The American Crew All-Star Challenge highlights the outstanding world class talents in men’s grooming. The competition combines the art and science of men’s grooming and creating authentic style – the cut, the model and the photograph – to deliver the ultimate interpretation of the American Crew man.

Fifteen finalists recently competed in Brussels with two days of competition photo shoots on May 4 and 5, during which each cut and styled their model, then worked with American Crew Founder David Raccuglia to shoot and select the photo that would represent their final look. Adam Mir of the UK was announced as the American Crew 2016-2017 All-Star Challenge Global Winner on May 8th in a joint event with Revlon Style Masters.

Meet the French finalist, Ciaràn O'Sullivan:

Describe your professional career path.

My real interest in barbering started when I was 14 years old. I developed an interest in, and admiration for, different styles and techniques of hairdressing. I found myself becoming increasingly keen to keep up to date with the latest hairstyles and fashion trends through magazines and social media. At the age of 16 I was granted a two week work experience placement in Wayne Lloyd Creative Hair, and it was here where my barbering career started. Since then I have been trained under the careful eye of my mentor Wayne Lloyd, who was the person that gave me the chance to pursue my barbering career. I have also learned and developed my barbering skills from Adam O’Callaghan, John Keegan and Aaron Healy. All of these experiences have resulted in me being in the position to where I am now, which is being a finalist in the American Crew All-Star Challenge.

What do you love most about being a stylist?

Being a stylist gives me the freedom to be as creative as I want in a space that allows me to express my visions and skills comfortably and confidently.

Do you have any influences from your life that motivate and inspire you artistically?

The three style icons that inspire me artistically are David Bowie, Elvis, and Conor McGregor. I believe that Elvis especially embodies the classic American Crew look, as his unique style has been redefined throughout the ages. #timeless

What does the American Crew™ All-Star Challenge mean to you?

The American Crew All-Star Challenge is an opportunity for me to showcase my talent and hard work. I am beyond grateful and excited to have been chosen to represent Ireland in this competition so early into my barbering career. Regardless of the result of the finals, this competition has been a huge learning curve and invaluable experience to me.

Tell us in a #hashtag how you felt when you learned you won.

#humbled

What advice would you give to anyone looking to pursue a career as a stylist?

Be open minded, study trends, and value your work.

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