This year’s Alternative Hair Show in London was themed ‘Tapestry’ – an intriguing collective of stage presentations featuring inspirational looks and creative vision.
In a dazzling display of artistic prowess and unwavering commitment to a noble cause, the Alternative Hair Show returned for its 41st year in all its splendor at Excel London. The much-anticipated event, aptly named ‘Tapestry,’ unfolded yesterday, captivating the audience with its breathtaking showcases of hairstyling creativity, while raising funds for Leukaemia and Blood Cancer charities. This year’s edition of the Alternative Hair Show proved to be a monumental success, amassing an astounding £121,000 for the cause.
Hosted onstage by Founder, Tony Rizzo accompanied by President, Anthony Mascolo and long-time AHS supporter Linda Evans, together with AHS newly appointed Vice President Rudy Mostarda, the show included the announcement of the International Visionary Awards winners for 2023. This is the first time the International Visionary Awards are announced live for three years. Moreover, the event reached new heights as the new AHS worldwide patron Trevor Sorbie MBE was honored on stage with the Legend Award, cementing his legendary status in the world of hairdressing. Tony Rizzo said: “We think it is fitting that the man who Vidal Sassoon called the ‘best hairdresser’ is the new worldwide patron.”
Trevor was given a one-of-a-kind trophy and shared a heartfelt speech with the crowd. He began by saying: “What an honour for me to follow in the footsteps of my hairdressing hero Vidal Sassoon. When I started in hairdressing, I had no idea of the future of my life. In fact at one point, I gave up hairdressing because I thought I was no good. I was so wrong.” Trevor went on to talk about Tony’s special affinity for the Blood Cancer charity Fighting Leukaemia and how important the AHS is when it comes to annual fundraising for the charity. He said: “Tony lost his son to leukaemia, and I can’t think of anything worse, but Tony’s determination and passion to want to help others who are in a similar situation through a charity is one of the most commendable things a human being can do. Tony deserves his own medal because he is a man of action.”
Alternative Hair Show Premier sponsor is Alfaparf Milano with Wella Company as Platinum sponsor. Charity sponsors are Infringe, Linda Hair, ONACIS and Alternative Hair.
While raising funds for vital research and charitable initiatives, the Alternative Hair Show has become a global platform for showcasing the remarkable artistry of hairdressing teams from every corner of the globe. The hairdressers who graced the stage at ‘Tapestry’ showcased not only their creative skills but also their unwavering dedication to their craft. They reveled in the freedom of creativity that the Alternative Hair Show provides, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of hairstyling. Their masterful work left the audience in awe, highlighting the limitless potential of their art.
Show teams included: Dmitry Vinokurov, Beauty Underground, Lorenzo Marchelle, Tindaro Orifici, Ken Zhou, Gogen, HC Salon, Viktoria Vradii, Saco, Sanrizz, Lucian Busuioc, Shogo Ideguchi, Rudy Mostarda & Trevor Sorbie Creative Team.
In addition to the breathtaking displays, the Alternative Hair Show 2023 also marked the announcement of the winners of the International Visionary Awards. The prestigious honors were unveiled by Founder Tony Rizzo and Alternative Hair Worldwide President Anthony Mascolo:
MENS
▶ Winner – Daniel Gallego, Spain
▶ Runner-up – Yildis Charbachi, Sweden
CUT AND COLOUR
▶ Winner – Jae Young Lee, South Korea
▶ Runner-up – Sara Piera, Spain
AVANT GARDE
▶ Winner – Ulderico Nasti, Italy
▶ Runner-up – Tom Yek Teng Siong, Malaysia
These visionary talents have demonstrated exceptional skill and creativity in their respective categories, reaffirming the Alternative Hair Show’s commitment to nurturing and promoting new talent within the industry.
All photos by Alex Barron-Hough