Contrary to popular belief, the objective of the L'Oréal Professionnel Colour Trophy is not to create catwalk hair. It's about interpreting a fashion trend from the Autumn/Winter 2008/09 collections and translating it into a technical hair cut and colour. "The trick is to identify a theme or era that you see in more than one designers work,” reveals Jonny Engstrom from Guy Kremer Intrernational. "You need to develop an idea of the finished look and feel of the style you would like to create. Think of the finishing products you will need to create that style and texture then work backwards to create it.”

Before you embark on your creative journey, here are some more handy tips from the judges;

"Even though hair is the focal point, the models clothes and makeup are equally as important." Trevor Sorbie, MBE

"The secret is not to focus on just one designer but to look at work from a variety. You can do this by looking at Style.com. Remember the catwalk styles are usually over the top and its okay to tame and adapt them with your own signature style." Jonny Engstrom, Guy Kremer International

"Choose styling that is consumer friendly but that is equally on-trend. Study trends through the magazines catwalk reports or on the internet to find something that women will relate to. I'm looking for styling that is innovative but also speaks to women about wearable, achievable glamour." Richard Ward, Richard Ward Hair and Metrospa