Graduate Shows to Grand Final
Life lately has been backstage at Saks for those who love the vibe of that. Our creative directors, artists and stylists were called on to create statement hair for graduate fashion shows and the L’Oréal Colour Trophy’s landmark 70th year at the O2. Amanda Holden rocked presenting and who did what at Saks is here…
CELEBRATING L’ORÉAL COLOUR TROPHY
Seventy years of the Colour Trophy… and what better way to mark it than by being part of The Eras show. Our creative leadership Luke Pluckrose and Clare Murphy were part of the superstar collective assigned to interpret hair through the decades, crafting wigs to showcase our extraterrestrial takes on classic styles.
Clare: “When we were asked to create the Futures element of the show, we thought futuristic but not too avant-garde. Beautiful, and out of this world. We created a shiny glass flying-saucer-shaped blonde bob, a dark, sculptural shape with its own front piece and seriously intricate waves.
“Every wig concept starts as an exciting idea, and then we’re figuring out the engineering problems from there! So much prep beforehand and also with fitting on the day. None of it happens fast. Foam-cut, wrapping, netting, steaming. So satisfying for it all to come together. Honestly though, what I’ll always remember is the people. Unbelievable creativity, everyone working so hard. Including Jess, Shannon and Ann-Elise. Proud of our Saks team!”
Assisted by:
Saks Artists
Jess – Saks Barnard Castle
Shannon – Saks Hexham
Saks Stylist
Ann-Elise – Saks Barnard Castle
Jess on Luke’s looks: “I’d sum ours up as otherworldly elegance. Extraterrestrial takes on a classic blonde bob, a sculpted finger wave pixie and a sleek structure – a shape that seemed impossible to do with hair!”
When asked to sum up being part of our industry’s highest-profile event, Ann-Elise says: “Being backstage at Colour Trophy was INCREDIBLE! It’s always a pleasure working for Luke and Clare. I’ve come back with a buzz and inspired to get creative in the salon at any opportunity. Thank you Saks!”
Shannon, Clare and Jess BTS
KUDOS AGAIN FOR OUR FINALISTS AND WINNER
There was a strong Saks turnout – as always – supporting our fab finalists Blossom at Saks Redcar, Nikki at Saks Chester and Future Talent winner Amy at Saks Hexham!
Amy standing smart first left
STYLISTS SUPPORTING GRADUATES
May to June is when fashion’s next-gen designers showcase their vision – and Saks session stylists are right there with them. TWO of the industry’s biggest graduate moments, and we’re proud to support both.
Being part of the L’Oréal Professionnel Portfolio Team is an amazing opportunity. And it’s what we serve up regularly to our stylists. A pass to contribute at fashion shows such as Central Saint Martins and Graduate Fashion Week, interpreting hair looks for an array of collections. The ones that could be talked about for seasons to come.
Time booked out, full kit packed. London called, and our Shannon and Isla answered.
GRADUATE FASHION WEEK
First up, Truman Brewery, Shoreditch. GFW turned 35 this year and ramped up the party. Four days, 30+ UK universities – all building up to one stellar runway finale.
Our Saks Hexham stylist Isla – and L’Oréal Colour Trophy Future Talent winner in 2024 – was in the thick of it backstage and says: “My fave looks were highly texturised naturally air-dried hair, inspired by Kate Moss and sleek braids finished with glitter – the most technically challenging and especially rewarding to create!”
“What did I learn? How to work as part of a team in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, whilst maintaining a pro standard of work! I developed and refined my hair-up techniques also.”
Isla ROCKING backstage
CENTRAL ST MARTINS
Next stop, Peckham… CSM traded Granary Square for ten floors up the former multi-storey car park, Peckham Levels and the Class of 26′ did not disappoint. 40 graduates, 240 looks, zero celebrity judges – the audience picked the winners this year.
Shannon says: “The Peckham car park venue was different! As usual at GFW the designs were insane. We got a free brief for hair for each design though, which was the dream. No restrictions, free to respond to the vibe of the model and the outfit. Loved it!”
Show-approved hair by Shannon
CALLING STYLISTS TO JOIN SAKS
If you’re the kind of stylist who wants backstage passes, portfolio credits and a seat at the table with L’Oréal Professionnel… think Saks. This is just a bit of what “part of the group” actually means. Fancy being in next year’s blog? Bookmark hairdressing jobs at Saks or get in touch with your local Saks salon to join Saks.
Image credits:
Amanda Holden and Eras show looks – Creative Head