Mastering Hair with Wendy Iles

" The Feast " it was named.  I was asked to think of what subject I'd like most to teach to students of all levels of hairdressing. I decided on my fast tips and tricks, shortcuts for editorial work and the essentials for wig work. The class was attended by passionate hairdressers from Europe and as far away as Australia.  Accepting to give a Masterclass is my chance to give back to the industry that has served me so well over the past 3 decades.

One of the first things I notice about hairdressers when I have the chance to be a close observer of their work, is that they often hide behind the security blanket of styling products. From my frequent work with celebrities, and their tortured hair, my first aim is always to transform their locks to feel luscious and healthy. If I have suppleness in the hair, it's like putty in my hands, I can make hair obey every command, and whatever style I give lasts for hours.

During the class, we covered wig work : how to add extra hair quickly with special tricks I've developed over the years that make the wig placement process faster and absolutely unrecognizable within hair, which for me is the most important aspect of wig work. We also covered the tricks of abstract couture work and the basics of "street" looks, "red carpet" hair and the latest "catwalk trends" of Fashion Week. One of Germany's most lauded photographers Alexander Straulino captured images of the finished styles for portfolios and salon walls.

Exposing and sharing my technique always gives me pleasure as students discover that they don't need to hide behind styling products. Instead I introduced my students to Iles Formula Finshing Serum, which is the editorial tool I can't work without. It protects hair from heated tools, makes thin hair feel luscious, adds texture to layered looks, gives great control when doing up-do's like chignons and adds structure whenever needed. Its presence can be seen if you wish or not, it depends on how you use it. Not to mention it has color fade protectors, so it's perfect for after chemical work of salon treatments too.

I have been hairdressing for a long time, it seems my entire life. Today I travel the world mostly for clients entrusting their high end beauty campaigns to me, and if not, then I am attending celebrities red carpet and private events, and fashion shows front row elite.

Since Iles Formula was launched 10 months ago, it has given me the opportunity to re connect with the salon industry as they too are fast becoming clients of Iles Formula. I'm loving this opportunity as it's bringing me back to my roots.

It was obvious to me this class shared the same passion for hair styling and hair as I do. I could see they " felt, breathed and loved " hair. We have such a beautiful  industry. As hairdressers, we can so easily transport a photo image to another level, transform and bring so much joy and confidence to any person in our chair, whether it's a salon client, model or celebrity.

I would like to share with you some photos from this inspiring 2 day event.

Thanks to each and everyone of you who attended. You inspired me each in his special way. I feel grateful to have had this opportunity to work along side everyone of you.