When conjuring up thoughts of France one is always drawn to the French Riviera, the famous Eiffel Tower and their delectable cheeses and baguettes.

That was the theme at the International Beauty Expo (IBE) Hairdresser Awards 2010 where hairstylists had to come up with well-known French treasures in order to create their winning looks.

Hair extensions, scissors and elaborate outfits were the order of the day as talented hairdressers from around Kuala Lumpur exhibited their prowess in constructing intricate hairstyles hoping to grab the top spot.

Limkokwing Alumni, Hair Design lecturer at the University, Ckay Liow bagged the Gold Award in the Fantasy Open category with his winning design which emulated the French horn accompanied with the colours red, blue and white representing the colours of the French flag.

‘I wanted to choose a musical instrument because I had a feeling everyone else would choose building structures in their designs,’ said Liow.

The event which took place at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) brought together an array of gifted men and women who were all in the running for the Gold Award.

Liow’s design which was part of the category ‘French Chignon’ (French pleat or bun), was the theme that all designers were given to produce their works of art.

His semi-final design which drew inspiration from the Grand Pyramid of the Louvre, which combined the buildings fascinating design of glass and metal which was applied with the use of diamonds and crystals which reflected off the models coif.

With Mayang Adinda Naddya also a Hair Design lecturer on make-up, the two created both of Liow’s looks which captured the essence of his inspiration and won them a cheque for RM3000 with prizes worth RM2500.

When asked about what his future goals were Liow said ‘I want to make myself well known in the hair industry and want to be able to always create something different for people to be inspired by.

Cheered on by the Hair Design staff and students, Liow’s winning look was a favourite amongst the lot.

‘Passion is very important in life. If you love it, go for it.’