Redken connects tour 2011 heads to london

Redken Connects' four-date tour came to a close with an evening of inspiration and education at the spectacular Royal Opera House in London's Covent Garden.

Before the show started, guests had time to mingle and network in the Learning Zone - an exhibition space with live demonstrations, product suggestions and expert advice.

The show itself was compered by Redken educator Toby Meyer and saw creative presentations from six hairdressers, each demonstrating their own interpretation of Redken's trend for the season; 'Shapes and Shadows'.

The first presentation of the evening came from Billie Crago of The Chapel, London and Chris Moody of Moody Hair, Barnsley. The dynamic duo demonstrated new season colour techniques, focussing on the dip-dye look for bohemian, beachy and believable results. Proving that there's more to the technique than lightened ends, four very different models were presented with looks ranging from the subtle and commercial to dramatic editorial styles.     

Next it was time for men's looks, with a much-anticipated presentation from Lee Stafford and Adam Browne of Fordam Soho, London. In keeping with women's trends, men's colour was also dominated by the ombré technique which was demonstrated in a variety of looks from a dramatic, 70s-inspired rocker style to a subtle, sun-kissed smudge of blonde through the lengths and ends of a classic textured men's cut. In a clever, more rock-inspired twist on the technique, Adam and Lee then introduced the 'hombre' - a reverse application with light roots and dark ends. 

Finally AJ Blackadder and Andrew Barton from Andrew Barton Salon, London demonstrated styling techniques to bring the Shapes and Shadows theme to life. Working with this season's omnipresent 1970s trend, AJ and Andrew created a statement look that embodied disco glamour with candy floss texture, pastel pink colour and a liberal sprinkling of glitter.

Other on-trend looks created by the pair included a sleek, knotted updo and a braided, bohemian style. To complement Andrew's creations, AJ demonstrated innovative colouring techniques using tools including a shower sponge and dishwashing brush to apply fashion-forward shades including lime green and frosted blue. 

The evening also saw presentations of the regional finalists for the NYC awards, which have this year seen a record number of entries. Winners from the regional finals will go on to compete at Redken Tribe at Brixton Acaademy on 12 September.

Reaffirming their dedication to education and innovation, as soon as the show had finished guests were able to scan a QR code in the Learning Zone on their smart phone to instantly download a file which contained all the looks from the show, including colour formulas, section patterns, moodboards, and tips. 

The regional finalists are...