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Estetica Magazine UK (1/2026)

Estetica Magazine is the world's leading hairdressing magazine. Founded in Italy in 1946 and published today in over 60 countries around the world, it is a global reference point for professionals working in the hair and beauty industry. Techniques, fashion, education and trends are at the core of every issue of Estetica Magazine. Further information about both the printed and digital versions of the magazine is available at magazines.esteticanetwork.com

Estetica Magazine is the world's leading hairdressing magazine. Founded in Italy in 1946 and published today in over 60 countries around the world, it is a global reference point for professionals working in the hair and beauty industry. Techniques, fashion, education and trends are at the core of every issue of Estetica Magazine. Further information about both the printed and digital versions of the magazine is available at magazines.esteticanetwork.com

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UK EDITION

HAIR LOOKS

UK Talent Drives

Global Inspiration

ELEVATION

Shows & Spaces to

Fuel Your Creativity


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In this issue:

anniversary Timeless Celebration 04

catwalks Spring/Summer 2026 06

ESTETICA

THE HAIR MAGAZINE

esteticamagazine.com

N. 158

01/2026

exhibition Fashion Surreality 12

photography Free Art 14

exhibition Venus Memoriae 16

art Virtual Goddesses 18

art The Soul Trembles 20

cinema Landscape 22

Cover

Eternal Curls by Oribe

Hair: Naeemah LaFond

Photo: Deidre Lewis

Make-up: Michela Wariebi

Styling: Pamela Shepard

trends The Best of International Hair Looks 25

Ad index

Framesi www.framesi.it 46-47

Keune www.keune.com 24

Oribe www.oribe.com FC/01

Raywell www.raywell.it 54-55

$

CONTACT

Head Office:

Edizioni ESAV

via Cavour, 50 - 10123 TURIN (Italy)

estetica.uk@lineone.net

www.esteticamagazine.com

à

SUBSCRIPTIONS

e-mail: customercare@estetica.it

PUBLISHER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR

Roberto Pissimiglia

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Gary Kelly - esteticauk@lineone.net

GLOBAL EDITORIAL AMBASSADOR

Sergi Bancells - sergi@esteticamagazine.com

INTERNATIONAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Laura Castelli - l.castelli@estetica.it

INTERNATIONAL ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

Monica Tessari - m.tessari@estetica.it

INTERNATIONAL COORDINATOR

Emanuela Vaser - e.vaser@estetica.it

LAYOUT

Manuela Artosi

UK SALES & MARKETING MANAGER

Luca Pissimiglia - l.pissimiglia@estetica.it

FRANCE

Bérénice Claude

ESPAÑA

Elisabet Parra

DEUTSCHE AUSGABE

Michaela Dee

ITALIA

Lucia Preziosi, Glorianna Vaschetto

USA

Gary Kelly

DIGITAL

Giorgia Ludovico, Stefania Rao,

Elena Romani


HairArtCelebration

celebration partners


hairanniversary

TIMELESS

CELEBRATION

video

HairArtCelebration

video

E04


Estetica Celebrates 80 years

Un anniversaire qui célèbre la beauté

Belleza atemporal para una celebración excepcional

1952

DIVA-WOMAN

Super glamorous hair perfection.

Sculpted, mirror-smooth waves:

for a cover girl finish...

Hair: Albert Ryf

2026

CONTEMPORARY FEMININITY

Demure, yet determined,

the Camille Albane woman embodies sensitive strength,

with hair that emphasises her gaze with illuminated colour.

Hair: Camille Albane - Photo: Laurence Laborie

05E


haircatwalks

DEEP DIVE: LAYER BY LAYER

EXPLORATION DU LAYERING

LAYERING EN CLAVE CREATIVA

Watch the video!

Layering ideas

on the runway with

Thom Browne.

video

video

SPRING/SUMMER 2026

E06


07E


haircatwalks

NATURE CHALLENGES BEAUTY

LA BEAUTÉ FACE À LA NATURE

LA BELLEZA ANTE LA NATURALEZA

On trend, on the

catwalk. Discover

more by Jean Paul

Gaultier HERE:

video

video

SPRING/SUMMER 2026

E08


09E


haircatwalks

COLOUR POISE: ART ON SHOW

LA COULEUR EN ÉQUILIBRE

EL EQUILIBRIO DEL COLOR

Junya Watanabe

journeys between art

and reality:

See video HERE:

video

video

SPRING/SUMMER 2026

E10


11E


hairexhibition

FASHION

SURREALITY

THE RADICAL DESIGNS AND ARTISTIC COLLABORATIONS OF ELSA SCHIAPARELLI.

ELSA SCHIAPARELLI : ENTRE CRÉATIONS RADICALES ET COLLABORATIONS ARTISTIQUES.

CREACIONES ROMPEDORAS Y COLABORACIONES ARTÍSTICAS DE ELSA SCHIAPARELLI.

Gary Kelly

The V&A in London opens its first UK exhibition devoted to the

legendary Elsa Schiaparelli. Tracing her story from the 1920s, it

highlights her role as a creative leader in fashion, art, and

performance across major global cities. This unique presentation

places a female entrepreneur at the very heart of historical fashion

innovation, featuring over 200 objects including unique jewellery,

perfumes, and diverse archive material. Visitors can view the

famous skeleton dress and shoe hat created with artist Salvador

Dalí, as well as significant artworks by Picasso and Man Ray.

LE V&A DE LONDRES ouvre sa première exposition consacrée

à Elsa Schiaparelli. Depuis les années 1920, son histoire met en

lumière son rôle de figure créative majeure à l’échelle mondiale

dans la mode, l’art et la performance. Cette exposition place

une femme entrepreneure au cœur de l’innovation et réunit

plus de 200 pièces, dont des bijoux, des parfums et des documents

d’archives. Les visiteurs admireront la célèbre robe squelette

et le chapeau-chaussure créés avec Salvador Dalí, ainsi que

des œuvres majeures de Picasso et de Man Ray.

EL V&A DE LONDRES inaugura su primera exposición

dedicada a la legendaria Elsa Schiaparelli. Recorre su trayectoria

desde los años 20 y reivindica su papel como líder creativa

internacional en moda, arte y performance. Esta presentación

única sitúa a una mujer emprendedora en el centro mismo de la

innovación histórica de la moda, con más de 200 piezas que

incluyen joyería singular, perfumes y diverso material de archivo.

Los visitantes pueden contemplar el célebre vestido esqueleto y el

sombrero zapato creados junto al artista Salvador Dalí, así como

obras destacadas de Picasso y Man Ray.

E12

Schiaparelli HC F/W 2024.

©Giovanni Giannoni. Courtesy

Patrimoine Schiaparelli, Paris

video

video

Vogue 1940; Elsa Schiaparelli

©Fredrich BakerCondé Nast

via Getty Images


Schiaparelli Haute Couture Fall Winter 2024 Look 26. Photo © Giovanni Giannoni. Photo courtesy Patrimoine Schiaparelli, Paris

13E


hairphotography

FREE ARTBérénice

Claude

A CELEBRATION OF FREE-SPIRITED, NONCONFORMIST ARTIST, LEE MILLER.

CÉLÉBRATION DE LEE MILLER, UNE ARTISTE LIBRE ET ANTI-CONFORMISTE.

HOMENAJE A LEE MILLER, CREADORA LIBRE QUE HUÍA DE LAS CONVENCIONES.

A leading figure in international avant-garde, Lee Miller was in

turn a model, surrealist artist, portraitist, fashion photographer

and war correspondent accredited by the American army. Long

relegated to the role of muse, she is now recognized as one

of the great photographers of the 20th century. After its debut at

the Tate Britain in London, the exhibition is on display at the

Musée d’Art Moderne in Paris until August 2nd, before

transferring to the Art Institute of Chicago. The exhibition

reveals the richness of a body of work in which experimentation,

visual audacity and political conscience coexist by means of a

chronological and thematic approach.

FIGURE DE L’AVANT-GARDE internationale,

Lee Miller fut tour à tour mannequin, artiste surréaliste,

portraitiste, photographe de mode et correspondante de guerre

accréditée par l’armée américaine. Longtemps reléguée au rôle

d’égérie, elle est aujourd’hui reconnue comme l’une des grandes

photographes du xx e siècle. Après des débuts à Londres à la

Tate Britain, l’exposition est présentée à Paris, au Musée d’art

moderne, jusqu’au 2 août prochain, avant de voyager à l’Art

Institute of Chicago. Une rétrospective qui révèle une œuvre

riche, entre expérimentations, audace visuelle et engagement

politique, à travers un parcours chronologique et thématique.

David E. Scherman dressed for war,

London 1942. Lee Miller Archives

Model Elizabeth Cowell wearing Digby Morton suit,

London 1941. Lee Miller Archives

FIGURA DESTACADA de la vanguardia internacional,

Lee Miller fue sucesivamente modelo, artista surrealista, retratista,

fotógrafa de moda y corresponsal de guerra acreditada por el

ejército estadounidense. Durante años relegada al papel de musa,

hoy es reconocida como una de las grandes fotógrafas del siglo

XX. Tras su presentación en Londres, en la Tate Britain, la

exposición puede verse en París, en el Musée d’Art Moderne de

Paris, hasta el próximo 2 de agosto, antes de viajar al Art Institute

of Chicago. Una retrospectiva que revela una obra rica, entre

experimentación, audacia visual y compromiso político, a través de

un recorrido cronológico y temático.

E14


Model with Lightbulb c.1943. Lee Miller Archives

15E


hairexhibition

VENUS

MEMORIAE

VALENTINO’S LEGACY EXTENDS BEYOND COUTURE INTO CONTEMPORARY SOCIAL ART.

L’HÉRITAGE DE VALENTINO DÉPASSE LA HAUTE COUTURE ET REJOINT L’ART SOCIAL.

EL LEGADO DE VALENTINO TRASCIENDE LA ALTA COSTURA Y ALCANZA EL ARTE SOCIAL.

A mechanical flower made from irons is one of 33 works in

VENUS at the Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo

Giammetti Foundation, running until 31st May, placing 12

garments by the late couturier in dialogue with

contemporary art by Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos.

The exhibition goes beyond tribute, enriched by Valkyrie

Venus, a 13-metre site-specific work made from over 200kg

of crochet modules created by students, patients, prisoners

and members of nine partner organisations - an emblematic

piece celebrating creativity across all fields.

UNE FLEUR MÉCANIQUE en fers figure parmi les 33 œuvres

de VENUS à la Fondation Valentino Garavani et Giancarlo

Giammetti. L’exposition, ouverte jusqu’au 31 mai, fait dialoguer

12 créations du défunt couturier avec l’art contemporain de

l’artiste portugaise Joana Vasconcelos. Elle dépasse le simple

hommage grâce à Valkyrie Venus, une œuvre in situ de 13 mètres.

Cette pièce est composée de plus de 200 kg de modules en crochet

réalisés par des étudiants, des patients, des détenus et des membres

de neuf organisations partenaires. Impressionnant !

UNA FLOR MECÁNICA es una de las 33 obras presentes en

VENUS, en la Fondazione Valentino Garavani e Giancarlo

Giammetti (Roma), abierta hasta el 31 de mayo, donde 12

creaciones del modisto fallecido dialogan con el arte contemporáneo

de la portuguesa Joana Vasconcelos. La exposición va más

allá del homenaje con Valkyrie Venus, una obra de 13 metros

concebida para este espacio y realizada con más de 200 kg de

módulos de ganchillo creados por estudiantes, pacientes, presos y

miembros de nueve organizaciones colaboradoras.

E16

Discover the complete

beauty of Venus’ works.

video

video


17E


hairart

GODDESSES

VIRTUALDaniela Giambrone

NEO-GOTHIC BEAUTY WITH TRIBAL ECHOES & AN INTRUIGING PALETTE.

ESTHÉTIQUE NÉO-GOTHIQUE, ÉCHOS TRIBAUX, COULEURS INATTENDUES.

ECOS TRIBALES, ESTÉTICA NEOGÓTICA Y COLORES INESPERADOS.

“A natural extension of a journey into fashion and visual

storytelling” is how Vilka K, aka somm_bird, views her work in

digital design. As a multidisciplinary creator with over 20 years’

experience in fashion, she was already exploring the intruiging

world of artifical intelligence as early as 2020. “Hair can be

incredibly versatile and expressive, especially when it transcends its

traditional function through shape, texture, and colour,” she

explains. Her visions come to life through refined styling and

unusual textures.

« UNE EXTENSION NATURELLE de mon parcours dans

la mode et la narration visuelle. » C’est ainsi que Vilka K, alias

somm_bird, considère son travail sur le design numérique.

Créatrice multidisciplinaire, forte de plus de 20 ans d’expérience

dans la mode, elle explore depuis 2020 l’intelligence artificielle :

« Les cheveux peuvent être incroyablement polyvalents et

expressifs, surtout lorsqu’ils dépassent leur fonction traditionnelle

par la forme, la texture et la couleur », explique-t-elle. Ses visions

prennent vie à travers des coiffures et des volumes raffinés.

video

video

Discover the

seductively refined

world of Vilka K

“UNA EXTENSIÓN NATURAL de mi trayectoria en la

moda y la narrativa visual”. Así define Vilka K, alias somm_

bird, su trabajo en el diseño digital. Creadora multidisciplinar,

con más de veinte años de experiencia en moda, explora

desde 2020 la inteligencia artificial: “El cabello puede ser

increíblemente versátil y expresivo, sobre todo cuando supera

su función tradicional a través de la forma, la textura y el

color”, explica. Sus visiones cobran vida mediante peinados y

volúmenes refinados.

E18


19E


hairart

THE SOUL

TREMBLES

A POWERFUL NARRATIVE EXPRESSED THROUGH THE WORK OF CHIHARU SHIOTA.

LE RÉCIT PUISSANT RACONTÉ PAR CHIHARU SHIOTA À TRAVERS SON ŒUVRE.

CHIHARU SHIOTA: UN RELATO PODEROSO EXPRESADO A TRAVÉS DE SU OBRA.

Giancarlo Rapetti

1

The Soul Trembles is a major monographic exhibition of the

Berlin-based Japanese artist, Chiharu Shiota. With the dynamism

of an equine mane, red and black threads flow from room to

room in monumental installations alongside drawings, sculptures

and photographs. Now touring some of the most eclectic

exhibition spaces in the world, these extraordinary interventions

interact with existing collections, transforming the arena into an

immersive landscape, where silence and vertigo coexist and every

step seems to pull an invisible thread within us - uniting what we

have been and what we are to become.

THE SOUL TREMBLES est une exposition monographique

de l’artiste japonaise basée à Berlin, Chiharu Shiota.

Des fils rouges et noirs s’étendent de salle en salle dans

des œuvres monumentales, accompagnés de dessins, sculptures

et photographies. Investissant les lieux d’exposition les plus

éclectiques du monde, ces créations spectaculaires interagissent

avec les collections existantes et transforment l’espace

en un paysage immersif où silence et vertige se mêlent,

chaque pas éveillant un fil invisible en nous.

THE SOUL TREMBLES es una gran exposición monográfica

de la artista japonesa afincada en Berlín, Chiharu Shiota. Hilos

rojos y negros atraviesan las salas en instalaciones monumentales

que dialogan con dibujos, esculturas y fotografías. En su recorrido

por algunos de los espacios expositivos más singulares del mundo,

estas creaciones interactúan con las colecciones existentes y

transforman el lugar en un paisaje inmersivo, donde conviven

silencio y vértigo, y cada paso parece activar un hilo invisible que

conecta lo que hemos sido con lo que estamos llamados a ser.

E20

3

2

1_In Sillence 2002/2025 - Collection of the artist

2_ Accumulation - Searching for the Destination

2014/2019 / Photo: Kioku Keizo

3_Uncertain Journey 2016/2019 / Photo: Sunhi Mang

video

video


Shiota Chiharu, Reflection of

Space and Time 2018 / Photo:

Sunhi Mang / Photo courtesy:

Mori Art Museum, Tokyo

21E


haircinema

LANDSCAPE

ÓLIVER LAXE CREATES CINEMA OF FAITH INSPIRED BY HIS OWN SPIRITUAL VISION.

INSPIRÉ PAR SA PROPRE VISION SPIRITUELLE, ÓLIVER LAXE CRÉE UN CINÉMA DE LA FOI.

TRAS ‘SIRÂT’, ÓLIVER LAXE CONSOLIDA UN CINE DE FE Y PAISAJE ESPIRITUAL PROPIO.

Elisabet Parra

Born in France from Galician roots, Óliver Laxe has built a

singular, austere and profoundly spiritual filmography. His long,

natural hair has become an extension of his creative identity. After

training in Barcelona, ​he debuted with the film Todos Vós Sodes

Capitáns, which won an award at the Cannes Film Festival, before

going on to win the Jury Prize in the Un Certain Regard section,

again at Cannes, with O Que Arde. Laxe’s films incorporate

time, visual landscapes and the human body with formal rigour.

His work engages with the sacred and the political from a lived

experience, confirming him as one of the key figures in European

cinema, without reverting to stridency or dogma.

NÉ EN FRANCE de racines galiciennes, Óliver Laxe a construit

une filmographie singulière, sobre et profondément spirituelle.

Ses longs cheveux naturels sont devenus une extension de son

identité créative. Après une formation à Barcelone, il débute avec

le film Vous êtes tous des capitaines, récompensé au Festival

de Cannes, avant d’obtenir le Prix du Jury dans la section Un

Certain Regard, également à Cannes, pour Viendra le feu. À partir

d’une expérience vécue, son travail explore le sacré et le politique,

le confirmant comme l’une des figures majeures du cinéma

européen, sans jamais céder à l’outrance ni au dogmatisme.

FRANCÉS DE CUNA y sangre gallega, Óliver Laxe ha

construido una filmografía singular, austera y profundamente

espiritual. Su larga melena, natural y sin artificio, se ha convertido

en una prolongación de su identidad creativa. Tras formarse en

Barcelona, debutó con Todos vós sodes capitáns, premiada en

Cannes, y consolidó su voz con Mimosas y O que arde (Premio del

Jurado en la sección Un Certain Regard, del festival de Cannes).

Laxe filma el tiempo, el paisaje y los cuerpos con rigor formal.

Su obra dialoga con lo sagrado y lo político desde la experiencia,

confirmándolo como uno de los autores clave del cine europeo

contemporáneo. Sin estridencias ni dogmas.

“There’s a mission in what

I do. It has a touch of

savior ego about it, but I’ve

been careful to ensure

it’s not paternalistic, but

genuine and noble”.

- Óliver Laxe -

Getty Images

E22


23E


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HAIR TRENDS >>>

The best of international hair looks

Le meilleur des tendances coiffure internationales

Lo mejor de la modacabello internacional

00E


hairtrend

Sharp silhouettes influenced by Scandinavian street culture

provide a structured edge to vibrant and artistic hair designs with

incredible technical range and visionary thinking. A celebration of

how colour can simultaneously communicate extraordinarily deep

human emotions and cultural identities.

Des silhouettes, influencées par la culture urbaine scandinave,

apportent une dimension structurée aux créations, portées par une

ma^trise i technique remarquable. Une célébration de la manière dont

la couleur peut, simultanément, exprimer des émotions profondes et

affirmer des identités culturelles.

Siluetas definidas, influenciadas por la cultura urbana

escandinava, aportan un contorno estructurado a diseños capilares

vibrantes y artist cos, `i con un gran dominio técnico y una visión audaz.

Una celebración de cómo el color puede comunicar emociones

humanas intensas e identidades culturales.

>>SHAPE >VISION >

Opening & right page

Art Direction: Christel Barron-Hough

Hair: The Fellowship F.A.M.E. Team 2025

Photos: Alex Barron-Hough

Make-up: Katie Moore

Styling: Clare Frith


STYLE >EDGE >COLO


hairtrends


< >

Hair: Emma Simmons@Salon 54

Photos: Richard Miles

Make-up: Lauren Mathis

Styling: Borna Prikaski

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hairtrends


< >

Art Direction: Francis Schroembges

Photos: Ivo de Kok

Make-up: Florine Koenen

Styling: Annet Veerbeek

Products: Keune


hairtrends


< >

Hair: Errol Douglas MBE

Photos: David Mannah

Make-up: Pablo Morgade

Styling: Monica Morales

Products: Innersense

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hairtrends

Hair: Anne Veck

Photo: London Photographer

Make-up: Karoliina Villem

Styling: Tia Oguri


Hair: Andrew Smith@milk_shake

Photo: Richard Miles

Make-up: Louise Lerego


hairtrends


Exploration of creativity and expression.

Exploration créative et expression.

Exploración creativa y expresiva.

Hair: Cos Sakkas@Toni&Guy

Photos: Jack Eames


hairtrends

Art Direction: Suzie McGill

@Rainbow Room International

Photo: C. Bulezuik, M. Young

Make-up: MV Makeup,

J. Morgan, M. Austin

Styling: D. Law, C. Frith


Hair: Nicholas James Tucker

Photo: Richard Miles

Make-up: Fanny Burgos

Styling: Magdalena Jacobs


hairtrends

Hair & Styling: Sam Millard-

Power@Flaunt

Photo: Liam Oakes

Make-up: A. Millard-Power, G.Caldicott


Hair: Adrian Paoluccio

Photo: Liam Oakes

Make-up: Sabrina Kille

Styling: Alessia

Images: FPA


hairtrends

Hair: Dodge Mackay

Photo: Lee Mitchell

Make-up: DJ Griffin

Products: Revlon Professional


Hair & Styling: Danny Malone

Photo: Lee Mitchell

Make-up: DJ Griffin


hairtrends

Hair: Georgia Mountain

Photo: Desmond Murray

Make-up: Lauren Walsh

Styling: Lewis Robert Cameron


Art Direction: Zoe Irwin

Hair: The Fellowship Project Colour 2025

Photo: Desmond Murray

Make-up: Violet Zeng

Styling: Clare Frith


hairtrends

PEOPLE

The new frontier of style? Not chasing trends,

but declaring who we are and telling our own story.

That is why the subject of the year is People.

Le style ne se limite plus aux tendances : il révèle

qui nous sommes et raconte notre histoire.

C’est pourquoi le thème de l’année est People.

¿La nueva frontera del estilo? No perseguir

tendencias, declarar quiénes somos y contar nuestra

propia historia. Por eso el tema del año es People.

Hair: Italian Style Framesi/Energy Style Framesi/Global Style Framesi

Photo: Karel Losenicky

Make-up: Silvia Dell'Orto

video

video

FRAMESI



hairtrends

Hair: Dan Spiller@Marc Antoni

Photo: Jamie Blanshard

Make-up: Katie Moore

Styling: Ellen Spiller

Products: Joico


Hair: Dexter Johnson@Toni&Guy

Photo: David Mannah

Make-up: Adnana Chirila

Styling: Borna Prikaski


hairtrends

Hair: Ashley Long@Directors

Photo: Lee Mitchell

Make-up: DJ Griffin


Art Direction: Colin Greaney

@Mahogany Hairdressing

Photo: Joel O’Neil

Make-up: Zoey Edwards

Styling: Lori Wiechec


hairtrends

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Hair & Styling: Gary Hooker & Michael Young

Photo: Michael Young

Make-up: Kirsten Baillie

Images: FPA


Hair: Lucia Siero@Toni&Guy

Colour: Stuart Matuska

Make-up: Monnie Kaur

Styling: Giada Veronesi


hairtrends


SERENDIPITY COLLECTION

Beauty as a balance between technique and supreme

vision, salon culture and aesthetic sensitivity.

Hair is transformed into a truly creative language.

La beauté comme équilibre entre technique et vision

suprême, culture du salon et sensibilité esthétique.

Les cheveux deviennent un langage créatif.

La belleza como equilibrio entre técnica y visión

suprema, cultura de salón y sensibilidad estética.

El cabello se convierte en lenguaje creativo.

Art Direction: Luigi Martini @Raywell

Photos: Mauro Mancioppi

Make-up: Raffaella Tabanelli

Styling: Luca Termine

Video: Andrea Comanducci, Mattia Mancioppi

video

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RAYWELL


hairtrends


< >

Art Direction: Cos Sakkas@Toni&Guy

Hair: Jon Wilsdon

Colour: Jo O'Neill

Photos: K. Luchmun, D. Mannah, R.

Park, A. Barron-Hough, C. Bulezuik


hairtrends

Amplified textures, modern perspective.

Textures amplifiées, perspective actuelle.

Texturas amplificadas, perspectiva actual.

video

Hair: Sheridan Rose Shaw@Mamawest

Colour: Stuart Bane

Photo: Andrew O' Toole

Make-up: Kylie O' Toole

Styling: Catherine V

video



hairtrends

video

Art Direction: Hiléna Neto@Viva la Vie

Photo: Jules Egger

video


Hair: Cos Sakkas@Toni&Guy

Photo: Jack Eames


hairtrends

Art Direction: Claude Tarantino

Photo: Jules Egger

Model: Mathilde Roy

Products: Schwarzkopf Professional,

Mizutani


Art Direction: Yolli ten Koppel@Pivot Point

Hair: J.& S. Hagenmüller, J. Roos

Photo: Richard Monsieurs

Make-up: Lydia Than


hairtrends

SILVER CHIC

Explore an instinctive and assertive femininity,

sometimes graphic, sometime ethereal. The atmosphere

is mineral, luminous, almost futuristic.

Explore une féminité instinctive et affirmée,

parfois graphique, parfois éthérée. L’atmosphère est

minérale, lumineuse, presque futuriste.

Explora una feminidad instintiva y rotunda,

a veces gráfica, a veces etérea. La atmósfera es

mineral, luminosa, casi futurista.

Art Direction: Eric Zemmour for L’Oréal Professionnel

Photos: Stéphane Gagnard

Make-up: Laurie

video

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ERIC ZEMMOUR



hairtrends

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Art Direction: Nicolas Jurnjack

@Kydra le Salon

Colour Art Direction: Fabrice Parra

Photo & Video: Nick Norman

Make-up: Emeline Marret


Hair: Dexter Johnson@Toni&Guy

Photo: David Mannah

Make-up: Adnana Chirila

Styling: Borna Prikaski



UK

COVER CELEB

Bruno Marc

Giamattei

SIGNATURE MEN

Combination of Technical

Precision & Creativity

HAIRITAGE

Estetica: The Voice of

our Industry Since 1946


WARM TONES

THAT RAISE THE BAR

@joicoeurope www.joico.eu #joicoeurope #GlowWarm

©JOICO 2026 – All Rights Reserved | Concept & Color Direction: Bona Jörg & Valentina Malta | Creative Direction: Bruno Marc Giamattei |

Fashion Producer: Bookin’ Agency | AD: Vittorio Masciarelli | Photography: Carlo Battillocchi | Stylist: Romina Power | Make-up Artist: Markus Theisen


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YOUR CREATIVITY,

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Tools credit: 9 Row Original Styler, Skeleton Vent Brush

Available from all good trade suppliers.

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UK

In this issue:

expertise Cover Story 04

heritage Estetica: The Voice of Hair since 1946 06

ESTETICA

THE HAIR MAGAZINE

esteticamagazine.com

N. 158

01/2026

celebration Four Moments in Time 08

direction Signature Men 12

special business The Fight for our Future 16

Cover

JOICO Creative Director for UK

& EMEA and Creative Director of

Marc Antoni Group, Bruno

Marc Giamattei

Photo: JOICO Europe

inspiration Networking for Success 20

events HairCon Evolution 22

Ad index

Denman www.denmanbrush.com 02

HairCon www.haircon.co.uk 25

Hair & Beauty Charity www.hairandbeautycharity.org 24

Joico www.joico.eu FC/IFC

Takara Belmont www.takarahairdressing.co.uk 01

TO

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®


proexpertise

Cover Story

JOICO Creative Director for UK and EMEA, Bruno Marc

Giamattei, is also Creative Director of the multi award winning Marc

Antoni Group, which have recently celebrated their 60th Anniversary.

The multi award winning Marc Antoni Group, founded by Bruno

Giamattei Snr., has grown from a small barber salon to a foursalon

group and along the way they have picked up many awards

and accolades. The business is now three

generations strong with Bruno Snr’s four

sons – Bruno, Simon, Aaron and Marcus all

working in the business and now his

grandchildren Charlotte and Paolo have

joined the ranks, building a fantastic career

within the Marc Antoni Group.

CREATIVE PARTNERSHIP

For the past seven years the Marc Antoni

Group have partnered with JOICO as their

manufacturer of choice along with Bruno

Marc Giamattei undertaking the role of

JOICO Creative Director for UK and EMEA

and the Marc Antoni Artistic Team featuring

Dan Spiller, Marcus Giamattei, Tom Ross and

SIGNATURE MEN

Combination of Technical

Precision & Creativity

Paolo Giamattei all working as part of the JOICO Creative Team.

“When Marc Antoni were first introduced to JOICO products we

were so impressed, they are of the highest quality, they really

perform and provide exceptional results. Very quickly we got to

know the team, we were so impressed with their passion for the

brand and for hairdressing that we knew JOICO were the brand

for us” says Bruno. “I’m a people person and I trust my instincts

and I felt that everything had aligned. We loved the products and

I felt that I could bring my passion and creativity to the brand. We

have worked really closely with both the Education and the

Marketing Departments - something very special and which we

are all proud of.”

HAIRITAGE

Estetica: The Voice of

our Industry Since 1946

UK

COVER CELEB

Bruno Marc

Giamattei

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

His role at JOICO is multi-faceted: “I love

getting to the heart of the brand and I really

enjoy working with the JOICO Education

Team and the members of the JOICO Creative

Team. With JOICO Education we have

created a team that provides career

opportunities for everyone. In addition to the

JOICO Creative Artist Team we have a Next-

Gen Artist Team and a trio of Rising Stars

from Norway, UK and Switzerland. These are

the ones to look out for – they will be the

stars of the future and one day hopefully one

of them will be in my role.” His work with the

JOICO Marketing Team covers both brand and creative shoots,

including the recent 50th Anniversary Collection in 2025. ”This

was great to work on,” says Bruno. “We did lots of research and

prepared many mood boards and references. Shoots provide the

younger members of the team with a great opportunity to get

involved and assist on a shoot gaining valuable experience. I

believe you are never too old to learn and we all learn from each

other, that’s what being part of a team means to me.”

E04


“I believe we’re never too

old to learn - and we can all

learn from each other.”

Bruno Marc Giamattei

Hair: Marc Antoni Artistic Team for JOICO

05E


proheritage

ESTETICA:

THE VOICE OF HAIR

SINCE 1946

It’s an international network

that remains a family business to this day.

Started by parents Olga and Mino,

continued by Roberto Pissimiglia

and sister, Gabriella,

and now into the 3rd generation...

Eighty years is a significant

milestone. How did the company

begin and what were the key

moments in its evolution?

As I had the opportunity to recount in

the winter editorial, it all began in

the early months of 1946 as Turin

emerged from 5 years of war, but with

a desire to rebuild and experiment

with new ventures: from cinema and

television, to automobiles and

fashion. My father, Mino, combined

his passion for print media with his

knowledge of the great hairdressers

of the era, in the brilliant idea of

launching a publication called

‘Estetica dell’Acconciatura e del

Viso’. The response from Italian

salons was immediate and very

positive. Even more surprising was the

completely spontaneous response

from hairdressers of Italian origin who

E06


1946

‘The 1st magazine

for hairdressers

and their clients’

is founded in Turin

1977

International

edition published

in Italian & English

1991

EsteticaNetwork

debuts, with editorial

offices around

the world

2000

Digital Evolution:

Estetica conquers

the web and social

media

2026

A shared heritage

with our partners

who have followed

a similar path

had made their fortunes abroad. Out

of this came the two subsequent

steps we took in the late 1970s: the

bilingual Italian-English edition

presented at all industry events

worldwide and the consequent

widespread penetration into the

most significant markets. Then, in

the early 1990s, came our local

editions and the composition of a

network of magazines that - thanks to

local editorial teams - were published

simultaneously in Italy, Great Britain,

France, Germany, Spain and the

United States. Then in the new

millennium, Estetica began to

conquer the web and social

media, embarking on the digital

evolution which now represents one

of our flagship achievements. Then,

two years ago, we completed a

graphic restyling and the new

masthead EsteticaHair. Eighty years

after Estetica’s first issue, we can

celebrate a heritage that has become

a must for hairdressers

worldwide, expressed through

nineteen editions and as many online

channels, with a valued following of

partner companies with whom we can

now celebrate globally...

What values characterise the

brand’s DNA and differentiate it

from the others?

Estetica’s birth was announced on the

radio in April 1946:

“A magazine for hairdressers and

their clients!” That has been our

mission ever since: being totally on

trend has always characterised and

differentiated us from all other ‘trade

publications’ internationally. Estetica

has always sought to put hair

(top): Founders, Olga & Mino

Pissimiglia;

(below): The next generations,

Roberto & Gabriella each with their

children, Luca & Eleonora.

fashion at the centre of

everything, through each era as it

has come and gone in order to

enhance the role of contemporary hair

artists.

Graphic and photographic quality

are embedded in our DNA. When I

began presenting the Estetica

network to the world, I was often

told: “This magazine is the Vogue of

hairdressing.” For me it has always

been a lovely compliment: a spur to

always publish the best in its finest

form.

Through changing markets, how

has Estetica responded to new

needs without losing its identity?

Almost everything has changed over

the past 50 yers - salons, spaces,

work areas, shop windows. Services

and products have been refined and

multiplied exponentially, colour first

and foremost. Hairstyling images

have invaded the world and become

protagonists of social media.

Hairdressers have put education

at the centre of their professional

growth, investing increasingly in

technical and managerial courses.

Today AI has forcefully entered

professional life and communication;

hairdressers have an innate

predisposition for innovation and this

gives them an advantage on this

front, too. EsteticaHair has born

witness to these profound changes in

our craft, as well as the heritage that

hairdressers have created over time.

My message to the young is always

“Looking to the past we can often

find ideas for the future”, because

the greatest hairstyles are truly

timeless...

07E


procelebration

Getty Images

As Estetica celebrates

80 years of documenting

the art and business of

hair, we mark another

significant celebration in

2026 - the centenary of

Queen Elizabeth II's birth.

IN

FOUR MOMENTS

TIMEGary

E08

Kelly


Through four pivotal years

from Her Majesty’s remarkable

life, we explore how

British style, beauty and

creativity evolved, shaping

the industry we know today.

1926: The Birth Of Modern Beauty

The year Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor entered the world was also the year that changed fashion

forever. In October 1926, Coco Chanel unveiled her revolutionary little black dress in American Vogue -

a simple crêpe de Chine chemise that would democratise elegance. ”Fashion should express the

place, the moment,” Chanel declared, and the moment was one of liberation. British women were

embracing the flapper revolution with unprecedented enthusiasm. Clara Bow’s bob, cut by

Paramount Pictures that same year, launched the ”It Girl” phenomenon and sent women flocking to

salons demanding the Eton crop - that brave, architectural cut that first appeared in The Times in

1926. This was the era when going to the hairdresser became a social ritual rather than a domestic

chore. The marcel wave iron transformed texture, Louise Brooks’ geometric bob became the

silhouette of modernity, and hairdressers in The Tatler promised Hindes Hair Wavers ”for shingled

and bobbed hair.” Jazz defined the soundtrack while beauty became democratised through picture

palaces where working girls could copy the kohl-rimmed eyes and cupid's bow lips of their screen

idols. Max Factor was creating ”make-up” for the masses, not just theatrical professionals. It was,

as Chanel would reflect, the moment when ”simplicity became the keynote of all true elegance.”

Clara Bow and the global launch of the “It Girl” phenomenon; Coco Chanel - the democratisation of elegance.

Getty Images

09E


procelebration

1952: Coronation and Reinvention

At just 25, Elizabeth II inherited not just a throne but the

responsibility of modernising monarchy for a television age.

The early 1950s marked Britain’s emergence from post-war

austerity into the Golden Age. Norman Hartnell's coronation

gown - eight months in the making, adorned with the emblems

of Britain and the Commonwealth - represented both tradition

and renewal. British couturiers created ball gowns for

coronation celebrations that recalled pre-war glamour while

embracing Christian Dior's celebration of femininity with the

New Look. Hair became architecture in 1952. The Queen’s own

style - a softly waved, perfectly symmetrical arrangement that

would remain virtually unchanged for seven decades - was

created using rollers, setting lotion, and considerable skill.

Her insistence on complete symmetry, those two iconic curls

at her temples, would make her instantly recognisable on

stamps, coins, and portraits worldwide. For British women,

the coronation year brought the proliferation of salons as they

sought the polished perfection of stars like Grace Kelly.

The bouffant was ascending, permanent wave solutions were

improving, and hair colour was becoming acceptable for "nice"

women. Elizabeth Arden created special coronation lipsticks

while Royal Warrant holders Floris and Penhaligon's produced

commemorative fragrances. Beauty became aspirational,

a way for ordinary women to capture royal glamour

Grace Kelly represented the polished perfection that women

in the early 1950s were striving for. New emerging designers

such as Cristobal Balenciaga and Hubert de Givenchy captured

the essence of Hollywood glamour to perfection.

“Dress shabbily and they remember

the dress; dress impeccably

and they remember the woman.”

- Coco Chanel -

Christian Dior,the

founding father of the

New Look, prioritised

elegance and

chic over austerity

and informality.

Getty Images

2012: Digital Revolution and Olympic Glory

“The Isle is full of noises,” proclaimed Kenneth Branagh at Danny Boyle‘s Olympic opening ceremony, as Britain showcased itself

to billions. But 2012 was also when those noises moved online - when Estetica‘s digital presence truly took flight, Instagram

transformed beauty, and the Diamond Jubilee proved the monarchy could be both ancient and modern. The Queen herself,

appearing with James Bond before "parachuting" into the stadium, embraced popular culture in ways unthinkable in 1952.

This was the year of the ”Scouse brow” and HD Brows. Kate Middleton had become the world’s most-watched woman,

her bouncy blow-dry spawning a thousand tutorials - the “Kate effect” could sell out a lipstick in hours. At The Wella Studio

in London, Estetica’s Thank-You Mum campaign in partnership with Wella Professionals offered hair, makeup and respite to

mothers of Olympics athletes - a reminder that behind every moment of glory is someone who needs care. British hairdressers

created “Olympic rings” with rainbow colour, Union Jack nail art dominated Instagram, and YouTube tutorials were replacing

salon education. The pixie cut resurged thanks to Michelle Williams, ombré became the most-requested salon service,

and British fashion was having a moment with Stella McCartney designing Team GB’s kit. Beauty had become participatory,

shareable, democratic in ways Chanel could never have imagined.

E10


The Princess

of Wales has

the unfaltering

ability to convey

the personification

of understated

natural beauty and

faultless. elegance.

Paddington Bear captured the

hearts of the entire country in 2022

when he took tea with Her Majesty.

2022: Endings and Beginnings

The Platinum Jubilee celebrations of June 2022 would

be the Queen’s final major public appearance. Dressed

in bright green Stewart Parvin on the Buckingham Palace

balcony, then powder blue for her surprise tea with

Paddington Bear, the 96-year-old monarch demonstrated

that style has no expiration date. ”You can be gorgeous at

thirty, charming at forty, and irresistible for the rest of your

life,“ Chanel had said, and Elizabeth II proved it true.

British fashion and beauty had evolved into something

more inclusive, diverse, democratic than ever before.

Charlotte Tilbury, who’d received her MBE from the Queen

in 2018, created a Platinum Jubilee collection as the

official beauty partner - British beauty was now a global

force. The celebrations saw a revival of vintage British

beauty: victory rolls at street parties, 1950s sets at jubilee

celebrations. But 2022 was also about the future. Love

Island had made salon-perfect beauty accessible to a new

generation while the ”clean girl aesthetic“ dominated

TikTok. Kate’s jubilee appearances in Alexander McQueen

represented continuity, while Charlotte and Louis in the

royal box - she in Patachou, he in his father's vintage sailor

suit from 1985 - suggested that style, like monarchy, is

both inherited and reinvented. As we lost the Queen that

September, her beauty legacy was clear: consistency as

its own form of rebellion, the power of a signature look,

the democracy of a lipstick touch-up in public.

WE CAN BE HEROES

Four moments, four eras, infinite inspiration. From the

Marcel wave to Instagram filters, from coronation rollers to

Dyson Airwraps, British beauty has evolved while remaining

utterly, recognisably itself. As Estetica enters its ninth

decade and we commemorate a Queen who defined devotion

to duty, we celebrate not just where we’ve been, but

where we’re going. After all, as David Bowie reminded us -

we can be heroes, just for one day. Or in the case of Estetica

Magazine, for 80 years and counting.

Getty Images

11E


prodirection

Signature Men

Hair: Carlos Estrella @los_cut_it / Headquarters Chicago @headquarters_chicago / Photo: @chetameister / Model: @Madeit.909 / Designer: @Mv3bymv3

E12


Raw Energy

“This image represents one part of a 3 piece collection. Fire,

electricity, and shattered glass, each symbolizing power and

raw energy. Inspired by fire and the idea of an otherworldly

god, this look blends wardrobe, color technique, and artistry.

The design isn’t added to the haircutc - it’s embedded within

it. Titled First Contact, nothing here is referenced or replicated.

Every detail is original, created solely for this collection,

and reinvented in my vision.” Carlos Estrella

‘90s Indie

“This image really shows what we love doing at Fella. Being

based in Soho, London, we have always had strong links to the

Mod and music scene. When we we saw Joe come into the

shop, I straight away could see a young Richard Ashcroft which

was the inspiration behind our look - that real early ‘90s indie

look. The clothes really complete the vibe we were going for - a

proper rock star in the making.” Alex Wakefield

Identity Shift

“This portrait from my Seasons of Identity collection speaks in

a quiet, confident way through warmth, texture, and presence

rather than excess. The copper tones echo the atmosphere of

autumn: a season of transition, reflection, and depth, where

everything slows down and becomes more intentional. That

feeling resonates deeply with how I approach my work. Technique

gives structure, but it’s emotion that gives meaning. This

look isn’t about following a trend, it’s about revealing character.

For me, hair becomes a narrative tool able to express identity

in a specific moment of its evolution, just like autumn marks a

shift from what was to what is becoming.” Luca Malnati

Subtle Simplicity

“Simplicity was at the heart of this image. I love working with

curls and enhancing men’s hair through subtle colour, allowing

the focus to remain on texture, movement, and natural shape.

Rather than dramatic cuts or bold colour, I chose softness

to highlight the model’s strongest features. This image reflects

what I do best: combining technical precision with a gentle,

understated approach.” Andrew Plester

Hair: Alex Wakefield for American Crew / Clothes & Styling: Bobby Gordon / Photo: David Raccugilia

Model: Joe from Menace Model Agency

Hair: Luca Malnati (@luca.malnati), Global Artistic Ambassador for DEPOT (@depot_maletools); Photo: Eric Tacchini

Hair: Alndrew Plester at Arkive by Adam Reed / Photo: David Ralph / Make-up: Jane Richards / Styling: Adam Reed

13E


prodirection

Hair: Charles Rose, Owner of Crate Cheshire / Photo: Chris Bulezuik

Hair: Edwin Johnston, Global KMS Artist / Photo: Alec Watson

Hair: Mike Taylor / Photo: Liam Oakes / Styling: Emily Taylor / Make-up: Nicole Fripp /

Products: Denman Professional

Precision Styling

“This style focuses on a textured slick-back with tapered sides

and a longer, sculpted top. It combines clean, precise lines with

movement and texture, allowing the hair to feel alive while keeping

the silhouette sharp. The style is modern, fashion-forward,

and adaptable, highlighting both technique and creativity while

respecting the hair’s natural character and individuality. It very

much reflects the KIKU aesthetic, a bold meeting point between

Scottish strength and Japanese refinement.” Hiro Kudo

Softening Shapes

“I love this look because men’s hair is definitely getting longer.

We’re in a phase right now where fades are evolving - growing

out into mullets and burst fades, and then into softer tapers and

more relaxed, surfer-inspired shapes. What makes this cut stand

out is the strong focal point through the fringe, which is kept

straight and sleek to frame the face, balanced by a beautifully

textured weight line through the lengths. The overall shape

works perfectly with the model’s face and really showcases

modern men’s hair direction.” Charles Rose

Effortless Texture

“Men’s curly hair has been a passion of mine for some time. I

love that it represents individuality, texture, and cultural diversity.

Today in fashion and grooming, we are seeing a trend of embracing

curls rather than straightening the hair. Influenced by celebrities

like Timothée Chalamet and Jeremy Allen White , curls

are now seen as stylish and expressive. This image to me is very

important. I feel it was one of the first times I capture curls in an

almost perfect way without over doing it. This is very inspiring for

me, because to work with curls and to create a natural effortless

look is very honest and satisfying to me.” Edwin Johnston

Statement of Rebellion

“Punk never dies, it’s a music and lifestyle culture and I

wanted to express it in hair. I love this image. It shows my

all-round hairdressing skills outside the barbering norm, but

also it reflects the angry teenage me that’s still in there.

Combining short and long layers, razoring, skin-fading and

sharp exterior lines with deep red Crazy Color over bleach

mid-lengths for a dark-based fire engine red statement of

rebellion.” Mike Taylor


Hair: Hiro Kudo Artistic Director KIKU Salon & Paul Ralph / Assistants: Nicola Dymond & Sean McGroarty / Photo: Chris Bulezuik / Fashion Styling: Clare Frith / Make-up: Grace Hayward

Technical precision and creative excellence are the

two pillars which define these outstanding looks in men’s

hairdressing and barbering. Grooming at its finest!

15E


prospecial business

The British Hair

Consortium reports

on how crippling tax

and employment

pressures are

threatening the very

foundation of the

British hairdressing

industry.

by Gareth Penn, Registrar/Chief Executive,

Hair & Barber Council, on behalf of the

British Hair Consortium

more

more

SCAN HERE to keep up-to-date

with the British Hair Consortium’s

campaign towards a bright secure

future for our industry.

E16


T

H E

The British hairdressing

industry stands at a

crossroads. After decades

of growth and innovation,

we now face unprecedented

challenges that threaten

not just individual salons,

but the very future of our

profession. The statistics

paint a stark picture:

apprenticeships have fallen

by 70%, and if current trends

continue, there will be no

new apprentices entering

the industry by 2027.

This isn’t just about numbers on a

spreadsheet. This is about an industry

that employs hundreds of thousands,

contributes £billions to the economy,

and touches the lives of millions of

clients across the UK. It’s time we

understood exactly what we’re up

against and what we must do to secure

our future.

FIGHT

>>>

for our future

17E


prospecial business

>>>

WHAT WE’RE UP AGAINST AND WHY

The hairdressing sector is operating within a tax and

employment system that actively penalises responsible

employers and discourages the recruitment of apprentices.

At its core, the issue is simple: choosing to employ staff

now carries a significantly higher financial burden than

operating without them. Employer National Insurance

contributions, coupled with rising National Minimum

Wage obligations, have dramatically increased the cost

of employment. For salons committed to training the next

generation, this pressure is becoming unsustainable.

To put this into perspective, the National Minimum Wage

for apprentices has increased by 93% since 2020.

Whilst fair pay is essential, the scale and speed of this

increase, alongside compulsory costs such as holiday pay,

sick pay and pensions, has had a profound impact on salon

viability. For many businesses, the numbers simply no

longer stack up. The British Hairdressing Consortium

is not opposed to self-employment. However, as

employment declines and alternative models grow, it is

increasingly concerned about business structures that are

not legitimate, undermine professional standards, and

distort competition across the sector.

WHY THIS AFFECTS EVERYONE IN

OUR INDUSTRY

Whether you are a salon owner, employed stylist,

apprentice, educator or supplier, these pressures affect

us all. Labour accounts for approximately 60% of the

cost of barbering, hair and beauty services. This means

any increase in employment costs hits our businesses

disproportionately hard. For VAT-registered salons,

the situation is even more challenging. VAT can only be

reclaimed on inputs such as products and goods, not on

the haircut itself. As labour makes up the majority of a salon’s

costs, around 60% of expenditure attracts VAT that cannot

be recovered, placing our sector at a structural disadvantage.

Energy costs have added further strain. Since the Ukraine

invasion, rising energy prices have intensified pressure on

an already stretched industry, while the situation in Iran

will inevitably cause even more financial insecurity, eroding

margins and limiting salons' ability to invest, recruit or train.

WHAT NEEDS TO CHANGE

The biggest challenge we face is fragmentation. Until the

sector comes together and speaks with one clear, united voice,

Government will continue to use division as a reason for inaction.

• Support State Registration: We are calling on hairdressers to

back the Hairdressing Council's mandate for State Registration.

A mandate would demonstrate unity, professionalism and

accountability and provide vital protection against rogue

traders. Without regulation, anyone can open a salon,

regardless of training or standards, to the detriment of

consumers and professionals alike.

• Unite Behind One Industry Voice: All industry organisations

must stand together with the British Hairdressing Consortium

to ensure government hears a single, authoritative message.

Unity equals influence.

“The future of British

hairdressing depends on

what we do today. Let's

make sure that future is

one we can all be proud of.”

E18


THE NUMBERS TELL A STARK STORY

The statistics reveal the true scale of the challenge we face:

• In 2025, the hair and beauty industry contributed £6.1 billion through services. Seventy-one per

cent of this revenue came from limited companies, with the remainder generated by sole traders and

partnerships.

• The workforce is now 68% self-employed, with just 32% employed, highlighting a significant shift

away from traditional employment models. Eighty per cent of businesses operate with 0–4 workers,

underlining how small and vulnerable most salons are.

• Perhaps most concerning of all: apprenticeships have fallen by 70%, and at the current rate, there

will be no new apprentices entering the industry by 2027, a direct threat to the future workforce.

• Over the past decade, inflation has risen by 52%, yet industry prices have increased by only 9%.

One of the key reasons for this is the absence of regulation and a mandate, which allows nonprofessionals

to depress pricing across the market.

• The sector is 88% female and 12% male, making this an industry where policy decisions

disproportionately impact women. According to ONS data, hair and beauty services comprise 63%

hair and barbering and 37% beauty. These aren't just statistics, they represent real businesses,

real jobs, and real people whose livelihoods hang in the balance.

• Campaign for VAT Reform: We are actively campaigning

for a reduced VAT rate of 10% on the hands-on service element

of hairdressing. This would be transformative, allowing salons

to reinvest, remain viable, and crucially, train and employ the

next generation. VAT reform is not about survival alone; it is

about securing the future of our profession.

HOW TO ENACT CHANGE -MOVING

FORWARD AND GETTING INVOLVED

The path forward requires collective action. Every professional

in our industry has a role to play in securing our future.

• Register with the British Hair Consortium: Register

with the BHC to be updated with all the latest information

and get involved. If you would like to lobby your MP, please

get in touch with the BHC and they will give you everything

you need to do this. They have templated letters and

guidance on how you can help. There is strength in numbers

and if we all come together we will have a voice.

• Get Registered: Go to haircouncil.org.uk to back the

Hairdressing Council’s mandate. State Registration is not just

about protecting our industry, it's about protecting the clients

we serve and ensuring that only qualified professionals can

practise in our field.

The challenges we face are significant, but they are not

insurmountable. The British hairdressing industry has always

been resilient, creative, and adaptable. Now is the time to

channel that spirit into collective action. Our industry has given

so much to this country, economically, culturally, and socially.

It’s time for the Government to recognise that contribution and

work with us to create a sustainable future.

19E


proinspiration

Networking

for Success

Wella RED Business Network

Live 2026 delivered business

wisdom and practical insights at a

time when UK salons need it most.

With UK salons facing unprecedented

financial pressures from

increased taxes, employer National

Insurance contributions, and VAT

burdens, Wella RED Business Network

Live 2026 couldn’t have been

more perfectly timed. Over 300 salon

owners and managers gathered

at The Belfry Hotel & Resort

for two days of practical wisdom

designed to navigate today’s challenging

landscape.

AI WITHOUT THE ANXIETY

The speaker lineup read like a

masterclass in modern business

survival. Leading futurist Andrew

Grill cut through the AI confusion

plaguing many salon owners,

delivering refreshingly practical

guidance on becoming ‘AI-ready’

without the usual tech hysteria. “AI

replaces tasks, not people, and will

transform the entire way we work,”

Andrew explained, showing

delegates how tools like ChatGPT

could streamline daily operations

rather than threaten livelihoods. His

message resonated powerfully

Over 300 salon owners, managers & industry guests enjoyed 2 days of networking, fun and practical wisdom & guidance.

E20


Wella RED Business Network

Live 2026 delivered powerful

inspiration, connection and

growth for salon leaders and...

(left) an evening of fun, fine

dining and entertainment!

with an audience seeking efficiency

gains amid rising operational costs.

Behavioural science expert Nathalie

Nahai reinforced this pragmatic

approach, advocating sensible AI

integration. “I recommend using it

to remove effort and time from

tasks in your day,” she advised,

offering delegates concrete ways to

reclaim precious hours for revenuegenerating

activities.

PSYCHOLOGY OF PRICING

Perhaps the event’s most

memorable insights came from

advertising legend Rory Sutherland,

whose brilliant exploration of

consumer psychology struck right

at the heart of salon profitability

challenges. “To economists, price is

a number. To consumers, price is a

feeling,” Sutherland observed.

“People don’t pay for what they get;

they pay for how you make them

feel.” For salon owners grappling

with price increases necessitated

by higher operational costs, this

reframing proved invaluable – positioning

services around emotional

value rather than mere transactions.

TV presenter Steph McGovern’s

authentic journey resonated deeply

with delegates facing high-street

pressures. Her advice to “stay

authentic, don’t try to fit in, and

focus only on what you can control”

provided both comfort and direction

for uncertain times.

PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS

Social media specialists Alex Brown

and Kate Roberts from Campfire

delivered essential digital marketing

strategies, while serial entrepreneur

Simon Morris shared emotional

perspectives on leadership during

challenging periods. Maddy

Christina’s luxury selling insights

proved particularly relevant as

salons seek higher-value services to

offset increased costs. Throughout

panel discussions, industry experts

tackled pressing concerns including

apprenticeships, VAT implications,

profit building, and recruitment

challenges – issues dominating

salon owner conversations nationwide.

The event’s genius lay in

addressing real-world pressures

while maintaining an inspirational

atmosphere. Rather than dwelling

on difficulties, speakers provided

actionable solutions and fresh

perspectives. As Wella’s Senior

Sales & Education Director UK &

Ireland, Tatiana Suvorova, remarked:

“It is a great privilege to be your

partner on this journey of reinventing

business in this ever-changing world.”

For UK salons navigating 2026’s

financial complexities, Wella RED

Business Network Live delivered

exactly what was needed: practical

wisdom, peer connection, and

renewed confidence that challenges

can become opportunities with the

right strategies and mindset.

21E


proevents

HairCon Evolution

The ultimate festival for hair and barbering

expands with more space, more creativity, and an

extraordinary Main Stage lineup.

Visit haircon.co.uk

and follow

@hairconshow

for updates.

The ultimate hair

and barbering festival

just got bigger!

HairCon powered by Fresha is no

ordinary trade show, it’s a revolution

that’s about to get even bigger.

Returning to Manchester’s iconic

O2 Victoria Warehouse for 2026,

this ultimate hair and barbering

festival is taking over two neighbouring

warehouse spaces from 13 -

15 June, creating an expanded

footprint for an even more immersive

experience. After drawing more

than 7,600 visitors in 2025, HairCon

powered by Fresha promises to

redefine what a hair and barbering

show can be.

MORE SPACE, MORE INNOVATION

The takeover of the neighbouring

building unlocks an evolved creative

platform with exciting new features

including a Cinema Room, Ask the

Experts area, the Social Studio for

content creation education, and

HairCon Unplugged, a new intimate

stage setting. An elevated barbering

presence adds significant dimension,

complementing the unrivalled Main

Stage shows and interactive brand

activations. New brand partners

include Schwarzkopf Professional,

KEVIN.MURPHY, Paul Mitchell,

Moroccanoil, Unity Rollers by Jack

Mead, Hairdreams, Maria Nila,

Beauty Works & Exo-Grow by

E22


Dermapenworld joining returning

favourites Wella Professionals, The

Fellowship for British Hairdressing,

OSMO, ELEVEN Australia, K18,

DENSE, Revlon Professional, Alfaparf

Milano Professional and Design

Essentials.

MAIN STAGE: WHERE LEGENDS TAKE

CENTRE STAGE

At the heart of HairCon sits the Main

Stage, where the industry’s most

celebrated talent deliver high

production shows and creative collaborations.

From precision cutting

and colour mastery to avant garde

artistry and barbering culture, this is

where the industry’s most exciting

creative talents take centre stage.

The extraordinary 2026 lineup

includes visionary hair artist Charlie

Le Mindu with Hairdreams,

Giuseppe Stelitano and the Trevor

Sorbie Creative team, plus

celebrated stylist Adam Reed joined

by Charles Gray, Elle Foreman,

James Busby and Ayeesha Coleman

in collaboration with Leaf Scissors.

Leading industry figures include awardwinning

salon owner Suzie McGill

and global icon Nick Irwin with

Schwarzkopf Professional, Errol

Douglas MBE with Nishlady, and

influential industry figure Lisa

Farrall. Additional standouts include

Darren Ambrose, Jackie Ambrose

and Jack Howard for L’Oréal

Professionnel, James Earnshaw for

Wella Professionals, and Sassoon

Academy led by Richard Ashforth.

Barbering takes centre stage with

world-renowned educator Josh

Lamonaca and the MENSPIRE team

for Nishman, plus international

talents Thaddeus Jayaseelan and

Andrea Amighetti with Fresha. Andis

brings Baldy and Jim Williams,

whilst returning favourites include

Danilo Giangreco and Robert

Masciave with Revlon Professional,

and Unity Rollers featuring Jack

Mead and his team. The Fellowship

Project teams showcase emerging

talent alongside established masters,

whilst Alexis Thurston and the

Danger Jones Creative team return

to shake up the Main Stage with

fresh energy.

BEYOND THE STAGE

HairCon powered by Fresha 2026

begins with an invitation-only Opening

Night on 13th June, followed by two

days open to professionals on 14-

15th June. Expect bold creative

shows, business insight, cultural

conversation and a festival atmosphere

that continues long into the

evening. Unforgettable networking

opportunities blend with hands-on

brand experiences and practical

panel discussions.

23E


ONE DAY IT COULD

BE YOU

Injury. Sudden illness. Mental health struggles. Bereavement. Family

breakdown.

These aren’t rare events - they happen every day to hairdressers, barbers,

beauty therapists and freelancers across our industry.

Real people, quietly needing help.

That’s why the Hair & Beauty Charity exists.

For 190 years, we’ve been there when it matters most,

providing confidential financial support, emotional care

and practical help during life’s toughest moments.

The impact is lifechanging.

But we can’t do it alone.

One day, it could be your

colleague.

Your friend.

Your apprentice.

Or you.

SUPPORT THE HAIR & BEAUTY CHARITY,

TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

SUPPORT

FUNDRAISE

OR DONATE

TODAY

HAIRANDBEAUTYCHARITY.ORG

@HBCHARITYUK

By fundraising through a salon event, sponsored challenge,

education day, or by becoming a Charity Supporter for just £5

a month, you’re not just raising money - you’re restoring

confidence, creating new opportunities, and bringing hope

to families who need it.

MEET OUR SPONSORS

PLATINUM

SILVER

MEDIA

EXHIBITIONS

GOLD

BRONZE


THIS IS NO ORDINARY TRADE SHOW

JOSH LAMONACA

CHARLIE LE MINDU

EUGENE SOULEIMAN

LISA FARRALL

ERROL DOUGLAS MBE

TOM CONNELL

JAMES EARNSHAW

GIUSEPPE STELITANO

SUZIE MCGILL

TARIQ HOWES

JACK MEAD

ADAM REED

ANDREA AMIGHETTI

KATE REID

SAM RASCALS

TIA LAMBOURN

PABLO

KUEMIN

THADDEUS

JAYASEELAN

CAL

NEWSOME

ELLE

FOREMAN

SARAH LOUISE KEANE

AKIN KONIZI

ALAN BEAK

JUNIOR GREEN

NOOGIE THAI

JAMES LEAR

BALDY

CHRISTEL BARRON-HOUGH

TOM SMITH

CLAIRE MARTIN

CASEY COLEMAN

PAUL STAFFORD

JACK HOWARD

DARREN & JACKIE AMBROSE

RICHARD ASHFORTH

AYEESHA COLEMAN

MARLON HAWKINS PASCAL VAN LOENHOUT WADE BLACKFORD JAMIE BENNY LYDIA WOLFE JOSH & SOPHIE GOLDSWORTHY

JAYMZ RIGBY-MARSTERS SHELDON EDWARDS ALEXIS THURSTON STACEY WRIGHT STEPHEN DEBELLOTTE DANILO GIANGRECO

ANDREA DORATA DARREL STARKEY CHARLES GRAY JAMES BUSBY FEDERICO PATELLI ROBERT MASCIAVE ZOE IRWIN

TRACEY ANN SMITH DAVID THURSTON ROMEO THE BARBER ASHLEIGH HODGES PATRICIA DAVIES COLIN MCANDREW

ROB WOOD CAL CHRISTIE FRANCESCA WOOD SIMON SHAW COPPER QUEEN TOM HOFFMAN OLIVER HILL

STEPHEN CAMPBELL CHADDY MASANGI TERRI NADIN JON AHERNE PAUL THOMAS LET LEW SHEREE SIREN

BEN BROWN KYLE CASTILE PHIL JARMAN CALUM TIERNEY MONTEL CAMPBELL ANNA JONES JIM WILLIAMS

F.A.M.E. TEAM PROJECT COLOUR PROJECT X CLUBSTAR ART TEAM PROJECT AFRO

PROJECT EXTEND PROJECT SCOTLAND PROJECT NORTHERN IRELAND PROJECT WALES

PLUS MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED

Book your

tickets now

QUOTE CODE

ESTETICA10

for 10%

discount

13-15 JUNE 2026

O2 VICTORIA WAREHOUSE, MANCHESTER

HAIRCON.CO.UK

Information correct at time of publication

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

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