Sam McKnight

Sam McKnight, MBE, is a British hairstylist whose career has spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion and beauty industries. Born in New Cumnock, Scotland, McKnight began his journey in hairdressing after a brief stint in teacher training. He moved to London in the early 1970s, securing a position at the prestigious Molton Brown salon. His first editorial shoot with British Vogue in 1977 marked the beginning of a prolific career in session styling. McKnight’s innovative approach and ability to create iconic looks quickly established him as a sought-after stylist in the fashion world.
Throughout his illustrious career, McKnight has collaborated with top fashion houses such as Chanel, Fendi, Balmain, Burberry, and Tom Ford. He has worked with renowned photographers including Patrick Demarchelier, Mario Testino, and Nick Knight, contributing to over 190 cover shoots for various international editions of Vogue. One of his most notable collaborations was with Princess Diana, for whom he created the iconic short, slicked-back hairstyle during a 1990 Vogue shoot. This partnership lasted seven years, during which McKnight played a significant role in shaping the Princess’s public image.
In addition to his editorial and runway work, McKnight has made significant contributions to the beauty industry through product development and education. In 2017, he launched his own haircare line, “Hair by Sam McKnight,” aiming to bring high-performance styling products to a broader audience. His dedication to the craft and influence on modern hairstyling were recognized in 2023 when he was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to fashion and beauty.