The world of hairdressing has lost an icon, as celebrated stylist Trevor Sorbie passed away peacefully at the age of 75, surrounded by loved ones. Known for his groundbreaking “wedge” cut, Sorbie’s impact extended far beyond celebrity clientele, transforming hairdressing into an art form. After a diagnosis of terminal bowel cancer that spread to his liver, he courageously faced his final weeks, choosing to spend them with his family and closest friends.
The Life and Legacy of Trevor Sorbie: A Tribute to a Hairdressing Icon
Born in Paisley, Scotland, on March 13, 1949, Sorbie’s journey into hairdressing began humbly. After enduring bullying in school, he left education early to apprentice at his father’s barber shop, igniting his lifelong passion for hairstyling. Moving to London, Sorbie quickly made a name for himself, and in 1979, he opened his first salon in Covent Garden. This initial venture laid the foundation for the renowned Trevor Sorbie salon empire, with branches across the UK, including in Brighton, Bristol, Hampstead, and Manchester. These salons became incubators for hair industry talent, as Sorbie continuously set trends and defined the standards for excellence in hairstyling.
Perhaps one of Sorbie’s most significant contributions was his daring approach to styling and technique. His “wedge” cut, first introduced in the 1970s, became an iconic look, drawing celebrity attention and inspiring legions of stylists worldwide. Sorbie’s “scrunch” drying technique also transformed the way hair was styled, adding texture and volume in ways that had not been achieved before. His creativity also led to trend-setting cuts like the “wolf man,” “sculpture,” and “wave” styles, each showcasing his innovative approach to hair and fashion.
Sorbie’s work with high-profile clients, including celebrities like Dame Helen Mirren, Grace Jones, and The Beach Boys, helped raise the profile of the hairdressing industry, elevating it in the public’s eye as an essential part of personal expression. His television appearances on programs like This Morning, The Wright Stuff, and Mary Queen of Shops showcased not only his skill but his down-to-earth, compassionate demeanor, endearing him to a wider audience.
Although his work with celebrities brought him fame, Sorbie’s humanitarian efforts have perhaps left an even deeper impact. In 2006, he stepped back from the salon floor to focus on creating his charity, My New Hair, inspired by his personal experience of assisting a family member with cancer. This charity provided personalized wig-styling services for cancer patients and others experiencing medical hair loss. Through this program, Sorbie offered comfort and confidence to countless individuals, and My New Hair has become a respected national network, advising both patients and NHS staff on hair loss, wig styling, and re-growth post-treatment. In 2018, he began offering a free wig customization service for NHS patients, further expanding the charity’s impact.
Sorbie’s commitment to philanthropy was matched by his passion for mentorship. As a four-time winner of the British Hairdresser of the Year award, he became an inspiration for young stylists, providing training, creating manuals, and leading workshops. His instructional books, including the Bridal Hair Book (2005) and Visions in Hair (1998), became invaluable resources for professionals. In recognition of his vast contributions, the Fellowship for British Hairdressing introduced the Trevor Sorbie Award for creative and commercial innovation in 2023, ensuring his legacy will continue to inspire and set benchmarks in the industry.
Beyond the salon, Sorbie opened up about his personal battles with depression and anxiety, which he attributed in part to the pressures of fame and personal loss. He revealed in an interview that a family pet provided solace during his lowest moments, reminding him of the importance of simple, grounding relationships. His candid discussions about mental health made him a relatable figure for those who have experienced similar struggles in a demanding, public-facing industry.
In the final chapter of his life, Sorbie continued to cut wigs for those battling medical hair loss, maintaining his connection to clients in meaningful ways. As a mentor, he encouraged his team to “be bold, be different, but always do everything in good taste.” His passion for artistry, empathy, and excellence has left a lasting impression on the industry.
Sorbie’s legacy will endure through the Trevor Sorbie salons, his charity, and the countless professionals and clients he inspired. Following his wishes, there will be no formal funeral, but friends, family, and fans are encouraged to contribute to the causes he championed, including Marie Curie, Cancer Research UK, Rowans Hospice, and My New Hair. A commemorative event in 2024 will honor his life, achievements, and indelible mark on the world of hairdressing.
Today, Trevor Sorbie’s story serves as a beacon of creativity, compassion, and resilience for stylists, barbers, makeup artists, and beauty professionals worldwide. As the industry mourns his passing, it also celebrates the lasting legacy of an icon who reshaped hairdressing and made a difference one cut at a time.
