As the creative force behind some of New Zealand’s most striking runway moments, Tuscany Hamel knows how to turn hair into high art.
This season, the Christchurch-based stylist – who’s worked across both Australian and New Zealand fashion weeks – steps into the spotlight as Hair Director for the Christchurch Spring Fashion Festival. Drawing on her international experience and a deep-rooted family legacy in the hair industry, Tuscany is bringing her signature blend of effortless cool and technical precision to the festival’s runways. We caught up with her ahead of the event to talk about her creative process, the art of balance backstage, and why this homegrown moment feels especially meaningful.
You’ve built up a strong profile as a hairstylist – from following in your family’s footsteps to working internationally. In your role as Hair Director for this festival, how do you bring together your personal creative aesthetic and the overarching vision of the show?
I draw inspiration from a variety of places, the thing I love most about events like this fashion festival is that it’s the fashion beauty and hair world colliding. I don’t just focus solely on hair, I love to dream up looks based on the designers that I know are showcasing along with the makeup looks, I love when it all comes together as one!
The fashion-hair interface is always evolving. How are you thinking about hair for this festival in terms of current trends vs. timeless technique? What do you want the audience (and models) to walk away with?
I personally think runway hair is more effective when it adds to the overall look as opposed to draws away from it. I love hair looks that are purposeful but effortlessly cool.
I want the audience and models to feel that balance: hair that feels expressive, modern, and wearable, but also crafted with skill. My hope is that everyone walks away seeing hair not just as an accessory, but as an extension of personal style and confidence. I would also love the audience to leave feeling inspired to wear these hair looks on themselves!
What are your top three go-to styling products for runway-ready hair?
Hair Candy conditioning treatment, it’s so versatile! I use it for anything from a slick look to creating texture and enhancing natural waves/curls
Anti shine spray for a glossy finish
GM salt spray for creating lived in textured and root volume, agains such a versatile product which is so key when creating multiple looks
You mentioned in a recent interview that you “live at a fast pace” and that balancing front-line styling, brand work and personal creative projects is a constant challenge. What does it take to prepare at the scale of a major festival, and how do you keep your team aligned and motivated backstage?
Variety is what fuels me. As much as it can be a balancing act, I absolutely thrive on having different creative projects in motion. There are so many moving parts behind the scenes, but that’s what makes it exciting. I’ve grown up surrounded by the hair and fashion industry — my parents, Glynis and Mike have done hair for fashion shows across the world — and their experience continues to be my greatest influence. I’m endlessly grateful for their guidance and the ability to bounce ideas around with them; it keeps me grounded and inspired.
I’m also fortunate to have an incredible hair team by my side. Everyone contributes their own artistry and perspective, and that sense of collaboration and support — especially leading up to this event — is something really special. A special mention goes to Glenn from Cult Brands, who’s always there with insight and encouragement. Iv worked at both Australian and New Zealand fashion weeks and I know that it’s beautiful chaos and fast paced. I love that environment, so I think it’s about leaning into that and encouraging eachother through the amazing madness.
Christchurch is your home turf. What does it mean to you to take on this leadership role here – and what unique opportunities or challenges does working in this environment present compared with larger industry centres?
It truly is a such a privilege to take on this role in my home city and I definitely do not take the opportunity lightly! I’m so grateful to be able to collaborate with fellow friends and colleagues in fashion, beauty and hair industry. Christchurch has so many talented creatives so it’s an honour to do this along side so many of them.
Working in this environment offers something truly unique compared to larger industry centres — there’s a strong sense of community, creativity, and collaboration. While we might not have the same scale as bigger cities, that often fuels innovation and connection, which makes every project feel personal and deeply rewarding.
Keep up to date with Tuscany’s work throughout the Christchurch Spring Fashion Festival by following her on social media @tuscanyhamel and discover more about her cult-favourite product line, Hair Candy, online at haircandy.nz
