Margate salon, Marcella, is celebrating after two of its team members reached the grand national final of the L’Oréal Colour Trophy, one of hairdressing’s most prestigious competitions.
Adam Carson has reached the final of the main L’Oréal Colour Trophy Award, while Bella Evans has been named a finalist in the Star Award, which recognises emerging hairdressing talent (16-25).
The Southern region’s finest colourists stepped into the spotlight at The Grand Brighton, for the semi-final, which was judged by industry experts, Gary Hooker & Michael Young from Hooker & Young, Harriet Stokes from Kula Studio, Desmond Murray and Jack Merrick-Thirlway from Neville Hair & Beauty.
Adam said: “”When I heard I was moving onto the Grand Final, every ounce of anxiety and nerves suddenly felt worth it. It’s so easy to be your own worst critic, and moments like this are a reminder that you have what it takes.
“I entered because I’m so passionate about colour and saw this as a fantastic career opportunity, so I was really proud to showcase what I could do with tint.
“For the salon, it’s also a huge moment. We’re still a new brand and team, so this feels like an exciting chance to put ourselves on the map. Competing live is such a vulnerable experience, but it reminded me that we all deserve to take up space and back ourselves.”
Bella added: “We’re new to L’Oréal Colour Trophy, so to have two finalists from our salon means a lot and feels like such a proud moment for the whole team.
“The live competition is intense because it’s not just about the finished look, it’s about performing under pressure, balancing technical perfection with a ticking clock.
“It pushes your skills to a level you rarely reach in a normal salon day. My model was nervous too, but she absolutely killed it.
“To anyone from the South thinking of entering next year, don’t wait until you feel ready. The competition is what makes you ready.”
The Southern region semi-final is one of eight regional heats in this year’s nationwide tour. The L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2026 UK Grand Final will take place on July 6, at The O2, London.
Founded by L’Oréal Professionnel, the L’Oréal Colour Trophy competition, now in its 70th year, is one of the most significant platforms for talent in the industry.
For more information on L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2026, visit https://www.lorealcolourtrophy.com/
