Twiststl

As usual, marketing is following in the footsteps of the fashion and music industries by introducing attention-grabbing collaborations. Brands are enlisting the help of fashion designers to create new and inspired products and services.

Not only is the partnership great for young designers who are looking for more exposure, which helps boost their own visibility for catwalk shows and use in fashion magazines, but it also benefits the brand, as well. Brands reap the benefit of stretching their appeal and gaining new followers from people previously uninterested in them.  For example, with carefully chosen collaborations with certain designers, brands can appeal to a previously untapped high-end niche market, or they can connect with the more mainstream consumers. And in the end, success can equal big bucks for both designers and brands.

Check out the June issue of SALON TODAY magazine for ideas on how to update your salon! Bangz Salon and Wellness Spa in Montclair, New Jersey, won grand prize in the 2010 Salons of the Year contest by creating a slick sanctuary of style that’s as far from side swept or wispy than the name might imply. The space is built to last. And with a $3 million price tag to restore a former Masonic Temple, Bangz spared no cost in making it special. Ann Higby at Twist was among 5 judges who helped select the top winner, as well as four runners up, for the magazine’s annual décor competition. The judging was based on six categories: use of color, lighting, flooring, efficient use of space, consistency of design and overall aesthetics. “The transformation of the winning space into a large-scale salon and spa is so comprehensive, while staying true to the original design aesthetic,” said Higby.  Along with preserving the historical value, the owners also used recyclable materials, low energy light bulbs, and video/security cameras to monitor wasted product use.  And while Bangz believes the biggest value of a guest’s experience is added by the staff and their friendliness, it doesn’t hurt to have a brilliantly designed salon to make the experience even nicer.