Before he was styling Megan Thee Stallion for the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, Kellon Deryck was a high school shampoo assistant discovering his love for hair.
Today, the celebrity hairstylist and Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Atlanta alum creates looks seen on stages, in music videos, and across magazine covers. His latest work with Megan at the 2026 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show offers a glimpse into where a career in beauty can lead—and the years of preparation behind every moment in the spotlight.
We caught up with Kellon to talk about his beginnings, his creative partnership with Megan, and what he wants the next generation of beauty professionals to know.
From Shampoo Assistant to Celebrity Hairstylist
Kellon’s journey started with an early opportunity to work in a salon. That experience sparked a passion he would continue developing through beauty school and throughout his career.
“I started as a shampoo assistant in high school, so my love for hair began early,” he shares. “Aveda Arts helped me build a foundation to turn that passion into a career.”
At Aveda Arts Atlanta, Kellon continued building the skills behind his creativity. But he’s clear that his career has taken continued effort: practicing, pursuing opportunities, and developing relationships over time.
“From there, it’s been years of practice, taking chances, building relationships, and showing up prepared,” he says. “The celebrity moments are what people see, but there’s a lot of work behind them.”
For students imagining their own future in the beauty industry, that perspective matters. The work you do while learning—asking questions, practicing techniques, and preparing for each guest—can help shape how you approach opportunities throughout your career.
Behind Megan Thee Stallion’s Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Hair
Styling hair for a live performance brings a different set of creative considerations. A look needs to complement the wardrobe, read on camera, and move with the artist.
For Kellon, creating Megan Thee Stallion’s hair for the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was also a reflection of the trust they’ve built together.
“It was such a proud moment! Megan and I have built so much trust over the years, and I love being able to create with her on stages like this,” he shares.
His approach considers every part of the performance.
“For me, it’s about the whole picture—how the hair complements the outfit, moves with her, and translates on camera. You want her to feel beautiful and confident while delivering a look that holds up through the performance.”
That attention to the person wearing the hair is something future stylists can bring to any appointment: understanding the client’s vision, considering what they need from their look, and helping them feel confident.
Kellon’s Advice for Future Beauty Professionals
Asked what he would tell someone starting beauty school, Kellon returns to the fundamentals.
“Master your foundation and don’t rush past the learning stage,” he says. “Learn how to care for hair, work with different textures, and understand why a technique works.”
He also emphasizes the habits that help turn an opportunity into a lasting professional relationship.
“Your talent can open a door, but your professionalism, consistency, and how you treat people help you stay in the room.” And for students wondering when to start sharing their creativity, his advice is simple: start with the work you’re doing now.
“And document your work—you don’t need a celebrity client to start building a portfolio you’re proud of.”
Your Future in Beauty Starts With a Foundation
Kellon’s story shows how an early interest in hair can grow through education, practice, and relationships. His career continues to evolve, and we’re proud that Aveda Arts is part of his journey.
“Being celebrated by the school that’s part of my journey makes this especially meaningful,” he shares.
Ready to explore your own possibilities? Discover cosmetology at Aveda Arts & Sciences Institutes and take the first step toward developing your craft.