Fort Lauderdale

Earlier this year, hairstylist and Kalona native Kelsey Miller had the opportunity to style the hair of eventual Olympic gold medalist Alysa Liu.

Before the Winter Olympics began, the figure skater contacted Miller about styling her hair. Miller created a look known as “Halo Hair” or “Angel Halos.”

The style features lightened rings with darker striping and blended tones often described as a “milk tea” color. The distinctive look quickly attracted attention both on and off the ice.

When Liu first took to the ice with her new hairstyle, the look quickly went viral.

After having her hair styled by Miller, Liu went on to win two gold medals in separate events.

Miller was recently recognized for her work with the 2026 ONESHOT Global Hair Award in the Color Blocking category. The ONESHOT Global Hair Awards are considered the hairstyling industry’s version of the Grammys.

Behind the Chair hosts the four-day event, which features classes, workshops and networking opportunities before concluding with an awards ceremony.

Following her win, Miller shared her excitement and gratitude on Instagram.

“I’m living proof of how your life can change overnight. Hard work pays off,” Miller wrote. “I went from questioning my life and career to winning an award. Never stop believing, dreaming and working hard.”

Miller also received the Beauty Innovation Award at America’s Beauty Show on Sunday, April 19.

Liu later said she plans to add another ring to the hairstyle in December, continuing the symbolism of the look as her career progresses.

Miller graduated from Hillcrest Academy in 2005, when the school was known as Iowa Mennonite School.

She is the daughter of Mel and Luann Miller of Kalona.  

In 2015, Miller moved to St. Louis and began working at the 13th and Washington salon. After spending more than a decade there, she recently moved to Copper Mane Collective in Crestwood, Missouri, where she continues working as a hairstylist.