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MOST WANTED 2024

WINNERS

AWARD FOR INNOVATION 

Rewarding the creation of an original initiative, product or service, benefitting hair professionals and/or the industry at large 

Sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional  

Naomi Brooks, for The Hair Sanctuary Training Group CIC 

Working in partnership with local councils and private foster homes, Naomi’s innovation – which won this title in 2023! – provides specialised hands-on training for foster carers and residential staff in foster homes. The goal is to ensure Black and mixed heritage children in care get the right support to look after their textured hair. The latest phase? Extending that education to stylists to increase skills around curly and Afro hair.  

Finalists: Ben Barkworth, for FASTFOILS; Anna Cofone, for HAIR & CARE; Chris Foster, for Salon AUTO.MATE AI; Nancy Stripe, with Grey Empowerment Education

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BEST CLIENT EXPERIENCE 

Rewarding outstanding customer service  

Sponsored by Kérastase  

Kitch Hair, London  

Founders Luca Jones and Scott Humphreys wanted to create a fun, comforting, and nostalgic place where clients can truly be themselves, and they’ve done just that with Kitch. Nods to the 1950s abound with pinks, pastels, and faux Golden Age advertising, making the cosy salon a positive and sunny atmosphere for clients to really feel part of a community.  

Finalists: Curated Hair, Thornham; Neville Hair and Beauty, London; Supply 91, London; Tuckwell & Co, Nottingham 

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BEST LOCAL SALON 

Rewarding a salon at the heart of its community    

Sponsored by Revlon Professional 

Craig’s Barber Shop, Bolton 

Salon owner Craig Henderson, aka the Neuro Divergent Barber, has worked hard to create the right environment for non-verbal autistic and deaf clients, especially children. Community outreach includes school visits to help local specialist education units as a mobile hairdresser, and the service has been recognised by the NHS. Craig has also won the Greater Manchester Integrated Care and Partnerships Award for Community Champion. 

 Finalists: Fusion Hair Co., Laceby; Nashwhite, Warwick; Phoenix Hair, Abergele; The Head Gardener, Inverness 

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BEST NEW SALON 

Rewarding a new or revamped space with a unique sense of style 

Sponsored by GLOWWA

Dylan Bradshaw, Dublin 

A radical renovation sees Dylan Bradshaw’s Dublin space up for this award. Oak, marble, brass and deep green tiles lend an air of sophistication and timeless style to the space, featuring shapes inspired by the masonry at the front of the 18th Century townhouse. Stylist units, desks, shelving, and even the coffee area are handmade, and striking booth seating provides a focal point for client relaxation. 

 Finalists: Brooks & Brooks, London; Rawlings & Rawlings, London; Stället, Manchester; Stā Studios, London 

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 BEST SALON TEAM 

Rewarding teamwork at its best 

 Sponsored by Salon Smart 

 Bebop, London  

Steering a tight-knit team that thrives on creativity and collaboration, bebop co-founder Pont Smith encourages staff always to develop their skills and inspire one another. A collaboration with Kickers gave team members the opportunity to take part in an exciting event while boosting morale and professional growth. It’s exactly this kind of partnership that reflects this crew’s values and commitment.  

 Finalists: Billi Currie, London; Creations Hair Salon, Chichester; Manifesto, London; The Gallery Hairdressing, Tunbridge Wells 

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 BUSINESS THINKER 

Rewarding an owner or a director demonstrating a fresh approach to business 

Sponsored by Vagaro

Samantha Cusick, Samantha Cusick London/ Stā Studios  

“Kindness, empathy, and a people-first approach can redefine what it means to be successful in hairdressing,” believes Samantha, and the stats don’t lie. She’s seen a healthy turnover in the past 12 months, boosted by diversifying into a new approach to co-working and empowering independents. Her digital newsletters alone have brought in £140k this past year. All evidence, Samantha argues, that “putting my team’s happiness at the forefront” is the secret to success.  

 Finalists: Nuala Morey, Nuala Morey; Lorraine Naughton, OB-1 Hair; Lee Nash-Jones and Rob White, Nashwhite; Graeme Snell, @66 Hair and Lifestyle 

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COLOUR EXPERT 

Rewarding a colourist demonstrating brilliant skill and vision

Sponsored by Wella Professionals 

Grace Dalgleish 

The winner of this award in 2022 and 2023, star colourist Grace is hoping to bag a third award in a row and turn her work into the stuff of Most Wanted Legend. Alongside her usual duties as a colourist and educator for brands all over the world, not to mention creating exquisite new colour styles for shoots, this year she has been developing her own colour line, too. Brilliant! 

 Finalists: Casey Coleman, CHAIR; Marlon Hawkins, Brooks & Brooks; Zoë Irwin, John Frieda; Nancy Stripe, Stripe Colour Studio 

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CREATIVE TALENT 

Rewarding an art director or a senior team member leading the creative direction of the business 

 Sponsored by L’Oréal Professionnel Paris 

 Richard Phillipart, The Boutique Atelier 

This salon owner is a true hairdressing luminary. Best known for his work behind the scenes at London Fashion Week, so far 2024 has seen Richard branch out into Paris too. Major fashion brands and magazines want his services, and he still finds the time for private clients and to lead hair trade shows across Europe. Add a 2023 L’Oréal Colour Trophy hair team lead, and it’s clear Richard’s creativity knows no bounds. 

 Finalists: Adriano D’Astolto, Radio; Steph Gamble, Ashley Gamble Hair Salon; Danilo Giangreco, Danilo Hair Boutique; Marlon Hawkins, Brooks & Brooks 

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 EDUCATION EXPERT 

Rewarding exceptional hairdressing education  

 Sponsored by Allilon Education 

 Lisa Farrall, WIG London  

TV star and proud advocate of making hair texture neutral, Most Wanted Texture Expert Legend Lisa is all about inclusivity in education. WIG London is a curated, creative safe space that caters for all those on the creative spectrum, and Lisa’s recent training endeavours have seen her go to the ASOS studios, create photography masterclasses, and she even took two students with her on a photoshoot to help style Burna Boy for a G-Star Raw advert!  

 Finalists: Siobhan and Philipp Haug, Haug London Haus; Sarah Louise Keane, SLK Education; Laura Leigh Kerr, Rainbow Room International; Anne Veck 

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HAIR TREND 

Rewarding the best trend-led image of the year

Sponsored by Redken 

Giuseppe Manco, Giuseppe Manco 

Giuseppe’s winning image which depicts a laid-back, softly layered 70’s-style ‘shag’ haircut, contrasted with sharp, tailored high-fashion styling and cinematic-like photography. Scoring big marks with the panel, it was described by judges as both “effortlessly cool” and “so YSL”.  

 Finalists: Errol Douglas MBE, Errol Douglas; Lisa Farrall, WIG London; Adam Garland; Danilo Giangreco, Danilo Hair Boutique 

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 INDEPENDENT STYLIST 

Rewarding a freelance hair professional with a first-class profile  

 Sponsored by Stā Studios 

 Lauren Bell  

From assisting Guido and Sam McKnight to being Richard Phillipart’s first assistant, Lauren’s trajectory is seeing her talents heading stratospheric. She was named It List Editorial Stylist in 2022, and can be found in Elle, Vogue and Gay Times, working regularly with Bimini, Self Esteem and Sephora. She’s not slowing down, however, and now she’s looking to the industry to offer help to those on the way up.

 Finalists: Louis Byrne; Laura Chadwick; Adam Garland; Ross Kwan 

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MEN’S HAIR SPECIALIST 

Rewarding trailblazing work in men’s hair 

 Sponsored by Mr. Q 

 Tariq Howes, Avenue Barbers  

Founder and owner of Avenue Barbers in Cardiff, Tariq is no stranger to high fashion men’s looks. His work has been spotted in GQ, Vogue, and Rollacoaster, and with brands such as Hugo Boss, Fred Perry and Tommy Hilfiger. Currently the texture specialist for Jody Taylor’s session team, Tariq loves working in the community, offering opportunities to young barbers (when he’s not styling major stars like Callum Turner!).  

 Finalists: Chris Foster; Oliver Hill, MaxOliver; Joe Mills, Woolf Kings X; Rino Riccio, Manifesto 

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 SESSION STYLIST 

Rewarding the most exciting hair professional working in fashion

Sponsored by BaByliss PRO

Ali Pirzadeh 

Regularly booked by brands such as Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton, Acne Studios and Nina Ricci Ali’s work has appeared in publications such as Another Magazine, D Repubblica, Dazed, Gentlewoman and Vogue, and celebrities such as Dua Lipa, Emma Corrin and Jennifer Hudson have him on speed dial. Represented by the Streeters agency, Pizhe is listed in the Busienss of Fashion’s BOF 500, an index of the 500 most influential people shaping the global fashion industry, and this year was named as global brand ambassador for Björn Axén. 

 Finalists: Paul Hanlon; Luke Pluckrose; Issac Poleon; Eugene Souleiman

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SUSTAINABILITY HERO 

Rewarding a business owner or director championing a greener way to work

Sponsored by Paul Mitchell

Lisa Phillips, Ora Hair 

The Ora Hair team hopes to transform its community’s attitude to sustainable living, through its guiding principles of environmental stewardship, cultural vitality, social responsibility, and economic resilience. Lisa’s salon is well on the way to hitting key targets, has reduced emissions by 50 per cent in the past eight years, and cut water usage by 81 per cent – driving change with data.  

 Finalists: Heather Baker and Chloe Wilson, Masters of Craft; Samantha Cusick, Stā Studios; Ashleigh Hodges, Mash Creative Studio; Lee Nash-Jones and Rob White, Nashwhite

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TEXTURE EXPERT 

Rewarding stand-out work in textured hair 

 Sponsored by Avlon 

 Claire Martin, Salon64 

Having been someone who fought her own coils in the past, Claire now teaches students that changing someone’s texture should be out of choice, not necessity. Her cLHAIR Academy runs a 19-tier module course explaining the ins and outs of caring for all hair textures while keeping the client in mind… and learners love it! A collaboration with Redken has also taken her How to Cut Textured Hair module to Scotland and Ireland.  

 Finalists: Errol Douglas MBE, Errol Douglas; Tariq Howes, Avenue Barbers; Richard James, Cyrl Cymru; Anne Veck 

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HAIR ICON 

Rewarding the most influential hair professional of 2024  

Sponsored by JOICO  

Gary Gill  

Regularly cited by young session stylists as an inspirational mentor, Gary has carved a niche in delivering the perfectly imperfect. His credits include a dizzying mix of heritage labels (Fendi and Balenciaga), experimental editorial (as contributing beauty editor at Beauty Papers) and long-term partnerships (Martina Rose – the audience was formed not of the fashion elite but the street cast models’ family and mates). Keep an eye out for an upcoming documentary about Gary’s career, three years in the making.   

 Finalists: Sally Brooks, Brooks & Brooks; Efi Davies, TONI&GUY; Errol Douglas MBE, Errol Douglas; Duffy; Nick Irwin; Zoë Irwin, John Frieda; Adam Reed, ARKIVE by Adam Reed; Cos Sakkas, TONI&GUY; Anthony Turner  

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LEGEND AWARD 

TEXTURE EXPERT 2021, 2022, 2022  

Lisa Farrall, WIG London 

Lisa Farrall has claimed the Texture Expert title every year since the category was introduced in 2021, only serving to further emphasise the sheer might of her talent. The session stylist, educator and founder of WIG London is resolute about using her platform to teach hairstylists how to be texture neutral, a trademark she has claimed. Regularly booked by salons, colleges and individuals to impart her knowledge and skill, she’s determined to “change the hair game” and is on a long-term mission to ensure every hair client is best served. Her braiding work is exquisite, her intricacy knows no bounds, and she always styles from scratch on set – no wonder, then, Lisa has scored big gigs with brands like ASOS, Virgin Atlantic, and E4, and music artists including Usher, Romy, Ed Sheeran, Burner Boy and Kendrick Lamar. Fiercely loyal not only to her craft and cause but also to the people she mentors, the fans who follow her, the brands she supports and the business she runs, Lisa is a no-nonsense force to be reckoned with – and now, she’s a Most Wanted Legend.  

MOST WANTED 2024

ABOUT

Creative HEAD’s Most Wanted Awards

Saluting the most outstanding, progressive, and game-changing talents in British and Irish hairdressing, sponsored by brilliant hairdressing and business brands, and open to the owners and employees of salons, barber shops and other workspaces, as well as self-employed and freelance hair professionals, there are so many opportunities to get involved with this epic competition.

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 salon businesses. At stake: highly prized Most Wanted trophies, gifts galore and a platform like no other to boost your profile. 

It’s free to enter Most Wanted and there are 16 titles rewarding hairdressing excellence at every level – from setting the bar with exceptional education and making every effort in your business to save the planet, to shining behind the scenes at shoots and shows and blazing a trail as an industry innovator. What’s more, win a Most Wanted category three times, and you become a Most Wanted Legend.

Winners are crowned at a spectacular Grand Final event in London – a night to blow all other hair parties out of the water. Care to join us in 2024?

MOST WANTED 2024

CATEGORIES

AWARD FOR INNOVATION

Rewarding the creation of an original initiative, product or service, benefitting hair professionals and/or the industry at large. 

Category sponsor

Open to all hair professionals, whether employed, self-employed or freelance. 

It is not possible to enter if you are working in-house for a product manufacturer (which is not exclusively your company), even if you are also operating as a hairdresser.  

To enter, you must submit the following: 

Part 1: Innovation overview – EITHER a PDF (up to 8 pages) OR a video (up to 5 minutes) 
Have you launched something new – a product, a service, a new concept – that has benefitted hair pros and/or the industry in general? Whatever you’ve masterminded, let’s hear about it! Introduce your innovation: what it’s called, the inspiration behind it, how it came about, who it benefits and why you consider it to be truly pioneering. Include imagery to illustrate, as relevant.  

Part 2: Endorsements – PDF (up to 4 pages)
Prove your innovation is making a positive impact. Include here testimonials, statistics and any press coverage or other information to demonstrate its success. 

Plus, supporting imagery:

  • An image of you  
  • At least three images illustrating your innovation 


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB.
Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks. 

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

Download PDF

 

BEST CLIENT EXPERIENCE

Rewarding outstanding customer service.

Category sponsor

Open to hair salons, barber shops and other workspaces 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. 

To enter, you must submit the following: 

Part 1: Experience overview – EITHER a PDF (up to 8 pages) OR a video (up to 5 minutes) 
Outline your unique approach to customer service, describing the client journey at every stage – before, during, after and in-between bookings. You may want to talk about your communication processes, your consultations, the food and drink you offer, your chill-out spaces, the tailored appointments you offer clients with special needs – or all of the above! Make sure you cover all the aspects that make your client experience unbeatable and unforgettable. Include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Part 2: Endorsements – PDF (up to 4 pages)
Demonstrate the experience you provide is first-class. Include here testimonials, statistics and any press coverage giving you glowing reviews. 

Plus, supporting imagery: 

  • Imagery of the exterior of the salon/barber shop/workspace (portrait and landscape options, please) 
  • At least three images illustrating the client experience


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB.
Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks. 

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

 Discover Kérastase >

 

Download PDF

 

BEST LOCAL SALON

Rewarding a salon at the heart of its community. 

Category sponsor

Open to hair salons, barber shops and other workspaces regularly providing hairdressing services to clients.  

To enter, you must submit the following: 

Part 1: Salon overview – EITHER a PDF (up to 8 pages) OR a video (up to 5 minutes) 
Showcase your space and its place within the community. Talk about how you have supported and enriched the local area, ways you have collaborated with neighbouring businesses and why the locals love you! Include imagery to illustrate, as relevant.  

Part 2: Case study – PDF (up to 4 pages)
Provide one detailed example of how you have positively impacted the local community since March 2023. From fundraising drives and litter picks to throwing open your doors during times of adversity, show the judges your power of engagement. Provide information about the success of the activity or initiative, such as testimonials, press coverage and other evidence of achievement. Include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Plus, supporting imagery:  

  • Imagery of the exterior of the salon/barber shop/workspace (portrait and landscape options, please) 
  • At least three images illustrating community-related work  


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB. Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks. 

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

 

 

Download PDF

 

BEST NEW SALON

Rewarding a new or revamped space with a unique sense of style. 

Category sponsor

Open to salons, barber shops and other workspaces regularly providing hairdressing services to clients and opened/refitted after March 2023.

To enter, you must submit the following: 

Part 1: Design concept – PDF (up to 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 or head-turning wall art to quirky fixtures and furnishings, make sure you cover all angles, and include imagery to illustrate. Remember to provide location details and launch/relaunch date.  

Part 2: Your space in pictures – EITHER a PDF (up to 8 pages) OR a video (up to 5 minutes) 
Showcase the results! Take the judges on a visual journey through your space, highlighting the elements you’re most proud of, and demonstrating the way your design delivers on style as well as function. Includes captions to give the judges the full picture.  

 Plus, supporting imagery: 

  • Imagery of the exterior of the salon/barber/workspace (portrait and landscape options, please) 
  • Imagery illustrating key design features 


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB.
Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks. 

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

Discover GLOWWA >

Download PDF

 

BEST SALON TEAM

Rewarding teamwork at its best. 

Category sponsor

Open to teams employed at hair salons and barber shops. 

The team must work at a single location; it is not possible to enter as a team working across multiple sites. 

To enter, you must submit the following: 

Part 1: Team profile – EITHER a PDF (up to 8 pages) OR a video (up to 5 minutes) 
Introduce the crew – talk about who they are, what they do, and how they feel about being part of a top team. Outline the qualities and characteristics that combine to make yours a strong, happy, and effective squad. Include plenty of images showing your team working (as well as playing!) together. 

Part 2: Case study – PDF (up to 4 pages)
Describe in detail one way you have come together as a team to support and enhance business since March 2023. Maybe you collaborated to come up with brilliant new re-booking incentives, or perhaps an employee-to-employee mentoring scheme has resulted in boosted confidence and productivity. Back up with evidence of success and include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Plus, supporting imagery: 

  • Group images of the team (portrait and landscape options, please) 
  • At least three images illustrating teamwork in action  


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page, to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB.
Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks. 

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

 

 

Download PDF

 

BUSINESS THINKER

Rewarding an owner or a director demonstrating a fresh approach to business. 

Category sponsor

Open to the owners or directors of salons, barber shops and other workspaces regularly providing hairdressing services to clients. 

Duos may enter, providing they jointly own or co-direct the business. 

To enter, you must submit the following: 

Part 1: Business fact file – PDF (up to 4 pages)
Please provide the following information: 

  • Name  
  • Location (if more than one location, please detail) 
  • Ethos  
  • Staffing structure (eg, all employed, part employed/part chair rental, all chair rental) 
  • Number of years under your ownership/directorship 
  • Number of team members 
  • Percentage growth in turnover and profit over the last three years (or since you took on ownership/directorship/launch, if less) 

Part 2: Personal introduction – EITHER a PDF (up to 4 pages) OR a video (up to 3 minutes): 
Talk about the journey you’ve taken to become a business owner or director. Share your work passions and the key strengths and qualities you bring to the task. Outline the ways in which you have made the business the hit it is today, detail how you have achieved a competitive edge in your area and explain how you are planning for continued success. 

Part 3: Case study – PDF (up to 4 pages) 
Describe in detail one initiative implemented since March 2023 that shows you’re building a better business. Perhaps you executed an effective recruitment drive, completed a challenging expansion plan, or revamped the staff structure, improving productivity. Back up with evidence of success and include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Plus, supporting imagery: 

  • An image of you  
  • At least three images representing the business (the space, the team, the services provided, etc) 


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB.
Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks. 

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

Discover Vagaro >

Download PDF

 

COLOUR EXPERT

Rewarding a colourist demonstrating brilliant skill and vision. 

Category sponsor

Open to all hair professionals, whether employed, self-employed or freelance.  

To enter, you must submit the following:  

Part 1: Personal introduction – EITHER a PDF (up to 4 pages) OR a video (up to 3 minutes) 
Introduce yourself and outline your skills, passions, and achievements in colour. Share details about when and how you trained, your career to date, key strengths, specialisms (e.g., balayage, creative colour, colour correction) and your proudest accomplishments in colour (e.g., award wins, big bookings). Include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Part 2: Case study – PDF (up to 4 pages)
Describe in detail one work project led by you since March 2023 that demonstrates your skill, vision and progressive thinking around colour. Examples could include developing a new colour service/menu, colouring hair for a brand campaign, or delivering technical training on stage or in-salon. Back up with evidence of success and include imagery to illustrate, as relevant.  

Part 3: Your work in pictures – PDF (up to 8 pages) 
Impress the judges with a selection of your finest colour work. You can include individual images alongside full collections, campaign shots and wider projects – everything’s relevant! But choose carefully, to ensure you’re showcasing a broad range of skills, as well as your signature approach to colour. Include a brief explanation for everything that makes the cut. Smartphone imagery is fine.  

Plus, supporting imagery:  

  • An image of you  
  • At least three of the images included within part 3  


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB.
Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks. 

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

Discover Wella Professionals >

Download PDF

 

CREATIVE TALENT

Rewarding an art director or a senior team member leading the creative direction of the business.

Category sponsor

Open to employed or self-employed hair professionals working exclusively at salons, barber shops and other workspaces regularly providing hairdressing services to clients. 

If you are freelance, you should enter Independent Stylist

To enter, you must submit the following: 

Part 1: Personal introduction – EITHER a PDF (up to 4 pages)) OR a video (up to 3 minutes) 
Introduce yourself and outline your skills, passions, and creative achievements. Talk about your role – how long you’ve held it, key responsibilities and the qualities and strengths you bring to the task. Share details about your overall approach to the work you undertake and the ways your skill and vision are helping the business to grow and/or innovate. Include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Part 2: Case study – PDF (up to 4 pages) 
Describe in detail one instance since March 2023 where you have risen to a creative challenge that has had a positive impact on business. Examples could include something that brought new clients through the door, upskilled the team or boosted retail sales. Back up with evidence of success and include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Part 3: Your work in pictures – PDF (up to 8 pages) 
Impress the judges with a selection of your finest creative work, all undertaken for the business. From in-house collections and marketing campaigns to brand redesigns and press engagements, choose carefully to ensure you’re showcasing both creative skill and commercial awareness. Include a brief explanation for everything that makes the cut.Smartphone photos are fine.   

Plus, supporting imagery: 

  • An image of you  
  • At least three of the images included within part 3


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB.
Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks. 

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

Discover L’Oréal Professionnel Paris >

Download PDF

 

EDUCATION EXPERT

Rewarding exceptional hairdressing education. 

Category sponsor

Open to all hair professionals – individuals or teams, whether employed, self-employed or freelance, as well as colleges and private academies and providers.  

Not open to educators working in-house for product companies. 

To enter, you must submit the following: 

Part 1: Education summary – EITHER a PDF (up to 8 pages) OR a video (up to 5 minutes) 
Outline the fundamentals and USPs of the education you provide – the concept and formation, the people involved, your goals and why it stands out. Talk about who, where, what and how you teach, and provide information on duration, frequency, pricing, and any follow up support you may offer. Include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Part 2: Endorsements – PDF (up to 4 pages)
Prove your education has a positive impact on the people you teach. Pull together testimonials, statistics, and any other information, since March 2023, to demonstrate great results. 

Plus, supporting imagery: 

  • An image of you/the team of educators  
  • At least three images illustrating the education experience you provide 


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB. Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks.

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

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HAIR TREND

Rewarding the best trend-led image of the year.

Category sponsor

Open to all hair professionals, whether employed, self-employed or freelance.  

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 – see rules for more details. A maximum of 100 entries will be selected for judging by impartial industry representatives. 

To enter, you must submit the following:

A high-resolution JPEG or PNG image – (up to three per entry) in either portrait or landscape format
Show the judges a hair look that is in demand – or about to boom! Your image should capture a key trend or ‘feeling’ for 2024, but it does not need to be photographed exclusively for Most Wanted, and we don’t mind if it’s already been posted/published. 

Plus, to support your entry: 

  • An image of you  


If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry.
 

Discover Redken >

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INDEPENDENT STYLIST

Rewarding a freelance hair professional with a first-class profile. 

Category sponsor

Open to 100 per cent freelance hair professionals.

To enter, you must submit the following: 

Part 1: Personal profile – EITHER a PDF (up to 8 pages) OR a video (up to 5 minutes) Introduce yourself and outline your skills, passions, specialisms and achievements as an independent hair professional. Provide information about your freelance career to date – when it began, who you’ve worked with and for, the kind of projects you are booking and the ways you are building networks and finding future work opportunities. Include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Part 2: 2x case studies – PDF (up to 8 pages)  
Describe in detail two freelance projects successfully completed by you since March 2023, which demonstrate the calibre and variety of your work and prove you are a covetable solo commodity. Examples could include hosting a training programme, producing hair looks for a film or music video, or collaborating with a brand for a new campaign or product launch. Back up with evidence of success and include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Plus, supporting imagery: 

  • An image of you  
  • At least three images illustrating your freelance work/projects 


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB.
Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks. 

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

Discover Stā Studios > 

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MEN’S HAIR SPECIALIST

Rewarding trailblazing work in men’s hair. 

Category sponsor

Open to all hair professionals, whether employed, self-employed or freelance.  

To enter, you must submit the following: 

Part 1: Personal summary – EITHER a PDF (up to 4 pages) OR a video (up to 3 minutes) Introduce yourself and outline your skills, passions, and achievements as an expert in men’s hairdressing. Share details about when and how you trained, your career to date, key strengths and specialisms (eg, barbering or long hair) and significant accomplishments. Include imagery to illustrate, as relevant.  

Part 2: Case study – PDF (up to 4 pages)
Describe in detail one work project led by you since March 2023 that demonstrates your skill, vision and innovative thinking around men’s hair. Examples could include working on a magazine, video or brand shoot where men’s hair was the hero, delivering innovative hair trends training into barber shops, or leading a major men’s show at Fashion Week. Back up with evidence of success and include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Part 3: Your work in pictures – PDF (up to 8 pages) 
Impress the judges with a selection of your finest men’s hair work. You can include individual images (client pictures, for example) alongside full collections, campaign shots and wider projects – everything’s relevant! But choose carefully to ensure you’re showcasing a broad range of skills as well as your signature style. Include a brief explanation for everything that makes the cut. Smart phone photos are fine.  

Plus, supporting imagery: 

  • An image of you  
  • At least three of the images included within part 3 


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB.
Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks. 

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

Download PDF

 

SUSTAINABILITY HERO

Rewarding a business owner or director championing a greener way to work. 

Category sponsor

Open to the owners of salons, barber shops and other workspaces regularly providing hairdressing services to clients. 

Duos may enter providing they jointly own or co-direct the business. 

To enter, you must submit the following: 

Part 1: Sustainability mission statement – EITHER a PDF (up to 6 pages) OR a video (up to 4 minutes) 
Describe how sustainability drives decision-making within your business and the work you undertake – eg, the design of your workplace, the products you use, the way you reduce, re-use and recycle materials and waste, the brands you partner with, the local independent traders you support – as you look to protect the planet while you create great hair. Include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Part 2: 2x case studies – PDF (up to 8 pages)
Prove your eco-friendly credentials. Provide two detailed examples of how you have changed your working practices to be more sustainable. Include details about what you’ve done, why you did it and the positive impact of your actions. Include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. One case study must relate to changes implemented since March 2023. 

Plus, supporting imagery: 

  • An image of you  
  • At least three images illustrating your green credentials  


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB.
Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks. 

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

Discover Paul Mitchell >

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TEXTURE EXPERT

Rewarding stand-out work in textured hair.

Category sponsor

Open to all hair professionals, whether employed, self-employed or freelance.  

To enter, you must submit the following: 

Part 1: Personal summary – EITHER a PDF (up to 4 pages) OR a video (up to 3 minutes) 
Introduce yourself and outline your skills, passions and achievements in textured hair. Share details about when and how you trained, your career to date, key strengths, and specialisms (eg, wigs and weaves, curls and coils or Afro barbering) and significant accomplishments. Include imagery to illustrate, as relevant. 

Part 2: Case study – PDF (up to 4 pages)
Describe in detail one project led by you since March 2023 that demonstrates your skill, vision and innovative approach to working with textured hair. Examples could include devising and hosting sell-out education in styling and care, working on a high-profile shoot or show that really showed off your specialism, or implementing a modern menu of hair services serving type 3 and 4 clients. Back up with evidence of success and include imagery to illustrate, as relevant.  

Part 3: Your work in pictures – PDF (up to 8 pages)
Impress the judges with a selection of your finest work in textured hair. You can include individual images (client pictures, for example) alongside full collections, campaign shots and wider projects – everything’s relevant! But choose carefully to ensure you’re showcasing a broad range of skills as well as your signature style. Include a brief explanation for everything that makes the cut.   

Plus, supporting imagery: 

  • An image of you  
  • At least three images included within part 3  


Your PDF must be A4, in either portrait or landscape format. Please combine all parts into one single file, making sure you do not exceed the page numbers stipulated. Feel free to add a front cover page to introduce your entry. Maximum file size 100MB.
Please do not include any embedded video or hyperlinks. 

If you are providing a video, it must be an MP4 file, in either portrait or landscape format. Smartphone footage is fine. Please do not exceed the maximum duration stipulated. Maximum file size 200MB.  

If you finalise, the imagery you provide may be used to promote you within any print, website and social media activity, and at the Grand Final. Please supply good quality, high resolution JPEG or PNG files. Usage rights must be secured ahead of entry. 

Discover Avlon >

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SESSION STYLIST

Rewarding the most exciting hair professional working in fashion.

Category Sponsor

BaByliss PRO logo black+bronze

By nomination only 

Nominators will be invited to participate. It is not possible to nominate yourself in this category.

Finalists will be determined by nominations received from a panel of photographers, videographers, producers, creative directors, fashion stylists, make-up artists and the fashion and beauty teams at leading UK and international magazines. 

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HAIR ICON

Rewarding the most influential hair professional of 2024.

Category Sponsor

By nomination only

Nominators will be invited to participate. It is not possible to nominate yourself in this category.

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 a Hair Icon entry and a separate judging panel will then award scores.

Discover JOICO >

MOST WANTED 2024

PAST WINNERS

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 2024

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