The founder of cult beauty line Rodin reflects on the peroxide hair streak she had aged 19

‘This photo was taken in Florence in about 1970. I was there learning the language and travelling around. It was my first time in Europe; I was about 19 years old. The photo actually reminds me of the totally fascinating and wonderful time I was having at that time in my life – I was young and naive.

In my twenties and thirties I always wore my hair pretty naturally. I used to just do it myself and in this photo I had just blow dried it. I actually added that white streak with peroxide! I was dark haired all my life until the white started coming through when I was about 35. And at that point I just embraced it rather than trying to colour or hide it. I definitely feel like a blonde, even though my hair is silver now.’

"My hair icon is Brigitte Bardot. I also love girls who have long, wavy hair."

My hair icon is Brigitte Bardot. I also love girls who have long, wavy hair. And I like short bangs too, with a strong middle parting.  When I was young a friend had that hairstyle and 50 years later I still want it!

I swear by my Rodin by Recine Hair Oil, £60. I use it on my hair whether it’s wet or dry. It’s good after you’ve shampooed or in the morning because it really smoothes the ends. I love Clairol Shimmer Lights Shampoo, £7.99, as well. I’m heading to Corsica this summer and will be wearing my hair up, which I often do. I also like wearing it in a French plait or a braid to the side of my face, never loose.’