PROJECT: X Perfect Their Session Skills

The second PROJECT: X mentoring day of the year took place during London Fashion Week – making it the perfect time to learn more about the art and craft of session styling from not one, but two experts in the field.

The day started with a session from Paul Jones. After sharing his own session work and career story, Paul showcased two of his failsafe styling techniques and his tips for creating the – always popular, deceptively difficult – perfect catwalk ponytail.

In the afternoon, Leigh Keates took over to share another side of session styling and demonstrated two more techniques to the team, inspired by his most recent show work.

For the team, the day was an insightful look into the world of session work – both how to get involved in the first place, and how to master techniques once you’ve secured the work.

“I’m taking away two main things,” says team member Alice Harvey. “One, to get a session kit prepared and two, to create opportunities by putting myself out there, being available, leaving my ego at the rood and assisting.”

For Pamela Cooney, the technical skills were a key takeaway. “Paul showed us how to create a strong base with ponytails, which can then be turned into a variety of quick, fashion-forward hair ups. I’ll be doing them on all of my clients! I would say this is one of the most insightful days I’ve ever had in my career.”

Guest Mentors

Leigh Keates and Paul Jones

Project Leader

Angelo Vallillo

PROJECT: X Team 2020

India Sparacia, Sculpture Salon

Sophie Titchener, Sarai Hair & Beauty

Emma Vickery, SACO Hair

Alice Harvey, Lily’s

Lea Shaw, Rural Fringe Hair Salon

Olivia Miles, Hobson and Holmes

Verity Ollerenshaw, Tint

Cc McNamee, Andrew Smith Salons

Pamela Cooney, Toni & Guy

April Mash, Strangeways

Emma Simmons, Salon 54

Stephen Smith, Ken Picton Salon