The Thoughtful Stylist

Welcome to The Thoughtful Stylist, where creativity, inclusivity, and education come together to celebrate the art and science of hair. I’m Kate McAlister —a stylist and hair color educator passionate about empowering people through great hair and thoughtful care.

For clients: my mission is to create a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable and valued. Whether you’re looking for a natural, lived-in style that complements your day-to-day life or a complete transformation, I approach every service with attention to detail and a deep respect for your individuality. From gender-affirming hair care to sensory-friendly appointments, I’m here to ensure your experience is as unique as you are.

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For fellow professionals: this space is for you, too! Drawing on over a decade of hands-on experience behind the chair and in the classroom, I’ve created this site as a resource for stylists who want to sharpen their technical skills, refine their client interactions, or explore the lifestyle and mindset of working in this dynamic industry. Whether you’re building your book, looking for education inspiration, or just love nerding out about hair, you’ll find practical tips, heartfelt stories, and creative insights to help you grow.

No matter who you are, I’m so glad you’re here. Let’s connect, learn, and create something amazing together—because thoughtful care makes all the difference.

For clients

Let’s work together to create something beautiful.

From a technical perspective, I’m in my element when creating natural-looking dimension and texture in the hair. I enjoy razor cutting, foiling, balayage, and helping clients embrace their natural texture.

In my chair, you can expect:

Inclusivity

I find great joy in celebrating diversity and helping people honor what makes them unique. My experiences within the queer and neurodivergent communities have given me a deeper understanding of how to support a wide range of needs with empathy and care.

Sustainability

You can feel good knowing your service supports both your style and a more sustainable future.

Learn more at https://www.aveda.com/carbon-neutrality-green-initiatives and https://greencirclesalons.com/where-waste-goes/

Curiosity

As a self-described “lifelong learner,” I try to approach every service with an open mind. There’s always something new to discover about hair and the people I work with. Whether it’s perfecting the subtlest highlight or solving a tricky hair challenge, I thrive on creating personalized solutions that suit your unique goals.

Compassion

I see personal appearance as a deeply personal form of self-expression, and it’s an honor to help bring your vision to life. I know that being vulnerable with a stylist can be difficult, especially when navigating sensitive experiences. My goal is to foster a relationship where you feel safe and supported, no matter where you are in your journey.

Blog

Explore honest conversations about hair, self-care, and creating looks that celebrate your authentic self.