"I change my color, shape, or hairstyle and the way I feel changes too" - Under The Beauty Radar by nss G-Club
Interview with Ciocchette, the queen of Y2K extensions
Often, in Under The Beauty Radar and across nss G-Club more broadly, we explore a critical perspective on beauty in the age of social media. We question certain dynamics, trends, and the easy enthusiasm that often surrounds them. But our fascination with Beatrice Pavan, aka Ciocchette, is anything but a fleeting obsession. We interviewed the queen of Y2K-inspired colorful hair extensions, who introduced herself like this: “I studied to become a makeup artist and hairstylist, and three years ago I moved to Milan to pursue that dream. At the same time, I always wanted to create something of my own. Hair, in particular, has always been my language: it’s a passion that has been with me since I was a child and that, over time, became the center of my work. One day I painted an old hair extension strand for myself, without imagining that this small personal project would eventually become something I could share with everyone.” And where else could that happen, if not on social media? Here’s what she told us.
Interview with Ciocchette, the Y2K hair extension wizard
How would you describe your visual style in three words?
Chaotic, cunty, chameleonic.
Where does your passion for hair come from?
I think I’ve always had it. As a child, I was obsessed with the colorful hair extensions that were popular between 2010 and 2013, and I always wanted to have one applied at the hair salon. For me, hair has always been the most immediate way to express who I am. I change my color, shape, or hairstyle and the way I feel changes too: it’s like creating a new version of myself every time, my own little avatar. At the same time, I’ve always been the friend who did everyone’s hair: colors, cuts, bleaching…
What inspires you when you create your Ciocchette?
I let myself be guided by the moment and by what I’m feeling. Every time, almost without realizing it, I repeat the same little ritual: I sit on the floor, prepare my table with all the dyes, put on some music, and start creating. From that point on, I don’t overthink it. I let instinct take over.
Tell us the names of some stars or pop icons you would love to have in your roster.
Christina Aguilera, Kesha, and Avril Lavigne. I’d say they are my mothers in this world. They were among the icons who made me discover and fall in love with the idea that hair accessories and colorful strands could become a true form of personal expression.
Do you feel more like a content creator or a hairstylist?
First and foremost, I feel like a hairstylist. I actually think that’s the foundation of everything: Ciocchette was born from my work and my passion for hair, and only afterwards did the content side come along. I’ve always been behind the scenes in this world, and maybe that’s exactly why stepping into a more visible role for the first time has been such a rewarding experience. What has happened so far, even if it might seem small from the outside, has been something huge and unexpected for me. Of course, I hope it continues to grow, because I believe the world of content can be an incredible launchpad for my work. The most beautiful thing has been receiving so many private messages from people who became passionate about my project. So far, I’ve received nothing but positive support, and that motivates me to keep going.
When a brand commissions a project from you, how does the creative process work?
Since this project was born from my own creativity, I always try to preserve a very personal part of my work: my shades, my colors, and my style. Of course, I listen to the client’s needs and ideas, and then we develop them together, creating something that reflects what they want, that they feel comfortable wearing, but that still carries the identity of Ciocchette. Not every client needs to create a completely new Ciocchetta from scratch. Through renting, they can also choose from ready-made pieces. One of the things I love most is seeing how the same Ciocchetta can completely transform depending on who wears it and the context in which it’s used. Everyone brings their own vision, and I love seeing how an idea that started with me can become something deeply personal for someone else.
When you create for yourself rather than for a client, how does your approach change?
When I paint for myself, I keep the same approach I’ve always had: it has to be a moment of freedom and fun. I’ve always made sure not to lose that carefree side, because that’s exactly where my creativity comes from. Obviously, when I work for a client there are specific needs to respect and an idea to develop together, but even then I always try to leave a part of myself in the project. For me, it’s important that painting remains something joyful and doesn’t become just an execution.
Two hair trends you love and two you hate?
I don’t really love trends in general. Sometimes I feel like they make us forget our individuality: they start telling us what is beautiful, what is not, and how we should look. I believe style should come from the freedom to express yourself, not from the desire to look like everyone else and follow a trend.
What does being creative mean today?
For me, being creative today means being in love with what you’re doing, without too many rules. The most important thing is giving ourselves the space to experiment, make mistakes, and follow our instincts. Creativity is an adventure: you need the courage to embrace it, but it’s also one of the most beautiful things there is.