With 18 years of industry expertise, Neil Smith is a hairdresser, a salon manager, an international platform artist and educator and an award-winning hairdresser. His images are clean and speak to not only the client but the inner artist in us all. His finished styles make us want to change the way we do hair as well as the way we wear it. From his shapes to silhouettes and the color in between his finished looks are ultimate goals for all of us. Take a peek at his beautiful styles and get to know more about Neil Smith below!
What drew you to hair styling?
I followed the footsteps of my mother and made hairdressing my career.
What is your favorite technique to use?
I love cut & colour just the same as curl and movement, everything from, marcel waves, finger waves, and root tonging to name but a few.
What has been the biggest defining moment in your career?
Being a three times Finalist at the British Hairdressing Awards, and an International Artistic team member for EuforaInternational.
Who were your mentors along the way and how have they shaped your career?
I’ve had many mentors for many aspects of the industry that have helped shape my career but id have to say the most influential is my duo of bosses Barrie Stephen & Joachim Zilliken for giving the creative license to create the Barrie Stephen Hair profile.
Is there a specific area you often find yourself looking to for inspiration?
Inspiration comes from many areas, travel, architecture, fashion, Internet and social media, but I always take to the streets because it’s at ground level you’ll see the cool trends rising.
How did you dream up your latest collection?
I have a collaborative creative process with my Photographer, MUA, and Stylist to see what their thoughts and feelings are and what’s trending for them. Then tailor key aspects together to create a casual collection.
How did you work with your makeup/styling team to craft the final image?
Styling and MUA are as vital as hair, as they should complement the mood and feel for the hair while not overpowering the hair in any way. It’s paramount that creatives share the same vision and goal for the collection.
What is this collection saying about Women’s Trends?
Hair is going to be shorter with stronger outlines, graphical shapes and there will be an infusion of soft interiors of curl and movement or super sleek with mirror-like shine.
What is the one product/tool that you can’t live without?
Product; Eufora Details
Tool: Mason Pearson brush
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
Time travel.
What hair/color trends can we look forward to this season?
Muted or dusted tones of block colours to soften the brights of last season, we’re ready for a gear change into lighter for summer
Do you have advice for up and coming hair stylists?
I have so much to say but ill keep it real simple, find the best mentor and watch, listen and take everything they can offer you in becoming the best possible you. If you do this right you can have a career just like them and then be that mentor and pass it along to the next generation of up and coming hairdressers.
Be sure to stalk Neil Smith on Bangstyle and stay tuned for even more inspiration from our artists!
