You recently celebrated Ryder’s 10th birthday. What significant changes have you seen in hairdressing over the last decade?
Training systems have improved significantly over the past 10 years but the biggest change for me has been the connection to the fashion industry that salons such as Ryder have built. Working with fashion has had the effect of moderating the work of hairdressers as well as making it more real and relevant.
How does Ryder differentiate itself from other salons?
The quality of our training, the passion of our staff and a very unique and relaxed environment sets us apart. We impress upon our trainees that hairdressing is a craft and that it will take time to learn and become proficient in.
We don’t train people in a rush, everyone proceeds at a rate that is right for them. We teach haircutting as a technical skill.
Once this is mastered we teach them about connecting with the true character of hair, giving trainees the ability to really work in an individual way on each client.
Along the way they are taught fashion dressing techniques at the many shows and shoots that we’re involved in. When hairdressers stay interested in the creative side of their careers it keeps them alive and interested in their work.
Our salon environment is very relaxed and spacious. In my experience, it is difficult to be creative when you are stressed and under pressure. Going to the hairdresser is an escape from your life so it needs to feel very comfortable and unhurried.
What do you prefer – to cut or colour – and why?
Cutting and colouring are the core of our business. The two go hand in hand. My speciality in salon is as a haircutter, but colour is also important in my work. I prefer a subtle approach with colour.
I have always loved to cut hair. From there I progressed to really learning how to dress hair.
What “look” are you loving right now?
I am really interested in exploring all the possibilities with wave, curl and the almost frizzy, dry hair looks.
What trends are coming through for this coming spring and summer?
At the recent fashion shows around the world, there are a lot of “up” hair looks. This is interesting as these styles have been on the sideline for a while now. Translating that to the consumer, it has a relevance for spring and summer in that this is a time when we are outdoors more and want fuss free options for our hair.
What are your three essential hair tips?
1 When you have washed your hair, never rub your hair in an upwards motion with your towel. Just squeeze the hair in the towel and always in a downwards motion. If you do this, you will reduce the frizz factor in the finished result.
2 If you have flyaway or troublesome hair, try a cool rinse after you have conditioned the hair. This will help the cuticle layer of the hair to lie down in a smoother way.
3 Invest in a salon quality hairdryer. This will be a great investment and will last for years. You will have much more control over temperature and speed settings and it will work much more efficiently than a low quality one.
