Hair trends set by the celebrity colour chameleons

Celebrities remain the main source of inspiration for many colour clients, but when their idols change their hair on a regular basis it can be difficult for dedicated fans to keep up....

"Celebs who always change their hair colour are a nightmare for most hairdressers," admits Helen Thomas of GiellyGreen, London. "Those on the A-list have all day to spend in the salon - and that's often how long it takes for a dramatic change."

But Melanie Giles of Melanie Giles Hairdressing, Bath, disagrees. "Keeping up with trends is good for the client and for the colourist," she says. "It keeps our work interesting and prevents us getting stuck in a rut."

Lisa Shepherd agrees. "We love the fact that celebrities regularly change their look and that clients find it inspiring. It demonstrates to the client that they don't have to be scared of colour."

Dramatic celebrity makeovers can provide clients with ideas they'd never previously considered, says Gary Hooker of Hooker & Young. "Rihanna's two-tone application has brought a new knowledge of colour techniques to the public," he says. "It's something clients are curious about, so it's important that your team is aware of what celebs are up to."

This summer's Balayage trend - freehand, painted-on colour - and pastel hues from previous seasons are further examples of how celebrities have introduced fashion colours to a wider audience.

The most important step in any colour change is a thorough consultation. "Look at the natural hair colour, texture and type to determine the shade which will best complement your client," says Chris Williams, 2009 Schwarzkopf Professional British Colour Technician of the Year. "Discuss what it is they like about the celebrity's colour, and look at variations which will suit them and their lifestyle."

 

It's also important to inform your clients that a dramatic change might not to be possible in one appointment. Be honest and make sure they understand that their dream colour might not be possible - at least not instantly.

"Educate your clients to be realistic," says Christel Lundqvist, creative colour director of HOB Salons. "Offer them a colour journey, to get them there in stages, rather than just saying 'no' outright. If you under-promise and over-deliver, your client will walk out much happier, and by engaging them on a journey you will create loyalty."

"Clients can often be fairly unrealistic in their expectations," adds Nana Gries, Toni & Guy international technical creative director. "Celebrities use hair pieces and extensions, which can give the false impression that hair can be changed without consequence.

Celebrity chameleons like Lindsay Lohan provide a perfect example of how drastic changes - especially to long hair - can cause irreparable damage. It's far easier to maintain a good condition for clients with shorter hair; Linda Evangelista in the 90s is a perfect example."

Nana suggests incorporating colour placement, rather than global applications, which will minimise hair trauma and make a bold statement without compromising condition. She also suggests that those considering a major colour overhaul invest in a course of keratin-based in-salon treatments, either to build up the condition before a colour change, or to maintain optimum condition following the colour service.

While in-salon treatments will keep colour looking perfect for longer, it's also important to advise your clients on suitable aftercare products. "Condition is everything," says Ian Davies of Ocean Hairdressing, Cardiff.

"I'd prescribe an everyday conditioner for their hair type to be used after every wash, along with an intensive moisturising treatment once a week at home. Your client also needs a cutting plan to maintain the shape, as well as the colour and condition. This will help smooth the cuticle, locking in colour and preventing fade."

Finally, don't forget that there are plenty of less drastic options for those who want to reinvent themselves on a regular basis. Louise Wood of The Hair Advice Centre, Englefield Green, says: "Sometimes subtle changes are all it takes to freshen up an existing colour. Adding some lighter pieces with a Balayage technique, or placing some slightly contrasting panels in a fringe area, can really update a colour."

For a subtle transformation, Peter Prosser of Peter Prosser Hairdressing, Hereford, suggests simple tonal changes. He recommends fresh toners on blonde hair, to create shades from gold to soft pinks; or semi-permanent colour on darker hair for rich mahogany browns and reds. These colours can improve condition and add shine.

Ultimately, while celebrities will always dictate trends, the most important thing for you and your client is a gorgeous colour that suits them and their lifestyle. As Peter says: "Why not be the one to set a new trend yourself? Inspire others to follow you!"

Check out some of our favourite colour chameleons on the hairstyles that HJi Hearts page