For 2013, Cosmetologists Chicago has revamped and re-energized the STARS photo competition. 

Among the new ideas and opportunities for professionals who enter will be a presentation to winners on The Runway stage at America’s Beauty Show, March 9-11, 2013 at McCormick Place in downtown Chicago. The winners and their work will be introduced to the media and hundreds of their peers attending the second annual BeautyBASH on Saturday, March 9. The STARS Photo Competition also includes cash prizes, media recognition and complimentary accommodations in downtown Chicago.

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

The deadline for entries is January 25, 2013. Entry forms and rules are available for download at americasbeautyshow.com or by calling 312-321-6809. The STARS categories are open to all salon professionals licensed for more than three years. The RISING Star of ABS 2013 category is open ONLY to students currently enrolled in an accredited cosmetology school.

NEW CATEGORIES FOR 2013

Those with three or more years in the profession may compete in as many of these categories. The RISING Star of ABS 2013 category is for cosmetology students or professionals with less than 3-years of salon experience.

Makeover Expert
Photos to 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 (1) “before” shot and two (2) “after” looks; one close up and one full-length fashion shot.

ColorAmerica Colorist of the Year
Photos to be judged on the application of the latest in fashionable hair color techniques. Entrants must provide one (1) “before” photo and two (2) “after” images showing hair color to the models best advantage.

Hair Fashion Visionary—Avant Garde
Photos to be judged on the innovation, imagination and progressive talent displayed on one model. Entrants must provide one (1) “before” photo and two (2) “after” images showcasing the style from various angles.

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 (1) “before” photo and two (2) “after” images showcasing style from various angles.

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 (1) “before” image and (1) “after” daytime style photo and one (1) photo of the same model with hair in a finished up do look for evening.

Men’s Look Champion
Photos will be judged on contemporary and fashionable looks for today’s man. Barbers are also eligible for this award. Entrants must provide one (1) “before” photo and two (2) “after” images showcasing style from various angles.

International Nail Technician of the Year
Photos will be judged on creativity and technical merit in natural or nail enhancement work. Entrants must present two (2) images showcasing the model’s full hand.

RISING Star of ABS 2013—Student Category
Photos to 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 (1) “before” shot and two (2) “after” looks.  Category is open only to students currently enrolled in an accredited cosmetology school.

THE ULTIMATE STARS AWARD
In addition to winners in each separate category, one entrant among the STARS entrants will be awarded $1,000 and The Leo Passage Gold Trophy, honoring the late founder of Pivot Point International. This special 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.