Backstage at New York Fashion Week, hair played a quietly expressive role at the Ulla Johnson FW26 showcase, where Wella Professionals partnered with the designer to craft a series of looks that celebrated individuality and modern craft.

The mood backstage was refined but intentionally undone, with texture and personality taking centre stage. Leading the hair direction was stylist Diego Da Silva, who created looks designed to enhance each model’s natural hair pattern while complementing the collection’s sculptural silhouettes.

“The idea this season was to work with every model’s personality and hair type, in harmony with the silhouette they were wearing,” said Da Silva. “Some have softly pulled-back hair, some a light touch through the back, and others keep a natural, slightly tamed curl. Working with Wella Professionals was ideal because the range truly supports every hair type.”

The result was a lineup of effortlessly refined styles that felt authentic rather than overly polished – hair that moved naturally with the garments, echoing the relaxed sophistication synonymous with Johnson’s aesthetic.

Behind the scenes, Wella Professionals focused on delivering instant strength, smoothness and resilience under the intense pace of Fashion Week, ensuring each look held its shape from rehearsal through to runway.

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To recreate the backstage finish, Da Silva relied on a trio of hero products. Hair was first refreshed with Ultimate Repair Miracle Hair Rescue (RRP $147), reviving strands after the cold New York weather and preparing them for styling. 

Texture was then enhanced using EIMI Ocean Spritz (RRP $33), building soft movement while elevating each model’s natural wave or curl pattern. 

Finally Ultimate Smooth Miracle Oil Serum (RRP $78) delivered the finishing touch, adding luminosity and polish that mirrored the glow and metallic accents woven throughout the FW26 collection.