1. Be original…
The judges on the Contessa panel have each seen thousands of collections. You want yours to stand out as something fresh rather than the same old, same old. Ruth Hunsley, an editor for Hairdressers Journal in the UK, says, “Taking inspiration from people is a great thing to do, but it is important to then add your own twist. All successful stylists have their own signature look.”
2. Go for inspiration, not imitation…
Moreover, keep in mind that what won the previous year is not a sure-fire bet to win the following year. Bill Rowley, stylist and emcee for the Contessas, adds, “We don’t want to see what happened last year. Surprise us. Even if it’s going out on a limb, it will hold you in good standing. You may not win, but you won’t be forgotten.”
3. Tell a story…
A theme is necessary to create continuity between the various looks. Putting together a storyboard of ideas is a great place to start. Hunsley also suggests starting the day of the shoot with a production meeting. This way, you can ensure that your entire team knows exactly what story or theme they are working to achieve.
Having a clear vision will keep your team focused. Louis Hechter, session hairstylist and owner of Orbite Salon in Montreal, says, “Everyone has an idea of the way it should be. But if you have too many ideas there will be no strength or sense of balance in the collection.”
4. Use Photoshop lightly…
With Photoshop, everything can be made perfect post-production… or so you thought. Overuse of image manipulation is a definite no-no when it comes to a strong Contessa entry. Rowley puts it perfectly: “We have the technology. Use it but don’t abuse it. Don’t use technology to create what your fingers have missed.”
Hunsley advises that retouching the skin and background is fine, but the hair should never be fiddled with. “If the hairstylist can’t create a smooth shape or defined curls without the help of a computer, he or she doesn’t deserve to win a hair competition,” she says.
5. Be attentive to details…
Taking into consideration the entire look, not just the hair, will give you the competitive edge you’re looking for. “Although the Contessas is ultimately a hair competition, it is important that the whole image—including makeup and clothes—work together and tell the same story,” says Hunsley.
6. Remember, less is always more…
Over-styling when it comes to hair, wardrobe, makeup and nails can land a collection at the bottom of the pile. Hechter says it’s important not to over-coif and to choose products that will work best for a photo shoot. For example, don’t overdo the shine spray if it’s going to take away from the beautiful colour you’ve created.
In terms of wardrobe, makeup and nails, Hechter says in his experience, “it’s better to be minimalist. That way you can control the image.” Hunsley adds, “One of the biggest mistakes hairstylists can make is being too creative—creating avant-garde styles and over-the-top makeup. The simplest collections are often the best. Keep it clean, fresh and modern.”
This article originally appeared in the April 2009 issue of Salon Magazine.
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