Colour NOTES

James Earnshaw talks about the role of AI in hair colour trends and the power of a transformation

What do you love most about being a colourist?

I love the fact that we live in a really playful time – there are so many colours out there to create, from natural tones to more vibrant colours. This gives me so much variety in the work I get to create.

What colour trends are you pleased to see out of fashion?

I actually think we’re living in a time where anything could come back round again, but I will admit that I don’t miss un-toned highlights.

1: REFLECTIONS

Are there any colour trends you’d like to bring back?

I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’m actually enjoying the calico hair trend that’s come back into fashion. It’s hard to get right, but when it is done correctly it looks great.

2: OUT OF THIS WORLD

What are the challenges facing colourists right now?

I think AI and celebrity inspirations are making clients ask us to achieve the impossible, but it’s up to us as colour professionals to guide them on what is and isn’t possible and what's more realistic for them.

What do you think will be the next big colour trend?

I think AI-inspired hair colour, but made realistic. I'm thinking hair colour that has a lot of dimensions, really unique tonalities and highs and lows that almost looks unreal because it’s so shiny and premium looking.

What colour techniques are you known for?

I would say colour transformations is my big thing. I'm known for a lot of lightening and creative toning, creating per fectly balanced hair that looks playful but still sexy and premium.

3: JUST WANNA HAVE FUN

What colour transformation are you most proud of?

There are so many different colour transformations that I love, so it’s really hard to choose… I think maybe a pastel, multi-tonal bob I did in Athens, Greece for a show. It was creative and super sexy.

What advice would you give to a trainee colourist?

Practice and practice, but make sure to learn your colour theory too. It’s not just about the practical skills, it’s about the knowledge of what you’re using and why.

4: IT'S GIVING...LUXE

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learnt from being a colourist?

I’ve learnt that you really can change someone’s life with a hair colour transformation, and always remember to strand test!