Q & A with hairstylist Brad Ngata

Beauty Bible got the low down from hairstylist Brad Ngata.

Who are you and what do you do?
I’m  a Sydney based hairstylist. I own two Sydney salons, Brad Ngata Hair Direction Downtown and Brad Ngata Hair Direction Uptown at Ivy, where I act as Creative Director.  I am also a L’Oreal Ambassador and Hair director at Australian Fashion Week, as well as London and Paris Fashion Week’s. On top of all this my day to day activity involves session styling.

The most common misconception about hairdressers is?
People still view our work as a hobby when it’s actually our profession. Please don't ask for advice when I’m out of work, believe it or not I like to switch off from my busy routine just as much as anyone else. My standard line when this happens is "make an appointment like everyone else".

If you weren't a hairdresser you'd be….
I love fashion and design, so if I wasn’t a hairdresser I’d either be a fashion designer or an interior designer. These are my two greatest passions (after hairdressing of course).

Fastest, easiest, need-to-look-fab-in-a-flash hair trick - one for long hair, one for short hair
You can do so much with long hair, but nothing is easier or more fabulous than a slick high ponytail. This adds class and glamour to any look. For shorter hair the best quick, easy and fabulous option is the ‘just got out of bed’ look.

Top 5 must have products
A Mason Pearson brush, Parlux dryer, GHD, tail comb and bobby pins.

Which celebrity would you love to give a hair make-over?
It used to be Michael Jackson. I’m on the hunt for a new celebrity to fill the void he left.

What is the trend for blonds/brunettes/redheads this spring?
Bright and short! Vibrant colour is a must have this season. Worn with a cropped style you will look fashion forward and totally on trend this spring.

Is there a key 'cut' this season?
The Shag has been a very popular style this season. It’s great for all hair types and lengths, so it looks great on most people. The best thing about this style is that it’s low maintenance and looks fabulous.

Best way to get your hair back in to good condition (we like to call this 'hair rehab')
Kerastase Rituals that treat and revitalise the hair are definitely a winner for getting your hair & scalp back to top condition.

Salon hair treatment we shouldn’t go another day without knowing about?
 3 step rituals by Kerastase. These rituals are recommended by your stylist and each ritual restores and maintains the beauty of your hair and scalp, leaving your hair looking better than ever before.

What amazing tips do you have for making a blow dry last longer?
Get a professional blow dry and invest in dry shampoo. A quick spritz of dry shampoo maximises the length of your blow wave, keeping your hair looking fabulous, for longer.  If you are truly dedicated to getting the most out of it, sleep upright so you don’t flatten your style!

If you can only afford to buy one hair product, what should it be?
L’Oreal Professionnel Texture Expert Expansion Mousse. Once you try this product, there really is no going back.

Best 'at-home' trick for gorgeous hair?
Keep it simple; effortless looks are often the best looks. During summer I’m always a fan of beach hair, you can go straight from the water to your evening party and still look amazing.