In a historic moment last month in Lisbon, Sharon Blain was named the International Hair Legend of the Year 2024 at the prestigious International Hairdressing Awards.
An electrifying atmosphere filled the room as Sharon Blain, the first woman ever to receive this accolade, accepted the award. This honor previously graced the careers of luminaries like Lluís Llongueras (2019), Trevor Sorbie (2020), Tony Rizzo (2021), Robert Lobetta (2022) and Anthony Mascolo (2023), positioning Sharon Blain among the international elite.
Sharon Blain is a name that resonates deeply within the hairdressing community. For over 50 years, she has molded her craft, perfecting an array of skills that span the breadth of long hair artistry, from enchanting bridal looks to captivating editorial styles. Her educational programs, renowned for their innovation and breadth, have touched thousands of stylists worldwide. These offerings range from hands-on workshops to extensive online resources, including her celebrated Boot Camps which have been lauded as the most comprehensive short courses in the industry.
Her career is punctuated with numerous prestigious accolades, including being a five-time recipient of the Hair Expo Australia’s ‘Educator of the Year’ award and a double inductee into the Hair Expo ‘Australian Hall of Fame’. Her global acclaim was further cemented with a Medal of the Order of Australia in 2022, recognizing her monumental contributions to the hairdressing sector.
During her acceptance speech, Blain dedicated her award to all female hairdressers, acknowledging them as the driving force behind the industry. This gesture not only highlighted her triumph but also shone a spotlight on the critical role women play in hairdressing’s evolution.
Blain’s legacy is not merely in her awards but in her profound impact on education within the industry. Her innovative approach continues to shape professional paths, evidenced by her latest initiative, THE CRAFT, which redefines professional training standards through a collaborative effort with global masters.
As Sharon Blain continues to inspire and lead, her influence reverberates through the echoes of her students’ success and through every strand of hair they touch. The title of International Hair Legend of the Year is more than a trophy; it’s a testament to a lifelong passion that transforms every lock of hair into a statement of artistry.