Once upon a time the definitive hair trend of the season would be a haircut, or a colour. Right now, however it’s more about showcasing healthy, strong and most importantly, shiny, hair.
On red carpets and at international fashion weeks in New York, London, Milan and Paris, the most-wanted look is being tweaked to each individual and their hair type, but shows off a refined, smooth – but not slick-straight – ‘done’ style.
Experts are referring to the look as ‘Photo Finish Hair’.
UK-based celebrity hairstylist Sam McKnight, who works backstage with a number of top fashion houses and once served as Princess Diana’s stylist, says messy and beachy is being overtaken by a slightly more finessed look.
“I’ve really been seeing a return to more done hair, more polish and finish,” says the stylist, who has his own popular range of styling products and haircare available here at MECCA. “More volume, just look at all those viral social trends that have been coming through. People are loving and living for a hairdo.”
Showcasing shine, ‘Photo Finish Hair’ is also a step away from the wet-look, slick back buns that have been previously trending.
“The look is really about that photo-flash finish I see all the time at shoots and backstage at shows,” shares McKnight. “The way light reflects on hair and you get the ultimate glossy, mirror-like shine. It’s a Cool Girl ponytail but with a luxe finish.”
Sam McKnight showcased the look backstage at Annie’s Ibiza, 16Arlington, Balmain, DSquared2 and Moncler.
L-R: Hair by Sam McKnight Light Cleanse Hair & Scalp Shampoo, Hair by Sam McKnight Light Nourish Conditioner; ARKIVE Future Youth Treatment Mask; Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil
How to you achieve ‘Photo Finish Hair?
McKnight shares his tips:
“Keep the hair feeling super light and clean. Freshly cleansed, and rinsed thoroughly so you don’t have any conditioner residue,” he says.
“Use lightweight styling products that will boost shine and smooth strands. Frizzy or fluffy hair will not reflect the light and give you that glass-like shine. I always finish with an oil. It’s the product that really makes a difference and is my secret for runway-worthy gloss.”
