2011 Hair Expo Australian Hairdresser of the Year - Jayne Wild

Sydney’s Jayne Wild was announced as 2011 Hair Expo Australian Hairdresser of the Year on Monday – the first female to win the award three times in the awards’ 26-year history.

As part of the Schwarzkopf Professional Hair Expo Awards, held at the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre, Wild beat five other top Australian hairdressers to take out the prestigious title. She previously won the award in 2008 and 2004.

Her team at Wild Life hair also won Salon Team of the Year and her new salon in Milsons Point won Best New Salon Design. Wild Life apprentice, Kim Jones, also won Apprentice of the Year, meaning the Wild Life Team took home an amazing four of the fourteen awards up for grabs.

Celebrating their 26th anniversary this year, the annual Hairdressing Awards at Hair Expo are the longest running and most respected awards in the Australian and New Zealand hairdressing industry. They set the industry standard across both countries and represent the pinnacle of hairdressing excellence in the southern hemisphere. I have attended several times - many as part of the Cream magazine crew, who produced a Hair Expo mag - and am always blown away by the creativity and inspiring ideas in motion.

With over 10,000 visitors flocking to Darling Harbour over the Queen's Birthday long weekend it's still the biggest and best.

Don't miss it next year!

VS Sassoon Big Hair Styler and Big Hair Root Boost - just magic

VS Sassoon’s new Big Hair Styler is the best hair tool I have come across. Ever.

This little baby has to be sampled to be believed.

Warming up instantly, you take a section of hair, 'loop' it around the hair and voila... incredible shine in seconds. Body and bounce - instantly.

Again, it must be seen to be believed. Gobsmackingly good results - immediately.

Here's how it works: it combines the benefits of a hairdryer with a rotating motorised brush in the one tool - making the styling process very (very!) easy. The unique styling action allows the large ceramic barrel brush to create fullness and body as you style, while its soft bristles create in-credible shine and smoothness.

This 700 watts number also has ionic conditioning technology, working to condition hair to reduce static, leaving hair silky and shiny; ceramic technology for even heat distribution, two heat/speed settings plus a cool setting for variable style control; a multi-directional, motorised brush which creates volume and shape, two rotation buttons rotating in clockwise and anticlockwise direction, a large ceramic barrel to give fullness and body; and soft brush bristles for smoothness and shine.

With big hair back in a, er, big way (for a big hair Cindy Crawford aficionado like me, it never really went away) you can create any variation of your desired bouffant style.

Extra styling tip: use the styler with the new VS Sassoon Big Hair Root Boost - with micro crimp plates - for the underneath layer of hair for instant root lift and fullness that lasts.

The Big Hair Styler is $99.95 and the Big Hair Root Booster is $52.95; see www.vssassoon.com.au/BigHair for more info or go to www.facebook/VSSassoon

Want a visual how-to? You're in luck! Both the Big Hair Styler and the Big Hair Root Boost video tutorials are right here:

Shakuhachi - Rosemount Australian Fashion Week, 2011

The Shakuhachi show at this year's Rosemount Australian Fashion Week (held at the Overseas Passenger Terminal, Sydney) was nothing short of stunning.

The design inspiration was “Block Party”, inspired by the glamorous jetsetters of the late 1960s and 1970s, from Talitha Getty in Marrakesh to a young Brigette Bardot in San Tropez. The show even featured iconic poolside Hollywood images taken by the late Slim Aaron.

And it produced a seemingly endless array of looks, each one as sensational - and wearable - as the next.

The first looks included a lovely peach silk number, followed by dreamy, flowy pieces, and then punchy, bright colour-block outfits. Bright turquoise, pink and yellow was spliced with black, white, and nude, and embellished numbers in silver and pewter rounded out the collection, adding an injection of glamour.

With accessories including the signature perspex and white strap wedges, sandals and ankle boots (lucky front-rowers were gifted a cuff using the same materials - I cannot wait to wear mine!), adding polish to a cohesive collection, it's little wonder the brand's parade was very much lauded amongst the fash-pack.

Hair sported by the models was immaculate - courtesy of the newest kid on the hair tool block, Cloud Nine.

Says the Shakuhachi design team: “Hair and makeup we feel is imperative for the show to enhance the look of the collection just like it is in any woman’s everyday life, we were wanting a really clean low pony tail which was over the ear and textured.”

The acheive the right hair look, the Cloud Nine Wide iron was set on low heat, which created a really natural bend through the hair to project a matt, raw and fluffy textured finish.

We like it very much.

For more, see https://shakuhachi.net/

The Wand: launching May... and at RAFW

Introducing the new styling tool buzz - the Cloud Nine curling tool The Wand, launching the first week in May (just in time for RAFW, kicking off today!).

It's a conical shaped curling tool, which has all the fab features which Cloud Nine styling irons have become known for (black patented plates with Korean rock mineral technology for creating shine as hair is styled, adjustable temperature, swivel cord, automatic hibernation) all in a super cool conical shaped tool - which means you can create bigger loser curls with the wide base, or smaller, tighter curls with the tip.

Australia will be the first to go to market with The Wand, ahead of the UK and New Zealand and hair maestro Brad Ngata has just signed up as the brand's newest ambassador.

The brand has been around for a year with its styling irons, and now with the launch of a The Wand (RRP $270) it's bringing something new to a crowded hair tool market.

A long, cone-shaped black barrel of The Wand giving users a style scope to create soft finger waves, loose beach curls or tight ringlets. The length of the barrel, combined with the difference in diameter from the base to the tip, allows for more creativity when styling. A ceramic black barrel features patented technology leaving hair with the finish and gloss of a Cloud Nine styling iron, for that just-stepped-out-of-the-salon look.

Cloud Nine’s signature feature, a highly advanced temperature gauge, suits the full hair scope from super-fine to curly and thick. Dial down to a lower temperature for longer, looser waves, or move the temperature up to create more structured, tighter curls.

Lauren McCowan, Cloud Nine Creative Director says: “The Wand is arriving at the perfect time. We’re seeing a lot of Veronica Lake style curls and polished vintage wave looks from the international runways to the red carpet.”

Advanced heat technology gives great curl in just a few seconds. Wrap a section of hair around the barrel and release, creating a look that lasts, with shine.

The Wand comes with two protective accessories, a two finger glove and a heat guard that will protect those wandering little fingers around the house.

Jon Pulitano, Cloud Nine Ambassador for Headcase Hair adds: “What stands out to me about The Wand is its ease-of-use and versatility in creating a range of looks. For stylists, it’s the tool you’ve been wishing you had and for clients, it’s something they can easily style with at home.”

The Wand will be working its magic at several Rosemount Australian Fashion Week (RAFW) shows: Therese Rawsthorne, Shakuhachi, Alice McCall, camilla and marc, and Lisa Blue. I am seeing the Shakuhachi and can't wait to report back on the fashion - and the hair.

For Cloud Nine stockists, call 1300 C9hair (1300 294 247) or see http://www.cloudninehair.com.au/

Katy Perry: ghd - David LaChapelle photos. And ghd comp!

With the recent ghd signing of Katy Perry as the brand's new global brand ambassador, the stunning Ms Perry will appear in a series of ads (which launch in May) themed around 'Iconic Era's of Style.'

Here is a sneak preview of the exciting new ghd campaign, photographed by world famous fashion photographer, David LaChapelle.

And hey, ghd are also running a comp!

Buy a ghd styler from your ghd salon between now and April 26 2011 and you can enter to win tickets to Katy's show and a meet and greet with the lady herself - for more info visit http://www.ghdhair.com.au/.

The 'Iconic Eras of Style' by David LaChapelle features Katy photographed as a sleeping beauty, waking up in three different iconic eras of style - 50s glamour, 70s boho chic and 80s new wave (I am so a child of the 1980s - that one is my fave).

ghd Australia is excited to also be supporting Katy's California Dream's Australian Tour which kicks off in Melbourne on 28th April, making its way around the country during May. ghd are offering concert goers pre-styling at the venues - who wouldn't wanna look good for the glam Katy?

ghd Announces Katy Perry as 'New Face' in Global Partnership

This just in: ghd has just announced singer Katy Perry as their 'new face'.

The superstar's multi-year collaboration with the professional hair styling brand leader ghd will kick off over the next few months with an exciting new multimedia global brand campaign recently shot by world renowned photographer David LaChapelle.

"Katy is the epitome of modern fashion and styling. Her unique, ever changing looks are the envy of style devotees around the world. Katy completely embodies ghd’s spirit of female transformation and empowerment, as she is recognised as a cutting edge style icon unafraid to push fashion and beauty boundaries. Sassy, stylish and sexy, Katy is the perfect partner for ghd,” says Paul Stoneham, Chief Executive Officer, ghd.

“I'm so excited to be working with ghd, especially using their tools on my California Dreams Tour to get me stage ready. ghd products have a reputation of being the best products in the biz, and I like being associated with that. I'm very excited to reveal the styles I did with legendary David LaChapelle in the upcoming ghd campaign. Keep your eyes peeled for it!” shares Perry in regards to the announcement.

Rounding out the partnership, ghd has signed to become an 'International Tour Sponsor' for Perry’s forthcoming “California Dreams 2011” tour, and plans to involve its talented professional hair stylist ambassadors in concert-related events throughout the world.

Katy Perry kicks off the Australian leg of her tour on April 28 in Melbourne, with her final show hitting Brisbane on May 15.

For more, see: www.ghdhair.com/au

Jennifer Aniston. Justin Bieber. New haircuts. That is all.

Jennifer Aniston has a new hairstyle:

For more, see:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1359686/Jennifer-Aniston-tries-upstage-Brooklyn-Decker-new-hair-cut.html

And:

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/entertainment/post/2011/02/gasp-jennifer-aniston-sports-new-short-hairstyle-/1

And so does Justin Bieber! See:

http://www.zimbio.com/Justin+Bieber+Haircut/articles/wuhfyQE87C6/Justin+Bieber+Haircut+Pictures

Okay, go back to what you were doing...

Moroccanoil Light - perfect for fine-haired (and fair-haired) beauties

Moroccanoil - the originator and international leader of professional luxury Argan Oil-infused hair products - launched the new Moroccanoil Light last year and I am already hooked.

I was always worried about trying something, well, oily on my fine hair, so I was more than a little excited when they launched this lighter version. It suits my hair (and is suitable for fair-haired beauties) perfectly.

Formulated using Moroccanoil's original and ground-breaking Argan Oil-infused blend, the new Moroccanoil Light joins the Moroccanoil collection, including Moroccanoil Treatment, Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo, Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Conditioner, Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, Moroccanoil Intense Curl Cream, Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream, Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine Spray and Moroccanoil Restorative Hair Mask.

Moroccanoil is well known with top professional stylists for its lightweight, natural-looking results and unique formula, which instantly absorbs into the hair without leaving residue. In fact, it has built quite the reputation as the best hair oil of its type around.

The premise of all Moroccanoil products is that they strengthen and recondition the hair while adding a glossy shine, with a frizz and static-free finish.

Celeb fans abound; red carpet looks for Sienna Miller, Rachel Weisz and Claire Danes, Emily Blunt at Cannes, Scarlett Johansson, and Bryce Dallas Howard have all been created using this product.

Moroccanoil Light (100ml) is $55, and it absorbs into the hair to restore elasticity, as well as strengthen and condition even weak, brittle hair. It helps shield against environmental 'stressors' and leaves a luxurious and noticeable shine to the hair without leaving buildup. It is best applied on damp hair and styled as usual. If you want to simplify your hair routine, this baby could be all your hair needs.

For more on Moroccanoil products, see: www.moroccanoil.com

All products are sold in good hair salons nationally.

Burlesque and Sebastian Re-Shaper: a perfect match

I am a bit nuts about Sebastian Professional haircare products - they are hands down the best quality hair styling staples around.

And now, Sebastian renowned 'Re-Shaper hairspray' has taken centre stage as the official hairspray of Sony Pictures movie Burlesque.

Since the birth of 'Shaper' hairspray in Hollywood 25 years ago, it has been a make up must-have on movie sets, for red carpet events and behind the scenes at editorial shoots.

Re-Shaper was used on-set as the working hairspray to shape the amazing styles that transformed the actors into their characters.

“To capture the essence of Burlesque, we created looks that were highly textured and voluminous for a sexy, dramatic effect,” says Martin Samuel, hair department head on the set of Burlesque. “The styles I created for the actresses had to withstand lots of movement, shine under bright lights and restyle quickly for scene changes, so I needed a hairspray that provides strong hold, but is also reworkable for easy brushing and re-styling.”

Sebastian Professional Re-Shaper is the first ever brushable hairspray of its kind. I used this long-lasting, strong-hold, humidity-resistant hairspray yesterday in the stupidly hot Sydney weather we're having and it kept its promise.

It's never stiff or sticky; the dry vapour formula allows for brushable, layerable, workable locks – keeping your style in place every time. I'm in love.

Re-shaper hairspray (400ml) is $31 or $9.50 for 50ml.

To apply, spray on damp hair and blow-dry for a root boost. Or spritz during blow-drying to capture tousled movement and protection from humidity. Or mist over finished style for day-to-night controlled hold. And you can restyle into any shape.

For stockists, see 1300 728 333 or go to http://www.sebastianprofessional.com/.

Natalie Portman: Golden Globes 2011 - how to get that hair...

Awards season is often the launching platform for fresh new evening wear fashion trends - as well as some copycat-worthy key hair and makeup trends.

I am definitely experiencing a renewed girl crush on the newly-pregnant Natalie Portman.

When I first saw her on the 2011 Golden Globes red carpet I seriously gasped.

The first thing that struck me was the clever clash of the salmon pink stapless gown with the deep red flower detail.

Simultaneously, I was instantly smitten with her classy updo.

It's not easy to get an updo just right. But then again, it actually is

The thing to avoid is the severe, scraped back upstyle. So harsh, so unflattering.

Instead, Ms Portman carries off a softer style with a sideswept long fringe so beautifully, it is breathtaking.

Wanna copy the Black Swan nominee's hairstyle?

Use the nifty new Scunci Effortless Beauty twisted bobby pins - under six bucks for a pack of six - they are the key element in keeping this look intact, while ensuring it remains flowy and soft. There is some serious twisting going on prior to placing the bobby pins in to secure it, but once you're done - and they're in - you are good to go and that baby ain't moving all night.

Buy them at Big W and selected pharmacists and salons. Or call 1800 242 848 for a full stockist list, or visit http://www.scunci.com.au/

(Photos courtesy: smh.com.au and examiner.com)

Wondercap: Dry Hair Saviour

If you're over your dry hair - Lord knows we straighten and blow dry the hell out of it - this little saviour is the answer to all your hair prayers.

Converting those dry, damaged hair into smooth, silky locks is super easy with Gail McJorrow’s unique, at-home hair treatment pack, Wondercap.

Looking suspiciously like a showercap, the Wondercap is a whole lot more: it's a luxurious, deep hair conditioning system that is affordable, easy and safe to use in the comfort of your own home.

“Before Wondercap, whenever I did a conditioning treatment at home, I did the old Gladwrap and hot wet towel trick to get heat to the head” says McJorrow. [Haven't we all, Gail!]

“Not only is a wet towel cumbersome on the head, but it would only stay hot for a minute or so whereas the Wondercap fits snugly on the head and holds an even heat for up to 20 minutes.”

In five easy steps, Wondercap smoothes the cuticle, eliminates frizz, moisturises the hair and infuses outstanding shine. After one use, you’re guaranteed to see and feel a difference. I have used it and I've gotta say: I am a convert. My hair was silky soft, and my hair colour, revived!

The Wondercap is sold as a kit, including the reusable Wondercap itself, 50ml of Guardian Angel treatment and a Halo disposable shower cap.

"Women today are busier than ever with household and work demands and often their bathroom becomes their sanctuary for indulgence at the end of a busy day” says McJorrow. “Three to five minutes in the shower is all you need to boost your treatment, or if you have more time, luxuriate in the bath with it on.”

Made from a non-allergenic and waterproof fabric, the cap has a non-toxic, non-caustic and non-flammable gel filling that warms up in the microwave in 90 seconds. The heat from the cap opens up the hair cuticles, allowing the conditioning treatment to deeply nourish the inner hair shaft - the main section of the hair that holds moisture. After rinsing, the cuticles close up, locking in the moisture.

The Wondercap can be cleaned and re-used by wiping it with a damp cloth, and can also be cooled in the freezer and placed on the head to relieve migraines and lower fevers naturally. So impressive.

“If you colour your hair, use heat styling tools, swim in salt or chlorinated water or spend a lot of time outdoors, then Wondercap is the perfect way to continually combat damage to your hair” says McJorrow. “I recommend the Wondercap to be used once a week and twice a week for damaged hair” she adds.

The Wondercap range is available at selected Price Attack and Shaver Shop stores nationwide. including online retailers. RRP $39.95 (Wondercap pack).

For more info and stockists visit http://www.wondercap.com.au/