Winning style
Headway catches up with Kelly Manu, winner of this year’s L’Oréal Style & Colour Trophy Award, as she shares her creative inspirations, passion for colour and her latest exciting news
What’s been happening in your world since winning the L’Oréal Style & Colour Trophy Award 2022?
So many exciting things, some of which I can’t talk about yet. I’ve just finished facilitating my last round of classes for the year with L’Oréal Professionnel, which is another aspect of my work I love doing. Now I can spend more time at UNA and really focus on growing my salon brand. Perhaps most exciting of all is that I was just in Paris taking part in the Global Final of Style & Colour Trophy 2022! Only 6 finalists made it from the 22,000 that entered so I feel extremely honoured to have made it through. It was an absolute whirlwind and I can’t wait for everyone to see what we got up to when the Grand Finale comes next month.
Why did you decide to enter initially and why would you encourage hairdressers to do the same?
I loved the 2022 theme of ‘French Edito’ which is what really excited me to enter. Plus, the potential chance to showcase your work internationally if you made it to the Global Grand Finale. It was an opportunity not to be missed.
How would you describe your creative process and how did the L'Oréal Style & Colour Trophy competition process enhance this?
My creative process starts with the model or client. I love getting a sense of themselves, their style and what their hair is like. From there, I can really work on what we can do to enhance their look and showcase some of their favourite features. The competition process solidified that for me; it makes the process more enjoyable when you work with your model in a collaborative way. I love their input on what trends they are drawn to and what they think would be their dream hair.
Where are you drawing inspiration from?
I’ve been watching a lot of European street style videos lately to get a feel of what is coming through over there. It’s been fascinating seeing how different trends can be in each city.
Which colours are you enjoying creating for clients and what do you predict will be popular over the coming months?
This is no secret to anyone but I just live for the .8 colours by L’Oréal Professionnel, particularly the .28 which is an iridescent mocha. It has the most beautiful hint of warmth without being too golden. I use a lot of these shades with my clients at the moment as they’re so flattering, soft and can be easily adjusted to suit all skin tones. Now it’s summer, I think we’re going to see more hints of lighter tones coming through. With the warmer reflects this season, it’s going to be about luxurious, lived-in blondes that are super-shiny and sun-kissed. I’m seeing a lot more copper and soft strawberry blondes coming through too which are so gorgeous!
How do you encourage your team at UNA and how would you describe UNA’s philosophy?
UNA’s philosophy focuses on creating individual moments for each client. Each cut and colour is tailor-made for each person, taking into consideration skin tone, lifestyle, natural hair and beauty budget. It was about creating a space that is very exclusive but totally inclusive at the same time. We’re hidden down a side entrance (one of those places that you must be in the know to know!) but we love catering to everyone. It’s your space to do whatever you feel like that day. Need to work? Plug in your laptop, connect to the Wi-Fi and away you go. Want to relax? Sit back with a beautiful herbal tea or coffee and read a mag or book. We even have ‘Silent Appointments’ if you don’t feel like talking; we’ve all been there and sometimes you want some quiet time.
What are your must-have products?
The L’Oréal Professionnel Metal Detox range is rocking my world. I’ve been travelling so much that my hair has been exposed to many different elements and Metal Detox has been my saving grace. I just got hold of the new oil in the range, which won’t be out for a while, but it’s a must-have, especially for dry, highlighted hair. I’ve been using it every day to keep my curly locks hydrated and tame the frizz.
How would you describe your style?
I’m laid back, so I love a good smock-style dress. Then I pair them with some Vans or chunky boots to edge them up. I was into goth/punk growing up, so a lot of those influences still come through in my style. Top it off with a wash-and-wear shag cut and that’s me in a nutshell.
What advice do you have for those looking to enter L'Oréal Style & Colour Trophy in the future?
My best advice is to really study the theme and build a beautiful look around your model. You want to create such dreamy hair that when someone sees that look they instantly want it.