He’s the founder slash creative director of arguably the world’s coolest haircare line, R+Co. They merge the unthinkable and deliver product formula and style guides to make you, the professional, weak at the knees. Touching down in Oz come June, Howard McLaren will educate and inspire in his own unique and always inspiring way. We took 5 with the Lord.

TJ: Your inspiration is notoriously all encompassing, looking beyond runway to photography, film, music and so on. What inspirations can we expect to see translated at your Hair Expo 2018 Masterclass?

HM: For Hair Expo this year, my inspiration will be all about looking back to move forward and examining the heroes of our industry to explore why they are successful and remain relevant.

TJ: You are a notorious forward thinker, renowned for bending the rules of cutting and styling alike. Will you be exploring this creative thinking at your Masterclass?

HM: Freehand – no comb cutting.

TJ: What do you hope attendees of your Hair Expo workshop walk away with?

HM: I hope they will walk away feeling proud to be a hairdresser.

TJ: What’s the gossip at R+Co – any upcoming products, artists, projects etc you can fill us in on?

HM: We’re bringing a colourist into the brand and expanding The Collective – stay tuned!

TJ: What is currently on high rotation, on your Spotify account?

HM: Goth (British) ‘70s

TJ: Fashion designer(s) currently on your radar?

HM: Balenciaga, Fear of God, Neil Barrett

TJ: Your ‘can’t travel without’ item/product?

HM: My slippers and R+Co HIGH DIVE Moisture + Shine Crème

Howard McLaren will be presenting a Look ‘n’ Learn seminar at Hair Expo Australia 2018 in Melbourne, 9-11 June. The session is available to attend with the new Look ‘n’ Learn pass or tickets to Howard’s session can also be purchased individually. Visit www.hairexpoaustralia.comfor more details.