How to get started in avant-garde hairdressing

A founding member of the RUSH Artistic Team and Editorial Director for the brand, Tina Farey is also a revered name in the world of avant-garde hairdressing, creating some of the most exceptional and recognisable looks over the years. With her love of the unusual and the eclectic being a huge influence on the work she creates, HJ spoke to Tina about the creative world of hairdressing and, more specifically, her favourite techniques and tips when creating an avant-garde collection. “The world of avant-garde has always been a real passion of mine, from the moment I joined the hairdressing industry. It’s incredibly creative and pushes the boundaries of your skills as an individual, while allowing you to be free and explore new depths of hairdressing. In the avant-garde world, nothing is right or wrong and there is no set rule book – experimenting and trying something new can often result in the most amazing looks. “Regarded as one of the most innovative parts of our industry, there are no bounds to what you can create, the skills you can use and of course, the products and physical textures that can be implemented. Starting off with a wig and a dolls head, let your imagination run free and channel your creativity into something incredible. “When looking to create an avant-garde inspired look, there are several methods I would recommend, which will give you a foundation to get started.”

Wigs

Wigs are amazing to work with and allow you to transform any individual in an instant. Using wigs gives you the freedom to create larger than life styles, the opportunity to experiment with colour and really push the limits without the worry of damaging a model’s hair. I use wigs a lot for avant-garde work and enjoy the creative freedom. Using a variety of wigs and hair pieces can take your vision to a whole new level.

Architectural Inspiration        

I am very lucky that I travel often and get to see many different places around the world as part of my hairdressing career. With this comes architectural inspiration – taking in the surroundings, the shapes and structures formed in different cities and countries. Take in everything you see and keep this at the back of your mind for your future work and collections. I have implemented the shapes of many famous buildings throughout my work – it’s something to note. 

Partnership of Textures

Using different textures is encouraged in avant-garde hair, as this gives the look its creative edge. Take the chance to try combining aspects such as layers, height, waves and back combed areas. From the voluminous, back combed bowl at L’Oréal Colour Trophy, where we created the Rush Circus, to the painted-on colour structures of Colin Horgan at Fashion Week, using a variety of textures is a trend in the avant-garde world.

Extraordinary Materials

Using other materials is also hugely encouraged when it comes to creating avant-garde styles – sometimes hair is just not enough. Materials such as leather, metal and fabric can be used to mould or add to a style. Meanwhile, check out British Hairdresser of the Year Cos Sakkas' Tips for Hair TLC in 2023.