Drybar's founder introduces a new line of products designed to prevent blowouts.
Cracking the World of Blowouts: Alli Webb and the Rise of Drybar
Ever heard of Drybar? If you're into the beauty scene, chances are you might have. The company, founded in 2010, revolutionized the hair industry with its blowout-focused salons. Alli Webb, a former hairstylist, was the mastermind behind Drybar's success.
Back in 2011, I, an intern at Seventeen, worked in a claustrophobic closet, penning blog posts, and attending outrageously lavish events that left me with a mountain of freebies. Many of these events took place at Drybar, which kickstarted its New York City journey in September of that year[1]. The salon concept, though innovative, became a staple for many, including a manager at Seventeen who refused to wash her own hair, opting for a weekly $40 Drybar visit[1].
Webb's brainchild exploded in popularity. Allure recognized her accomplishments in 2014, as Drybar boasted over 35 salons across the nation[1]. Six years later, that number soared well over 100[1]. The charm of Drybar, often compared to Starbucks for hairstyling, resonated deeply with consumers.
Behind the Scenes
Webb remained the face of Drybar until its sale to Helen of Troy for $255 million in cash in 2019. The deal included the acquisition of Drybar's trademark and product line, with Drybar Holdings LLC retaining the rights to operate the salons[1][3]. Following the transaction, Webb's life took a dramatic turn. Her husband, an equal partner in Drybar, divorced her, and her son battled addiction[3].
Despite the tumultuous times, Webb showed her entrepreneurial spirit. She channeled the chaos into a series of "messy" ventures, reflecting her personal struggles and promoting natural hair textures[3].
The Legacy Remains Strong
Though Webb is no longer directly involved with Drybar, her influence is undeniable. The brand she built continues to thrive, offering a luxurious yet affordable blowout experience[1]. The Hot Toddy Heat Protector and Money Maker Flexible Hold Hairspray, first introduced in 2013, remain essential items in many beauty enthusiasts' routines[1].
With Webb's creative business acumen and the enduring charm of Drybar, it's safe to say that this hairstyling powerhouse will continue to shape the beauty industry for years to come.
References[1] https://www.allure.com/beauty/behind-the-brand-drybar[2] https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/382998[3] https://www.wsj.com/articles/alli-webb-is-ready-to-make-a-mess-11577411298
In the years following Drybar's success, Alli Webb branched out to other ventures, focusing on a lifestyle that blended fashion-and-beauty with technology, a stark departure from her traditional role in the hair industry. Despite her personal challenges and departure from Drybar, Webb's influence in the beauty industry remains strong, as her product line continues to be an essential part of many individuals' fashion-and-beauty routines.
