The Fellowship for British Hairdressing hosted its Xperience Hair Live showcase at HAIRCON 2026 in Manchester. The event took place over two days at the O2 Victoria Warehouse, offering education and inspiration. The Fellowship presented work from its project teams and brand partners, focusing on creativity, opportunity, diversity, and inclusivity.
Standout presentations included Project Extend's 'Grit and Grace,' exploring innovative extension techniques. Project X presented 'It's All Gone Pete Tong,' blending hair artistry with digital themes. Project Colour demonstrated technical skill and creative flair in hair colour. The F.A.M.E. Team showcased 'Counterculture,' drawing inspiration from the 1990s rave scene to explore individuality and self-expression.
As part of its 80th anniversary, the Fellowship offered eight members exclusive 10-minute stage slots to display their creativity. This provided emerging talent with a platform to gain visibility among the HAIRCON audience. These opportunities are crucial for career progression and exposure within the competitive hairdressing sector.
Beyond the stage, the Fellowship's Live Photographic Area provided practical experience for participants. Award-winning photographer Chris Bulezuik captured the work of project teams and brand partners. This experience simulated professional photoshoot conditions, preparing them for creating future project collections.
The Live Lounge facilitated post-show discussions and interviews. Hosted by Debbie Gee, Andrew Barton, and Sally Brooks, the lounge explored industry topics and creative processes. This format allows attendees to gain deeper insights directly from industry leaders and creatives.
Simon Shaw was announced as the Fellowship's 40th President during the President's Show on Sunday evening. Shaw, a long-standing member, has been instrumental in growing membership and developing educational initiatives like Project Men & Media. His leadership signifies a continued focus on strengthening the organisation's profile and offerings.
The Fellowship's presence at HAIRCON highlights its role in nurturing British hairdressing talent. The event offered a valuable space for learning from mentors and showcasing diverse creative skills. The organisation's ongoing growth, particularly during its 80th anniversary year, suggests a dynamic future for its community and members.
