The Weekend That Had It All

This year in New York, Fall Atelier reminded us why ICA is more than an event. It is a community that creates, learns, and leads together. From visionary stage work to meaningful education and new pathways for future professionals, the 2025 theme, Beauty, Art & Innovation: Where AI Inspires, came to life in unforgettable ways.

A Collection with Two Hearts: Stage & Salon
New ICA Artistic Director Sonya Dove unveiled a breathtaking new collection inspired by the natural beauty of Iceland, a study in clarity, texture, and light. In a gesture of true salon leadership, Sonya built two looks for every model: a high-concept stage expression and a wearable salon version. Her message was simple and powerful, connecting artistry with the realities of the salon chair.

From “Sassoon Girl” to Editorial Icon
In a candid conversation, Wendy Iles traced her journey from a “Sassoon girl” to a globally sought-after editorial and celebrity stylist and the founder of her own product line. Her story reminded everyone that excellence and longevity come from craft, curiosity, and character.

Italy on Our Stage
France Viler, Vice President of Intercoiffure Italy, brought technical courage to the Ballroom with his signature Reverse Cutting approach. The technique reimagines how stylists hold and think about the scissors, merging precision with creative freedom. In his Look & Learn, he explored how immersive training and intelligent tools can support mastery at scale, reflecting ICA’s spirit of innovation and exchange.
“Mistakes are not setbacks; they are openings for creativity. The audience’s sharp, technical questions revealed an impressive level of knowledge and professionalism.” — France Viler, Vice President, Intercoiffure Italy

Powered by Partners
Major sponsors lit up the stage. Redken / L’Oréal and Oribe × Goldwell delivered inspiring showcases that connected brand innovation with salon-ready technique. The weekend also expanded education in a new way with dual-track Look & Learns that offered hands-on creative sessions for stylists and a business and marketing track for owners with Imaginal Marketing. As Sam Brocato shared, these sessions were “a huge positive punctuation to an already education-packed two days.”

Honoring the Heart of Education
ICA’s legacy of mentorship shone brightly as we recognized educators and students who elevate our craft every day.
One of my favorite moments is the recognition of our beauty school teachers. It’s inspiring to see our community come together: top salon owners, educators, and future students who play a vital role in our success.” — Michaella Blissett Williams, Founder & CEO, [salon]718

Student Contest: Special Occasion Hair
ICA hosted the 2025 Intercoiffure Student Contest with Pivot Point International and Beyond the Ponytail, spotlighting creativity and craftsmanship in Special Occasion Hair. Finalists included Lindsey Forchione (Empire Beauty School – Kalamazoo), Angelica Pohle (Paul Mitchell The School – Spokane), Kailey Howald (The Institute of Beauty and Wellness – Milwaukee), and Megan Blythe (Aveda Institute – Clearwater).

The Grand Prize Winner: Kianna Anderson (@chicksandhairflips), Ogle School – Houston, mentored by Alicia B. Peoples. Kianna stood out for her artistry and vision, and she and her instructor were honored onstage in New York. The contest also highlighted new research from Pivot Point and Beyond the Ponytail on the growing bridal stylist community and the future of special occasion hair.

Nouveau: “I Love Rock ’n’ Roll”
The Nouveau New Talent runway brought the house down! NUOVO Salons & Spas captured top honors this year, with stylist Hannah Thomas leading the creative vision. Her bold, rock-inspired collection embodied the fearless artistry that defines ICA’s next generation.

From her edgy textures to her modern interpretations of classic shapes, Hannah’s work celebrated individuality and innovation. Her team’s energy and passion were contagious, reminding everyone why ICA’s future shines so brightly.

 

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The Leo Passage Educator of the Year
In a heartfelt acceptance message, Sam Villa received the Leo Passage Award, recognizing educators who elevate others with generosity and mastery. His words affirmed the legacy of Leo Passage and our shared responsibility to lift the craft higher.

 

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Member Momentum and Community Wins
The weekend spirit continued with BASE ONE raffle experiences. Congratulations to Michaella Blissett Williams, winner of the LEAD FORWARD 3-Day Leadership Event with 124Go, and Ken Takagi, winner of the PENZONE Salon Edition experience, coming in March 2026.

As Lupe Voss summed up, “Intercoiffure feels like an extended salon family, everyone supporting, sharing, and learning together.” This year’s artistry, business acumen, and innovation will fuel us long after the lights of New York have dimmed. We’ll see you, and your teams, at the next ICA experience.