WHEN you are sending models down the runway at Sydney Fashion Week wearing high-end labels, there’s no room for error.
That’s why hairdressers are put through a rigorous testing program to make sure they are up for the job of styling the models’ hair.
For this year’s April event, only seven hairdressers were selected for the job from WA – and three of them were from Bunbury.
Minx Hairdressing salon owner Lisa Evans made the cut with flying colours and will return with a major role on the backstage styling team after almost 10 years’ experience at the show.
Mrs Evans said the judging panel tested applicants on everything from creativity to professionalism.
“They are looking for people who are passionate about what they do and committed to meeting the expectations,” Mrs Evans said.
“You have to be able to follow precise instructions on how the hair should be styled and be artistic under pressure, which isn’t easy.”
Mrs Evans said about 10 stylists were packed into a room backstage, literally elbow to elbow as they spent hours in a production line perfecting the models’ look to be catwalk ready.
She said there were times when a late model would come in and there would be two layers of stylists working at lightning speed, while other times she had to hide in the corner to try to make room for the chaotic activity of the show.
“It’s controlled chaos but in a good way – the hair director has to be able to trust your skills and I love going because I always end up learning new techniques.”
Mrs Evans will take her place in the show alongside Wish Hair Studio owner Scarlett Frizzell and Cody Trimboli, who are being recognised as some of Bunbury’s best emerging talents.
“We pay our own way to get across to the show, it’s an investment in our skills, but I think it’s a privilege to be there and be part of it,” she said.
“It’s also great to be able to bring those skills back to Bunbury clients.”
