When creativity lies as the foundation of creation, the world becomes a wellspring of inspiration. Creativity pushes us to explore the unknown; forge new paths and experiment. And when our heart sets out to do that, everything around us can serve as a wonderful blueprint for a creation that leaves the viewer in awe. One such person who stood testamentary to this is hairstylist Shine Janarthanan.
A trip to a local market truly left a mark on Shine. The intricate patterns of the cane décor there inspired her to create this gorgeous hairstyling collection. Bringing together a play of cane and weaving we often see in cane artefacts, she has created three stunning looks. Through a conversation with Shine Janarthanan, Vidhi Arya from Professional Beauty India explores what the Cane Hair Collection is all about.
The Cane Hair Collection by Shine Janarthanan
I love cane in general, the weaving pattern that forms a part of cane décor and pieces is what inspired me. Not just that, I’m also somebody who loves doing hair braids. Creative braids with various types of patterns make me really happy. The striking similarity between braids and the weaving of canes inspired this collection.
If you observe the collection carefully, you’ll realise the beautiful play between cane and braids. I have used several braiding techniques on the hair and everything right from the base to the frame of the hairstyle is made by the cane.
In the first look, you’ll see a hair hat which is inspired by a lamp. The base of it is made of cane and hair has been weaved as braids across the frame.
Then in the second look, the halo behind the head is also supported by a cane ring. There are braids in the front section and the hair has been weaved around the halo.
The third look is a simpler one with a bob cut. The weaving in the front part of the hair is inspired by the weaving that we often see in baskets.
The Creative Thinking
These looks are a manifestation of my creativity. When I decided to create these looks, the prime aim was to be as creative as I could. These looks were not curated to be very commercial. For this collection, I wanted to play around with braids and shapes. And, since hair is flowy, creating shape in it requires a base or a support, that is where cane into play.
Braids in the Current Fashion Scene
Braids have always been a part of Indian fashion, especially the three-strand braid. However, I think it can be done in a very creative way and there’s a lot of scope for experimentation. I feel it is yet to be explored as I don’t really see many people do creative braids on an everyday basis. We have been stuck on the traditional braids because they’re fast. But actually, there are many other braids that are not just fast but very attractive, though yet to arrive in the mainstream. I don’t think it is in trend yet but it should be. They can totally be a game changer.
Just like weaves of a cane, hair can be easily played around with. Be it with a four-strand weave or a five-strand weave. If we take the right inspiration and let our creativities flow free, there’s a lot we can do with braids and make them stand apart.