What do you love most about being a colourist?
It’s never boring; there’s so much choice when it comes to colour brands and techniques. I also think it’s really rewarding when you get to see a client’s face after you’ve done their colour for the first time.

What is the most important question you ask in a colour consultation and why?
There’s not just one set question. In addition to figuring out what their goal for their hair is, I also try and work out what type of person they are – what’s going to suit their lifestyle, what’s going to suit their job.

What colour trends are you pleased to see out of fashion?
The ombre. I love things that flow, but ombre is both really light and dark at the same time. I think it can sometimes work with vivids, but with natural colours I think it looks out of place.

Are there any colour trends you’d like to bring back?
I don’t stick to what’s trending – but I do like to bring back looks I’ve created in the past and put a new twist on them. For example I’ll use the same colour technique but with a different palette.

What are the challenges facing colourists right now?
I think it’s really hard for colourists these days, because clients are expecting a lot more but in a short timeframe. Especially with social media, they’ll see a hair transformation in 20 seconds and then come in and ask for you to do it in their lunch break.

What do you think will be the next big colour trend?
I think we’re seeing vivids accepted a lot more – and that’s my niche, so obviously I’m going to push for that. Colour doesn’t need to be defined by age or profession – anyone can embrace vivids!

What colour techniques are you known for?
I’m definitely known for my bright colours, but recently I’ve been doing a lot of prism work – almost creating a kaleidoscope of colours.

What colour creation makes you most proud?
It’s actually pinned at the top of my Instagram profile – it’s a really simple technique that blends pastel colours together, and it gives the most stunning effect. I styled it in a fishtail plait, which I think showcases the colours well.

What advice would you give to a trainee colourist?
Never compare yourself to others – just look at where you are now and where you want to go. I’d also say to celebrate all your little wins; even mistakes are wins, because you learn from them.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learnt from being a colourist?
Learn the rules before you try to break them. You’ve got to be educated correctly and you need to know the colour brands inside-out before you can learn to be create and bend the rules. In line with that, I’ve learnt to take any educational opportunities that come my way – there’s always more to learn

Looking for more colour inspiration? Why not check out HJ's Colour Notes with Rachael Lomax?