A Celebration of Vidal Sassoon

Kätlin Toompalu is an up and coming hair stylist who is currently located in Oslo, Norway. She was kind enough to talk to me about the "A Celebration of Vidal Sassoon" event that she was a part of on May 31st, 2012. 
But before we get to that, I wanted to comb through some of the finer details about the late legend.

The British hairdresser revolutionized the "wash and wear" philosophy. "With a great haircut they could shake it, brush it, do whatever they wanted and it would fall into place. This changed the craft." and it really did; the intricate styles of the 1950s made room for a more manageable hair routine for women.  I would guess that he would appreciate the growing trend of the DIY hairstyle tutorials that are available on Pinterest and the like. 

Sassoon's influences went beyond external beauty, specifically when he opened the Center for the study of Antisemitism. He also played a significant role in the real efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina.

He passed on May 9th, 2012 after his two year long battle with leukemia. 

Kätlin has been training at Adam & Eve in Oslo, and is ready to make her mark on the Oslo fashion and beauty scene. You heard it here first! 
She was kind enough of to take some time out of her busy days to talk to me about her experiences...Thank you Kätlin!

1. Could you tell us a little bit about the fashion scene in Oslo?

To be completely honest with you, before I started the school I  had no idea about fashion. I just tried to find something comfortable and warm to wear, I think that is what most of the Norwegians think as well. Walking around, I sometimes wonder if they cared enough to look in the mirror before heading out.
From my point of view it's definitely new and developing, younger generation and men might be more interested in it, but overall I don't think it matters much to them.

2. What were your experiences with the show and what was your role?

As you know, I'm a student at the hairdressing school Adam and Eve and this was our graduate show. Vidal Sassoon is most known for his wedge-bobs. The theme of the show was clear with the sharp angles and glossy straight hair.
Our budget was 0 and we had a week to find the models/sponsors and put the entire show together. Me and 2 other girls were responsible for the clothes. For the girl models we used the new Summer collection from Oasis. 
In total we had 22 models, so most of us were responsible for cutting/styling one of them.

3. What was the highlight of the event for you? 

The highlight of the show for me was when it finally started. The excitement of sharing with others what we've accomplished after just 4 months in school. The positive feedback from audience. The entire week was just amazing. 

4. What if any predictions do you have for hair and beauty trends for the fall/winter?

 I think it's going to be all about the black eyeliner, statement lashes, simple plaits (braids), natural looking haircolour or the complete opposite - short and edgy with lots of different colours.

5. What is your favorite summer trend and why?

It's got to be bright colours, bold prints and dip dye hair looks. It just makes everything more cheerful, especially when it decides to rain for a couple of weeks. 

6. What (if anything) do you think makes the fashion, beauty, style scene in Oslo different/unique?

People aren't afraid to be themselves and they don't get judged for it. I think that says it all.

7. How did you get into the industry, and what advice would you have for those trying to break into the industry?

Well, I wouldn't say I'm entirely in the industry yet, perhaps with just one foot. There's definitely a lot more work to be done. Patience, positivity, passion and confidence are the key words though. 

It seems that the fashion world in Oslo is up and coming, but certainly one that we should keep our eye on. Well who am I kidding...some of my token pieces are from Oslo. Don't miss out..