Chapel St Leonards hairdresser out to prove he's a cut above

Darrel Starkey, of Taylors Hair Studio, has been named a finalist in HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards 2020, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional.

The talented stylist from the studio in St Leonards Drive, impressed more than 80 hair industry judges to be named one of just six stylists shortlisted for the Trend Image of the Year category, which welcomed entries from across the whole of the UK.

HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards promotes professionalism, innovation and excellence, while recognising those individuals and teams who work tirelessly to raise the profile of the

hairdressing industry and drive the sector forward through outstanding talent and creativity.

To allow for the disruption of lockdown, this year stylists could choose to submit four hair images made up of pre-existing work to create a collection.

Darrel’s creative hairstyling and exceptional skill ensured his photographic work stood out from the rest.

Now, he will submit another two images of his work in the hope of catching the judges’ imagination and hearts further with his expanded trend-led collection.

This artistic hairdressing will put Darrell in the running to be named winner of the Trend Image of the Year category at a ceremony on November 30 – the most anticipated night in the

hairdressing calendar.

Delighted with his achievement, Darrel said: “Hairdressers are part of a wonderful community that has pulled together and supported one another in a quite exceptional way.

"These awards prove that we are strong and resilient and that our creativity and spirit cannot be dampened. I’m thrilled to be a finalist and feel very proud of what I have been able to

achieve this year.”

Commenting on the announcement, Jayne Lewis-Orr, executive director of HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards said: “To be named as a finalist in the Trend Image of the Year category is one of the most sought after accolades in hairdressing.

"To achieve this in 2020 highlights just how extraordinary Darrel is. His images demonstrated fantastic skill and vision for trend led hair and rightly gives them the acknowledgement as one of the UK’s best hairdressers.”

“Sponsoring HJ's British Hairdressing Awards is an enormous privilege, and we at Schwarzkopf Professional are delighted that we can partner with Hairdressers Journal

International (HJ) in supporting and recognising the very best hairdressing talent across the UK."

Julian Crane, Schwarzkopf Professional General Manager, UK and Ireland: “The hairdressing industry is one of endless enthusiasm and creativity, reflected in these awards. All finalists should feel incredibly proud and we extend our biggest congratulations

to all and the best of luck for the awards ceremony."