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A tryst with Travis
We talk about hair every day and then we talk about hair with Travis Balcke — a whole new perception is drawn. KANISHKA RAMCHANDANI shares a chat with the Australian on his passion, his vision and his aspirations.
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How do you react when you meet someone praising masala dosa to the high heavens and drooling over chicken tikka? You immediately join him in the repartee, I say. That’s exactly what I did when I met Travis Balcke, International Creative Stylist, Wella Care & Style. After a spirited exchange of views on the Master Chef Australia, I got down to the business of interviewing this stylist par excellence from down under.
What is the latest buzz in hair?
It's all about enhancing the natural texture of one's hair. Heavily architectured hair is out. We are now looking at hairstyles that will last over a longer period of time. In cuts, we are looking at using structures that will enhance one's face shape.
What's your take on haircare?
People generally pick styling products, as they give instant satisfaction. Not realising that haircare is more important, most people tend to skip this step. If you don't have nicely prepped hair, it won't get styled properly. For complete haircare, I recommend Pure shampoo from Wella’s Balance range. Change your style and use the right products. You don't have to go to a salon every time you want to look gorgeous. A few elemental changes in your basic routine and you can change your style at home, too.
What is your say about the hair industry in India?
The hair industry in India is celebrity-driven. More often than not, women here follow the trends that their favourite actor or celeb showcases. Off late, one can see confidence building up amongst Indian women to try out new styles and make an effort at being trendy. Currently, in India I have noticed women sporting a disconnected hairdo. It’s a rage out here. But, what I would like to point out is that the disconnected hair technique doesn’t always necessarily work. Also, there is a big market for colour in India. All that the Indian consumer has to keep in mind is to select the right colour and rely on the maxim — less is more.
What do you think of Wella’s new range?
 Wella’s new range is exactly what you need to care for and style your hair. The styling products work both on wet and dry hair, depending on your needs. The Velvet Amplifier is a must-have (I never travel without mine!). It closes down the cuticle and gives your hair a shiny effect. When spread evenly across a strand, it covers the porous parts, just like oil. Moreover, the products in this range are offered at good price points and are very specific to individual needs. Now, people have more choices and can select products as per their hair needs and hair types.
Tell us something about your association with Wella Professionals.
My journey with Wella has been amazing. I started my career with Wella and have grown with the brand. I had even won the Trend Vision Award (way back when it was called Star Search). It has been a great experience.
What is your signature style?
I would say a certain rawness describes my signature style. I like real hair… I appreciate the realness of natural hair. My work involves enhancing this realness. The raw edge is what gives your hair a real feel. I don’t recommend styles that you can’t carry off or that go against your natural style. For instance, in India poker straight hair is in, but what women don’t realise is that straight hair is difficult to pull off, as flaws in the shape of the face and hair texture become more obvious.
 
Which are your favourite products?
Like I had mentioned earlier, the Velvet Amplifier is my favourite. It’s like my security blanket. The Refresh shampoo is another one that I like to use. Your scalp feels invigorated and really clean after using it… for me it’s a personal must-have.
What is your inspiration?
Inspiration for me comes from everywhere. Travelling and talking to people give me a lot of ideas.
Which celebrity have you enjoyed styling the most?
Madonna and Julianne Moore. The thing with celebs is they come to you when they see your work and like it. A regular lady wants her hair to look styled; whereas a celeb wants to portray that she has created the look without the stylist.
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