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MOST WANTED 2025

ABOUT

Most Wanted 2025 – all change! 

Respected industry-wide for rewarding the most outstanding, progressive, and game-changing talents in British and Irish hairdressing, Creative HEAD’s Most Wanted has won loyal hearts and followers old and new – and we’re so proud of its 25-year journey so far. But 2025 marks a milestone and welcomes a whole new era for the competition. 

So, what’s new? A 12-strong line-up of categories that best represent the calibre and breadth of hairdressing today, and align with your business and creative priorities. From Collaboration to Community, Education to Engagement, there are 12 trophies waiting to be claimed – all focused on what matters most to you, and all sponsored and supported by some of the industry’s finest hairdressing and business brands.

Truly inclusive and democratic, Most Wanted is open not only to the owners and employees of salons, barbershops and other workspaces, but also to self-employed and freelance hair professionals. Plus, it’s free to enter, and based on work you’ve already undertaken. 

Entries are judged by dozens of experts – including journalists from leading publications, talent scouts from top international agencies, fashion designers, directors of photography and film, entrepreneurs and, of course, the names behind the most accomplished hair businesses. At stake: highly prized Most Wanted titles, gifts galore from our sponsors and a platform like no other to boost your profile and put your name in lights. 

Winners will be crowned at a spectacular Grand Final event in London – a night to blow all other hair parties out of the water. See you there? 

Most Wanted 2025 – all change! 

Respected industry-wide for rewarding the most outstanding, progressive, and game-changing talents in British and Irish hairdressing, Creative HEAD’s Most Wanted has won loyal hearts and followers old and new – and we’re so proud of its 25-year journey so far. But 2025 marks a milestone and welcomes a whole new era for the competition. 

So, what’s new? A 12-strong line-up of categories that best represent the calibre and breadth of hairdressing today, and align with your business and creative priorities. From Collaboration to Community, Education to Engagement, there are 12 trophies waiting to be claimed – all focused on what matters most to you, and all sponsored and supported by some of the industry’s finest hairdressing and business brands.

Truly inclusive and democratic, Most Wanted is open not only to the owners and employees of salons, barbershops and other workspaces, but also to self-employed and freelance hair professionals. Plus, it’s free to enter, and based on work you’ve already undertaken. 

Entries are judged by dozens of experts – including journalists from leading publications, talent scouts from top international agencies, fashion designers, directors of photography and film, entrepreneurs and, of course, the names behind the most accomplished hair businesses. At stake: highly prized Most Wanted titles, gifts galore from our sponsors and a platform like no other to boost your profile and put your name in lights. 

Winners will be crowned at a spectacular Grand Final event in London – a night to blow all other hair parties out of the water. See you there? 

MOST WANTED 2025

CATEGORIES

The Most Wanted award for: COMMUNITY

For a hair professional or team going above and beyond their core business to provide meaningful support to their local community and/or a local organisation. Judges will look for an ongoing commitment to a single cause with clear evidence of positive impact

Open to individual hairdressing professionals and businesses regularly providing hairdressing services to clients 

Sponsored by


 

To enter, you must submit the following:  

Part 1: OVERVIEW
PDF (maximum 8 pages) OR video (maximum 5 minutes) 
Showcase you/your business (as relevant) and your community ties. Talk about the ways you support and enrich your local area, how you collaborate with neighbouring businesses/organisations and why the locals love you! Illustrate with relevant visuals.   

Part 2: CASE STUDY
PDF (maximum 4 pages)
Describe in detail a single activity or initiative you have led in since March 2024 that has had a positive impact on your local community – for example, fundraising, litter picking or throwing open your doors during times of adversity. Include information about the success of your work (testimonials, press coverage, etc). Illustrate with relevant visuals.  

Separate to your entry, please provide the following supporting imagery, which may be used to promote your success if you reach the finals. We require good quality, hi-resolution files:

  • Images of you/your business
  • At least three images illustrating your case study


PDFs must be A4, supplied in either landscape or portrait format. The maximum page number stated must not be exceeded. You may include a front cover, which will not count towards the total page limit.  

Videos may be landscape or portrait and must not exceed the maximum duration stated. Phone footage is acceptable. 

If you choose to supply all parts in PDF format you must combine into one file.  

Embedded videos and hyperlinks are not accepted within PDF files. 

Usage rights must be secured prior to submission for all entry files and supporting imagery.

 

 

 

Download PDF

 

The Most Wanted award for: COLLABORATION

When creative talents come together, it can lead to an incredible result. Tell us about a specific project you worked on – a shoot, show, campaign or training course, perhaps – where you collaborated with creative(s) from outside your usual team to create something new and relevant, and which you could not have created on your own. Judges will look for a clear strategy for the project, an exciting, impactful execution and evidence of success   

Open to individual hairdressing professionals working in a creative capacity. Your collaborator can be based outside of the UK/Ireland 

Sponsored by


 

To enter, you must submit the following:  

Part 1: PERSONAL INTRODUCTION 
PDF (maximum 4 pages) OR video (maximum 3 minutes)
Introduce yourself and outline your skills, passions, and creative achievements. Talk about why collaborations matter to you, and the strengths and qualities you bring to creative partnerships. Illustrate with relevant visuals.   

Part 2: THE COLLABORATION
PDF (maximum 8 pages) OR video (maximum 5 minutes)
Describe this specific collaboration in detail – tell the judges when and why the collaboration took place, who you collaborated with and why, how you approached the collaboration and whether it achieved the desired outcome. Share any evidence of success. Illustrate with relevant visuals.   

Separate to your entry, please provide the following supporting imagery, which may be used to promote your success if you reach the finals. We require good quality, hi-resolution files: 

  • An image of you
  • An image of your collaborator(s) 
  • At least three images included showing the results of your collaboration 

 

PDFs must be A4, supplied in either landscape or portrait format. The maximum page number stated must not be exceeded. You may include a front cover, which will not count towards the total page limit.  

Videos may be landscape or portrait and must not exceed the maximum duration stated. Phone footage is acceptable. 

If you choose to supply all parts in PDF format you must combine into one file. 

Embedded videos and hyperlinks are not accepted within PDF files.  

Usage rights must be secured prior to submission for all entry files and supporting imagery.

 

Download PDF

 

The Most Wanted award for: PURPOSE

For an individual hairdressing professional or business truly committed to a specific cause, whether that’s sustainability, mental health, the under-represented in society – whatever is close to your heart. Finalists in this category will be able to demonstrate that purpose permeates everything they do and has a positive impact

Open to individual hairdressing professionals and businesses regularly providing hairdressing services to clients 

Sponsored by


 

To enter, you must submit the following:  

Part 1: YOU AND YOUR CAUSE
PDF (maximum 4 pages) OR video (maximum 3 minutes) 
Introduce yourself and tell us about the cause that matters to you. Explain how you came to be involved with that cause and impress the judges with your level of commitment to it. Illustrate with relevant visuals. 

Part 2: CASE STUDY
PDF (maximum 8 pages)OR a video (maximum 5 minutes)
Describe in detail a single activity or initiative you have carried out since March 2024 that has had a positive impact for your cause. Whether that was fundraising, hosting an event or implementing new protocols, show the judges the power of your engagement. Include information about the success of your work (testimonials, press coverage, etc). Illustrate with relevant visuals.  

Separate to your entry, please provide the following supporting imagery, which may be used to promote your success if you reach the finals. We require good quality, hi-resolution files: 

  • An image of you 
  • At least three images of you working on your cause


PDFs must be A4, supplied in either landscape or portrait format. The maximum page number stated must not be exceeded. You may include a front cover, which will not count towards the total page limit.  

Videos may be landscape or portrait and must not exceed the maximum duration stated. Phone footage is acceptable. 

If you choose to supply all parts in PDF format you must combine into one file.  

Embedded videos and hyperlinks are not accepted within PDF files. 

Usage rights must be secured prior to submission for all entry files and supporting imagery.

 

Download PDF

 

The Most Wanted award for: ENGAGEMENT

Building an engaged online community around a business is crucial nowadays, and we’re looking for examples of excellence in the field. So, how do you build yours, which channels do you use and why, and how do you maintain audience attention? This is not about the size of your following, rather the impact you and your social fans create together  

Open to individual hairdressing professionals and businesses regularly providing hairdressing services to clients 

Sponsored by


To enter, you must submit the following:  

Part 1: YOU AND YOUR ONLINE COMMUNITY
PDF (maximum 4 pages) OR video (maximum 3 minutes) 
Introduce yourself and tell us about the community(ies) you have built on at least one social media platform. Explain how you retain audience engagement and talk about the strategy(ies) behind the unique content you post. 

Part 2: CASE STUDY
PDF (maximum 8 pages)OR a video (maximum 5 minutes)
Describe in detail a specific series of original content, shared on your platform(s) since March 2024, that particularly resonated with your community. Whether that was posting regular client transformations in your chair, hosting a social media takeover in conjunction with an event, or a ‘seasonal special’ exploring consumer trends, show the judges the quality of the content you create. Include information about the success of your work (eg, engagement through likes, comments, shares and responses from the community). Illustrate with relevant visuals.

Separate to your entry, please provide the following supporting imagery, which may be used to promote your success if you reach the finals. We require good quality, hi-resolution files:

  • An image of you
  • At least three images illustrating the content you create 


PDFs must be A4, supplied in either landscape or portrait format. The maximum page number stated must not be exceeded. You may include a front cover, which will not count towards the total page limit.  

Videos may be landscape or portrait and must not exceed the maximum duration stated. Phone footage is acceptable. 

If you choose to supply all parts in PDF format you must combine into one file.  

Embedded videos and hyperlinks are not accepted within PDF files. 

Usage rights must be secured prior to submission for all entry files and supporting imagery.

 

Download PDF

 

The Most Wanted award for: EDUCATION

Education is the lifeblood of hairdressing – constantly upgrading our knowledge and skills is the only way we can provide the best service to clients. So, this award goes to an individual or business delivering exceptional hairdressing education, with our judges looking for output that’s relevant, innovative and making a difference 

Open to all hairdressing professionals delivering education, as well as colleges, private academies and other education providers. Not open to educators working in-house for product companies 

Sponsored by


 

To enter, you must submit the following:  

Part 1: EDUCATION SUMMARY
PDF (maximum 8 pages) OR video (maximum 5 minutes) 
Outline the fundamentals and USPs of the education you provide – the concept behind it, the people involved, your goals and why it stands out. Talk about who, where, what and how you teach, providing information on duration, frequency and pricing, plus any follow-up support you may offer. Illustrate with relevant imagery.  

Part 2: ENDORSEMENTS
PDF (maximum 4 pages)
Prove your education has a positive impact on the people you teach. Pull together testimonials, statistics, and any other information gathered since March 2024 to demonstrate great results.  

Separate to your entry, please provide the following supporting imagery, which may be used to promote your success if you reach the finals. We require good quality, hi-resolution files: 

  • An image of you/the team of educators 
  • At least three images illustrating your education in action  


PDFs must be A4, supplied in either landscape or portrait format. The maximum page number stated must not be exceeded. You may include a front cover, which will not count towards the total page limit.  

Videos may be landscape or portrait and must not exceed the maximum duration stated. Phone footage is acceptable. 

If you choose to supply all parts in PDF format you must combine into one file.  

Embedded videos and hyperlinks are not accepted within PDF files. 

Usage rights must be secured prior to submission for all entry files and supporting imagery.

 

Download PDF

 

The Most Wanted award for: CREATIVITY

Creativity comes in all different forms: asymmetric, vibrant, odd, spontaneous. This award is for a hair artist who’s excelling at their craft, whether that’s cutting, colouring or styling any hair type, and whose creative output results in something beautiful and transformational 

Open to individual hairdressing professionals working in a creative capacity 

Sponsored by


 

To enter, you must submit the following:   

Part 1: PERSONAL INTRODUCTION
PDF (maximum 4 pages) OR video (maximum 3 minutes) 
Introduce yourself and outline your skills, passions and creative achievements. Talk about the qualities and strengths you bring to any creative task, your overall approach to the work you do and the way your skill and vision helps you/your business/the business you work for grow and/or innovate. Illustrate with relevant visuals.  

Part 2: CASE STUDY
PDF (maximum 4 pages)OR video (maximum 3 minutes)
Describe in detail a single creative project you’ve undertaken since March 2024 that has had a positive impact on you/your business/the business you work for. For example, a photographic shoot that got published that shows off your specialism or a new service menu you created that brought new clients through the door. Back up with evidence of success and illustrate with relevant visuals.   

Part 3: YOUR WORK IN PICTURES
PDF (maximum 8 pages) 
Impress the judges with a selection of your finest creative work. You can include individual images, collections, campaign shots and wider projects. Make sure you’re showcasing all your skills, as well as your signature style. Include a brief explanation for every image included.  

Separate to your entry, please provide the following supporting imagery, which may be used to promote your success if you reach the finals. We require good quality, hi-resolution files: 

  • An image of you 
  • At least three images of your creative work

PDFs must be A4, supplied in either landscape or portrait format. The maximum page number stated must not be exceeded. You may include a front cover, which will not count towards the total page limit.

Videos may be landscape or portrait and must not exceed the maximum duration stated. Phone footage is acceptable. 

If you choose to supply all parts in PDF format you must combine into one file. 

Embedded videos and hyperlinks are not accepted within PDF files.  

Usage rights must be secured prior to submission for all entry files and supporting imagery.

 

Download PDF

 

The Most Wanted award for: EXPERIENCE

This award is for a hairdressing business taking customer service to the next level. We want to hear how you are focused on delivering the best possible experience for your clients at all relevant touch points – in real life and online – and the resulting benefits to business  

Open to businesses regularly providing hairdressing services to clients. Single locations only. It is not possible to enter as a group, although individual sites within a group may enter themselves 

Sponsored by


 

To enter, you must submit the following:  

Part 1:EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW
PDF (maximum 8 pages) OR video (maximum 5 minutes) 
Outline your unique approach to customer service, describing the client journey at every stage – before, during, after and in-between bookings – and how you deliver it, both in person and digitally. You may want to talk about communication processes, consultations, the catering you offer, chill-out spaces, tailored appointments (eg, for clients with special needs) and so on. Make sure you cover all the aspects that make your client experience unbeatable. Illustrate with relevant visuals.   

Part 2: ENDORESEMENTS
PDF (maximum 4 pages)
Prove your experience is first-class! Pull together testimonials, press coverage, relevant statistics (eg, re-book rates) and any other information gathered since March 2024 to back up your claims. 

Separate to your entry, please provide the following supporting imagery, which may be used to promote your success if you reach the finals. We require good quality, hi-resolution files: 

  • Imagery of the interior and exterior of your workspace 
  • At least three images illustrating the client experience 

 

PDFs must be A4, supplied in either landscape or portrait format. The maximum page number stated must not be exceeded. You may include a front cover, which will not count towards the total page limit.

Videos may be landscape or portrait and must not exceed the maximum duration stated. Smartphone footage is acceptable. 

If you choose to supply all parts in PDF format you must combine into one file.  

Embedded videos and hyperlinks are not accepted within PDF files. 

Usage rights must be secured prior to submission for all entry files and supporting imagery.

 

Download PDF

 

The Most Wanted award for: NEW SPACE

We’re looking for a new or revamped hairdressing workspace that not only brings something interesting to the market, but that also delivers something exciting to its clients. Judges will be taking everything into consideration, from fit-out to service menu, and they’ll want to see evidence of success 

Open to businesses regularly providing hairdressing services to clients, opened or refurbished since March 2024 

Sponsored by


 

To enter, you must submit the following:  

Part 1:DESIGN CONCEPT
PDF (maximum 8 pages)  
Describe your vision for the space – what you wanted to achieve, how you hoped it would serve both clients and team and the design decisions you took to bring your vision to life. From high-spec lighting and head-turning wall art to exceptional fixtures and fittings and an exciting service menu, make sure you cover all angles. Include location details and launch/relaunch date and illustrate with relevant visuals. 

Part 2:YOUR SPACE IN PICTURES
PDF (maximum 8 pages) OR video (maximum 5 minutes)
Strutt your stuff! Take the judges on a visual journey through your space, spotlighting the elements you’re most proud of and demonstrating the way your design delivers on style, as well as function. Include captions/sound bites to give the judges the full picture.  

Separate to your entry, please provide the following supporting imagery, which may be used to promote your success if you reach the finals. We require good quality, hi-resolution files: 

  • Imagery of the interior and exterior of your workspace
  • At least three images illustrating key design features

     

PDFs must be A4, supplied in either landscape or portrait format. The maximum page number stated must not be exceeded. You may include a front cover, which will not count towards the total page limit. 

Videos may be landscape or portrait and must not exceed the maximum duration stated. Phone footage is acceptable.

If you choose to supply all parts in PDF format you must combine into one file.  

Embedded videos and hyperlinks are not accepted within PDF files. 

Usage rights must be secured prior to submission for all entry files and supporting imagery.

 

 

Download PDF

 

The Most Wanted award for: LEADERSHIP

Do you run a hairdressing business, manage a department at work or lead a team (eg, backstage at Fashion Week) that consistently delivers great results? Use your entry to tell us about your drive and decision-making, the goals achieved and the direction you want to take next  

Open to individual hairdressing professionals in a leadership role 

Sponsored by


 

To enter, you must submit the following:  

Part 1:LEADERSHIP OVERVIEW
PDF (maximum 8 pages) OR video (maximum 5 minutes)

Talk about the journey you’ve taken to become the leader you are today. Share details about the role you undertake, your work ethic and the key strengths and qualities you bring to the task. Outline the ways in which your management and direction have led to success and a competitive edge while explaining how you are planning for future success.  

Part 2:CASE STUDY
PDF (maximum 4 pages) 
Describe in detail one initiative or project implemented by you since March 2024 that showcases your leadership skills. Perhaps you revamped the team structure, executed a challenging business expansion plan or led the hair team working on a particularly high-profile commercial project. Back up with evidence of success and illustrate with relevant visuals. 

Separate to your entry, please provide the following supporting imagery, which may be used to promote your success if you reach the finals. We require good quality, hi-resolution files: 

  • An image of you
  • At least three images representing your leadership initiative

 

PDFs must be A4, supplied in either landscape or portrait format. The maximum page number stated must not be exceeded. You may include a front cover, which will not count towards the total page limit.

Videos may be landscape or portrait and must not exceed the maximum duration stated. Phone footage is acceptable. 

If you choose to supply all parts in PDF format you must combine into one file.  

Embedded videos and hyperlinks are not accepted within PDF files. 

Usage rights must be secured prior to submission for all entry files and supporting imagery.

 

Download PDF

 

The Most Wanted award for: IMAGE

For a hair professional who’s crafted a hair look capturing a contemporary vibe shift, or a trend that’s about to boom

Open to all individual hairdressing professionals. Maximum of three entries per entrant; variations of the same look will not be accepted. Entries from duos may be considered only in exceptional circumstances

Sponsored by


 

To enter, you must submit the following:  

Hi-resolution JPEG/PNG image OR Reel/Tik-Tok-style video (maximum 15 seconds) `
Send in your scroll-stopping finished look! It can be a cut, a colour (or both), styled up or down, crafted on any gender and on any head of hair. Whether shot professionally or on your phone, all we ask is that final look must knock our judges’ socks off. Remember, your image doesn’t need to be shot/filmed exclusively for Most Wanted, and we don’t mind if it’s already been posted/published, but it must have been created within the last 12 months.   

Separate to your entry, please provide the following supporting imagery, which in addition to your entry image/video, may be used to promote your success if you reach the finals. We require good quality, hi-resolution files: 

  • An image of you 

 

Your image or video may be landscape or portrait. Your video must not exceed the maximum duration stated. Phone footage is acceptable. 

Usage rights must be secured prior to submission for all entry files and supporting imagery.

 

Download PDF

 

The Most Wanted award for: SESSION

For the most exciting hairstylist working in session

BY NOMINATION ONLY: This category cannot be entered; finalists will be determined by votes from leading fashion and beauty titles, alongside creative directors, producers, photographers, fashion stylists and make-up artists

Sponsored by

Download PDF

 

The Most Wanted award for: INFLUENCE

Awarded to the most influential, impactful hairdresser of the year

BY NOMINATION ONLY: Following nominations from a panel of hair, beauty, fashion, business and media experts, a shortlist of names will be drawn up. Those shortlisted will be invited to submit an entry for assessment by a separate judging panel

Sponsored by

Download PDF

 

MOST WANTED 2025

KEY DATES

CLOSING DATE

Monday 28 July, by 9pm

JUDGING

Monday 18 August

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED

Wednesday 20 August

GRAND FINAL

Monday 13 October, London

MOST WANTED 2025

ENTRY INSTRUCTIONS

HOW TO ENTER

All Most Wanted entries are digital and will be reviewed by our judges on a tablet or laptop.  

Here’s how to enter: 

1. Read the Terms of Entry
You must read and agree to the Most Wanted 2025 Terms of Entry before preparing and submitting your entry(ies). If you have any questions about the terms, please call or email Laura on +44 (0)20 7324 7540 or laura@alfol.co.uk.

2. Choose your category(ies)
There are 10 Most Wanted categories open for entry. Each category description clearly states who is eligible, and any exclusions, so please check carefully before you make your selection(s). If in doubt, please call or email Laura on +44 (0)20 7324 7540 or laura@alfol.co.uk.

You may enter multiple categories but it is not possible to enter SESSION or INFLUENCE (the latter, without notification) – please refer to the category pages for more information. 

3. Prepare your entry(ies)
Each category has a bespoke set of criteria (ie, content required), which must be carefully followed. Your entry may be disqualified if you do not adhere to the criteria.

Each category also stipulates the format(s) accepted for your entry files (eg, PDF, video), alongside quantities, durations, and sizes (eg, up to 8 pages, maximum 5 minutes). Your entry may be disqualified if you do not adhere to these specifications. 

If you are entering IMAGE, you may submit up to three different images – please refer the category page for more information. 

4. Label your files
You  MUST  label each file with your name, plus the name of the category you are entering, followed by a number in line with the number of files you are uploading. 

Example: if you are entering PURPOSE, with the PDF containing parts 1 and 2, and your supporting imagery, you would label your files as follows: 
Cut & Snip_PURPOSE_1.PDF (your entry) 
Cut & Snip_PURPOSE_2.JPEG (image of you) 
Cut & Snip_PURPOSE_3.JPEG (imagery of you working on your cause) 
Cut & Snip_PURPOSE_4.JPEG (imagery of you working on your cause) 
Cut & Snip_PURPOSE_5.JPEG (imagery of you working on your cause)

Example: if you are entering CREATIVITY, with a video for part 1, plus the PDF containing parts 2 and 3, and your supporting imagery, you would label your files as follows: 
John Smith_CREATIVITY_1.MP4 (your entry) 
John Smith_CREATIVITY_2.PDF (your entry) 
John Smith_CREATIVITY_3.JPEG (image of you) 
John Smith_CREATIVITY_4.JPEG (image of your creative work) 
John Smith_CREATIVITY_5.JPEG (image of your creative work) 
John Smith_CREATIVITY_6.JPEG (image of your creative work) 

5. Submitting your entry(ies)
When your files are complete, and you are ready to proceed, click the ‘ENTER’ button to submit your entry.
This will take you to a form, which you must complete, and it is also where you will upload your files.  

You must wait until ALL files have uploaded before clicking the ‘Submit’ button. It is not possible to add or amend files once your entry has been submitted.  

Once you have submitted your entry, you will receive an automated confirmation email from Creative HEAD. Please check your email’s junk folder in case it goes in there. If you do not receive this email, please send an email to laura@alfol.co.uk.   

You must repeat this process for every entry you are submitting. 

Entries must be submitted no later than 9pm on Monday 28 July 2025. 


 

If you have any questions about the entry process, or are experiencing problems submitting your entry(ies), please call or email Laura on +44 (0)20 7324 7540 or laura@alfol.co.uk. 

 

TERMS OF ENTRY

You must read the Most Wanted Terms before preparing and submitting your entry(ies). By submitting your entry(ies), you are agreeing to these Terms. If you have any questions, please call or email Laura on +44 (0)20 7324 7540 or laura@alfol.co.uk. 

  1. Most Wanted is open to the owners and employees of salons, barbershops and other workspaces providing hair services, as well as self-employed and freelance hair professionals, based in the UK and Ireland. 
  2.  Some categories state additional entry stipulations, please refer to individual category criteria for full guidance. 
  3. It is not possible to enter EDUCATION if you are an educator working in-house for a product company.
  4. It is not possible to enter EXPERIENCE as a salon group, although individual sites within a group may enter themselves.  . 
  5. To enter NEW SPACE, you must have opened or refurbished your space after 31 March 2024.   
  6. Only individuals may enter IMAGE (ie, entries must be attributed to a single individual), apart from in exceptional circumstances, where we may allow entries from a duo, providing both contributing parties always operate together as a duo and never individually. Evidence may be required. Please call or email Laura on +44 (0)20 7324 7540 or laura@alfol.co.uk to discuss. Maximum of three entries per entrant, variations of the same look will not be accepted.  
  7. An independent nomination process will determine finalists in the SESSION category. It is not possible to nominate yourself. 
  8. An independent nomination process will determine a shortlist in the INFLUENCE category. It is not possible to nominate yourself in this category. Those shortlisted will be invited to submit an INFLUENCE entry.  
  9. If you have won the same category three times (not necessarily in consecutive years), you become a Most Wanted LEGEND and are not able to enter that same category again. You are, however, free to enter any other Most Wanted category, where you do not have LEGEND status.  
  10. The details provided on the Most Wanted entry form must be the entrant’s own, and not those of a third party, such as a PR representative. 
  11. Only digital entries will be accepted.
  12. Entry files must be submitted in accordance with the competition Entry Instructions. Embedded videos and hyperlinks are not accepted within PDF files. 
  13. It is the responsibility of the entrant to ensure all entry files submitted (including supporting image files) are cleared for publication (eg, usage rights secured) in all Alfol Ltd print and digital products, including, but not limited to, all editions of Creative HEAD magazine and any supplements, at creativeheadmag.com, on Creative HEAD social media, in Most Wanted live event materials (print and screen), and in any post-event publicity and future competition materials.  
  14. Entries must be submitted no later than 9pm on Monday 28 July 2025, except for INFLUENCE entries (following nomination). 
  15. Panels of expert judges will assess Most Wanted entries on tablets or laptops. 
  16. In the IMAGE category, a maximum of 100 entries will be selected for judging by impartial industry representatives. 
  17. There will be a maximum of five finalists in each category, except in the case of INFLUENCE. 
  18. The judges’ decision is final. 
  19. A full list of Most Wanted finalists will be revealed online on Wednesday 20 August 2025. Finalists will be notified via email the same day. 
  20. Finalists will be invited to attend the Most Wanted and It List Grand Final in London on Monday 13 October 2025. Travel/accommodation expenses cannot be reimbursed.  
  21. If you finalise as an individual (eg, John Smith for CREATIVITY), you will receive one complimentary ticket to the Grand Final, even if you finalise in more than one category – this is because the individual person is the finalist. In circumstances where a duo has been allowed to enter and finalises, one member of the duo may take the allocated ticket. If you finalise as a business (eg, Cut & Snip for PURPOSE), you will receive one complimentary ticket to the Grand Final. Exceptions to this rule are at the discretion of the event Alfol Ltd. 
  22. Finalists consent to being photographed and filmed at the Grand Final, and this content may be used later. They also permit Alfol Ltd to use their name, voice and photograph/recording in/on all Alfol Ltd print and digital products, including, but not limited to, all editions of Creative HEAD magazine and any supplements, at creativeheadmag.com, on Creative HEAD social media, in Most Wanted live event materials (print and screen), and in any post-event publicity and future competition materials.  
  23. Most Wanted winners’ prizes must be accepted as offered. There is no cash alternative. 
  24. No employee of Alfol Ltd, nor their families, may enter Most Wanted.  
  25. No employee of Most Wanted’s sponsor brands, nor their families, may enter the category they are sponsoring. 
  26. If an entry does not comply with the category criteria it will be disqualified. 
  27. Entries may not be withdrawn, unless under exceptional circumstances. Verification may be required. To discuss, please email Laura on laura@alfol.co.uk. 
  28. By entering Most Wanted, you agree to the Most Wanted 2025 Terms of Entry and for your details to be added to Creative HEAD’s email database, so we can update you with news, events, and special offers. You may unsubscribe to our emails at any point.  
FAQ

Hopefully, these common Most Wanted questions will help answer yours. If not, feel free to contact laura@alfol.co.uk.

Who can enter Most Wanted?
Most Wanted is open to the owners and employees of salons, barbershops and other workspaces providing hair services, as well as self-employed and freelance hair professionals, based in the UK and Ireland.    

Are there any age limits or other entry restrictions?
Absolutely not – age is but a number!  

Some categories state additional entry stipulations, please refer to individual category criteria for full guidance. 

Does it cost anything to enter?
Zero – only your time. 

What is required for entry?
Every category has its own set of criteria, which sets out exactly what you need to provide for the judges, and the format in which you need to supply it. Please refer to the Category pages for guidance. 

What’s the competition closing date?
Entries must be submitted by 9pm on Monday 28 July 2025. 

Can I enter more than one category?
Yes, you can enter as many categories as you wish, except for IMAGE, which is limited to three images per individual. 

Can another person enter on my behalf?
No, this is not possible. 

I would love to enter but how do I know I am up to standard?
Please feel free to call Laura on +44 (0)20 7324 7540 for an informal chat and guidance.  

I work in the UK/Ireland, but I live abroad. Can I enter?
Unfortunately, no.  You must be based in the UK or  Ireland to enter. 

Does the imagery included in my entry have to be created especially for Most Wanted?
No, so long as it’s your work you can enter it!  

The work I want to feature in my entry has been published elsewhere, can I still include it?
Yes, you can. 

How do I submit my entry?
Full guidance for preparing and submitting your entry can be found in the How to Enter section under Entry Instructions. 

My entry won’t upload/submit – what should I do?
Please call or email Laura on +44 (0)20 7324 7540 or laura@alfol.co.uk for guidance. 

I have submitted my entry and want to make changes before the closing date, is this possible?
It is not possible to access your entry once it has been submitted, so make sure you are happy before submitting. In exceptional circumstance we may be able to help, please email laura@alfol.co.uk. 

Can I enter SESSION and INFLUENCE?
Alas, no. Finalists in both these categories are determined by nominations from closed groups.  

Am I allowed to withdraw my entry after entering?
Entries may not be withdrawn, unless under exceptional circumstances. Verification maybe required. To discuss, please email laura@alfol.co.uk.  

I won’t be around for the Grand Final, what happens if I finalise?
That would be a great shame, however, we understand not everybody can make the date. In this case, we would invite you to nominate somebody to accept the award on your behalf, should your name be announced as the winner, on the night. This person may attend in your place, providing we receive confirmation ahead of the event. 

I have finalised in more than one category – how many tickets will I receive?
If you finalise as an individual (eg, John Smith for CREATIVITY and LEADERSHIP), you will receive one complimentary ticket to the Grand Final, even if you finalise in more than one category – this is because the individual person is the finalist. In circumstances where a duo has been allowed to enter and finalises, one member of the duo may take the allocated ticket. If you finalise as a business (eg, Cut & Snip for PURPOSE and EDUCATION), you will receive one complimentary ticket to the Grand Final.  

MOST WANTED 2025

PAST WINNERS

2024

Award for Innovation Naomi Brooks, for The Hair Sanctuary Training Group CIC
Best Client Experience Kitch, London
Best Local Salon Craig’s Barber Shop, Bolton
Best New Salon Dylan Bradshaw, Dublin
Best Salon Team bebop, London
Business Thinker Samantha Cusick, Samantha Cusick London/Stā Studios
Colour Expert Grace Dalgleish
Creative Talent Richard Phillipart, The Boutique Atelier
Education Expert Lisa Farrall, WIG London
Hair Trend Giuseppe Manco, Giuseppe Manco
Independent Stylist Lauren Bell
Men’s Hair Specialist Tariq Howes, Avenue Barbers
Session Stylist Ali Pirzadeh
Sustainability Hero Lisa Phillips, Ora Hair
Texture Expert Claire Martin, Salon64
Hair Icon Gary Gill

Legendfor Texture Expert – awarded to Lisa Farrall, WIG London (2021, 2022, 2022)

2023

Best Client Experience Linton & Mac, Aberdeen
Best Local Salon The Head Gardener, Inverness
Best New Salon Massarella + Jones, Leamington Spa
Best Salon Team Ena Salon, London
Award for Innovation Naomi Brooks for The Hair Sanctuary Training Group
Business Thinker Lee Nash-Jones and Rob White, Nashwhite
Colour Expert Grace Dalgleish
Creative Talent Grace Dalgleish, Billie Currie
Education Expert Conor James Doyle, Conor James Education
Hair Trend Anne Veck
Independent Stylist Chris Foster
Men’s Hair Specialist Chris Foster
Session Stylist Adam Reed
Sustainability Hero Lorraine Naughton, OB-1 Hair
Texture Expert Lisa Farrall
Hair Icon Duffy

Legend for Business Thinker – awarded to Mark Woolley (2016, 2019, 2022)
Legend for Independent Stylist – awarded to Anna Cofone (2020, 2021, 2022)
Legend for Hair Icon – awarded to Eugene Souleiman (2013, 2018, 2022)
Legend for Men’s Hair Specialist – awarded to Jody Taylor (2018, 2020, 2022)

2022

Best Client Experience Wildflower, Dublin
Best Local Salon BE Ironbridge, Telford
Best New Salon Nashwhite, Warwick
Best Salon Team Billi Currie, London
Award for Innovation Peter Johnson for ITZI Turbans and Towels
Business Thinker Mark Woolley, Electric
Colour Expert Grace Dalgleish, London
Creative Talent Marlon Hawkins, Brooks & Brooks, London
Education Expert Lee Stafford Education Foundation, London
Independent Stylist Anna Cofone, London
Hair Trend Rick Roberts, Rick Roberts, Beverley
Men’s Hair Specialist Jody Taylor, Essex
Sustainability Hero Keith Mellen & Anne Veck, Anne Veck Oxford, Oxford
Texture Expert Lisa Farrall, WIG London, London

Session Stylist Bjorn Krischker
Hair Icon Eugene Souleiman

Legend for Business Thinker – awarded to Sophia Hilton (2017, 2018, 2021)
Legend for Session Stylist – awarded to Syd Hayes (2017, 2018, 2021)

2021

Best Salon Team Stag, Edinburgh
Best Local Salon Cùrlach, Glasgow
Independent Stylist Anna Cofone, London
Award for Innovation Mark Woolley for Electric Space
Creative Talent Paddy McDougall, Rainbow Room International, Glasgow
Business Thinker Sophia Hilton, Not Another, London
Men’s Hair Specialist Rino Riccio, Manifesto, London
Colour Expert Ashleigh Hodges, Hairdotcom Art Team, London
Sustainability Hero Keith Mellen & Anne Veck, Anne Veck Oxford, Oxford

Hair Trend Karoliina Saunders, Karoliina Saunders Hair Design, Swindon
Texture Expert Lisa Farrall, WIG London, London

Session Stylist (by nomination) Syd Hayes
Hair Icon (by nomination) Syd Hayes

Legend for Creative Talent awarded to Zoë Irwin (2018, 2019, 2020)
Legend for Business Thinker awarded to Caroline Sanderson (2013, 2015, 2020)

2020

Best New Boutique Salon Paint + Powder, Stafford
Best Salon Team TINT, Leeds
Best Local Salon Stag, Edinburgh
Best Salon Experience Gatsby & Miller, Amersham
Best New Salon Mesart, Glasgow
Independent Stylist Anna Cofone, London
Award for Innovation Tim Binnington for Manta Hair
Creative Talent Zoë Irwin, John Frieda Salons
Business Thinker Caroline Sanderson, Ego Hair Design, Inverness
Men’s Hair Specialist Jody Taylor, London
Colour Expert Paddy McDougall, Rainbow Room International, Glasgow
Hair Trend Richard Phillipart, The Boutique Atelier, Ellesmere Port
Session Stylist (by nomination) Anthony Turner
Hair Icon (by nomination) Guido Palau

Legend for Colour Expert awarded to Sophia Hilton (2017/2018/2019)
Legend for Hair Icon awarded to Sam McKnight (2014/2017/2019)
Legend for Supreme Team/Best Salon Team awarded to The Collective by Lloyds (2017/2018/2019)

2019

Best New Boutique Salon Douce, Cambridge
Best Salon Team Lloyds Hair, Waterford
Best Local Salon Linton & Mac, Aberdeen
Best Salon Experience Michael Van Clarke, London
Best New Salon Gina Conway Salons and Spas, Wimbledon
Independent Stylist Paula McCash
Award for Innovation Tom Chapman for The Lions Barber Collective
Creative Talent Zoë Irwin, John Frieda Salons
Business Thinker Mark Woolley, Electric
Male Grooming Specialist Darren Fowler, Fowler35
Colour Expert Sophia Hilton, Not Another Salon
Hair Trend Desmond Murray, Atherton Cox
Session Stylist (by nomination) Anthony Turner
Hair Icon (by nomination) Sam McKnight

Legend for Exception Stylist awarded to Dylan Bradshaw (2019/2018/2017)

MOST WANTED 2025

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