Established in 1956, L'Oréal Colour Trophy is the longest running live hairdressing competition, which showcases some of the best hairdressing talents across the country.
Yasmine Byfield, who is studying a Level 3 Hairdressing Apprenticeship, applied for the competition through her employer at Sassy’s Hair Salon in Wolverhampton.
“This competition is something that the salon has done for years,” said Yasmine, “As I had gained enough confidence and experience in the industry, I asked to be put forward.”
Entrants were required to create a look inspired by current trends, featuring a colour that has not been used before and could be a trend in the near future.
Yasmine had only 30 minutes to style her model’s hair, which was presented at the competition’s catwalk show in front of an expert panel of judges.
“They based their final decision on the overall look of the model, with the main focus being on her hair,”
she added.
“The competition was split into eight regions around the country, and they selected the top 10 to win ‘Best in Region’. Then from this group, only two were selected to go through to the finals.”
The final of the competition will take place at the L’Oreal Academy in London, where Yasmine will showcase the talents she had developed through her apprenticeship in front of the competition organisers.
“My apprenticeship has brought out a confidence in me that I didn’t realise I had. I’ve learned a lot from working full time in a salon, and I don’t think my degree of understanding would be the same if I had studied in a different way.
I have a talented, supportive team around me at work and through college that have taught me and encouraged me along the way and continue to do so every day.”
Yasmine hopes to specialise in creative colour and train in other areas of hairdressing.
“This apprenticeship has made my career aims more achievable, as I have learned so much and have had many opportunities, such as entering this competition. One day, I’d like to have my own salon, but for now, I really enjoy what I’m doing and building up my clients.”
Walsall College offer a number of apprenticeships in a wide range of subjects including hair and beauty. To find out more, come to our next Open Day to speak to a tutor.