head & Shoulders, Lakme, Liberty of London, L’Oreal, M.A.C. Cosmetics, Max Factor, Mulberry, Pepsi, Reebok, Sabyasachi, Tresemme, Top Shop, Zara.
