German influences evident at sassoon academy salon live

Sassoon Creative Director Mark Hayes lives in Germany these days, and the influence of his adopted homeland plays heavily on the latest Sassoon Academy collection, which was launched at Salon Live.

Inspirations for the show included revolutionary electro band Kraftwerk, and the neue kraft concept, as well as Austrian filmmaker Fritz Lang, and Russian sculptor Naum Gabo - both of whom studied in Germany.

The collection also referenced 80s science fiction films, including Tron and Bladerunner. "To move forward, you have to look at where you've been in the past," Mark explained.

The show started with an atmospheric interpretative dance, setting the mood for the show through an impressive music and light show. Next came a reminder of last season's Deco DeLux collection - a modern twist on the 1920s, as well as a look at the sixties-inspired Autum/Winter 2010 Blast collection.

European Colour Director Peter Dawson then took to the stage with the Sassoon Colour Team, to demonstrate the latest colour story and cutting techniques.

The Obsidian palette takes reference from the layers of colour found in volcanic glass -  cool blues of every hue, earthy greys, and flashes of deep red.

UK Colour Director Edward Darley has dubbed the technique Tektonika, with definite lines of colour artfully applied and carefully rinsed. These bands of colour strengthen the lines of the cut, enhancing each section and emphasising weightlines.

Although the colours were strong, Peter reminded the audience of Sassoon's 'Strength Through Suitability' concept, explaining that the colours and techniques should serve as an inspirational, 'jump-off' point for everyday colour in the salon.

Finally, the audience was treated to the first look at the very latest collection, Neuekraft. Nine female and three male models marched through the audience in classic Kraftwerk outfits, to the rhythmic beat of the band's pioneering Trans-Europe Express album.

Key Look

• Cuts were classic Sassoon bobs, but with a new softness through gentle curves, and a weightless balance of lines, all inspired by the ethereal sculptures of original reference, Naum Gabo.