Exceptional hair designer Wassim Anwar is a dominant force in the Los Angeles hairstyling scene, quickly establishing himself among both Hollywood and Arab stars. His impressive clientele includes global pop icon Jennifer Lopez, as well as Egyptian superstars Laila Eloui, Elham Shahin, and Mona Zaki. At Enigma’s 12th Celebration of Arab Glamour & Success, Anwar used his artistry on Enigma’s Founder and CEO, Yasmine Shihata, and Egyptian superstar Dina El Sherbiny to create show-stopping looks. Enigma’s Habiba Abdulsalam had the chance to sit and chat with the talented hair designer, uncovering his inspiring journey and relentless dedication that propelled him to the top of his craft.
Wassim Anwar sees himself as an artist at heart, a dreamer who finds beauty in transformation. Whether he is sketching on paper, sculpting hair, or shaping a woman’s crown, his passion lies in bringing visions to life. He believes that his art is a form of power; a way of helping women feel confident, radiant, and unstoppable.
Hailing from the ancient city of Damascus, Syria, Anwar’s journey started in Rome, Italy, where he studied at the prestigious Mikado Academy. Anwar spent 14 years in Italy, fully immersed in its rich culture, timeless style, and impeccable sense of beauty. “That chapter of my life refined my craft and deepened my connection to the artistry of hair,” he recalls.
As a creative soul and a wanderer, Anwar is passionate about travel. He sees it as a way to share his creativity with the world and absorb inspiration from every corner of the world. His journey took him to Lebanon and later to Dubai, where each place added layers to his soul, style, and artistic sensibility. Every city has shaped who he is, grounding him in heritage while pushing him forward into modern expression.
At just fifteen, Anwar knew hairstyling was more than a career path; it was his calling. For him, it was not simply about cutting and shaping hair, but about creating beauty with his hands and heart. “Hair became my medium,” he shares. “I saw it as sculpture, as fashion, and as an identity.”
He recalls being presented with his first life-changing opportunity when he had the chance to style the hair of a Middle Eastern princess. This experience was an eye-opener for him, validating his vision in a way that only destiny can. It was a turning point that gave Anwar the head start he so greatly deserved.
However, the beauty industry is not for eveyone. It demands resilience, relentless creativity, and constant reinvention. Anwar was faced with countless challenges, cultural, personal, and professional, but he believes that his passion is worth every one of them. “When you love what you do, every obstacle becomes part of the masterpiece,” he explains.
In addition to hairstyling, Anwar also owns the high-end bridal accessories brand Luxury Crowns, where his artistry and signature style come together. It is a fusion of elegance, individuality, and innovation, a space where women can discover all the magic, from bespoke bridal looks to everyday glamour, all under one masterfully curated roof.
To build on his growing success, Anwar has recently decided to embark on a new business venture by opening a hair salon in the heart of West Hollywood. “I wanted a space where my full creative vision could come to life, a place where beauty is not just applied, but thoughtfully curated,” he says. “Opening my concept store allows me to shape an experience that is unique, deeply luxurious, and true to my artistic soul.”
For his new salon, Anwar envisions a sanctuary where beauty, fashion, and art converge. The location will feature his latest bridal collection while offering an elevated experience in hair and beauty. More than a salon, it is a space curated for women to feel seen, empowered, and transformed.
Opening a salon in West Hollywood, one of the world’s most competitive beauty scenes, is no easy feat, but with every challenge, Anwar’s resilience, patience, and passion have carried him through. “I leaned on my incredible team, my years of experience, and my unwavering belief in my vision,” he shares.
Anwar’s vision for his career includes global expansion and continuous dedication to offering exceptional, personalised service to women all around the world. He aims to create spaces internationally where women can experience the beauty of transformation through his eyes. “Beauty knows no borders, and neither does passion,” he says.
The most rewarding moment in his career is when a woman looks in the mirror and sees not just a new look, but a new energy. “Seeing a client stand taller, smile brighter, feel more confident is why I do what I do,” he explains.
Anwar advises those who want to enter the world of hairstyling to give it their all, to love every aspect of it, not just the beauty, but the hustle, the pressure, and the constant push to grow. “The beauty industry demands passion, patience, and persistence, but if your heart is in it, it will reward you in ways you never imagined,” he adds.
Anwar considers working with Enigma a one-of-a-kind experience. “The magazine represents bold vision, timeless elegance, and modern creativity, values that resonate deeply with me,” he says, reflecting on his connection to the publication. “It is an honour to share my story on such a beautiful platform.”