WELLA VOICES: UROS MIKIC

Hair has seen some huge changes as a result of social media and consumer trends; we are seeing the same looks on rotation and it’s up to us, as creative industry leaders, to bring individuality back!

UROS MIKIC

He’s one of the industry’s most beloved figures: a talented session stylist, salon owner and international educator, with a plethora of accolades to show for it.

Now, Uros Mikic is lending his superb vision and technical mastery to the team at Wella Professionals as one of two Creative Directors for luxury care and styling brand System Professional.

We caught up with the Adelaide based hair master for an insight into his new role, favourite products and the (exciting) year ahead.

TJ: How are you settling into your role as System Professional Creative Director?

UM: I love working with the Wella team. From their dedication and professionalism to the amazing products they deliver – it’s made for an easy transition! This role has brought with it some wonderful opportunities for creativity. I’ve loved diving into the System Professional range and really getting to grips with the product.

TJ: What first drew you to the brand(s)?

UM: For me, it was their commitment to supporting their partners, salons and artists in growing their own businesses. Wella have an ethos of ‘thinking like a start-up’ which allows the brand to connect with and support its salon partners of all levels. In terms of System Professional, it was the premium product that drew us in. It’s a bespoke range that delivers superior results both in salon and at home – which is what we’re all about. We like our clients to feel ‘salon-fresh’ for as long as possible following their service.

TJ: In your opinion, how does it differ from others on the market?

UM: For as long as I can remember, Wella have been the leading salon brand. Their high-end products, advanced colour technology and business support set it apart from the rest. They have a great team of people looking after us – the salon, our teams and creative artists – which shows their long-term dedication and investment into an ever-changing industry.

TJ: What are three of your must-have System Professional products?

UM: 1. System Professional Alpha Energy – We call this ‘liquid gold’ in our salon! The rich formula stimulates and moisturises the scalp, prompting healthy hair growth. 2. System Professional CC Instant Energy Dry Conditioner – An award winner and client favourite, this is great for giving that ‘fresh washed’ feeling to hair without clogging – even for fine hair. It also creates beautiful movement which looks ‘lived-in’ rather than ‘worn out’ at the end of the night; a current hot trend! 3. System Professional Hydrate Shampoo – We love this because it’s an all-rounder. Whilst the wider range is bespoke, the hydrate range ticks all boxes and is prevalent in most bespoke EnergyCodeTM prescriptions. Who doesn’t need more hydration? Especially living in Adelaide…

TJ: You’ve just taken out AHFA Hair Shot of the Yearfor 2019, and were awarded Men’s Hairdresser of the Year as well as Hair Fashion Video of the Year in 2018. How important are such accolades to you?

UM: Hugely important; it’s recognition from our industry and my peers and cements my work as inspirational. This not only adds value to my business, but to the industry as a whole. Whether I win or not, the awards really drive me to create new looks and trends that inspire the industry to educate and lead their peers. Hair has seen some huge changes as a result of social media and consumer trends; we are seeing the same looks on rotation and it’s up to us, as creative industry leaders, to bring individuality back! We’re obliged to bring our talents to the consumer, to reintroduce hair as ‘art’ and to show that there is more to hairdressing than a blow-wave and balayage.

TJ: What advice do you have for stylists looking to enter into leadership/ambassador roles?

UM: Roles like these often require time away from the salon, which can be hard. It is a commitment and should be something you want to do, not just because everyone else is doing it. Also, a little advice: be ready to work hard! Not that we don’t anyway… but you will find yourself having to prove your skill, and dedication to the brand. It’s about finding the perfect balance between the two. Remember that your work in the salon, your business, your team (and paying the bills!) should always come first.

TJ: …anything we should be watching out for in 2019?

UM: As always, I do have some exciting plans. We have just undergone another major renovation in salon and have also expanded our team. We’re loving the new, fresh vibes – and the feedback from our clients has been amazing. Alongside this, we are looking towards a new business venture, more awards, an education injection at Hair Expo and some overseas events and trips – typically, another busy (but exciting) year!

Follow: @kinkycurlystraight @uros.mikic