ALL-STAR CHALLENGE

THE KING OF 2020

W/ LUKE MUNN

It’s a glarey spring morning in Adelaide’s inner-eastern suburb of Kent Town. We’re driving to meet the newest American Crew All-Star Challenge winner, Luke Munn, whose combination of effortless style and skill produced a look that floored the judges and stood proudly on its own amongst a gifted pool of global talent. As a suburb full of students and discerning professionals, Kent Town’s the perfect place for the talented stylist to have established a third ‘Attaboy’ barber shop. And, as he invites us through the door, it’s clear that this is an establishment echoing his laid-back nature. As Luke fires up the coffee machine, and we find our places amongst the cacti, we ask him how he feels about the win.

“You feel like all the hard work you put in has paid off”, he tells us, warmly. “I think because of the current climate, with everything going on, the actual idea that I had won didn’t sink in for a long time and still doesn’t feel real… it’s just crazy. I’m very humbled.” As a stylist, Luke is unique. His obtuse approach to his profession would catch many of the perfectionists in the industry off-guard; a less formal take on a craft steeped in tradition tends to do that. But he’s unapologetic, and thus far, his ability to draw influence from further afield has stood him in good stead to be one of Australia’s best barbers.

“I pull inspiration from all over the world, so the end product is a total concoction of influences, skill sets and experiences; like a creative tapestry.” His most recent accolade aside, there are a lot of reasons for the Adelaide local to be excited about the future, and it’s refreshing to see that the challenges of 2020 haven’t stripped him of his infectious positivity. “We’re stronger than we think”, he smiles, as we settle in to ask him a few questions. “It’s been a tough year to be a stylist… but I haven’t seen another industry band together like the hair industry has - there is nothing but love and support.”

What were the celebrations like after winning the AS Challenge. Has life changed much since winning?

As we all know, the formal celebrations were cancelled, which was a bummer. My own were low-key, but I got to celebrate with my partner and son at home, so it was nice to be able to share that achievement with them. My partner doesn’t think I’m crazy for being in love with hair now, which is great!

The accolade has offered me a lot more opportunities and put me in good stead to take my career to the next level. I’m just looking forward to 2021 and the projects that are organised.

How has work been since taking home the award, have you noticed a difference in clientele?

During the time the award was announced, my work was at a weird spot; restrictions, closures - you know, COVID. But things have been getting better and better. Being based in South Australia I have been really lucky in fact that I have been able to get back into the salon and do what I love. The guys at work have had plenty of fun with it though. They like to make me very aware that I won an award and make a conscious effort to yell it across the salon mid service to get a reaction. Have to love the in-salon banter.

Since a few local publishers did write-ups about the win, the clientele has started leaning more towards that creative side, which is really cool. There are plenty of clients experimenting, asking for something different.

Let’s talk about the cut that won it all: where did you get the inspiration from and does it represent anything in particular?

The idea behind the look I created for the All-Star Challenge was to go away from what I think is the current trend in men’s hair and create something more edgy - with a lot of movement and length - while still maintaining a masculine shape.

My work is heavily influenced from the barbering scene in the UK. I think a lot of the industry could agree that the barbers and stylists over there are creating modern trends and really pushing the boundaries of men’s hair.

How would you say it’s different from other styles?

I think it’s different from other styles because it’s going away from the classic style of haircut. There is something special about creating an original haircut that is stylish, yet simple. How have you managed to keep a positive mindset?

What techniques were used in the creation?

When you actually break the cut down, it is a super simple style that was created using some simple graduation techniques. I didn’t want to overthink the haircut or create something absurd. I wanted to show that clients can still get great looking creative haircuts without having to do anything too outlandish. Fundamental scissor and ‘razor work’ can allow you a lot of freedom.

Have you always been drawn to creative pursuits, or was it just barbering specifically?

Yeah, I guess I have always been a creative and a very hands on person. Barbering was never on my radar at a young age. I was pursuing university and other things when I found barbering, and that’s when traditional barbering led me into the wild world of hair. That’s when I fell in love. Since day one, I have loved that hair can be so simple and elegant but also so creative. With the industry forever evolving, it’s a never ending journey with hair.

Creatives from all industries had a pretty tough year in 2020 - they all had to adapt in some way. How was your year?

Yeah look, 2020 was not a good year to be a creative. I know for a lot of people adapting has had its upsides. Having to step back from that busy schedule and reevaluate everything has allowed them to come back bigger and stronger. I know for myself it gave me time to reflect and plan for moving forward. It’s shown that creatives can’t be stopped. Even with challenges like this, we will always find a way to create and do what we love.

Did you learn any lessons or pick up any new skills?

I think 2020 has taught all of us that we are stronger than we think. I am forever trying to evolve myself as a creative and a stylist. I try to keep myself up to date with education and always spend time learning new skills. You never stop learning new skills, be it from another stylist in the industry or the guys in the salon.

It can be difficult to keep a positive mindset sometimes, especially when things get tough. But I am lucky to have such an amazing team of people around me that I work with day in and day out and a beautiful family that supports me. I think having a core group around you is important, and try to find the positive where it all might seem negative.

In what ways have you adapted your business?

We have adapted many parts of the business. With the team at Attaboy, we have done everything we can to make clients feel safe. We are lucky being in a state that has next to no restrictions on our industry. But, we are still doing our part where we can.

What’re plans for 2021? How have you seen the industry respond to the pandemic and what advice would you give other barbers right now?

I have seen a close community of professionals become an even closer group of people. I haven’t seen another industry band together like the hair industry has, the pandemic has created lifetime connections within the industry. I think everyone has dealt with something in some way or another, and there is nothing but support and love. I would just say to anyone having a tough time, that you’re a part of the most amazing industry of people that are here to help. So, please, speak up.

2021, well. I am currently working behind the scenes on a few projects that I am excited to share early in the year. I want to keep pushing the boundaries and taking the risks.

I am looking forward to getting back into the studio and creating some more work. I have been fortunate enough to sign with Andis as an Educator, so I am looking forward to hitting the road with them and sharing my knowledge. ASC 2021? Lets see how we go...

PREDICTIONS FOR 2021

THE LOOK? Long hair is back. Men are starting to grow their hair and experiment with different styles more. They’re trusting their barbers to create looks for them that are appealing yet suitable for the lifestyle they live.

THE INDUSTRY? The men’s grooming industry is forever evolving and growing, that’s what’s so great about it. I definitely think you’ll see a lot more people with medium to long hair, more creative styles, and a big introduction of men’s colour.

THE FILM/TV SERIES? This is too tough! There is potential for so many great new films and TV series’. Lets see what they come up with.

THE WORLD? I want to see the world back to whatever “normal” is. 2020 has been a write off for some, bring on 2021. No pandemics, no hate, everyone coming together again.

THE PERSONAL GOAL? The next personal goal for me is to push myself and my work and get myself at the top of my game. Global education? Mens Hairdresser of the year? ASC 2021 Winner? Guess we will have to wait and see.

BARBER ESSENTIALS

• Boost Powder

• Defining Paste • Fiber Cream

• Alternator

• Forming Cream • Track: Jimmy Eat World, Sweetness

Scan to play on Spotify

TOP 20 LOOKS

W/ JUDGES MARK RABONE AND RENÉE MEREDITH

The All-Star Challenge is an annual competition that highlights the world’s best talent in men’s grooming, helping to accelerate careers and capture the timeless spirit and creativity of the American Crew brand.

Once again, 2020 saw hundreds of talented Australian barbers submit their original looks, reaching new heights in diversity, innovation and technique. The judging panel consisted of five of the most esteemed hair professionals and creatives. To take us through the top 20 are two of the Australian judges, Rénee Meredith (National Education Manager, Revlon Professional Brands) and Mark Rabone (American Crew All Star and owner of Esquire Male Grooming).

M: CAMILLE DE BONDY KINGS DOMAIN BARBER SHOP

This look really spoke to us with its modern use of styling and product, well placed texture and a simple loose curl at the front that gave it that little extra. It resonated with us for its nod to the 50’s era.

JUDGING CRITERIA

• Structure of the haircut

• Finishing of the haircut • Representation of the American Crew brand • Originality • Art Direction: wardrobe

• Art Direction: photography

M: NASER LAMEY NASER CUTS

This interpretation of a pompadour was again perfectly executed. The shape was excellent, the tapers and blend were really well done and the finish was perfect. The wardrobe was complimentary to the overall look.

R: SOPHIA MAI ENA HAIR

This style is full of texture, asymmetrical and really works. We see a lot of texture and length which is hard to create in strong hair and the styling brings out the work gone into the haircut. Having a model that compliments the haircut is a big positive for me. Great look.

M: CEM TAYLOR GORMAN KINGS DOMAIN

The structure and symmetry of this look was really impressive, the styling showcased the texture without going overboard which produced the perfect cut to use for this model and wardrobe.

M: JOHN GEORGIOU BARBERY THE CRAFT OF A BARBER

This look was a beautiful interpretation of a modern classic, the cut and finish are polished yet understated and very wearable. The model and wardrobe combined resulted in a very strong image that the judges loved.

R: MANUEL PROVOOST BARBERS OF BELGIUM

This image represents the American Crew brand so well. Great model, classic hairstyle whilst maintaining length and texture which makes this look still very current and now. The touch of collar ties this in to be a wearable style for work or play.

R: LIAM ALAN O’HARA KINGS DOMAIN SYDNEY MYER

Curl with length is definitely on the move. This look is natural and modern. Perfect length for the face shape with it being tight around the sides. Great finish showing off the curl, whilst still maintaining a masculine feel.

M: STEPHANIE PFALZGRAF KINGS DOMAIN BARBER SHOP

Longer lengths while maintaining a masculine look are always a favourite. This look was a classic example of how to maintain a square look whilst having longer hair. Reducing bulk where necessary and the right product - sometimes a little less is a lot more.

R: ZACHARY ZACHARIA ZAK GROOMING FOR MEN

This haircut is very retro and has a really cool influence from past eras and bands. It’s the right amount of length and symmetry highlighting a chopped in front with faded sides. This style works and looks cool in 2021.

M: NASER LAMEY NASER CUTS

This look was extremely clean. The high texture was flawless, almost not a hair out of place. Technically it was perfectly executed, all tied together by the wardrobe and great photography.

R: LUKE MUNN ATTABOY BARBERS

I love this look! Immediately when I saw this image, I knew it had huge potential and was up there as the perfect shot. The length combined with the right amount of texture was executed perfectly. This look is very now and on trend. It’s masculine and represents the American Crew brand fantastically. It’s a bit outside the box from the classics. Great hair on a great model.

M: LISA SUE ROBERTSON ARTIQUE HAIR

Once again the judges were impressed by the way the model’s natural curls were enhanced by light texture while still maintaining square form. The sharp tapers and edges were impressive and made for a nice tailored finish despite the loose interior on the top.

R: EOIN MCCARTHY AREA STUDIO

This look is short, not too overstyled and the perfect amount of texture for this length. The model wears the cut and makes this overall look very polished. Simple, classic and current.

M: DAVID WIESELMANN WIESELMANN SALON

One of my favorite submissions. From the sublime use of colour, the texture used to support the cut on the top creating subtle lift through to the edges and taper, it showed a real understanding of technique. Perfect in every way!

R: NICOLE COIA KINGS DOMAIN BARBER SHOP

This look is really cool. It’s a great example of using lots of texture with the right amount of length. The shape is still well balanced with a dishevelled finish.

M: JOSHUA WILLIAM COOKE ROKKMAN BARBERS

“The higher the hair the closer to god!” This was one of our favourite submissions of a pompadour. The use of colour balanced really well with the fade, the model really worked well and made for a striking look that jumped out straight away.

M: AGRIPPINO BURRONE VOGUE BARBERS

The use of the natural curl while still maintaining a square masculine shape was really well done, while using the natural fall of the hair made for a wearable classic which resonates with American Crew.

R: LOUISA SALMON THE BEARDED MAN

I love this look. It’s outside the box and very cool. It looks really piecey throughout the top, with different lengths at the front, but it just works. The styling is on point and the overall look with the model is polished. The styling finishes this look off perfectly.

R: MANUEL PROVOOST BARBERS OF BELGIUM

Showcasing a strong image with length and volume. The length works with the longer blended sides. This look is classic American Crew made fit for 2021.

R: FOUAD RAFIDI FRED LE MARCHE

It’s great to see longer lengths entering the competition. This is a perfect example of length looking classic and very current. The cutting and styling is very polished which is hard to do with length like this. The model makes this image look effortless. Beautiful result and great representation of the American Crew brand.

THE GLOBAL WINNERS

THE TOP 5 LOOKS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

The five looks that beat thousands of entries from around the world, chosen by the All-Star Challenge Global Committee for nailing art, style and technique.

JONATHAN PEREIRA BELGIUM

LUKE MUNN AUSTRALIA DANIIL GOCHUA RUSSIA DAVID DA CAMPO SWITZERLAND

SANDRA PEROVIC CANADA