This Sunday, the iconic Folies Bergère theatre in Paris became the epicentre of global hairdressing creativity as it hosted the AIPP Awards 2024 ceremony, organized by the Association Internationale Presse Professionnelle Coiffure (AIPP).
With a staggering 523 hair fashion collections submitted from 31 countries, the participation level this year has been truly exceptional, showcasing the industry’s dedication and artistic brilliance. The AIPP Awards 2024 ceremony was presented on stage by Mike Vincent, AIPP President, and Sergi Bancells, AIPP General Secretary. A heartfelt round of applause goes to all participants for their contributions to elevating the world of hairdressing!
Meet this year’s winners who were honoured in Paris:
- BEST COMMERCIAL ✪ WINNER: Steven Smart (UK)
- BEST AVANT-GARDE ✪ WINNER: Angelo Seminara (UK)
- BEST COLOR ✪ WINNER: Antoinette Beenders & X-Presion (USA/Spain)
- BEST MEN ✪ WINNER: Brian Sanchis (Spain)
- BEST DIGITAL ✪ WINNER: Jak Hall (UK)
- BEST YOUNG TALENT ✪ WINNER: Sergio Molina (Spain)
- BEST VIDEO ✪ WINNER: Angelo Seminara (UK)
The highlight of the night was the announcement of the 2024 AIPP Grand Trophy Winner, with Steven Smart from the UK taking home the coveted award. His breathtaking collection ‘Mirage’ was recognized as the most iconic AIPP entry of the year by the AIPP member magazines, securing his place among the hairdressing greats. Smart’s bold, innovative vision captured the essence of this prestigious competition, which has been running since 1997, making it the most respected hair contest in the industry.
Adding to the magic of the evening, the AIPP Legend Award was presented to British hairdressing icon Trevor Sorbie MBE, a true pioneer in the industry. The award was accepted on stage by Giuseppe Stelitano, Creative Director at Trevor Sorbie, accompanied by global hair icons Angelo Seminara and Antoinette Beenders, both of whom spent many years working with Sorbie early in their careers. Seminara and Beenders shared heartfelt reflections on how Sorbie’s mentorship and visionary leadership shaped their artistic journeys, crediting him as a key figure in their rise to prominence. Sorbie’s lasting influence on our industry was celebrated in this powerful and emotional tribute.
The AIPP Awards 2024 ceremony in Paris was truly a night to remember, celebrating the artistry, passion, and innovation that define our world. The ceremony took place during the awe-inspiring Hair Congress in Paris, just before the coveted Tribu-te Show, which featured some of the most relevant figures in the global hairdressing scene.
All photos by François Loock