Exploring explores identity, visibility and self-perception.
Published:With dramatic silhouettes, contrasting textures and an expressive use of colour, Reflection showcases Starkey’s ability to create visually arresting hairdressing imagery. The collection features an eclectic mix of looks, from sculptural shapes and vivid, spiked textures to intricate plaiting and striking colour combinations.
At its heart is a question about identity and the way we see ourselves in an increasingly transparent world.
“Nothing stays hidden anymore. It isn’t just a concept, it’s the mirror that you can’t look away from,” – Starkey.
The collection translates this idea into a series of distinctive looks, using hair as a medium for creative expression. The imagery moves between graphic, architectural shapes and softer, more intricate textures, with each look contributing to the collection’s overall sense of drama and individuality.
Starkey’s latest work reflects a career shaped by a commitment to technical excellence and artistic development.
Having started hairdressing at 17, he went on to open Taylor’s Hair Studio in Skegness in 2017. The salon was established as a welcoming environment where clients, colleagues and the wider community are encouraged to learn, develop and aim higher.
His approach to hairdressing extends beyond the salon floor, with creative collaborations playing an important role in his professional journey.
In 2022, Starkey was part of the Fellowship for British Hairdressing FAME Team, working alongside fellow team members to create imagery that was powerful, authentic and technically accomplished.
Since then, his achievements have included Global Hairdresser of the Year, The Big One for Extensions and Eastern Hairdresser of the Year at the British Hairdressing Awards. He is also a finalist again for the 2026 awards, further underlining his continued presence on the competitive hairdressing stage.
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The Reflection collection was created by Starkey at Taylor’s Hair Studio, Skegness, with the support of a collaborative creative team.
Olivia Rose Brady, Harry Andreou and Shannon Jones assisted with the hair, while Safy Burton was responsible for make-up. Lewis Robert Cameron brought the styling together, with photographer Richard Miles capturing the finished looks.
The resulting images demonstrate the value of collaboration in producing ambitious editorial hairdressing work, bringing together hair, make-up, fashion styling and photography to communicate a unified creative vision.
Through Reflection, Starkey continues to explore the relationship between technical hairdressing and conceptual storytelling, demonstrating how a collection can communicate an idea as well as showcase creative skill.
For a hairdresser whose career has encompassed salon ownership, industry recognition and collaborative creative projects, the collection represents another opportunity to push artistic boundaries and challenge perceptions.
For more information, follow Darrel Starkey on Instagram: @hairbydarrel.
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