UNITE and Salon Services Launches ‘Runway Ready’ Course The Fast Track from Classroom to Fashion Week Backstage
An exclusive two-day education experience, Runway Ready gives hairstylists of all levels the opportunity to train for and secure a place backstage at London Fashion Week
For many hairstylists, working backstage at Fashion Week remains the ultimate career ambition. Yet traditionally, access to the world of session styling has been reserved for a select few, often requiring years of industry connections and backstage experience before ever stepping behind the scenes.
UNITE Hair in collaboration with Salon Services is changing that.
Created by internationally renowned session stylist and UNITE Global Creative Director Gary Baker, the Runway Ready Course has been designed to open the doors of Fashion Week to hairstylists at every stage of their career. Whether newly qualified, salon-based, freelance or already experienced behind the chair, participants will gain the skills, confidence and real-world insight needed to thrive in the fast-paced world of backstage styling.
This immersive two-day experience culminates in something truly unique: every participant who successfully completes the course is guaranteed a place on the UNITE Hair styling team in collaboration with Salon Services at London Fashion Week.
From the Classroom to the Catwalk
Led by UNITE UK Creative Director and celebrated session stylist Narad Kutowaroo, the course has been developed to replicate the pressures, pace and teamwork required backstage at some of the world’s most prestigious fashion events.
Participants will learn how to execute runway-ready looks under pressure, work collaboratively within a styling team, and gain hands-on experience across a diverse range of hair types and textures.
With limited class sizes, attendees will benefit from a highly personalised learning experience while building the practical skills needed to succeed in editorial, fashion and session styling environments.
Designed to challenge and inspire, Runway Ready encourages stylists to step outside their comfort zone, expand their technical abilities and discover new career opportunities beyond the salon floor.
What’s Included?
The £700 course fee includes:
- Two days of intensive hands-on education led by Narad Kutowaroo
- A behind-the-scenes insight into the realities of working Fashion Week backstage
- Training across multiple hair types and textures
- Collaborative styling exercises designed to mirror real runway teams
- A professional hairstyling kit courtesy of Salon Services and UNITE, worth over £500, including a hairdryer, straightener, curling tongs, travel bag, tool belt and more
- Guaranteed placement with the UNITE Hair Team and Sally Beauty at both London Fashion Week and Paris Fashion Week upon completion
- Access to invaluable industry experience, networking opportunities and career development
Course Information
Runway Ready with UNITE Hair and Salon Services
Dates: 7–8 September 2026
Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm daily
Location: The Factory, 21 Shacklewell Lane, Dalston, London E8 2DA
Cost: £700*
Suitable For
- All experience levels, from beginner to advanced
- Professional hairstylists based in the UK, Republic of Ireland, France, Germany, Netherlands and Belgium
- Participants must be fluent in English
Important Information
- T&C’s: Cost is for course attendance only. All expenses including, travel and accommodation must be covered by attendee. *The price will be converted from USD to your local currency on our partner’s web page. Please click here and select your currency to view.
