Hair Style 2009

HAIR STYLE 2009 (Kortrijk – Belgium) closed on 16 February. Once again, the leading trade event for hair stylists in the Benelux was the premier meeting place for everyone active in the sector. No fewer than 19 631 loyal professionals visited the eighth HAIR STYLE trade fair in Kortrijk Xpo: 10 247 visitors on Sunday and 9 384 on Monday. This is 6% less than last time but in view of the uncertain economic situation and the absence of some big brand names at the 2009 edition, these were still excellent attendance figures!

The first reactions from exhibitors were very positive: valuable (new) contacts and even better results than expected. The organizers also received many appreciative comments on the quality and professional level of exhibits and exhibitors, the impressive programme of shows and look & learn sessions, the green focus in Greenovation, the Salon of the Future black box and much more. All in all, HAIR STYLE 2009 had all the essential ingredients for a must-do, inspiring and motivating visit!

Back to basics

Once again, HAIR STYLE was the place for trendspotting. The 150 exhibitors welcomed visitors in magnificently decorated stands showcasing the latest products and hair styling trends, new (natural) colouring products, elegant, easy to use washbasins and the latest must-have styling tools in the shopping section. Visitors were particularly interested in the green hair cosmetics, made with respect for the environment and a minimum of aggressive chemicals.

A back to basics trend emerged clearly in the show presentations too, with more emphasis on natural hair colour tints. The Salon of the Future black box also attracted a lot of attention; inside, interior designers gave animated video presentations of their vision of the salon of the future. All-round concepts including beauty and wellness facilities, cocooning and pampering were a recurring theme. A visit to the hairdresser should be an enjoyable experience for every client!

Ergonomic tools, products for young people, and anti-aging products centre-stage

Visitors to the event could vote for what they felt was the most innovative product at the exhibition. The winner of the Innovation Award 2009 is the AERORASOR produced by AEROTOOLS: this innovative razor consists of a holder and a variety of blades that can be inserted in different positions so that it is comfortable for the stylist to use and easy to manipulate. A well-designed ergonomic tool that considerably reduces the likelihood of occupational hazards like repetitive strain injuries (RSI).

In second place came BLEND by KEUNE. This range of styling products can be mixed and matched as you like. A new salon concept designed for the younger client who doesn’t want to be told what to do and prefers to work out her (or his!) own style. In third place: RE:NU AGE DEFY by FRABLO: the first and only hair system that specifically targets hair ageing. It is based on scientific research and combats thinning and greying hair.

A full house for the show programme

World-famous international teams and the best of Belgium presented inspiring and creative top-level educational demonstrations. The Farouk artistic team staged a dynamic, colourful show full of new techniques and above all, a high entertainment value! Pro Duo launched the top brand Paul Mitchell on the main stage with great success and Art Libre Padiglione staged a stylish show with voluminous haute couture chignons. The top event with an auditorium bursting at the seams was the Flux Collection by Toni & Guy International, with original, daring hairstyles and colourful combinations.

UBK / UCB launched the première of the latest Belgian Impact collection and William de Ridder produced a glamorous show with superb clothes by Nicky Vankets. In 2009, HAIR STYLE has once again proved that it is an absolute top event for hair stylists in the Benelux and a real source of inspiration and motivation for the whole sector, especially in these difficult economic times!

Model after a long to short hair makeover