Overall Review from Judges

LESLIE KEE

Compared to last year, we had more participants, and there were also many participants who had elevated their skills, so I felt there were many profound works. It seems that hairstylists are now thinking more deeply about the theme. There were many excellent works, and it was enjoyable to make selections.
For students, I hope they can try to measure their abilities in a contest, even though they are amateurs with some unfinished aspects, as it can be a step toward achieving their dreams and a career as a hairstylist.
The collaboration between beauty, fashion, and photography has many aspects that can be educational. In the future, I believe it's important for DA-AD- to continue giving a mission in the form of a theme to hairstylists and students nationwide and to evolve both the event and the participants together. Let's spread it to more people around the world!

UDA

This is the second time the event has taken on a new style since its transformation, and it feels like there's even more diversity in the direction of the works compared to the first time. I believe that the recognition of works that defy previous trends has had a positive impact. If this trend can further encourage the participation of the new, younger generation, it could serve as a driving force for the increase of hairstylists with diversity and uniqueness. I hope that this, in turn, will become a support for the overall improvement and excitement of the culture in the world of beauty.

TONDABAYASHI, RAN

Compared to last year, the range of works was much broader, making it quite challenging to rank them. The creative directions of the works were diverse, and it was enjoyable to examine each one. I sensed a positive and vibrant atmosphere. There seemed to be more works this year that took on complex compositions, and I believe there was a decrease in instances where the photo and caption appeared disjointed.
For professional hairstylists, I understand that creating works with captions can be quite challenging. However, there were many imaginative and intriguing works, showcasing flexibility in ideas. It was a valuable learning experience for me as well. I believe that for all participants, regardless of their ranking, this competition offers an opportunity to create what they truly want to create and objectively assess their current skills. I hope that participants will feel free to take on the challenge without any pressure.

NINOMIYA, Chie

I observed that there was more freedom in terms of composition and angles compared to last year. There were many pieces that caught my attention and were quite intriguing.
For the hairstylists, I hope they go beyond seeking validation from others and create more of the pieces they truly want to make.
As for the students, I could sense the difference between those who were working hard and those who weren't through their creations. I would like to see more works from those who put in the effort. I am looking forward to it.
I hope that in the future, you will continue to create various works.

MITSUI, Akiko

Last year's judging was already very exciting, but this year, we had nothing but more charming and captivating works. Among the abundance of creative and charming pieces and those with strong, thought-provoking messages, I had the delightful challenge of judging, albeit with a great deal of hesitation.
The quality of the hairstyles was top-notch, and the photography and design were also at a high level. There was also a rich diversity in the interpretation of the theme's.
n the future, I hope to encounter even more positive works and explore freer and more unprecedented ideas, leading to fresh pieces that will astonish the world. I look forward to discovering wonderful works in the coming years