For nearly three decades, Marriët Gakes has been quietly shaping the landscape of contemporary hair artistry in the Netherlands. 

What began at 17 as an instinctive pull towards working with her hands has evolved into a career defined by precision, subtlety, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. From early years at a private hair academy to backstage at some of Europe's most prestigious fashion shows, Marriët's path has always been guided by a desire to deepen her craft rather than follow convention.

Today, she runs an invitation-only salon on the Herengracht in Amsterdam – a hidden space on the top floor of a historic canal house, where every appointment is one-on-one, and every client receives her full, undivided attention. Her work is built entirely on word of mouth, a rare testament to the trust and transformation she creates through colour, care, and quiet mastery.

Beyond the salon chair, Marriët is co-founder of Special Brand Company, a carefully curated platform she built alongside industry insider Ruben de Wit. Together, they seek out niche brands that offer real substance – products rooted in intention, quality, and a deeper understanding of what hair truly needs. Photo: Marriët andRuben de Wit.

It's this discerning philosophy that drew her to Meishai: a brand that doesn't chase trends, but solves something real.

In this conversation, Marriët reflects on beauty, craft, and the future of an industry she's helped define – with the same clarity and presence she brings to everything she does.

1. What does beauty mean to you?

Beauty, to me, is not about changing someone, but about revealing what is already there.

I'm not drawn to perfection, but to authenticity, when something feels natural, effortless, and true to the person.

My work is a process of observing, feeling, and refining until everything aligns, not just visually, but in presence.

Because real beauty happens when someone recognises themselves in what you've created.

2. What drew you to become a hairdresser – was there a moment, or a feeling, that led you here?

It wasn't a big dream or a clear calling at the start.

I'm dyslexic, so I always knew an academic path wasn't really for me. I've always been drawn to working with my hands, creating and shaping things.

I started hairdressing without knowing if I would be good at it, but with one mindset: whatever I do, I do properly.

At first, I questioned if it was enough. But once I committed to really learning the craft, everything opened up.

Hairdressing became endless; creative, evolving, and never fixed.

I didn't choose it with full clarity.

I grew into it.

3. How would you describe your way of working with hair today?

I see hair as something organic, always moving, always evolving with the person.

I don't approach it as something to control, but to work with: shaping and refining what is already there rather than forcing it into something artificial.

Especially with colour, I aim for a natural flow; something that doesn't feel created but simply belongs. I often describe it as better than natural: refined, effortless, and completely authentic.

When the balance is right, the effect is immediate. It goes beyond appearance; it subtly transforms the way someone carries themselves.

And that shift is always the goal.

4. Who or what inspires you - within or beyond the hair industry?

Inspiration comes from many places and not always where you expect it.

I'm inspired by both established names in the industry and those just starting out. There's often a freshness in their approach, and even in unexpected "mistakes" that lead to something new.

That openness is what keeps this craft alive. The moment you stop learning, you stop evolving.

I also believe in sharing; growth happens faster when knowledge and perspectives are exchanged.

At its core, this is a craft shaped by hands, vision, and feeling – and that human process is what makes it meaningful.

5. How do you see the future of the hair industry evolving?

I believe the future of the hair industry will become more intentional.

It's a beautiful craft, but also a demanding one, both physically and emotionally. Because of that, I don't see it becoming more accessible, but more consciously chosen. Those who enter it will do so with real commitment, and that is where the true value lies.

At the same time, clients are becoming more aware and selective about what they use, and what it means for their hair and scalp in the long run.

That's why brands like Meishai feel so relevant. It's no longer just about performance, but about care, safety, and deeper understanding.

When true craftsmanship and conscious choice come together, the industry becomes even more meaningful than it already is.

6. Are there any shifts or trends you sense for the coming summer? (In hair, but also in the way we approach beauty?)

I don't focus on trends; the person in my chair always comes first.

It's never about what's "in", but about what enhances someone's natural identity in a refined way.

That said, I do see a shift: people are becoming more conscious of hair care and protection, especially in summer.

There's a growing understanding that hair needs the same level of protection as skin; against heat, sun, and environmental stress.

So the direction is clear: less trend-driven, more conscious, and focused on long-term beauty.

7. If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

I think I would say: don't worry so much; you'll find your own way.

Becoming a hairdresser ended up taking over my life, but in the best possible way. When you truly fall in love with something, it becomes part of who you are.

If anything, I would tell my younger self to be a little kinder, and to trust the process more.

Don't try to shape it into what you think it should be. The moment you start doing it your own way, it becomes meaningful.