William Whatley Talks with Us about Scruples New Educational Retreat.

By Robert White, Editor-In-Chief

When it comes to the beauty industry, few names carry the weight and legacy of William Whatley. With a career spanning over four decades, from styling celebrities and walking the runways of Fashion Week to his stint as the lead stylist on Ambush Makeover, Whatley has done it all. But it’s his return to Scruples as Creative Education Director that marks a full-circle moment—and one that’s reshaping the future of hair education.

In a recent conversation, Whatley opened up about his journey from an ambitious 18-year-old stylist to one of the industry’s most recognizable names. “I was working in a grocery store when I got my first opportunity,” he recalls. “Someone offered me a job at a high-end salon if I went to hair school. That was the beginning.”

From there, his path moved fast. Introduced early on to music icons like Pat Benatar and Billy Idol, Whatley’s talent and charisma propelled him into the heart of celebrity styling. But as his profile grew, so did his vision for the industry—one that prioritized education, mentorship, and accessibility for rising talent.

That vision is now fully realized in his role at Scruples, where he leads the Encore Education (S.E.C.) program, an immersive, hands-on academy for stylists looking to elevate their craft. “I’ve done Fashion Week, I’ve done television, and now I’m focused on giving back,” he explains. “This program is designed to close the gap between beauty school and real-world success.”

Whatley’s passion is rooted in experience. “Beauty school gives you a license to learn. But when you get out, that’s when your education really begins,” he says. His advice for anyone starting in the industry? Find a mentor. “Go apprentice for the best stylist in your area. Watch, assist, absorb. That’s where the real growth happens.”

The S.E.C. program in Houston is a standout not just for its intimate structure—capped at 50 participants—but for its emphasis on hands-on learning and high-energy instruction. “It’s not a lecture,” Whatley emphasizes. “You’re on your feet, working directly with our design team. Every single attendee gets one-on-one attention.”

More than just a technical boot camp, the program also fosters community. “Many stylists today are working solo, renting chairs or suites,” he notes. “What we’re offering is culture. It’s about feeling part of something bigger again.”

That inclusivity extends to the cost. “We could charge $1,000 for a weekend like this,” he admits. “But Scruples made the decision to keep it affordable—just $199. And we give away one full-ride scholarship every session. That’s unheard of.”

With a magnetic personality and decades of wisdom, Whatley brings more than knowledge—he brings energy, connection, and the kind of mentorship that can change careers. “This industry gave me everything,” he says. “Now it’s my turn to give back.”