#REDKENREADY | Backstage with Jorge Joao at WMCFW

This season I got the opportunity to, once again, hang out with Redken Canada backstage at the tents during World MasterCard Fashion Week. I made sure my hair was extra greasy (i.e. didn’t wash it for a week) when I went in on Tuesday evening for my ugly duckling-cum-swan transformation using the hottest styling product, the Triple Take 32 hairspray.

Redken stylist, Ken, worked his magic to give me a twisted chignon with a side bang from the Narces Spring 16 runway. This was one of my favourite looks from the week, along with the snow-white wigs at Mikael D. It was so fun to get the runway looks that all the models were sporting without having to don the 9-inch heels.

After taking multiple selfies in the Redken selfie mirror, I was off to interview Redken lead stylist, Jorge Joao and ask him all his fashion week secrets….

Here’s some of his top tips for runway hair at home and beyond:

1. A ponytail isn’t just a ponytail. Jorge says that changing the part can mean different things. A deep part can be more moody while a middle part give the feeling of balance and happiness. Next time you’re tying up your hair, ask yourself, do I feel lucky today?
2. Jorge’s #1 cannot live without styling product backstage? Redken Fashion Waves. Can you blame him? He helped formulate it. Fashion Waves is a sea salt spray that gives texture to the hair, adding that extra grip he needs when styling hair for a runway show in a heartbeat.
3. Don’t take the runway literally. Jorge encourages the DIYers to be inspired, not imitate. Before you attempt a runway look at home you should consider how to work it into your own style and personality; make it your own.
4. New trends this season? Wigs, fringe, and lots of pink slime. For Mikhael Kale, it was pulled back and set with pink slime – I loved it. Kind of reminded me of my sleek silver glitter look last season, also a Redken creation.
5. Spring 16 is all about twists and knots. If you want to embrace the new wave of hair styles, you have to lose and loosen the braid, says Jorge. A relaxed take on the plait – knot your hair and go!
6. How does Jorge approach the days leading up to fashion week? By getting out of his comfort zone! This is life advice guys, not just hair advice. Jorge says if he doesn’t come into fashion week feeling just a little bit scared at the task and style challenges he has set up for him and his team, he has to push further to get to that edge before he can do his job right. That’s when the magic happens.

This post was sponsored by the lovely people at Redken Canada, however the views and opinions are my own. The interview is as told to me by Jorge Joao backstage at the tents. 

Justine Iaboni