Styles: Optic by Danny Pato, New Zealand

Optic is the latest collection from 2021 International Hairdresser of the Year, Danny Pato.

Photographed by Mara Sommer, Opticwas inspired by the 1960s: Op Art, fashion, architecture and a monochromatic palette. “I wanted to take some of the movements and obsessions of the 60s – space travel, New Wave and rebellion – and reimagine them for today”, said Pato.

Hair is the collection is high-contrast black and white. A long bob (lob) has shattered layers of black and white; finger-waves are set to create a finger-like illusion; a shorter haircut has disconnected layers that integrate into each other to create a choppy effect; long dead straight hair, half-and-half black and white, features playful polka dots; curly hair is fully brushed out big and voluminous to catch the air; a sleek bowl cut is contrasted with a long, structured panels.

The scale and patters of the dresses, designed by Pato, create playful optical illusions for the viewer.

Hair & Art Director: Danny Pato

Salon: D&M Hair Design

Photographer: Mara Sommer

Stylists: Danny Pato & Rachel Morton

Makeup Artist: Kiekie Stanners

Producer: Ryland Wood

Product Company: Davines

Models: Jenna Watermeyer, Lauren Keeline and Lydia Grace from Red11 Models, Bernie Anker and Ella Wong from Unique Model Management.