“I love everything to do with avant-garde hairdressing,” Efi shares. “From conceptualizing the shoot, working on the hair, and seeing it come alive in front of the camera and on stage, I love the whole process. It evolves as you work, with highs and lows along the way, but that’s part of the magic.”
Efi Davies Pushing the Boundaries of Hair Artistry
When it comes to avant-garde hairdressing, few names shine as brightly as Efi Davies. With a career defined by fearless creativity and technical mastery, Efi has earned an impressive array of accolades, including 2025 Avant Garde Hairdresser of the Year at the British Hairdressing Awards and International Avant Garde Hairdresser of the Year at the International Hairdressing Awards.
“I love everything to do with avant-garde hairdressing,” Efi shares. “From conceptualising the shoot, working on the hair, and seeing it come alive in front of the camera and on stage, I love the whole process. It evolves as you work, with highs and lows along the way, but that’s part of the magic.”
As the British Hairdressing Awards gear up for another year, Efi offers her invaluable advice for stylists aiming to create a show-stopping avant-garde collection.
Efi’s Top Tips for Avant-Garde Excellence
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Think Collection, Not Just Look
The magic is in the cohesion. Each model should feel like they belong in the same narrative. From hair to styling, every element must harmonize. -
Create a Seamless Story
Photography, makeup, wardrobe, and mood should flow effortlessly. Keep your colour palette, textures, and lighting consistent to avoid visual distractions. -
Push the Boundaries — With Purpose
Avant-garde is about experimentation — whether your vision is editorial, futuristic, organic, or architectural, it should always communicate a clear story. -
Play With Shape and Texture
Explore volume, symmetry, and bold techniques like crimping, braiding, or intricate silhouettes. Don’t be afraid to try something unexpected. -
Finish is Everything
Bigger isn’t always better. Even the most dramatic look should be flawlessly executed, clean, and beautiful.
About Efi Davies
A true innovator, Efi is celebrated worldwide for her boundary-pushing hair artistry, intricate braiding, and hair-up mastery. As a key member of the multi-award-winning TONI&GUY International Artistic Team, she regularly travels the globe sharing TONI&GUY’s creative philosophy, educating future hairdressers, and championing the label.m professional haircare range.
When she’s not on stage or behind the scenes of high-fashion shoots, Efi can be found inspiring students at the TONI&GUY Academy or styling loyal clients at London’s Sloane Square salon. Her theoretical approach to hair has no limits — and neither does her passion for evolving the art of avant-garde hairdressing.
Follow Efi: Instagram @efidavies | toniandguy.com
