STEYNING stylist Phil Gilbert has been recognised for an award in the hairdressing industry’s most fashion-led live competition.
Phil, of Coombe Road, has qualified for the Men’s Image Award in the regional finals of the L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2013, taking place on April 3.
He is one of three stylists from Simon Webster Hair to qualify for the next round.
Salon owner Sophie Webster said they were delighted to be competing alongside the large chain salons which qualify for these awards each year.
“What makes us different is that we are a very small, independent salon that has only been open for 11 months and with a team of only five stylists, three of whom entered the competition and all three qualifying for the next round – an amazing achievement for them as individuals as well as for us all as a salon team.”
She said the salon, which opened last April, had built up a number of loyal clients.
“We’ve received amazing independent reviews since we opened, but to receive recognition already from some of the top industry professionals takes things to another level. Now they have the opportunity to show what they can really do.”
Also competing from the small independent salon, in Gardner Street, Brighton, will be Simon Webster for L’Oréal Colour Trophy Award and Max Backshell for Young Colourist Award.
To gain their prestigious places in the regional final, they submitted a photograph, demonstrating their technical expertise and fashion awareness on both male and female models.
The Simon Webster Hair stylists were noticed for their ability to produce modern and inspirational hair colours and styles, with a stunning finish, and shook off stiff competition from more than 1,000 entries in each category.
The next round will see the trio team up with models, stylists and make-up artists to put both their knowledge of catwalk trends and technical skills to the test as they complete their model look live in just 45 minutes.
Six salons will then be chosen for the grand final in London on June 3.