Cityscape catches up with one of the city’s leading hair stylists, Niq James, of Headspace on hair trends for 2019 and his favourite cut and style.

The 80s is making a comeback, do you think we’ll see the return of the perm? We are seeing a lot of volume, body and curl with hairstyles at the moment. There is a return to ‘glamour looks’ and although there is curl seen, most people only want the option of having curl so will use styling tools like GHD curls rather than being limited to a look by having a perm.

What does 2019 hold for hair trends? We are seeing the return of the centre parting, slick styling for a structured look. The bob or lob (long bob) is still popular and versatile. We are seeing beautiful coppers and warm brunettes. Men’s looks are still really structured with a modern twist – think high fade with some movement through the top. The beard has been around for about eight years and is still popular but fashion conscious men are favouring a look that is a little different or edgier than the norm. Maybe longer with some movement (think Jake Gyllenhaal and Bradley Cooper).

Favourite go-to hair products? Redken Spray Wax – it comes in an aerosol can, has great control without the thick gluing texture that wax sometimes gives. Great for guys and girls. System Professional Instant Energy dry conditioner (like dry shampoo but without the grit). It leaves hair fresh and in beautiful condition. Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. It provides volume and texture without the ‘crunch’.

Favourite cut or style you like to do? I love the bob, such a beautiful classic that can be easily personalised for different client needs. For the boys? I still like a good high and tight fade with a side parting, maybe some wave for the more adventurous guy.

Is it true that gentlemen prefer blondes? I think that it’s a myth; I think women prefer to be blonde as it gives the look and feel of glamour. We have in-salon blonde specialists and the work they do is just beautiful.

Best advice for someone trying to return to their natural colour? It’s a case of personalising the look for the client. Keep going to the salon as you grow the old colour out. Be guided by your stylist. We have a colour range called Fabuloso Pro where you can make a bespoke coloured conditioner to meet your client’s needs. These are great to add some colour and shine to white hair and give the client some easy ways to alter or enhance the grey. It’s all about healthy hair. Our mantra is ‘beautiful hair needs an expert’ and we have stylists that are trained to deliver that.

headspacehair.co.nz