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Colorist of the Year

Artistry that showcases texture mastery in color formulation and application on hair texture types 3-8.

Collection Hair Colorist Sharmelle Winsett .jpeg
Collection Hair Colorist Sharmelle Winsett 2.jpeg
Collection Hair Colorist Sharmelle Winsett 3.jpeg

Guidelines & Regulations

For THE Collection Colorist of the Year we are looking for artists to show mastery, elevation, and artistry in hair color. Hair color should demonstrate a skillful understanding of texture. We encourage you to challenge yourself and step out of the box with your color formulations!

We are looking for you to demonstrate coloring skills, elevation, innovation, and creativity across a cohesive collection of three (3) unique color looks.​

We encourage you to step out of the box, challenge your artistry, and show the full range, beauty, and ability of textured hair in your creations.

Entry Open: Jan. 16, 2023

Submission Deadline: August 18, 2023

Finalist Announced: August 25, 2023 

Winners Announced: Oct. 8, 2023, at THE Summit

Submission Conditions

  • Each entrant may submit entries for both THE Collection and THE Snapshot without conflict.

  • Each entrant may submit the same image collection across a maximum of two THE Collection categories. Please be sure to check that your collection meets the rules and requirements for both categories.

  • There are no limits to category submissions per entrant.

  • Each entrant must complete and submit an Artist Release Form per entry.

  • A Model Release Form must be submitted per model, and hair color formulation(s) must be included for all hair color entries.

  • Each submission must meet the rules and regulations specific to its category in order to qualify.

Final Collection Submission Requirements

  • 3 final images showcasing 3 uniquely different but cohesive looks* on 1 or more models. No more than ¾ of the body in the photo–the hair should be the focus.

  • 1 unedited photo of each final image.

  • 1 before photo of each model (with natural hair) or 1 before photo of each model with unstyled wigs/extensions is required if utilizing wigs/extensions.

  • *At least 1 look must be thermally styled and at least 1 look must be styled naturally.

  • **Models must have natural texture type 3-8. Please review the official rules & judging criteria for detailed information.

  • ***Wigs must have a natural texture type 3-8. Please review the official rules & judging criteria for detailed information.

  • ****3 final images, 3 unedited final images, 1 before image for each model (Note wig/extension specifications if utilizing).

Headpieces & Hair Ornaments

  • Headpieces and hair ornaments are NOT allowed

Creative Photo Effects/Retouching

  • Photo retouching of the hair color or shape is NOT permitted and will be subject to disqualification.

  • Creative photo effects (i.e., filters, overlays, etc.) are NOT allowed as they may take away from the visual judging of the hair color.

  • Moderate retouching of skin is permitted.

Image Quality

  • All images must be in portrait format

  • All images must be in JPEG (.jpg) format

  • All images must have a resolution of 300DPI (CMPI not accepted)

Cutting Tips

  • Execute expert curl cutting techniques that result in an inspiring look.

Entries Open Jan. 16, 2023

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