The catwalk shows and hands-on workshops saw Australia's foremost hair and beauty artists shine. Highlights included the live shows - from expert teams in stylist Caterina DiBiase for hair and celebrity makeup artist Nigel Stanislaus, and Brad Mullins joining makeup artist Sarah Tanner, whipping up the hottest looks straight from local and international catwalks. Sharon Blain worked wonders on locks, presenting her enthralling ‘After Dark' collection to eager crowds. Meanwhile, make up extraordinaire Lauren Faulkner's amazing creations saw a living masterpiece using the human body as her blank canvas, producing a wonder-inducing N'avi look from hit film Avatar.

The exciting program of creative education included Brad Ngata presenting a ‘Runway to Real-Way' look-and-learn session on creating fashion week looks. Rae Morris' show was, as always, a hit - with the masses lapping up her tips in the ‘Advanced Makeup Class'.

Nails were a key attraction for visitors thanks to brands like Zoya and OPI flashing ultra-bright nail warmers. Mandi Levanah and her ‘Photo Finish Fingernails' stole the spotlight.

Makeovers were popular with visitors, who gathered at the likes of Mineralogie and Youngblood's super-stand for beautification advice. Amber Renae from television's Project Runway dropped by the Ciccone cosmetics stand, while Technotan had hearts a-flutter with models being spray-tanned live.

Skincare didn't take a backseat, with products galore from brands such as beautician formulated Natural Look to CSHE Clinical Skincare for the cosmeceutical lovers.

For the technology-inclined, Candela, Device Consulting, Medtel, Wear Nothing and High Tech Lasers were showing their wares.

Salon Melbourne is all about the cutting edge of beauty and brought exactly that to the table with a fun and lively event for 2011. With the support of Australian hair and beauty pioneers, it delivered new ground in industry excellence and innovation to inspire our best and brightest talent.

For more information visit www.salonmelbourne.com.au