EDITOR'S NOTE: Fall FantasyGatsby, what Gatsby? This month, MODERN SALON brings you not one, but two cover stories inspired by the recent renaissance of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, fueled by the spring 2013 release of Baz Luhrmann’s grand interpretation on the big screen.

See more of Nick Stenson’s vision on page 122 and catch Luis Alvarez’ work on our special edition holiday issue, mailing separately. Our two Gatsbys are quite different—Stenson’s is ready-to-wear and Alvarez’ is futuristic— but both share a common theme of fantasy and escape. A little excess goes a long way in creating an indulgent get-away experience for clients, with vintage shapes and textures made modern with contemporary color, styling and products.

At the 2013 Emmy Awards, we saw plenty of nods to Gatsby glam from today’s smaller screen stars and their styling teams, too. From Homeland best actress winner Claire Danes’ faux bob and shimmering silhouette of a gown to Nashville star and presenter Connie Britten’s longer cascade of classic curls to Mindy Kaling’s face-framing finger waves, glimpses of roaring ’20s styles were all over the red carpet. Even nominee Aaron Paul was breaking Gatsby, with debonair, tailored crop, groomed sleekly to the side.

What does this mean to your salon as you hit the high point of fall makeovers and the head-to-toe holiday rush of clients and opportunities?

Brush up on bobbing options. Real cuts and faux styling. Be versatile and customize your interpretation to maximize service dollars.

Up your curl game. With the evolution of thermal tools, styling products and education now available, you should be ready to help clients add curl to any look. Consider holding curl workshops for your team, even clients. Demo techniques, create curl accents for long and short looks, updos, etc.

Know the palette. For hair color, cosmetics and nails, you must be the authority. Ask your client what tones she’s planning to add to her fall wardrobe as well as what she’s thinking for holiday party wear. Blues are big this year, as are plum and gray accents. Gilded and shimmery accents are strong, but with muted tones, layers, fringe. Be prepared to prescribe hair color, nail shades and makeup that complements.

Add hair color. Always. See Stenson’s recommendations for the best bets in both blond and brunette, and be sure to research more formulas and techniques (modernsalon.com) to help clients transition and shine through the winter.

While Fitzgerald’s tale was ultimately a tragic and cautionary one, the story of Gatsby in the salon this fall and holiday season should be festive, lucrative and truly glamorous.

Michele MusgroveAssociate Publisher and Editorial Director

mmusgrove@vancepublishing.com

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