County Derry stylist named L’Oréal Colour Trophy STAR semi-finalist

Kilrea stylist Katie Rose Young is set to represent the county on the national stage after being named a semi-finalist in the prestigious L’Oréal Colour Trophy STAR Award.

The V-Vault House of Hair colourist will join Northern Ireland’s elite hair talent at the Titanic Hotel, Belfast, on April 13 2026, for a high-stakes live final marking the competition's 70th anniversary.

Angie Dromgoole, Zeba Hairdressing, L'Oréal Colour Trophy 2026 Judge, said: "Lots of excitement out there, so I think we're going to see some bigger looks, something different"

Rob Eaton, Owner of Russell Eaton Hair Salons, L’Oréal Professionnel Hair Artist & L'Oréal Colour Trophy 2026 judge, said: “The L'Oréal Colour Trophy has been celebrating the best colourists in the UK and Ireland for 70 years. It has been part of my life and career for nearly three decades, from watching as a teenager to winning, and now returning as a judge in its 70th year.

“It’s always been about more than just beautiful hair. It's about craft, creativity and community, and giving the next  generation the chance to push the boundaries ”

READ NEXT: Derry schools lead the charge at Empower Girls 2026

Cos Sakkas, TONI&GUY Global Creative Director & L'Oréal Colour Trophy 2026 judge, said:  "Judging the L'Oréal Colour Trophy is really special. You've got the young, up-and-coming stars of the industry. They're all putting their passion and inspiration on the line for industry leaders to judge."

On the night, guests will experience a live artistic and educational showcase led by industry icon Robert Eaton of Russell Eaton Hair, alongside model presentations from the regional semi-finalists, and the announcement of the stylists progressing to the national final.

The Northern Ireland heat forms part of a nationwide tour marking the L'Oréal Colour Trophy's 70th anniversary, and its return to regional stages for the first time since 2019. This year's programme spans eight cities across the UK and Northern Ireland, including Belfast, Glasgow, Leeds, Manchester, Bristol, St Albans, Brighton and London, before a national final brings the country's top colourists together to compete for the overall title.