2009 Event

Irina Miasnikova, Michigan Hairdresser of the Year

In September, three of Michigan’s finest hair artists competed live on stage at The Tiffany Awards for the title of 2009 Michigan Hairdresser of the Year. Each finalist’s collection demonstrated outstanding talent, artistry and passion for their craft, but it was Irina Miasnikova of Pigalle Salon & MedSpa, Southfield who won the judges over with a collection born from her heart. It was wild yet refined, inspired by the intense color and attitude of the 1980s.

 "It is not so hard to create what is in your heart,” Irina says. “My customer was also an inspiration for this collection."  

Her presentation featured three looks in the categories of color, formal updo and women’s editorial. While each look was inspired by the 80s, the models used props and dramatic effects to transform the looks from the 80s to present day.

Kym and Jerry Douglas

During the live judging, Hollywood beauty expert Kym Douglas told Irina that she entertained and surprised the audience with a phenomenal and flawless collection. Her husband and judge Jerry Douglas, actor (The Young and the Restless), complimented the remarkable spirit and imagination of Irena’s presentation in terms of performance and attitude as "sensationally done."

Irina accepting HOY Award

During the judging, Irina said she was most proud of the opportunity to compete and that she felt that a little piece of her heart was with everyone in attendance that night. Irina came to the U.S. in 1998 after winning numerous awards including 1995 Avant Garde Hairdresser of the Year, Russia; 1995 winner of The Best Hair Design, European Hair Fashion Team Awards and 1994 Creative Hairdresser of the Year, Russia.

Irina w/ models

Irina has been interested in hair styling, color, art and fashion from a very young age, and like so many, her dolls were her first clients. Her life has experienced different twists and turns, but her heart always lead her towards hair as an artistic medium. For the past 16 years as a professional hairdresser, she has approached her work with the belief that we should all embrace what we love.

WINNER: FORMAL Voula Isakov, Andrew Marke Salon, Rochester Second place: Tonya M. Robinson, D. Knight Salons, Marshall Third place: Deborah G. Knight, D. Knight Salons, Marshall

Formal Winner: Voula Isakov