Fresh off his win of Editorial Hairstylist of the Year at the 2025 Australian Hair Industry Awards (Creative) in June, Anthony Nader added to his mantle and his prolific, multi-decade career and now shares his secrets to his session mastery, as well as his storied international career and beyond. Read on.
What’s your secret to award winning editorial work?
Personally, for me, it’s just about doing what I do. I work with hair texture and hair shapes and let then the cards fall where they may. I’ve been hairdressing for 38 years, and my salon is heading into its 29th year. I feel so refined in my brand now that I don’t really venture into other lanes, so to speak. I know what works, and I know what doesn’t.
What’s your advice to salon workers starting out in session styling?
First tip – don’t do it for the money, but for the self-growth and learning what excites you with playing with hair.
Second tip – don’t be afraid to reach out to photographers and stylists who inspire you. Let them know you’d love to collaborate.
Third tip – let go of your regimented salon styling when you’re on a shoot. Instead, work with a feeling—tap into the mood and vibe of the concept.
Fourth tip – create mood boards and share them with the crew. Show them that you’re quietly “next level” in the making.
Fifth tip – get out of Australia and take your work overseas. There are so many opportunities internationally that will stimulate you and truly fill your cup. From working on hair teams backstage at Fashion Week in major cities, meeting other like-minded creatives, to being part of photoshoot teams. This is where you’ll grow massively as an editorial stylist. Australia will always be here for you when you’re ready to come back.
What does your recent editorial win mean to you?
Both the salon and I are busier, which is wonderful. Honestly, I’d forgotten the impact winning an award can have.
Back in 2010, I received the The Hair Master’s Award and, in 2008, I was named Editorial Hairstylist of the Year – both of which I didn’t enter and was selected.
The last award I actually entered was in 2006 when I won Australian Hairdresser of the Year.
It was quite random that I decided to enter this time around, but here we are. At least I’m not predictable!
When it comes to the creative side, I still love shooting and keep working on my own projects. I’ve never been that hairdresser who’s chained to the salon chair. I take my hat off to those who are, but I need my studio days as they definitely keep me sane. Thankfully, my salon clients are incredibly supportive and work around my schedule. That said, it’s rare that I’ll take a day out of the salon unless it’s a shoot that’s truly worth stepping away for. My clients are so loyal, and I appreciate every single one of them immensely.
How does editorial work differ internationally?
In Australia, the editorial market is incredibly narrow. We literally have a handful, maybe two handfuls, of magazine publications. On top of that, we only have so many models, photographers, and stylists compared to the bigger international cities.
Overseas, there’s such an abundance of publications and models that it really becomes a creative hub of inspiration. That leads to more opportunities to showcase your work, not only on incredible international models, but also in aspirational online publications, and if you’re lucky, in physical magazines too. Since COVID, there’s been an explosion of online magazines, which has actually been a positive shift. It’s allowed for more self-expression and creativity compared to the more commercial, high circ magazines.
For more information visit www.rawhair.com.au