"Staying on top of trends is so inspiring for a stylist-it not only makes our guests look good, it keeps things interesting for us," says Ruth Roche, Artistic Ambassador for Pureology Serious Colour Care.
Whether researching for new collections, doing editorial work, teaching, or being behind the chair, Roche has a system in place.
"I turn to the Internet and check out tons of fashion sites, like http://www.harpersbazaar.com and http://www.style.com, to see the runway looks from designers, and then I streamline all the looks into trends," she adds.
Roche then looks to European and domestic magazines to scout trends in ad campaigns and editorial layouts. "I'm looking to be inspired by shapes, colors, and patterns/textures that could be cool artistically for collections, as well as translatable elements that could work for clients. I use this info as inspiration, mix it together and pull various elements to create my own looks and interpretations for collections."
What's hot for Fall 2014?
1. 1960's influence: Inspired by the past, but very modern
2. Shapes over shapes: An A-line shape fitted over an hourglass sheath with puffy sleeves
3. Men's wear: Simple, tailored, and utilitarian
4. Mixed media: Elements that wouldn't normally go together, but actually work well together
Short hair will still be hot for fall, but making it fresh so women don't get bored with it will be the trick to keeping clients excited. "I want to incorporate the shapes-over-shapes concept to add interest. Normally hair is one shape, but I may put a shape on top of a shape… say a bubble on top of a graduated bob," explains Roche.
"All the capes and dresses reminiscent of the 60's make me think about adding deep side-parts and full crowns to various haircuts. I want a whisper of the era, not a literal translation of the styles, which can look dated and not very cool at all. My challenge will be to keep it fresh for editorial work and realistic for clients," says Roche.