10 Minutes With Charlie Gauci

By Louise May

With 17 years in the industry, Charlie Gauci is a Sydney-based hairstylist known for creating natural, lived-in looks that highlight each client’s unique beauty. Charlie’s journey started at 18 when he was captivated by the effortless waves and glamour of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. From that moment, he knew hairdressing would be his creative outlet, and it’s been his passion ever since.

Keeping hair healthy is always at the heart of what he does, alongside delivering styles that feel fresh and wearable. As an O&M ambassador and educator, Charlie is all about sharing his knowledge to help other stylists feel confident and inspired. For him, it’s about connecting with people, bringing out their best, and making them feel amazing inside and out.

Mocha Hair Editor - Louise May spends 10 minutes with Charlie chatting about his industry journey and new ambassador role with O&M.

Can you tell us about your journey in the hairdressing industry?

I started my apprenticeship at 18, and the love I had for hair back then hasn’t faded one bit. 17 years on, I still feel so lucky to do what I do. From those early days to where I am now, it’s been a rewarding evolution from a beginner excited to learn to a stylist confident in my craft and proud of the work I create every day.

What inspired you to become a hairstylist?

It all started with the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. The effortlessly sexy waves and polished styles were so captivating. I was obsessed! I’ve always been creative, and realising I could use that creativity to make people feel good about themselves made hairdressing the perfect fit for me.

You’ve worked all over the world. How has that experience shaped your career?

Travelling and working in different places really shaped how I approach hair. It taught me how to adapt, think on my feet, and appreciate the beauty in different styles and techniques. More than anything, it reinforced the importance of simplicity, clients want hair that’s both timeless and wearable.

Why did you choose O&M, and what drew you to join the team as an ambassador?

O&M aligns perfectly with how I approach hair, it’s all about beautiful results without compromising the health of the hair. Their products are clean, innovative, and perform exceptionally, which is exactly what I need as a stylist. Joining their team as an ambassador was an easy decision because I genuinely love their philosophy and the results I can achieve with their products.

How does O&M align with your philosophy as a hairstylist?

My goal has always been to enhance natural beauty while keeping the hair in its best condition. O&M shares that focus by creating high-performing, sustainable products that support hair health. They’re all about blending beauty and care, which is exactly what I strive for in my work.

What are your top 3 favourite O&M products, and why?

1. Frizzy Logic Shine Serum – It’s my go-to for a flawless finish. It smooths out frizz, adds shine, and keeps the hair light and soft perfect for wrapping up my signature blowouts.

2. Desert Dry Volumizing Spray – This is my secret weapon for texture and volume without the sticky feel. It’s amazing for creating that lived-in, undone look.

3. Original Queenie Firm Hold Hairspray – It’s got the hold I need without the stiffness, keeping styles in place while still feeling natural and touchable.

What can we expect from you as an O&M educator?

You can expect practical techniques that work in real salon settings. I want to share tips that make your job easier while delivering gorgeous results like seamless root shadows, dimensional colours, and achieving soft, lived-in finishes. I aim to build confidence and inspire creativity.

Any exciting techniques or trends you’ll be focusing on?

I’m really loving soft, natural grow-outs, blending highlights with root shadows to make the colour more seamless and longlasting. I’ll also be focusing on dimensional highlights and creating effortless, modern textures that clients can maintain with ease.

What do you find most rewarding about teaching and mentoring other stylists?

There’s nothing better than seeing a stylist nail a technique they’ve been working on or feel more confident in their skills after a session. Knowing I’ve helped someone grow and take their work to the next level is such a rewarding part of what I do.

What’s your go-to playlist when creating those iconic wavy blowouts?

My playlist is all about setting a relaxed, upbeat vibe in the salon and some good soul-feel music. It’s all about creating the right atmosphere.

What are you most looking forward to with your O&M role?

I’m excited to connect with other stylists who love creating beautiful, healthy hair as much as I do. Sharing my favourite techniques and seeing others put their own spin on them is what inspires me. It’s all about learning from each other and growing together. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us!

@charliegaucihair