UK Talent Triumphs At Davines’ International Hair Gala

Hair industry icons push the boundaries of style in a three-day celebration of coiffured creativity

by CAITLYN | INDUSTRY NEWS

The Davines 2024 World Wide Hair Tour (WWHT) in Berlin was a spectacular, three-day celebration of creativity and talent, drawing over 2,400 attendees from 53 countries. The event kicked off with the Davines Experience at Alte Munze, where attendees immersed themselves in exhibits and activities before the main events. During the Welcome Dinner, the top 10 finalists of the Talent Green House initiative showcased their interpretations of the Davines Hair Identity, setting the stage for the grand finale.

The Talent Green House programme is Davines’ 18-month global mentoring initiative designed to develop the next generation of hairstylists. It offers aspiring talent from around the world a chance to hone both their technical and creative skills through a series of online modules and mentorship from industry heavyweights like Robert Lobetta and Candice McKay. Focusing on everything from trend forecasting to design principles, the program equips participants with the tools they need to thrive in the competitive hairdressing world.

Ben Grace

The winner? Ben Grace, a UK hairstylist from Radio London’s education team, whose “keen sensitivity and intuition for emerging trends” led him to reimagine a classic style with raw, innovative techniques. Ben now has the opportunity to create a collection for WWHT 2026, further cementing his place in the industry.

The magic continued on day two, with world-renowned hairstylists taking to the stage to showcase their talent. Danny Pato, New Zealand’s 2024 Hairdresser of the Year, kicked off the performances with his collection inspired by “the feminine power of three royal sisters, the Nomad Queens.” His avant-garde hairstyles fused bold shapes and cultural elements, delivering a visual spectacle that wowed the audience. Next up was Annie Ankervik, who presented her Alchemy of Superheroes show, urging attendees to embrace their inner strengths and rise to the challenges of today’s world.

Radio London made their mark with a performance celebrating Berlin’s creative subcultures. Their live styling sessions, enhanced with cinematic video footage, offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse into their process and captured the city’s vibrant diversity.

Coray Absolut, the 2022 Talent Green House winner, continued the showcase with his Prioller show. Drawing on his Turkish heritage and personal memories, Coray blended vibrant prints, scarves, and his signature roller technique, promoting individuality and empowerment with every look. Following him was Jesus Oliver, who presented a performance inspired by amber, using structured cuts to bring out rich shades of red, copper, and yellow, creating a dazzling effect on stage.

The event concluded with a show-stopping finale by Michael Polsinelli, whose “visual distortion” performance turned imperfection into art. Using unconventional materials like rubber tubing and mesh, he created complex hairstyles that took inspiration from nature and the universe, leaving the audience in awe.