Just starting out in her career, Aveda Institute Provo student Ali Talamantes of Elko Nevada, has already proven her artistic talent. Always knowing she wanted to use her creative skills within the hairdressing industry, entering NAHA was a natural fit for her. Keep reading to learn more about her as an artist and see her gorgeous collection!
Tell us more about you as an artist. How did you get into hairdressing and competition work?
When I first realized that I wanted to become a hairstylist I never thought I could really put my creative and artistry skills to the test. I quickly knew that I wanted to be so much more than just a salon hairstylist. NAHA was something I knew could kickstart my career, so with all the hope, I submitted a video to be selected to create a NAHA collection.
How does it feel to win a NAHA!?
It feels very surreal to be a NAHA winner! There is so much more that I want to do now.
Were there any mentors that helped you along the way?
I had many amazing mentors with Heggy Gonzales being one of them. Heggy pushed and encouraged me to do my best and more. I learned so much from the Aveda Provo team while making this collection and couldn’t be more grateful.
Can you give any insight into how your collection was created?
Brainstorming and deciding what I wanted my collection to look like was a very creative process. I really wanted to make sure to incorporate elements of cut, style, and color placement. It really only made sense to go all out and color block each model with its own unique cut and style.
What was the inspiration behind this collection?
My first thought about putting this collection together was that I wanted the color placement to be obvious and I wanted one of them to have a combination of braids for the style. After I had a foundation of what I wanted my collection to look like, I built off the rest from that.
How has your style changed?
I’m really only starting to figure out my style of hair but I really think that this collection has really helped me find more things about hair that I love.
What was your biggest challenge in creating this collection?
I would definitely say my biggest challenge was picking the braids for the style. I wanted it to be clear that they were different braids so they wouldn’t get lost with the rest of the hair, but the color blocking really helped bring it together.
What does your collection say about trends or movements within the industry?
I want this collection to inspire other young artists to always push yourself even if it’s out of your comfort. You can do it even if you haven’t been in the industry for years, and if not then keep trying.
Did you have any hero products? (Or any product faves!?)
My go-to Aveda products are Control Paste and Texture Tonic.
Final thoughts:
I know I want to do so much more in the future. New York Fashion week will definitely be my next big step.
Credits:
Hair: Ali Talamantes – Aveda Institute Provo, Elko, Nevada.
Photographer: Heidi Gress
Wardrobe Stylist: Heidi Gress
Makeup Artist: Brad VanDyke
