We are thrilled to partner with the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) to promote all of the talented artists who are finalists for the 2016 NAHAs (North American Hairstyling Awards), the most prestigious hair and beauty award in the country. Bangstyle had the honor of interviewing amazing hair artist and, one of this year’s finalists in the “Masters” category, Vivienne Mackinder.
Vivienne Mackinder is truly a visionary in this beautiful industry. She has honed her style and success from the beginning, as an Artistic Director for Vidal Sassoon. The importance of education has never left her side, as she continues to reinvent herself and keep growing. Learn more about Vivienne’s many accomplishments and see her 2016 NAHA Finalist in the “Master” Category Collection, “Uncompromised Beauty.”
What was the inspiration behind your “Uncompromised Beauty” collection?
I wanted to showcase a commercial, sexy and glamorous collection, with a relaxed sensibility. Highlighting hair that women will wear today, rather than typical competition hair.
How do you prepare for a successful shoot?
With each new collection I move in the opposite direction from the last collection - for example my last “NAHA winning collection 2015 Masters” was the Journey collection, inspired by Japanese Samurai Warriors, which was bold and dramatic. This collection, “Uncompromised Beauty,” was created with the desire to put the “B” back in beauty. I always draw the collection first and then build my team around the vision and name of the collection.
Do you always work with the same team? Have you used the same team before, or did you work with someone new?
For this shoot I used my same team who are amazing.
Photographer Roberto Ligresti and Makeup Artist David Maderich.
What drives you to keep competing?
I have never gone into a studio to shoot for NAHA, rather I hope to shoot my best collection. If the story fits the category then I submit to NAHA. In truth I wanted to enter this collection into “Contemporary Classic,” but it did not comply with NAHA rules. So, I entered Masters, as I did comply. I thought this collection has an outside chance of winning as it is not the typical competition hair.
I also feel that it is important for competitions to reinvent themselves to be fresh, modern, and relevant. Since my collection is “Non competition” looking, the collection stands out. Regardless of winning or not, I think the collection will inspire stylists for everyday work in the salon. Finally, I love to reinvent myself and a competition helps keep the name out there. Which is a big deal in such a crowded market.
Outside of hair, where do you draw inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from art, nature, movies and fashion.
What do you think is the most exciting technique in the world of hair right now?
The freedom of choice as there are so many trends, one can truly design to the individual personality and style of a woman.
What’s your favorite styling trick?
Teasing the roots and setting this texture, I did this in the Uncompromised Beauty collection.
What other nominated collections inspired you?
David Barron, Contemporary Classic Great Cuts.
Matt Swinney, North American Hairstyling Awards
What’s the one tool or product you can live without?
My razor.
What advice can give to the next generation of stylists?
Follow your passion with relentless determination. Success is being excited about the day in front of you, feeding your heart and your pocket. If you do not feel this then make a change until you do. You can’t buy time so don’t waist it. Don’t chase money - that will come when you are true to your gifts and passion.
Who is the one person you don’t want to forget to thank on stage?
My husband, for his amazing support and unconditional love.
Be sure to stalk Vivienne Mackinder on Bangstyle to see all of her amazing hair art and inspirations!
