London: As London Fashion Week showcases emerging trends, hairstylist Anna Cofone discusses her role in translating designer visions into reality. Balancing artistry and adaptability, Cofone collaborates with renowned labels, while navigating the unpredictable backstage environment that defines this prestigious event.
As London Fashion Week unfolds in the heart of the capital, the fashion and beauty industry is bustling with activity, particularly in the backstage area where creativity and chaos often collide. The event, which took place on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at The Space House in Holborn, is a showcase of the latest trends and designs from renowned labels and emerging designers alike.
Among those integral to this year’s creative process is hairstylist Anna Cofone, a global creative advocate for the hair brand Authentic Beauty Concept. Cofone is well-known for her collaborations with high-profile stars such as Lana Del Rey and Margaret Qualley. However, during London Fashion Week, she shifts her focus to the collaborative realm of high-end fashion, working with both established designers and rising stars.
Speaking to The Irish News, Cofone noted the distinct differences between styling celebrities and preparing for fashion shows. “There’s a lot of freedom to be honest,” she explained. This creative freedom comes with the understanding that each designer has a unique vision, allowing for personal interpretation of their concepts.
Her portfolio includes collaborations with some of the Princess of Wales’ preferred designers, including Roksanda and Erdem, as well as S.S. Daley, known for capturing the attention of performers like Harry Styles. Cofone’s credentials position her as a capable figure in merging high fashion with contemporary trends, especially in the dynamic backstage environment of fashion week.
This year, designer Chet Lo, renowned for his futuristic designs, impressed Cofone with his organisational skills. “He is, by far, probably one of the most organised of designers,” she said. The timely provision of a mood board and full looks weeks in advance permits Cofone to experiment and refine her styles ahead of the show.
Conversely, not all designers present such clear directives. Cofone recounted her work with David Koma, who left her to interpret his vision inspired by the dancer and choreographer Pina Bausch. Using her predilection for analysis, Cofone developed a unique hair concept that blended structure with ethereal softness, encapsulated in a deconstructed ballet bun.
While preparation is crucial, London Fashion Week is notorious for its unpredictable nature, especially in backstage logistics. Cofone recalled one incident at S.S. Daley, where the team faced operational challenges due to a lack of power supply for hair tools. At Roksanda, her plans were once again thwarted when models were delayed by an hour and a half, prompting her to make swift adjustments to the intended looks.
Cofone’s experience allows her to tackle such challenges with adaptability. Reflecting on her early career, she remarked, “I’ve had ‘disasters’, but probably when I was a bit younger.” This ability to adapt and remain calm under pressure has become a hallmark of her working style.
In addition to navigating logistical hurdles, Cofone has firmly established her preference for using Authentic Beauty Concept’s sustainable haircare products. She finds them efficient in fulfilling the growing demand for environmentally friendly options without compromising performance, which can be a challenge with many other brands. For instance, when tasked with achieving mermaid hair for a runway show on a tight budget, she strategically focused on structure and shape rather than relying on extensions.
Ultimately, Cofone views her role as an essential collaborator who brings the designer’s vision to life. “It’s about bringing their vision to life,” she stated. This collaborative spirit encapsulates the drive and energy that define London Fashion Week, highlighting the intricate dance of creativity that takes place backstage.
Source: Noah Wire Services
