How Manic Panic Founders Tish and Snooky Bellomo Brightened the World With Their Punk Vision
Nothing says punk rock like vibrant hair, and Manic Panic co-founders (and real-life sisters) Tish and Snooky Bellomo know that more than anyone.
The two siblings found their footing performing in New York's underground music scene before launching their career as backup singers to the '70s glam rock band Blondie. Together, they cultivated their brand with kaleidoscopic makeup looks and, most notably, their wild hair colors.
They decided to take their style savvy to the next level with conception of Manic Panic. But little did they know, almost 50 years later, this brand would have the leading products for alternative fashion communities, from punk rock to scene and more.
We sat down with Tish and Snooky to dive deeper into the story behind Manic Panic and learn their hopes and dreams for the future of the hair industry.
Sweety High: What are some of the pieces from your music career that have influenced the way Manic Panic operates today?
Manic Panic: Before Manic Panic was ever a punk rock dream, we were two young, free-spirited New York City sisters who embraced the underground scene, singing at all the local dives and creating our own fashion looks while hanging out with our ultra-fabulous downtown friends. Debbie Harry and Chris Stein of Blondie came to a show we were performing in. Soon after, we became backup singers in the band.
People in the music scene loved our look on and off the stage and wanted to buy whatever we were wearing, so we decided to open America's first punk rock boutique, Manic Panic. We didn't have much money, but rent in the East Village was cheap back then.
(Image Courtesy of Manic Panic)
Growing up poor with a single mother (who was an incredibly creative and resourceful artist), we learned the most inventive ways to make something out of nothing. We were living at home with her when we started our business, so we could invest every cent we made—minus a few subway tokens—back into Manic Panic.
Color had always been a part of our lives. Our mother's paints and glitter were our favorite toys, so bright, vibrant cosmetics and hair color came natural to us.
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SH: When you first created Manic Panic, did you expect it to become such an iconic product, especially in alt communities?
MP: We were a part of the original punk movement, which started in NYC in the '70s, moving from glam to punk to alt and all the way to what it is today.
We have taken the extreme to the mainstream. With our fingers on the pulse of what we needed, our style and aesthetic very quickly grew across the United States and, eventually, the world!
SH: You've been trailblazers for decades, from being one of the first companies to sell vibrant dye to one of the first to be cruelty-free. What other ways are you hoping to see change in the industry?
MP: Manic Panic is the trailblazing beauty brand that started the vivid hair color and extreme cosmetic revolution in the U.S. almost five decades ago. Since then, our mission has been to share our rainbow vision of peace, love and glamour throughout the universe while welcoming all.
Woman-owned, vegan and cruelty-free since 1977, we never compromise. Those who dare to unleash their inner rainbow deserve the highest level of quality and integrity from their beauty brands. We encourage everyone to embrace your individuality and feel good about your brand of glam.
We won't rest until our Manic Panic rainbow spreads throughout the galaxy. Charitable before it was lit, we continue to donate a minimum of 15% of our net profits to charities like BCRF, True Colors United and the World Wildlife Fund to name just a few.
(Image Courtesy of Manic Panic)
SH: What has been the most meaningful moment in your career with Manic Panic?
MP: The most meaningful moment in our career is seeing the overwhelmingly positive response for our Dye Hard community and witnessing people express themselves so boldly and colorfully. It is incredibly rewarding. It reaffirms the power of self-expression and reminds us why we continue to do what we do—to empower individuals to be unapologetically themselves.
Manic Panic just celebrated our 47-year anniversary and was recognized by the Mayor of New York City.
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SH: What's the best piece of advice you've been given, and from whom?
MP: Our beloved mother, Estelle Bellomo, told us, "Always stay true to your vision, no matter how unconventional it may seem." This advice has guided us through numerous challenges and decisions, encouraging us to embrace creativity and authenticity in every aspect of our work.
SH: What is your favorite product from your brand?
Tish Bellomo: I love using my Fuchsia Fever Love Color to refresh my color and keep it soft, smooth and protected. Being able to use it in the shower saves so much time and keeps my color refreshed and vibrant.
(Image Courtesy of Manic Panic)
SH: What is one hair tip you'd like to share with the world?
Snooky Bellomo: After applying our classic color, use a shower cap to "bake" the color in. And use rubber gloves!
MP: Life is too short for boring hair. "Live fast and dye your hair!"
SH: For aspiring entrepreneurs, what are some of the practices that helped you achieve your current level of success?
MP: Never take "no" for answer, don't listen to doubters and follow your dreams. If you can't get in the front door, go through the back door—or the window. Whatever business you choose, make sure it's something you love and be prepared to live it every day of your life. And do what you love, love what you do.
Curious to learn more about our other favorite entrepreneurs? Click HERE to meet Mia Zotos and discover how her "innate calling to fashion" inspired her to create Mode Mischief Studios.