Key facts about the life of Aldo Coppola
A path that made history
Aldo Coppola was born on February 14, 1940. His father was an hairdresser, making Aldo a true heir to the art of hairstyling. However, he was not just following in his father's footsteps, he was a genius in his own right, destined to revolutionize the world of beauty and fashion.
At the young age of sixteen, Aldo had already obtained an art diploma, and by twenty-six, he opened his first salon at Via Manzoni 14 in Milan. His vision was clear: to break away from conventional techniques and introduce a more natural, dynamic approach to hairstyling. He eliminated hooded hair dryers and curlers, pioneering the concept of cutting hair dry and styling with just a brush and blow dryer. These innovations, alongside the introduction of the first layered dry cut and his wave permanent technique, set the foundation for the unmistakable identity of the Aldo Coppola salon. His revolutionary ideas emerged in Milan just as the city was becoming a global fashion hub.
Photo provided by the press service of Aldo Coppola
His passion for fashion quickly deepened when he collaborated with the renowned designer Biki for a Pitti fashion show. This experience opened the doors to the fashion world, and soon, Aldo was styling hair for Italy’s top designers and working with the most influential fashion magazines of the time.
In 1973, Aldo established the first official Coppola brand, marking the birth of a new era in hairstyling. His avant-garde approach became a signature look for legendary designers such as Giorgio Armani, Versace, Gianfranco Ferré, Valentino, and Mila Schön. His creativity and innovation gained international recognition, making the Aldo Coppola name synonymous with excellence in hairdressing.
Photo provided by the press service of Aldo Coppola
A pivotal moment in the brand's history came when his son Aldo Coppola Jr. formed a partnership with L’Oréal, expanding the brand's reach and influence. This collaboration was not merely a business arrangement but a creative synergy that led to groundbreaking projects: art books, iconic calendars, and spectacular shows, some of which attracted audiences of up to 10,000 people are just few examples. Aldo's charisma and artistic vision captivated crowds, solidifying his status as a true icon in the industry.
While Aldo remained focused on his craft, his son, Aldo Coppola Jr., took the brand to new heights by expanding its reach. He founded “The Agency” the first Multilevel Freelancer Agency in Italy, offering professional hairstyling and makeup services for fashion and media. He also developed a branded line of hair products and accessories and introduced a franchising model that helped the Aldo Coppola name grow across Italy. Though these expansions were led by Aldo Jr., the artistic vision always remained in Aldo Coppola’s hands, ensuring the brand’s signature style and excellence.
The 1990s saw an increase in Aldo Coppola-branded franchises and directly owned salons. As demand grew, hairstylists from all over sought to learn Aldo’s revolutionary techniques. Driven by his belief that knowledge should be shared, in 1994, he founded the Aldo Coppola Academy in Milan. This institution became a cornerstone for the education and training of future hairstylists, preserving and evolving the techniques that made the brand legendary.
Aldo never stopped. He was constantly on the move, working on shows, traveling the world, and designing with his son new atelier spaces that embodied his philosophy of beauty and well-being. His dedication continued relentlessly until 2013, when he passed away, leaving behind an incredible legacy. His team, trained under his meticulous guidance, carries forward his vision with the same passion and commitment, ensuring that the brand continues to thrive globally.
Today, Aldo Coppola remains a worldwide benchmark in hairstyling, with its philosophy and expertise shaping the industry. The company remains a true family business: Aldo Coppola Jr. oversees the international expansion, while the Italian operations are managed by his granddaughter Federica, ensuring that the brand’s heritage and excellence continue to flourish for future generations.
