Darrel Starkey Talks Not Having a Niche 

The UK hairdressing industry is so unique. It is known globally for being ahead of the game, always unveiling new trends and techniques, pushing the boundaries and also for providing people from all walks of life with exceptional opportunities across many different areas of the craft.

New Level

Over the years, industries across all sectors have changed and this has happened for a variety of reasons – recessions, pandemics, general shifts in the markets and because the world has progressed and evolved.  Hairdressing is no different and in fact, has completely evolved to a whole new level alongside both the beauty and fashion industries.

New Paths

Working closely alongside our industry neighbouring sectors, fashion and beauty, the collaborations and creative work has opened up paths for many stylists that one could only dream off. From session work, to ambassadorships, education to business led roles, the opportunities have become endless and the creativity continues to flow. Through experiment and time, many have found themselves working to a niche, putting their all into the chosen area of work and excelling in this to become the best they can possibly be – recognised by all for their incredible skills, passions and creations, both in and out of the salon.

No Niche

However for many, a niche is something that may not become apparent throughout the years, it may be something that just simply never happens – and that’s ok. Throughout my career, I have been extremely fortunate to experience a variety of roles within our industry. From business and brand having opened my own salon, to precision and creative cutting, colour, session, afro, men’s, wigs, education, industry teams and so much more – I have experienced a whole load of different ‘niche areas’ and feel comfortable not having one set area of excellence.

Knowledge

As an individual, I want to push myself to becoming the best version of myself. I love to soak up every ounce of knowledge and learn as much as I can across every single area of hairdressing – no matter what role or challenges is presented. I love the detail, the techniques and the continual progression and this motivates me each and every day to try something new and learn something else to add to my own skills.

Learn And Succeed

At the beginning of my career, on the very first day, I made a promise to myself to give this career my all, be successful and learn every single detail possible, and instead of focussing solely on one area, I decided to do just that – learn and succeed in all areas. It’s important to remember that having a niche is absolutely amazing, it’s something to be proud of and an amazing thing to have. However if you haven’t found a niche yet, or don’t want to focus on one sole area, this is ok too. Everyone has their own goals, their own vision and their own identity.

Always just be you, and true to yourself.

For more inspo follow @DarrelStarkey on Insta .