So what does this have to do with hair?  Think of it as thread, yarn or any other type of fiber one would use to create your favorite sweater, shirt, blouse, etc.  The difference is a hairdresser’s medium is hair.  And with the right tools, there is nothing more beautiful than hair as a fabric!

So what are those tools?  We know of the obvious: a blow dryer, brushes, combs and such; but we cannot truly create a fabric without the baseline help of hair products.  Choosing the right products is important, for you are looking at mono & multi-fiber gels, creams and sprays to combine with hair and become one.  Mousse Volupte, Mythic Oil and Or Graphic: each from the Texture Expert line by L’Oreal Professionnel; are favorites as catalysts for my designs.  In conjunction with Densite, Volume Elevation or Fresh Dust, these products produce some incredibly beautiful styles.  I like to work Infinium #2 hairspray into the mix, as my binder, topping it off with #3 for hold, but if you live in the windy city – Infinium #4 or Freezing Mist is for you.  The point is hairsprays do not make the style, they finish the style, and you can’t create long lasting beautiful hair with just hairspray alone.

A textural change will happen when using product in your hair.  That change will help define the look you are going after and will give that look longevity.  Within the definition of fabric was an allusion to a building.  This second reference is also in direct correlation to hair and is in lock-step with how I visualize each product being layered together toward an end result.  As an example:  Densite is ever my beginning; the essential flooring for any design.  Layer Or Graphic to create my walls, while Infinium #3 becomes the roof.  Beautiful, yet simple.  Firm, yet pliable.  The array of products offered by Texture Expert are the keys to unlocking beautiful hair.

For more about creating fabric, or to get your own prescription for beautiful hair, feel free to contact me.

Scott Smith

Beginning at the end: I find myself writing this in my hotel room as part of the processing needed to truly digest the past few days;  an all encompassing new direction that the company is taking in it’s quest to set a new STANDARD and COMMIT to the hairdressing community – a FOUNDATION built 1909 by Eugene Schueller.

We closed with a toast, a symbol of an end and beginning that will be repeated from this point forward.  We were introduced, and soon will you, to iNOA ODS2.  Yes, the (r)evolution continues with iNOA and innovation.  This beautiful color system is now easier, faster, better!  Color that is more present.  Color that is more conditioning.  Color that is leading the way in creating beautiful hair.  I can’t wait to share this with everyone!

James Morrison popped in to share his undying passion for education.  The newest member of this growing family is at the core of why I do what I do.  He, along with the incomparable Diane Gentellalli, directly influenced me at an early age in my career to share with others what I love to do.  James’ love of hair and sharing is all too evident, as is his mastery of the message, and LP is all the richer for his presence.  If you know me, then you know I love The Finish.  So, to geek out on blow-styling a doll head like we did today with Morrison’s class made this confessed geek extremely happy.

The brilliant marketing department shared all the great toys to come.  Not just products mind you, but the multi-faceted ways in which LP will reach the consumer and support the hairdresser.  To have a 24/7 networking system for education brings new meaning to the word support.  This marketing team has accomplished with the launch if iNOA what no marketing team has, and yet they improve to create tools and initiatives unparalleled in the beauty industry.  Mad props here!

Beauty was front and center in the morning with the creative collections and inspirations at the hand of a talented team.  From balayage to classic painting and design,  our inspirations began with the Haute Couture standard set by Odile Gilbert.  A true master of beauty, Odile created the spirit for a truly beautiful collection: Somptueux. Huge props to the talented artists and wonderful models; there is no better word than – beautiful.

An incredible presentation meant to enlighten, elevate and set a foundation for us was given by Blair Singer.  This is what will set LP Education  apart: the tools to present, engage and inspire others; through the constant refinement of our presentation skills.  Much was gained and still more to learn, and one of the most important takeaways this weekend had to offer.

Kicking off the weekend was a message delivered by 2 incredible women:  Barbara De Laere and Suzanne Sturm; a vision of a strong future path rooted in the beginnings of L’Oreal and pushing ever forward on the strength of education.  The Haute Couture presentation set a standard of unequaled craftsmanship, while marketing showed why LP is the preeminent brand in the public’s mind.  This vision, and the path set forth, will give hairdressers everywhere the tools to be their best!

…That was great!  Now, on with the new.

What’s on the plate for 2012?  First up – DiaRichesse and DiaLight.  That’s right, the world of color as we know it is once again changing, and L’Oreal Professionnel is leading the way.  Our improved and new (sic) lineup of demi-permanents will enhance the creative skills of the professional and offer incredibly beautiful hair to the public.  Imagine being able to darken hair up to 4 levels in one fell swoop!  ”Hey Blondie.  Wanna go brunette?  DONE!”  Or how about adding pop to previous color, or toning those highlights?  EASY!  With our DiaRichesse Alkaline technology we can cover up to 70% grey hair, add a little bump to your new growth, or create a grand tonal change.  Our new DiaLight Acid technology opens so many new doors to creativity that you will have to experience it for yourself.  The sheer simplicity and beauty is astounding!

And let’s talk the services offered; whether you are GREY INCOGNITO, REFLECTS REVEALED or BACK TO ME – your natural tones have never looked better.  But what if you suffer from REFLECT ADDICTION or need a COLOR WAKE UP?  Don’t worry, we have the right prescription.  And if you woke up screaming TONE MY HIGHLIGHTS or think yourself a hollywood diva and need that PHOTO GLOSS, your hair will never look better (or brighter!).  But what of that dull finish you see after a re-texturing service?  The SHAPE AND COLOR service will ease your mind and enhance your beauty.

You see, it’s all so simple.  Whether a hairdresser or a client, your world just became more easy and pretty.

When choosing a product for that incredible hairstyle of yours just created by your favorite stylist, it is important to know 3 things:  the texture of your hair, what your new look needs to support that style and the amount of effort you are willing to put forth to create that look.  Let’s look at these, one at a time.

The texture of your hair… This is the first thing your stylist wants to know when creating that style and/or color, it gives a world of information that helps your stylist determine how to best achieve the desired results.  It’s also what you need to know when choosing which product is best for you.  Whether fine, medium or coarse, L’Oréal Professionnel Texture Expert styling products will have what you need.  Let’s find out how to define your texture.  Take one strand of your hair and rub it between your fingers.  If you don’t feel anything = it’s fine.  You feel something gently between your fingers = medium.  The strand you feel has a strong and wire-like feel = coarse.   SMOOTH ULTIME – cream blow styling lotion – will take coarse hair and make it feel silky and smooth, while EXPANSION styling mousse will take fine hair into the world of fullness.

The needed support for that new style… Whether the change is subtle, or a complete makeover, your new look demands the right products to show it off.   If you are desiring a bit of lift at the root, VOLUME ELEVATION or LIFT EXTREME may be what you need.  Combine with DENSITE and you have the perfect foundation to beautifully voluminous hair.

Time and effort… Whether you love spending time on your hair, or are rushing out the door dripping wet, you need a product that speaks to your lifestyle.  Texture Expert products have just what you need to achieve your desired look in the amount of time you allow yourself the effort.  Our curl enhancers are a quick and easy way to creating beautiful bounce.  From ELASTICITE to SPIRAL EXTREME, your curls have never looked better!  Perhaps though, you prefer to play, then welcome to our wide array of products; creams, pomades, gels and sprays are all at your beck and call…

… Ask your stylist for advice on what’s best for you or log onto www.lorealprofessionnel-us.com to find a salon near you that carries L’Oréal Professionnel Texture Expert.

Yes, L’Oreal Professionnel took all of us to the moon during our annual Sales, Education and Marketing event.  This was 5 days of learning, yearning and sharing.  From cocktails to reports on sales, both here at home as well as the world picture.  We were inspired by an Enigma, embraced change from within and were schooled on strictly business.  It was a powerful, empowering, exhilarating and exhaustingly good time.

A cocktail party was offered up by LP the evening of everyones arrival and it was a great icebreaker; getting to visit with friends from all over and meet new ones in the process, then a chat over dinner with a few more, allowing our minds to prepare for the coming days in an open and happy state.  Over the next two days we were presented with where we’ve been, where we are going, new tools to teach and be creative, as well as numerous calls to action.

In twenty-ten, LP became the fastest growing professional line on the market and the Number One brand in the company’s portfolio.  WOOT!  The jubilation and collective exhale felt great.  Our goal though, is to be Number One across the board…and achieve we will.  We owe much to the launch of iNOA, our ammonia-free permanent hair color.  It took the industry by storm and continues to grow, forging a paradigm shift and elevating the industry to new heights (I will speak more on iNOA at a later date).  We also though, owe a great deal to the amazing team amassed by LP; these are my brothers and sisters, working hard to elevate our industry with the best tools in the business – from the best team in the business!

Team breakouts during these few days included color swatch challenges and new product introductions, collection work and education gadget play (they gave us projectors!), but they also included HAA; Hairdressers Against Aids.  This is an amazing initiative that I will also soon speak at length on, but suffice it to say that Hairdressers Against Aids is a movement a longtime in coming.  I am proud to become a voice in the fight to end HIV/AIDS.

There are so many highlights at this event, that it is hard to say one was above all others, but our company dinner and collection presentation was certainly near the top.  How do you feed 400 hungry and slightly tipsy hairdressers?  LP does it well.  Great company and food, champagne flowing and for dessert – “Spring Illusion”.   Our spring/summer color and design collection created by Shelley Mohr, Jason Backe, Kristjun Holt and Joe DiMaggio.  Beautifully creative and thought provoking…it hits at the core of what my industry is all about – creating beauty.

Two other standout events were Strictly Business and Embracing Change.  Strictly Business is in essence, what our industry needs to survive.  Scratch that…ANY industry needs to survive.  Before the recession businesses ran high and wild, thinking their plan for success was strong.  Once the recession hit, it exposed the underbelly of deeply flawed planning countrywide.  Strictly Business is a comprehensive plan to teach tried and true business success models, and we at LP once again, lead the way with offering this program to our industry to partner and create success.

The other standout is Embracing Change.  Tanya Chernova is a bright and shining light of enthusiasm, empowerment and reaching ever upward.  Her program gives you the tools to understanding others, while discovering yourself.  LP brought Tanya to us so as to further enhance our tools in teaching and learning.  An accomplished business woman and coach, Tanya inspired us to truly work, create and be what we know we can be…

…and I was fortunate enough to have experienced her twice.  What an honor and what a goal; to do as she does is an opportunity I look forward to creating.

I mentioned it was hard to pinpoint that one thing rising above all others, but find it I did.  It was in the I am happily part of – Team NorCal.  Everyone from my region showed up for this incredible event, and I thank them for being the team of professionals they are.  I am proud to stand alongside them and look forward to sharing in their successes for many years to come.

Earlier this year I scampered up to Portland and Seattle for L’Oreal, to share the passion I have for the cut and was privileged to meet and work with some wonderfully talented designers.   Jody and Richelle, comrades in L’Oreal, were my booking agents, handlers and women of wisdom – teaching me ropes I was to soon grab hold of (that is another story, saved for later).  I visited five salons on this three day trip; all of them passionate, talented and involved in the learning experience.  Not meaning to give short shrift, and desiring to honor all for their hospitality and commitment, I list them now:  Tres Bon was first up and a great way to begin my trip.  Teal, followed by Pigment, began day 2, while Teze and Paule Attar rounded out my travels.

Tres Bon, located in Portland, has an energetic and young staff eager to learn.  Many of the staff are in the early years of their career and are looking for that much needed education and direction to grow.  Many of my peers have recently had the pleasure to further Tres Bon’s knowledge and creativity and, knowing how well L’Oreal supports their salon family, Tres Bon will continue to grow.

It isn’t often one gets to step into a space wherein one of your team members, designers of the highest caliber, works.  I had the chance to do this twice in one day.

The following morning I had the privilege of visiting Teal Salon.  This urban setting houses upscale service and talent, mentored by Deannalyn and Ryan, L’Oreal Portfolio Artists and incredible talents to boot!  Teal too, has a young staff and their talents are growing at a rapid pace due to the strong educational structure put forth by the Teal’s.  Presenting education in front of such talent is an experience rarely shared, but one I will always cherish and seek.  I cannot speak enough about Teal and my reverence for them, so I will ask you to see for yourself.  After all, they aren’t called the coolest salon for nothing.  Again I say, a privilege it was to share among talents I revere.  That evening I would have the further honor of Joining Ryan, Deannalyn and Tuesday, their daughter, in breaking bread and talking on our favorite subject.  Something about serious conversation regarding hair just turns me on to no end.  Thank you for such fine food, wine and company.

After leaving Teal Salon, I ventured to downtown Portland and Pigment.  Tina Helmer has put together an incredible team in a front-and-center location, challenging the downtown trollers to find a better place for their style.  Bradford Vinson anchors the color department, as well as being an incredible Portfolio Artist, and was only too kind to partake in my design class (he would also join me for the last day of my trip to Seattle).  When next in Portland, visit Pigment and checkout the beautiful window displays (Tina, you are good) and talented staff.

The next day Bradford and I drove to Seattle and it’s outlying areas.  Bradford went to Tacoma and I was carted to Teze Salon in Puyallup.  They were in the throws of a move to their new location, but were eager to learn and share.  Imagine my excitement at having over a dozen wonderful designers fully engaged, hairs flying and all!  A truly wonderful experience and I look forward to seeing Teze Salon’s new digs soon.

Last, but certainly not least, Paule Attar Salon and Day Spa. This presentation was a collections class given by Bradford and myself.  He of color, I of design.  We had the opportunity to show our work on two models, and one of them was Paule herself.  I love this place and Paule Attar especially, having had the privilege of showcasing uphair styling there in the past.  Someday soon, I plan to visit the spa section of this fabulous place…pampering the priority.

Again, this was all achieved; five presentations in three days, and my time north, though quick, was incredible.  Honored to share always, especially in front of such talent, and even more so when those talents are L’Oreal peers.

Thank you everyone, for such hospitality.

…David Kinigson is pure talent.

I was fortunate this past October to be at L’Oreal Professionnel’s SOHO Academy, wherein I assisted in “Alternative Inspiration: The Cyberhood Collection” by DavidK Space.  Pure, unadulterated cutting at its finest!  An incredible opportunity for any stylist, especially wherein yours truly is concerned.  To talk theory, to breakdown the cut, to challenge the very universe I roam is a space I take up residence as much as possible.  DavidK lives next door.

The art of the cut is an ever evolving theoretical study and, in my career, I have been fortunate to be influenced and inspired by many incredible designers.  Some directly, while others from a distance.  First and foremost (everything always comes back to her) is Diane Gentellalli.  She pushed, prodded and engaged my creativity to a level standard not met since…by anyone.  It was an euphoric experience to study under such genius.  Indeed, my work has since come back to the roots laid by her; the influence being so strong.  There were many ‘tweeners (Fekkai, Sassoon, Llongueras, Mascolo, MaBurra, Sahag) leading up to meeting David, some direct and others inspired, and the path could not have been any different, varied or greater than the one I walk now.

For one thing the influences and mentors above allowed me to develop techniques I can call my own.  All artists and craftsmen develop their own style and approach based on their teachings, whether direct or indirect, conscious or not.  We call these techniques ours, but they aren’t.  These are but the skills honed through tireless practice and study, bringing in one while discarding another.  Don’t get me wrong – I own my approach, but I am an amalgam of many.

In Joining L’Oreal Professionnel, I was introduced to Michael McCune.  It is important to mention Michael as he is the creator of our TextureCutting program.  (I shall not delve into it’s defining principles at this point, leaving it for another day).  TextureCutting too, draws it’s influence from afar, but is now thoroughly imbedded in many a conscience, mine included, as a singular theory to hair design.  In meeting Michael I found a peer speaking the same language and living the same approach to hair as I.  We have shared theory, technique and verbiage over these past few years and his ideas have further developed my skills as I have continued to explore the cut.  In working with David Kinigson I witnessed a furthering of my approach to design.

David’s 2 day course at SOHO academy took his students away from pragmatic fundamentals in hair design to a more internally inspired, yet thoroughly technical approach to design creation.  To speak and think logically with one’s approach, but to draw internally – from the gut, from the heart.  David has written a school curriculum textbook that breaks down everything related to hair; be it technique, presentation, professionalism, etc.  I have it and wish I had it back in school.  This stuff just wasn’t taught back in my day, only learned through experience.  What a resource for the young up and comers!  David’s time at SOHO did tap the internal hairdresser, but he tapped it through logic and passion.  His passion to share is glaring, and anyone having the opportunity to share in that passion, is truly indebted.

David was surrounded by a stellar and talented team in Parker, Melrose and Anita (with many others lending hands), and it was plainly evident how much an influence he has on everyone; their talents and confidence anchored in knowledge and practice.  I especially shine a light on young Anita for hers is a talent a year plus removed from school, but showing wisdom many more years removed.  A rising star indeed.

David’s is a TextureCutting approach expanded upon through his years of study and dissection.  He shared techniques that allow anyone, using any approach in cutting (be it vertical, horizontal, etc.), to take that cut to a new place previously unknown… Finished.

Yes, finished.  Just when you think there is nothing left in the fridge!

I look instead, to this year in front of us and, though it be cold and wet outside, the sun will shine bright and warm.

Many happy days ahead and a very Happy New Year always.

FREELANCE SALON is located on Fifth Avenue at Pennsylvania in the Hillcrest neighborhood of San Diego.   Balboa Park is just a stones throw away and surrounding the salon are some delectable eateries. But the most important place to be is in one of the many salon chairs.  The staff is wonderful and their craftsmanship is second to none.  From cuts to color, relaxers to styling, FREELANCE has the talent and education you demand.  The reason I tell you all this is because, for a few days each month, I call this gem home.   Packed to the gills, but they found a place for me (and I thank you).

That’s right, I now ply my trade at this wonderful new locale.  April was my first visit there and my clients really enjoyed the new space.  Quite a few questions and raised eyebrows from them, wondering why I made the move, but happy clients just the same (for the record, since your’e probably asking too, it was just time to move on).  Everyone there, especially Diane and Abby, helped my clients to feel at home.  And they have all your favorite products to choose from.

For those of you yet to visit me there, or if your’e looking for a new home for your hair, visit FREELANCE…they will take great care of you!

beautiful is what you are

And speaking of photos, look to my gallery for the latest of my works.  To refresh, back in January I worked on a shoot with Shana Schnur that I called “yarnplay”.  Together with a wonderful team (Jensee, Nora, Libby and Liz), we created some seriously beautiful imagery, and hope that upon viewing, you will think likewise.  Shana just exhibited some of these pictures at the Visual Arts Gallery in New York, a great accomplishment for anyone!  We plan on sending images out in hopes of sharing them with others.  Come July, when I’m back in New york, we will shoot again.  And this time, I hope to expand the shoot over a few days, being sure to squeeze as much creativity from all as I can.  Did I say more?  Indeed, there is always more to share and I will do just that.

I’m working hard in the areas of L’Oreal, Salon Marzia and QOD…no rest for the hungry!

Classes and shows are in full swing now with L’Oreal and beauty abounds.  My travels have me visiting some dynamic salons filled with wonderful designers.  I love sharing with my peers and this is the perfect outlet, allowing me to delve into the creative and educational worlds I am so passionate about.  Being an artist for L’Oreal keeps me focused on ever sharpening my skills, which only serves to better care for clients and share with stylists.

I’m building and building and building at Salon Marzia right now and, should you know of someone needing some beauty guidance, feel free to drop my name.  My greatest ability to build a client base is by relying on all of you.   Friends, brides and event followers all need their hair done and I am the one to do it.  Whether in San Francisco, San Diego, points west, east, north or south, I am ready available.

Having added QOD – the premiere Brazilian Keratin system, to my folio, I am now ready to tackle the latest craze in the beauty industry and, if you suffer from frizzy, bulky, worn-out hair, or just desire to lessen your curl, call on me.  I am excited about this new technology, and even more excited to see QOD takeover the relaxer industry.  That is why I work so hard with the company to assure it’s success.

That’s about it for now…a bit rambling, but I am just that excited!

beautiful is what you are