Fashion week insiders: kenna
Published
19th Feb 2012
by rachael
Kenna is creative director of ghd and an internationally-renowned session stylist who shares his time between his studio in London, Kennaland, and New York, Milan and Los Angeles.As the man responsible for some of fashion week's most inspirational looks for the last few seasons, Kenna shares some invaluable advice for getting involved with session styling.
What are the five key items/products in your kit you couldn't survive without?
- ghd Gold Classic Styler
- ghd air
- ghd Style Root Lift Spray
- Roll of black elastic
- iPad with all my research
What trends are you predicting for A/W 2012?
It's hard to say at the moment as I've only seen two of the collections I'm designing hair for this season so far and for me, the hair follows the fashion. To give you an idea of where my head is currently at, I'm feeling less streamlined, more shapes and volume coming up. Chanel's couture show for 2012 some days ago was an example of this.
What was your favourite show last season?
Besides the shows I designed hair for (to be unbiased...) my favourite show last season was Prada, I have a soft spot for shine, cars and chicks, I guess.
What's your favourite trend for S/S 2012??
I have two - ponytails with a twist, given a shiny, wet-look finish by using tons of product and whispier, more nonchalant, swept-back looks which are youthful and beach-y.
Three top tips for getting involved with session work?
- Learn about the fashion industry as it's incredibly different from the hair industry. Session styling is about working with the team and the collections in unison to create something new.
- Be yourself, don't conform to trends or classic hair styles. Express yourself, go wild and hope someone notices you.
- Practice! On anyone and everyone who will let your hands near their head. If or when there is no-one available, get a real hair mannequin practice head.
Top London Fashion Week post-show hangout?
Frankly, after a week of backstage madness, I like to unpack my kit and unwind back in my studio, Kennaland.