My London: Sergio Renis - Hair stylist and creative director at Windle London

Sergio Renis is a hair stylist, and creative director at Windle London.

Born in Copertino, a sun baked town in Puglia, Italy in 1972, Sergio first developed a love for hairdressing as a young boy, following a summer stint working at a local barbershop during the school holidays.

In 1996, after training and working in the same salon for 10 years, Renis relocated to London where by his own admission he found his “perfect working habitat in Covent Garden, at Windle London”.

Throughout the course of his career, the Italian creative has had the pleasure of working alongside some of the cities greatest hairstylists, fashion designers, photographers, make-up artists and set designers. Away from the Windle LAB he was worked backstage at fashion shows in Paris, London, and Milan.

We caught up with Sergio Renis for the latest edition of our ‘My London’ interview series.

Favourite neighbourhood:

For me it’s got to be Dulwich, and its adjacent postcodes. The area as a whole is so diverse, and culturally exciting with lots of different independent cafes, restaurants and parks to visit – I love it!

Favourite place for brunch:

Oru in East Dulwich is an absolute gem! They serve fantastic sweet and savoury breakfasts, as well as some lovely fresh, Sri Lankan inspired mini dishes. They also run a series of lifestyle classes and workshops focused on meditation, and mindfulness, it’s a great place to visit.

Best Coffee:

Without a doubt Monmouth Coffee on Monmouth Street, in Covent Garden. The team there serve a rich, and diverse blend of mostly organic and eco sustainable coffee beans, which I personally love and would highly recommend.

Favourite gallery or Museum:

It’s so difficult to choose, because I just think the London art scene as a whole is so amazing! But I’m going the V&A, because they host some super inspiring fashion exhibits dedicated to some of the worlds most iconic designers, many of whom I really admire. I also really love to visit both Tate Britain and Tate Modern because I respect the work they do, and for the way they constantly showcase art, and artists that have shaped our figurative world.

Tell us a secret:

I love watching old 70s and 80s Chinese martial art movies – with ‘Enter The Dragon’ starring Bruce Lee being one of my favourites.

Favourite place to shop:

Honestly, I shop mostly online nowadays! I really like Vestiaire Collective, because I think it’s great that you can buy pre-loved pieces from different designers and seasons. In person, I enjoy visiting any of the Paul Smith shops as I love his clothes, and approach to fashion.

Favourite place to find inspiration:

The streets of London, clubs, bars, markets and public transport are all a constant source of brain, and soul inspiration for me. To quote Samuel Johnson (the first publisher of a word dictionary!): “WHEN A MAN IS TIRED OF LONDON HE IS TIRED OF LIFE, FOR THERE’S IN LONDON ALL THAT LIFE CAN AFFORD!”

Best London destination for a date:

Walking by in Little Venice, stopping for a glass or two of wine in any of the off the beaten track pubs… romantic and slightly adventurous.

Favorite Park:

Brockwell Park in Herne Hill. It has a lido with a great café, a BMX track, a wonderful view of the London skyline, a secluded walled garden with roses and wildflowers, and also great playgrounds for kids… what’s not to like?

Favourite food market:

As much as I enjoy Borough Market for its fresh produce, and unbelievably delicious food stalls, I’m going to support local and say Herne Hill Food Market. It’s on every Sunday morning, and they have the best fresh local products, craft stalls and super tasty bakes.

My sanctuary in the city:

I find my life is most complete when I’m at home with my wife and kids, especially when relaxing in my garden enjoying my vegetable beds. I’d also say The Windle Salon where I work is something of a sanctuary, as it allows me the opportunity to be around people from all different backgrounds, who love to be creative and productive with their time.

What inspires you:

Interesting people, doing interesting things. Sometimes being immersive in my own space inspires me. I like to draw, or listen to music on my AirPods, and I enjoy spending time working in the garden as it can be the best form of self care, and best source of inspiration for me.