NXT is delighted to reveal Aimee Read of Barnets by Aimee as the newly crowned NXT Colourist of the Year 2025. Aimee’s entry delivered a standout transformation that combined meticulous colour correction with a fresh, fashion-led palette - earning unanimous praise from this year’s judging panel.
Working from an uneven blonde base, Aimee rebuilt tone and structure before introducing a refined rose-gold blend that shimmered with depth and luminosity. The result? A high-shine, soft-focus finish that felt editorial yet salon-friendly - exactly the type of modern colour work setting the benchmark for 2025.
The judging panel - industry icons Hooker & Young, NXT Brand Ambassador Holly Bullock and HJ’s Jayne Lewis-Orr - highlighted Aimee’s thoughtful approach to placement, control over warmth and exceptional final polish. They agreed the look exemplified both creativity and commercial appeal, marking her out as a colourist to watch.
This year’s competition continued to grow in scale, drawing outstanding entries from across the UK. From directional brights to subtle luxury blondes, the 2025 submissions reflected the evolving artistry driving colour revenue and client demand industry-wide.
Alongside our winner, NXT proudly recognises this year’s four exceptional finalists:
Alison Brightwell, Shane Brown Hair
Daisy Hannon, Daisy Hannon Hair
Lauren Trevor, Blue Shampoo
Zara-Jade Horner, Zara-Jade Horner Hair
NXT extends sincere thanks to every colourist who entered. The passion and technical ambition seen across the competition continue to push boundaries and inspire the next wave of innovation in professional colour.
