Secrets behind an award-winning british hairdressing awards image

Richard Mannah of TONI&GUY, Sloane Square won London Hairdresser of the Year at HJ's 2011 British Hairdressing Awards.

Here Richard and his team talk about the work that went into creating an award-winning collection.

"I wanted to create a hairstyle that flowed with the Android theme of my shoot but was an editorial version. The shape of the style is round, beginning at the contours of the model's cheekbones as I was initially inspired by alien-head shapes. I wanted to create a beautiful and elegant shape with a soft and slightly undone finish. The model is looking away which softens the total image and her visible neckline creates an elegant silhouette." 

"Make-up was kept minimal with a bleached brow. Skin was nude and pale giving a porcelain effect. Using coral and soft taupe colours for contouring around the eyes and cheekbones kept this groomed feeling without distracting from the vibrant hair. Nude blank lips kept the look fresh - less is more."

"Taking inspiration from Prada's ad campaign, I decided to simplify the backdrop and lighting for this look, allowing the luminosity of the translucent skin and hair to take centre stage. The shade emphasises the different tones in the hair and releases a light-reflective look. The contrast helps to highlight each strand of hair; perfectly showcasing Richard's work."

"Richard's collection was beautiful, but this image caught my attention. It is a stunning look - perfectly lit by the photographer. The model's porcelain skin is a total contrast to the golden hues of her big, beautiful, editorially inspired hair, which are in perfect contrast with the dark, edginess of the clothes styling. Collectively, it makes for a captivating image."