The passing of renowned hairdresser Trevor Sorbie, the pioneer behind the iconic wedge cut, has left an indelible mark on the beauty industry. Sorbie, who succumbed to terminal bowel cancer at the age of 75, was a true visionary whose contributions to the world of hairdressing will be felt for generations to come.

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of a Hairdressing Trailblazer

A Lifelong Passion for Hairdressing

Trevor Sorbie's journey in the world of hairdressing began at a young age, as he honed his skills and developed a deep passion for the craft. From opening his flagship salon in Covent Garden, London, in 1979 to being awarded British Hairdresser of the Year four times, Sorbie's dedication and innovation were unparalleled. His commitment to excellence and his ability to push the boundaries of hairdressing made him a true icon in the industry.Sorbie's impact extended beyond his own salon, as he mentored and inspired countless hairdressers throughout his career. His team, who continue to uphold the values and standards he championed, are a testament to his enduring legacy. Sorbie's unwavering commitment to innovation, compassion, and nurturing future generations of hairdressers has left an indelible mark on the industry.

Pioneering the Iconic Wedge Cut

One of Sorbie's most significant contributions to the world of hairdressing was the creation of the iconic wedge cut. This revolutionary style, which became a hallmark of the 1970s and 1980s, transformed the way people thought about hair and ushered in a new era of bold, modern hairstyles. The wedge cut's enduring popularity and influence on the industry are a testament to Sorbie's creative genius and his ability to anticipate and shape trends.Sorbie's impact on the industry extended beyond his own salon and clientele. He became a household name, appearing on numerous television shows, including Channel 4's "Faking It," where he shared his expertise and inspired a new generation of hairdressers. His ability to connect with the public and share his passion for hairdressing made him a beloved figure in the industry and beyond.

Compassion and Philanthropy

Sorbie's legacy was not solely defined by his professional achievements; it was also marked by his compassion and philanthropic efforts. In 2006, he founded the charity "My New Hair," which provided personalized wig styling services to cancer patients, offering them a sense of dignity and confidence during a challenging time.Sorbie's dedication to supporting those affected by cancer was deeply personal, as he himself was diagnosed with terminal bowel cancer in 2024. Despite his own health struggles, he remained committed to his work and to supporting others in need. His selflessness and desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others are a testament to his character and the values he embodied.

Tributes and Lasting Impact

The news of Sorbie's passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes from across the beauty industry. Colleagues, industry leaders, and admirers have all expressed their profound respect and admiration for the hairdressing icon. From Sallie Berkerey, the Managing Director at CEW, to British celebrity stylist Adam Reed, the accolades and heartfelt messages underscore the immense impact Sorbie had on the industry and the lives he touched.As the industry mourns the loss of a true legend, it is clear that Trevor Sorbie's legacy will continue to inspire and shape the future of hairdressing. His contributions, both in terms of his artistic genius and his unwavering commitment to compassion and mentorship, will be felt for generations to come. The Trevor Sorbie brand, the team he nurtured, and the expanded reach of his charity, "My New Hair," will ensure that his impact and influence endure, cementing his status as a true icon of the hairdressing world.