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
- No tags were found...
Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!
Leverage SEO-optimized Flipbooks, powerful backlinks, and multimedia content to professionally showcase your products and significantly increase your reach.
UK EDITION
HAIR LOOKS
UK Talent Drives
Global Inspiration
ELEVATION
Shows & Spaces to
Fuel Your Creativity
94%
said curls feel
protected during
styling, twisting,
or braiding *
NEW
Eternal Curls Polish & Protect Oil
Expertly crafted to leave curls enhanced, moisturized and less prone to damage.
oribe.com
*Based on a 140 day consumer panel survey of 102 participants with types 3 & 4 curls.
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
93% less breakage,
15x fewer split ends
- in just one use
E00
Next Generation Haircare
Personalized routines for instant results
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
video
video
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
video
video
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
video
video
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
video
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
video
ERIC ZEMMOUR
hairtrends
video
video
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
0% finance Lease
Have you been trading for over three
years? Do you need to refresh your
salon but are worried about costs?
Aco
Contact us now to find out how our
0% Finance Lease can help you
www.takarahairdressing.co.uk
professional
YOUR CREATIVITY,
OUR TOOLS.
Tools credit: 9 Row Original Styler, Skeleton Vent Brush
Available from all good trade suppliers.
www.denmanbrush.com Follow @denmanpro
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
SUBSCRIBE
E-mail :
customercare@estetica.it
ESTETICA ITALIA EDIZIONI ESAV
Via Cavour, 50 10123 Torino (Italy)
Tel.: +39 011 83921111
Fax: +39 011 8125661
info@estetica.it
PRINTED BY ARTIGRAFICHEPARINI.IT
Registration n. 435 of 7.4.49, Turin Law Court. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in whole or in part of texts or photography is prohibited. Manuscripts, photographs and art are selected at the discretion of the
publi sher free of charge (advertising exclu ded). Whether published or not, no material will be returned and remains the property of the
publishing house, which may make use of it as seen fit. This may include the withdrawal of publication rights to other publishing houses.
Estetica requires exclusive publication rights in the hairdressing sector for all photography submitted which must not therefore be offered for
publication to other magazines in the hairdressing trade or industry.
Notice to subscribers (Art. 13 of EU Regulation 679/2016)
Pursuant to Art.13 of EU Regulation 679/2016, our company will proceed with the processing of the personal data you provide in compliance
with current laws in force concerning the protection of the processing of personal data and in keeping with the obligations and guarantees of
the legal, contractual, and regulatory standards. Subscription information may be known only bny subjects specifically authorised and
instructed by our Company and by third parties subjects authorised to carry out the orginasational and economic activities connected with the
subscription (ex. Shipping management, enveloping, sending correspondence) and will not be communicated to third parties for purposes not
allowed by law or without explicit consent; they will be stored for teh purpose of sending our publications and for the time necessary to
complete the purposes of professional updating for which the same information was collected. Data process controller is the company Edizioni
Esav S.r.l. - Via Cavour 50, 10123 Turin. The person whose information was processes may, at any time, exercise the rights established by the
EU Regulation (Art. 15 Right to access; Art.16 Correction; Art. 17 Cancellation) by writing to Edizioni Esav - edizioniesav@pec.it.
ESTETICA UK
estetica.uk@lineone.net
www.esteticamagazine.com
®
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