INSIDE LOOK: L’Oréal Professionnel x CHRISTOPHER ESBER AT PARIS FASHION WEEK

Paris Fashion Week always delivers its share of show-stopping moments, but this season, L’Oréal Professionnel brought a distinct touch of Australian glamour to the French capital. 

The brand’s team of L’Oréal Pros- led by renowned Hair Director Scott Sloan- took charge of the hair for Christopher Esber’s Resort SS26 show, translating the designer’s effortlessly sensual aesthetic into a fresh, high-gloss beauty statement. “The collection’s all about summer. It’s about beach hair, swimming pool hair- think sporty and athletic,” Sloan shared ahead of the show. “I don’t want the models to just have wet hair; I want them to have high gloss, high energy, beautiful hair that’s fresh from the pool to the runway.”

“There’s a real element of detail, sophistication and effortless elegance to the hair,” he continues. “One of the hero products that we’ve heavily relied on and leant into is the L’Oréal Professionnel Metal Detox Serum- I know that by adding that product to the hair, each model’s hair is going to look amazing under the lights on the catwalk.”

For the talented troupe of L’Oreal Pro’s who assisted in bringing to life Scott’s vision of an Aussie beach babe in Paris, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity to work backstage at one of the world’s most hallowed Fashion Weeks. “Working backstage at Paris Fashion Week is a dream for most hairstylists, and having the opportunity to turn that dream into reality was truly a ‘pinch me’ moment,” says Parlour Hair’s Karen Bava.  “Sharing this incredible experience with the L’Oréal Professionnel ANZ team made it even more special.” 

Working alongside some of the best hairstylists from Australia and New Zealand under the guidance of hair director Scott Sloan was the best experience. I still keep reflecting on how lucky I am to have worked backstage at PFW SS26.”

“It was a career defining experience, working backstage at PFW with L’Oréal Professionnel,” continues Joe Cotroneo from Zink the element of hair. “The best hairdressers, using the best products to support an amazing designer in Christopher Esber in the best city, Paris. One of the best days in my hair journey to date!”

“I don’t want the models to just have wet hair; I want them to have high gloss, high energy, beautiful hair that’s fresh from the pool to the runway.”

Scott Sloan, L’Oréal Professionnel Hair Director

For Circles of Hair’s Sharlene Lee, it’s opportunities and moments like this provided by L’Oréal Professionnel that remind her of how much she loves what she does – even after over 30 years in the industry. “Being part of the L’Oréal Professionnel team backstage at Paris Fashion Week was an incredible privilege,” she explains. “After more than 30 years in the hair industry, it’s moments like this that remind me how much I still love what I do. The level of artistry, teamwork, and dedication from every single person involved was inspiring to witness. 

“Working alongside the world’s most talented stylists and models in Paris was truly eye opening and something I’ll never forget.”

Ben Semple from Circles of Hair joined Sharlene backstage, and considers the Paris Fashion Week opportunity one of his personal career highlights to date. “Paris Fashion Week was such a special experience and truly a highlight of my career,” says Ben. “I feel so honoured and grateful to have been part of the L’Oréal Professionnel Australian team, surrounded by incredible, creative people who continue to inspire me. It was a week filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable moments.”

In addition to bringing the Aussie glamour to the Christopher Esber Paris Fashion Week runway, the L’Oréal Professionnel team took Paris by storm – with influencer activations, a Parisian Glam themed Brand Dinner at ultra-chic La Cave restaurant and a trip to the iconic L’Oreal Paris Headquarters packed into this once-in-a-lifetime brand experience. 

“To bring our ANZ Pros to Paris- the home of L’Oréal Professionnel- was an experience that redefined what it means to be part of this brand,” explains L’Oréal Professionnel ANZ Education and Advocacy Manager Katrina Brieschke.

“From the runway at Paris Fashion Week and being the official hair partner for Christopher Esber and to have our 14 Pros from ANZ backstage with us was truly an incredible experience.
“Then to be able to create a brand immersion day at Le Visionnaire, the iconic headquarters, and for our Pro’s to hear from the global brand team. Every moment reminded us why we do what we do: to elevate the craft, inspire innovation, and connect hairdressers across the world to this incredible brand.”
As the final looks shimmered under the Paris lights and artists embarked on the long journey home filled with creative fire, it was clear this moment extended far beyond the runway. For Scott Sloan, the L’Oréal Professionnel team, and the talented stylists who brought their artistry to one of fashion’s most prestigious stages, Paris Fashion Week represented more than a creative milestone- it was a celebration of craftsmanship, collaboration, and the global reach of Australian hair talent.

Félicitations, Team L’Oréal Professionnel ANZ!

“I feel so honoured and grateful to have been part of the L’Oréal Professionnel Australian team, surrounded by incredible, creative people who continue to inspire me.”

Ben Semple, Circle of Hair.