STARS Photo Contest Call


Since 2000, The STARS and RISING Stars Photo Competition, sponsored by Cosmetologists Chicago (CC), has been widely embraced by experienced salon professionals as well as novices.

New for 2013, CC has revamped and re-energized the contest. Among the slew of new ideas and opportunities for professionals who enter, will be a presentation to the winners on The Runway stage at America's Beauty Show, March 9 through 11, 2013 at McCormick Place in Chicago. The winners and their work will be introduced to the media and those attending the second annual BeautyBASH. The competition includes cash prizes, media recognition and complimentary accommodations in Chicago.

The STARS and RISING Stars entries will be judged on technical merit, execution and suitability of the styles of each category, as well as concept and overall approach. A select panel of industry leaders will serve as the final judges.

New Categories for 2013


Those with three or more years in the profession may compete in as many of these all-new categories as desired. The RISING Star of ABS 2013 category targets cosmetology students or professionals with less than 3-years of experience:

  1. Makeover Expert
       ● Photos will be judged on how dramatically the model's look is improved, as well as being contemporary and demonstrating professional hair and make-up application. Entrants must provide one "before" shot and two "after" looks; one close up and one full-length fashion shot.
  2. ColorAmerica Colorist of the Year
       ● Photos will be judged on the application of fashion-savvy hair color techniques. Entrants must provide one "before" photo and two "after" images.
  3. Hair Fashion Visionary - Avant Garde
       ● Photos will be judged on the innovation, imagination and progressive talent displayed on one model. Entrants must provide one "before" photo and two "after" images showcasing the style from various angles.
  4. Texture Champion
       ● Photos will be judged on expertise in cutting and styling of textured and/or multicultural hair. Techniques can include innovative perming, texturing and styling. Entrants must provide one "before" photo and two "after" images showcasing style from various angles.
  5. Day to Night
       ● Photos will be judged on looks styled down for daytime wear, then restyled into a glamorous up do. Entrants must provide one "before" image and "after" daytime style photo and one photo of the same model with hair styled in a finished up do for evening.
  6. Men's Look Champion
       ● Photos will be judged on contemporary and fashionable looks for today's man. Barbers are eligible to enter. Entrants must provide one "before" photo and two "after" images showcasing the style from various angles.
  7. International Nail Technician of the Year
       ● Photos will be judged on creativity and technical merit in natural or nail enhancement. Entrants must present two images showcasing the model's full hand.
  8. RISING Star of ABS 2013 - Student Category
       ● Photos will be judged on how dramatically the model's look is improved, as well as being contemporary and demonstrating professional hair and make-up application. Entrants must provide one "before" shot and two "after" looks. The category is open only to students currently enrolled in an accredited cosmetology school.
  9. THE ULTIMATE STARS AWARD
       ● In addition to winners in each separate category, one entrant among the STARS will be awarded $1,000 and The Leo Passage Gold Trophy, honoring the late founder of Pivot Point International. This trophy will be presented to the professional with entries in three or more of the professional STARS hairstyling categories. The scores earned by each entry will be combined to determine the overall Gold Trophy winner.

Entry forms and rules are available for download at AmericasBeautyShow.com or by calling 312-321-6809.