Pioneering hairdresser Trevor Sorbie dies

Trevor Sorbie, one of the hairdressing industry’s major international names, has died at the age of 75, just weeks after revealing his cancer had spread to his liver.

Voted by his peers as a four-time winner of the industry-coveted British Hairdresser of the Year, he was a pioneer of the easy-to-manage fashion shapes of the 80s, 90s and into Noughties.

He rose to prominence as one of the young guns emerging from the key late-60s/70s Vidal Sassoon era when hair joined the radical changes seen in music and fashion. At his height he was best-known for creating the wedge, woof and scrunch hairstyles and his client list accordingly included international stars of stage and screen.

His status as one of the first ‘hair designers’ also reflected his ability to attract big audiences on the professional international tuition circuit, regarded as a major fashion communicator.

That status also helped him secure a position as one of the of first celebrity fashion hairdressers, highlighted by his regular TV appearances. He was also one of the first to successfully develop and promote a signature range of styling products globally.

Away from the limelight, he set up a charity, My New Hair, which gives advice to patients and NHS staff on wig styling, hair loss and regrowth after treatment.

Sorbie hailed from Paisley, Renfrewshire, working first in his father’s salon. But his talent as a creator emerged rapidly and he opened his first salon in 1979 in London’s Covent Garden, with his company going on to open locations in Brighton, Bristol, Hampstead, Manchester and Richmond.

“It is with heartfelt emotion that we share the passing of our esteemed founder, Trevor Sorbie MBE”, read a statement shared to the Instagram account of his business. “Trevor passed away peacefully with his family and beloved dog by his side”.

It added: “Trevor’s journey, marked by unparalleled creativity and kindness, has left an indelible mark on the world of hairdressing and beyond.”

His team added in the statement that Sorbie’s “vision set new standards and continues to inspire generations”.

“As we commemorate 45 years of Trevor Sorbie salons, we remain steadfast in upholding the passion, artistry and dedication that he embodied,” it added.

A special event will also be organised for early next year to “celebrate his remarkable life and contributions”.