explore news CONVERSATIONS HEADER Creative head x authentic beauty concept techniques header inform home inform freelance content connect home connect inform header home explore documents header creative projects header
The Thrill Of The New

The Thrill Of The New

The Thrill Of The New

They’re young. They’re innovative. They’re fearless. The winners of the It List 2024, presented by Creative HEAD in an exclusive association with ghd, send out a remarkable snapshot of the energy coming out of British and Irish hairdressing right now – six young talents challenging existing ways of operating both as creatives and in business. “Remember their names,” says Creative HEAD Editorial Director Amanda Nottage, “because these It List-ers are setting an exciting new direction for the future of hairdressing, and it’s rooted in authenticity, creativity and responsibility. And that’s good for all of us.”

THE RISING STAR

D’Arcy White,

Jack & The Wolfe

Having been diagnosed with Austism Spectrum Disorder at age 11, a challenging social environment like the salon was one of the last places D’Arcy expected to thrive – but the Jack & The Wolfe team successfully mentored her every step of the way. Aged just 23, she’s now created a non-profit organisation, Artistic and Autistic, to help other autistic individuals thrive in creative environments.

What’s your career superpower?

I completely adore the world of colour. In the future, I want to be known for anything that is seamless and expensive looking. I’m just four years into the industry and still building my clientele but I’m so proud that people have approached me via Instagram, especially having heard locally about my achievements!

Who is your hairdressing idol?

Jack Mead and Lydia Wolfe (not that I’m biased). I love their professional but chilled approach to hairdressing. They have introduced me to so many creatives in this industry and I’m so very lucky to have been taught by them!

How does it feel to be part of an elite group of young hairdressers who are redefining how the industry looks, feels and operates?

It’s exciting. I’m so inspired by people around me in the salon and on Instagram and I can’t wait to see what the industry looks like in 50 years’ time!

Where, in an ideal world, do you see yourself in five years’ time?

What an exciting question! I have recently just become self-employed, which I hope will give me a better work-life balance, and my goal is to go into the film and TV industry. I am also in the process of setting up an organisation called Artistic and Autistic, which will help empower autistic individuals and raise awareness on how valuable autism can be to creative industries.

“Sell” hairdressing as a career to a 16-year-old school kid…

Dear D’Arcy, This path you’re drawn to… follow it. Hairdressing won’t just be a job; it’ll be your art, your voice, your rebellion. You’ll turn chairs into stages, scissors and colour brushes into your art materials. You will win awards, and hopefully you will inspire the neuro diverse community that anything is possible and that whatever you put your mind to it can work on your favour, so long as you work hard. This isn’t a backup plan. It’s your calling.

THE BUSINESS BUILDER
Chlöe Swift

Chlöe is a stylist who was always destined to shake up the world of hair. She is so good at translating trends and techniques into high-impact digital content that what started as a few styling tutorials quickly became a digital revolution, and after winning the Business Builder award at her first attempt, she’s quickly turning her talent into an empire, with brands like Sephora, Soho House, and Sheerluxe lining up to collaborate.

What is your key strength when it comes to your career?

Digital is what sets me apart from the traditional hairdressing industry and has allowed me to shape the career that I have today. I have always loved digital media, obtaining an A in Media Studies back in school, and I would have gone on to study more down this route if I hadn’t gone into hairdressing. I am always quick to adapt to tech, trying new apps and programmes. I love video editing, having taught myself long before reels came out and so I love that my passion for media has really merged with my hairdressing career and I’ve almost come full circle (NB almost – I have much more work to do yet!).

How does it feel to be an It Lister?

It feels AMAZING! The It List crowd is something I always imagined being a part of and so I am super proud that I am involved with this community of creatives who can hopefully help to shape what ‘hairdressing’ is.

What frustrates you about the industry?

Hairdressers who are resistant to change. It doesn’t matter how old or young you are, it is so important to pick up new apps and programmes, learn new skills and embrace the future – it’s what’s making hairdressing more powerful and more seen.

What, in an ideal world, do the next five years hold for you?

I will have launched my second business (wink, wink) and this will be my main focus. I will be partnering with training academies, really shaping how hair styling is taught and learnt by young professionals. I will continue to travel, working with global hair brands on the right content to market their products. I will be hosting masterclasses/workshops/taking part in panel talks and continuing to educate consumers in the world of hair. And I’m still waiting for my presenting gig on This Morning to showcase all my hair tips, tricks and knowledge, so hopefully that happens! (Basically, what DON’T I want to do? Dream big, right?)

“Sell” hairdressing as a career to a 16-year-old school kid…

Okay, this a hard one. So… Do you love being creative? This could involve creating a whole new look for someone which they’ll love or creating a trend moodboard to present to a brand or creating a marketing and video concept to promote a new product (the creativity is endless). Do you love chatting and being around cool people? This could involve chatting to your audience on YouTube whilst demonstrating a hair styling tutorial or chatting to a full team on a campaign shoot about the storyboard and if that movement will work with the model’s hair (the chatting and cool people are honestly endless). And do you want to work from anywhere in the world and quite literally at any time? (You guessed it, ENDLESS!) If you answered yes to any of the above, then hairdressing could be for you…

THE SALON STYLIST
Norman Boulton,
Freelance

£134,800 worth of services sold… £9,649 worth of retail sold… 67 per cent rebooking rate… 57 per cent client retention… The numbers don’t lie: “Stormin” Norman Boulton is a force to be reckoned with on the salon floor, not only creating his distinctive vivid colour looks but also radiating kindness at every turn – no wonder he won this award for the second year in a row. Having honed his skills at Not Another Salon, Norman’s now his own boss, working freelance out of Glitterball Balayage in north London while carving his own space in the education world. “Some of my best career moments have been while teaching,” he says

Why did you enter The It List?

Honestly? I wanted to be recognised for the effort I was putting into my career. I’d been pouring my heart and soul into projects for other people and brands for so long, and I needed something that was just for me.

Describe your feelings when your name was announced as the winner?

Ha ha! I felt like Marilyn Monroe winning an Oscar. I’d been practising a speech in the shower for weeks, just in case, visualising the moment with my eyes closed, holding that award in my hands. So when it actually happened – when they actually called my name – it felt surreal. Everything I’d worked so hard for was recognised in that moment. I don’t think I stopped smiling all night.

What are your ambitions for the future?

I’d say my connection with people – that’s my superpower. Oh, and precision. Clean, sharp, polished work. Every. Single. Time.

Who is your hairdressing idol?

Lesley Jennison is my ultimate colour hero. Her energy is just next level, and her work blows my mind. She’s an icon. Lesley, if you’re reading this… let me assist you, please!

How does it feel to be part of an elite group of young hairdressers redefining the industry?

To to be part of this new wave – a generation that’s reshaping the industry in such a positive way – is something special. We’re moving away from the “sweep the floor with a toothbrush” era and towards a career path that’s respected, empowering and full of possibility. The industry is having a glow-up, and I’m proud to be part of it.

Is there anything about the industry you’d like to change?

Definitely, the way some people view hairdressers and our pricing structures. No one bats an eye at paying for tattoos or Botox – both of which can be done in minutes – yet somehow there’s still debate about the value of hairdressing. We’re on our feet for hours, we invest in products, training, education, the whole shebang. We deserve to make a great living doing what we love.

What do the next five years hold for you?

Okay, first things first – I want a puppy. That’s the top of my vision board and my main focus at all times. Career-wise, I’m loving my current balance. I’m fully booked as a freelance stylist, and the education side of my work is taking off in ways I’d only dreamed of.

THE VISIONARY
Emy Rocabella,
Danilo Hair Boutique

Perpetually hunting for a creative project to immerse herself in, the It List Visionary proved to be Emy’s perfect outlet. Her in-built taste for intricacy in styling and a determination to succeed drive this ambitious senior stylist and colourist, whose work reflects an elegant simplicity, inspired by contemporary and mode.

Why did you enter the It List 2024?

Because I wanted to challenge myself and step outside my comfort zone. I’ve worked hard over the years, growing my skills, learning from others and trying to create work that tells a story. This felt like the right time to put myself forward, not because I think I’ve ‘made it,’ but because I’m still evolving. I saw this as an opportunity to grow, connect with other creatives and be part of something that celebrates the future of our industry.

What went through your mind when your name was announced as the winner?

I felt a bit stunned, to be honest. It took a moment to sink in. Then I just felt really thankful — for the people who’ve supported me and for the chance to be recognised for doing what I love.

What is your key strength in your career?

My ability to adapt creatively, whether on set, backstage or with a client. I stay calm under pressure, think quickly, and always focus on bringing a clear vision to life while staying open to collaboration.

Who do you most look up to?

Guido Palau. His ability to set the tone for entire fashion seasons through hair is incredible – he’s always pushing boundaries while keeping it relevant and wearable. He’ s a true visionary who makes hair a central part of storytelling.

Is there anything about the industry that frustrates you/that you’d like to change?

It frustrates me how often hair is seen as an afterthought in creative projects. In reality, it plays a huge role in storytelling and mood. I’d love to see hairdressers not just execute a brief, but help shape it.

Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?

I’d love to continue building a career that balances creative and session work with my responsibilities in the salon. I want to grow my presence in the fashion space while making sure our salon team grows too by being first in line to provide and organise in-salon education, a nd by offering each stylist their own personalised plan for development. It’ s about evolving together while staying inspired.

THE EDITORIAL STYLIST
Mike Mahoney,
Josh Wood Atelier

This It List victory marked an exciting milestone for Mike, a stylist who is all about pushing creative boundaries in both salon and editorial settings. From high-stakes fashion shows as a member of Gary Gill’s core team, to behind-the-chair transformations at the Josh Wood Atelier in London, he merges high fashion with salon accessibility, inspiring a new wave of stylists with every look. Reflecting on his career, Mike credits his two mentors with helping him balance creativity with financial stability. “It’s about finding the right environment,” he shares. “With a supportive salon, you don’t have to choose between your creative ambitions and personal goals.”

And the winner is… What went through your mind?

Well, you sit there with a table of supporters and a load of other heads in the building cheering you on. That’s enough pressure in itself! Then your name gets called, the tables around you explode, you give the missus a hug, give the boss Josh Wood a hug followed by the rest of the team… You start walking to the stage pointing at the icon Gary Gill over the other side of the room like you’ve scored a winning goal in a football final. And then you’re on stage. Mad!

What would you describe as your key strength?

I enjoy what I do! I always say to people, ‘Imagine painting a picture you hate’. You’re never going to put 100% into it.

How does it feel to be part of the new cohort leading and influencing the hairdressing industry?

It feels great to be recognised for all the hard work I’ve put in. I got asked to do my first hair seminar at Nick Barfords Nudo studio in East London, in front of 25 young aspiring hairdressers. What a moment that was, preaching the way I think we should all approach hair in this tough industry!

Hairdressing as a career… Do schools do enough?

I was talking to a secondary school teacher recently and he said he was told off for promoting apprenticeships to certain kids, rather than university. Apparently, schools are marked and judged on how many kids go to university. This touched a nerve because I feel this is pushing young creatives away from their passion and – worse still – putting young kids into the stress of debt. Many of my friends have gone to uni. Some have succeeded with their degree, but many haven’t! So, my answer to this would be, Follow what you think is right and don’t listen to everything your teachers say. There’s money to be made in hairdressing, and great experiences to be had, believe me!

And finally, you in five years’ time?

I’d love to build a collective of hairdressers / creatives who are pushing to bring good, talented people together to inspire and support the next generation. I feel the industry needs it!

THE ONE TO WATCH
Emma Vickery,
Percy & Reed

At just 29 years of age, Emma is not only Percy & Reed’s first ever Art Director (she was pivotal in the salon’s recent rebrand) but also session stylist Paul Percival’s first assistant, having honed her skills by saying yes to every bit of TFP (time for portfolio/testing) she could find on weekends and quiet days. Her mantra sums up her uncompromising approach to hairdressing: “Unwavering self-reliance, mutual accountability and an affinity for intensity!”

Why did you enter the It List?

I’ve entered every year for the last three years. The event itself is great, obviously, but on a personal level I get a real sense of achievement taking the time to look back through the work I’ve done during to put together my entry. Last year was the first time I felt I had compiled a really strong portfolio. I’d spent years giving up all my free time to do the things I wanted to do outside of the salon and it paid off.

What is your key strength as a hairdresser?

I’m great at listening to clients. I’ll always give them my advice but, ultimately, they’re paying, so I’ll give them what they want and tailor it to them. Every client is bespoke. Who is your hairdressing idol? Tom Connell. I love his approach, how much time he puts into what he creates. Everything has purpose and the attention detail is second to none.

Is there anything about the industry that frustrates you/that you’d like to change?

To be honest I don’t focus on industry noise. I like to stay in my own lane, keep my head down and focus on achieving my own goals.

What, in an ideal world, do the next five years hold for you?

I’d like to keep on doing what I’m doing. Working hard and staying disciplined will always lead you to where and what is meant for you. “Sell” hairdressing as a career to a 16-year-old school kid. You can have a great life with plenty of opportunity, both financially and creatively. But don’t fall into the trap of relying on others. Only you can create your own opportunities. Get out there, stay uncomfortable, continue to learn and everything else will follow in due course.

“Practice Your Craft, Collaborate With Other Creatives And Build Your Portfolio” – It List 2024 Award Winner, Mike Mahoney, Shares How To Get Seen

“Practice Your Craft, Collaborate With Other Creatives And Build Your Portfolio” – It List 2024 Award Winner, Mike Mahoney, Shares How To Get Seen

“Practice Your Craft, Collaborate With Other Creatives And Build Your Portfolio” – It List 2024 Award Winner, Mike Mahoney, Shares How To Get Seen

We get into the nitty gritty with Mike’s experience balancing salon and session work 

by MADDI | DOCUMENTS

Winning the It List The Editorial Stylist award back in September marked an exciting milestone for Mike Mahoney, a stylist who is all about pushing creative boundaries in both salon and editorial settings. With a background in session work under top industry names, Mike has forged a unique path, blending salon commitments with the high-paced world of editorial and runway shows. 

 Mike’s schedule is a balancing act between his salon clients at Josh Wood’s Atelier and his role on the core team of session stylist Gary Gill. Working under Gary has given Mike opportunities with high-profile brands and photographers, like London-based Tomila Katsman, enabling him to perfect techniques across editorial campaigns, look books and runway work. 

“I’ve been fortunate to work with Gary and be part of a setup that allows me to commit fully,” Mike says. In most salons, taking time off for an editorial project would be a challenge, but The Atelier’s supportive environment encourages growth in both realms. “At other salons, the support system wasn’t always there,” Mike explains. “Here, I can go off on projects and bring that experience back to my clients.” 

Mike notes a clear distinction between the work he does for editorial shoots and what goes into styling a salon client. “On set, I usually have days to understand the brand’s mood or to practice the look,” he explains. “With a client, it’s much faster – just a few minutes from reception to chair to figure out their style, but with my editorial experience, it’s easier to do it quickly.” 

Those brief salon moments are where Mike’s editorial expertise shines, adding subtle touches that elevate everyday looks. “A tiny tweak can be the reason clients rebook,” he notes, emphasising that this attention to detail makes each experience unique and tailored. 

Mike got in the mix during Fashion Month in September, contributing to shows for Diesel, McQueen, Chloé, Balenciaga, and Hermès. He reflects on the differences, saying, “Shows like Chloé focus on soft, luxurious hair that’s still accessible to salon clients, while Balenciaga is just pure fun – creative and intense.” 

Fashion week, however, isn’t just about glamour. “Those effortless styles that look like they took minutes often take the longest to perfect,” Mike jokes. Whether he’s styling models or clients, Mike’s favourite part is the challenge, capturing personalities and adding those “extra tweaks” that make all the difference. 

Mike encourages aspiring editorial stylists to put themselves out there. “Practice your craft, collaborate with other creatives, and build your portfolio, especially on Instagram,” he advises. His journey began with a passion project inspired by street culture, which he and friends used to shape their vision without needing to wait for traditional media exposure. “Nowadays, you’re lucky to have Instagram – it gives you the chance to put your work out there instantly.”

Reflecting on his career, Mike credits his mentors and experiences with helping him balance creativity with financial stability. “It’s about finding the right environment,” he shares. “With a supportive salon, you don’t have to choose between your creative ambitions and personal goals.” 

From high-stakes fashion shows to behind-the-chair transformations, Mike Mahoney continues to merge high fashion with salon accessibility, inspiring a new wave of stylists with every look.

Read more about Mike’s editorial excellence by checking out the latest edition of Runway.

Who’s Got What It Takes To Become This year’s F.A.M.E Team? Finalists Now Revealed!

Who’s Got What It Takes To Become This year’s F.A.M.E Team? Finalists Now Revealed!

Who’s Got What It Takes To Become This year’s F.A.M.E Team? Finalists Now Revealed!

The Fellowship for British Hairdressing has just revealed the finalists for the prestigious 2025 F.A.M.E. Team, and trust us, the competition is fierce!

by MADDI | INDUSTRY NEWS

The Fellowship Academy of Merit and Excellence is all about spotting, nurturing, and promoting the industry’s rising stars, giving up-and-coming hairdressers the boost they need to shine in every aspect of the craft. Over a packed year, they get to work with top industry experts, hone their skills in photoshoots, shows, and seminars, and receive invaluable media and presentation training from the best in the business.

Hosted at Loft Studios, the semi-finals saw 14 up-and-coming hair maestros battle it out for the chance to compete as finalists. The judging panel was made up of industry legends Simon Tuckwell, Alastair Jubbs, Zoë Irwin, Christel Barron-Hough, Adam Garland, Kathryn Dartnell, Lathaniel Chambers, and 2024 F.A.M.E. team members, Elle Forman, Stephen Campbell, Ilaria Bellemo, and Harry Andreou. Think mood boards, models, and a two-minute live showcase – the stakes were high.

From sculpted styles to innovative cuts, only eight talented stylists survived the day. These future icons will return for a final round on the 21 October, with the official 2025 F.A.M.E. Team being announced at December’s Fellowship Luncheon and Hair Awards.

Congrats to the finalists:

Dean Lawton-Taylor, Trinder Hair Studios

Cameron Willetts, Comers Inside Out Hairdressing

Annie Franklin, Prestige Hair

Sam Bickle, Arkive by Adam Reed

Troy Tobias, Anthony John Salons

Stevie Leah Loscombe, Blue Tit

Cheryl Poulter, Perfectly Posh Hair Design

Bekki Delehedy, Dot Hair

President of the Fellowship for British Hairdressing, Ashleigh Hodges, wishes congratulations to this year’s finalists, commenting, “The response to being part of the 2025 F.A.M.E. team was incredible, and the calibre of entries was exceptional. All the finalists should be extremely proud of themselves – the talent that was demonstrated at the semi-finals was phenomenal!”

With the final just weeks away, the countdown to discovering the next big names in British hairdressing is officially on!

Continue Reading

No Results Found

The posts you requested could not be found. Try changing your module settings or create some new posts.

Magic Moments From The Most Wanted And It List 2024 Grand Final

Magic Moments From The Most Wanted And It List 2024 Grand Final

Magic Moments From The Most Wanted And It List 2024 Grand Final

Get closer to the action from the MWIT24 Grand Final with a curated gallery of highlights from the night

by KELSEY | CONNECT

Over 650 guests, 22 winners, one Legend and countless glasses raised to toast all our wonderful finalists and winners. See what went down at The Beams London…  

 

 

Creative HEAD’s Most Wanted And It List Winners Have Been Announced

Creative HEAD’s Most Wanted And It List Winners Have Been Announced

Creative HEAD’s Most Wanted And It List Winners Have Been Announced

Who took home the coveted trophies? 

by JOANNA | CONNECT

It’s Creative HEAD’s biggest night of the year, and the 24th Most Wanted and It List Grand Final, held last night at cultural hot-spot Beams in East London, did not disappoint. All our favourite people in the same room together for one glorious party? Hell, yeah! There was champagne. There was dancing. And as expected, every guest looked the part, with each fit as big as the next. 

Of course, the reason for this annual get-together is to celebrate the very best talents in our industry. Last night we unveiled the 2024 It List in association with ghd – six sensational trailblazers aged 30 and under. And then came the 16 artists, activists, innovators and business leaders who each took home a Most Wanted trophy. And a standing ovation for Lisa Farrall, who was awarded Most Wanted Legend status for her work with textured hair.  

 These hairdressers are breaking glass ceilings, setting new standards (including sometimes in ways we don’t expect) and overhauling our industry bit by bit to steer it towards a newer, more exciting future. Things are changing in British and Irish hairdressing. Take a look at our winners to find out why.