The prestigious black-tie event took place on Monday 29th November at Grosvenor House, a J W Marriott Hotel in London’s Park Lane, with winners receiving their awards in front of a 1,400 strong audience of hairdressing peers, influencers, and press.
Host for the evening – widely regarded as the ‘Oscars’ of the hairdressing industry – was Rylan Clarke-Neal, who was joined by Jayne Lewis-Orr, Executive Director of HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards and General Manager for Henkel Beauty Care Professional UK & Ireland, Julian Crane. During the dazzling ceremony, guests were treated to entertainment from legendary musician Tony Hadley and live shows from the British nominees showcasing incredible hair artistry on the night.
The awards – now in their 37th year – are a celebration of hairdressing excellence, recognising the outstanding achievements of stylists from England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. The competition is fiercely contested over two rounds and requires entrants to submit a photographic collection showcasing their expertise, both in terms of technical skill and creative ability.
Categories acknowledge the best hairdressers from nine British regions, as well as standout talent in eight specialist categories including Afro, Men’s, Avant-Garde, and Colour Technician. The biggest award of the event – British Hairdresser of the Year – is by nomination only and widely regarded as the greatest accolade in the industry. Robert Eaton scooped the title – the second time this business owner from Leeds & Barnsley has been crowned British Hairdresser of the Year. Robert represents a range of outstanding hairdressing skills with his entry collection, and in winning he beat strong competition from nine other hairdressers who are leading names in the industry.
Jayne Lewis-Orr said:
These awards recognise the very best of British hairdressing talent, celebrating the passion, artistry, and expertise of individuals from across the country. All our winners have demonstrated that they are accomplished and gifted stylists with an impeccable eye for detail. Every year, this competition gets tougher as the standard of entries improves. Congratulations to all our winners who should feel incredibly proud to be recognised at this level.
Schwarzkopf Professional has been the sole sponsor of the event since its launch in 1985. Julian Crane said:
Schwarzkopf Professional is honoured to once again be the sponsor of this seminal event which recognises the most exciting talent in a remarkable industry. It is a true privilege to be back in this beautiful room, celebrating stylists from all four corners of the country. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners, who should be admired for their resilience and for continuing to inspire, create and unite in the most challenging of times.
Specialist Category Winners 2021:
Regional Winners 2021