The highly anticipated 2023 Kao Salon Global Experience was recently unveiled with an explosion of creativity, innovation, and inspiration. This captivating two-day event brought together over 2000 stylists from across the globe for an unforgettable spectacle held in the vibrant city of Chicago on September 24 and 25, 2023. Attendees were treated to a mesmerizing showcase of the latest trends, techniques, and products that have become synonymous with the Kao Salon family.
Dominic Pratt, President of Kao Salon Division, emphasized the brand's deep commitment to creativity, innovation, and integrity, which drives them every day. The Kao Salon Global Experience is a manifestation of this ethos, celebrating not only their exceptional products but, more importantly, the remarkable individuals who constitute the Kao Salon family.
More than just an event, the Kao Salon Global Experience is a celebration of creativity, a testament to innovation, and a gathering of like-minded individuals passionate about pushing the boundaries of the beauty and hair industry. It also marked a significant milestone as it was the 75th-anniversary celebration of Kao Salon's stylist-centric brand, Goldwell. This anniversary represents the culmination of decades of industry-breaking innovation, leading-edge technology, relentless research and development, and the deep relationships forged between Goldwell and its stylists.
Highlights from the event included the Global Creative Awards evening, where new winners were announced, the debut of the "Hair Every Wear 3.0" collection by Global Goldwell Ambassador Angelo Seminara, and the "Eras of Anarchy" collection by the Rush Artistic Team. The latter collection drew inspiration from and paid homage to British fashion icons, promising to take the audience on an eclectic visual journey that inspires in the distinctive Rush style.
Angelo Seminara expressed his enthusiasm for the event, describing it as a unique gathering that allowed him to share his vision and passion with like-minded professionals. The Global Creative Awards Evening, in his words, stands as the premier evening event of its kind worldwide.
Additionally, Mario Krankl's show was a celebration of creativity. His collection video, titled "Frankenstein's Beauties," delved into a relevant and profound theme. Krankl, in his role as a "hair smith," demonstrated his expansive understanding of hair, stating, "Besides the salon business, hair is my playground and an expression of infinite creativity."
See below list of winners.
Avant Garde Stylist of the Year
Amanda Magistro, Salon Alm - Global Gold Winner
Men's Hairstylist of the Year - AUS Winner
Laura Edmunds - Ella Jade Hair
New Talent Colorist of the Year - AUS Winner
Sam Shepherd (Headroom Hair Salon) @sam_headroomhair
Creative Colorist of the Year - Aus Winner
Alannah Read (Ella&Jade) @alannah_jade @ellajadehair
Creative Haircutter of the Year - Aus Winner
Anna McNamara (Ella&Jade) @ellajadehair
NEW ZEALAND - Creative Colorist NZ Winner
Luca Murray Lauko (Vivo) @lucamurraylauko @vivohairnz


