Haircutting & Styling
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06.16.2026
Marylle Koken Wins NAHA 2026
Marylle Koken Wins NAHA 2026 for Haircutting: A Defining Moment in Precision, Creativity, and Craft
In an industry where artistry meets technical mastery, few honors carry the prestige of the North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA). Often referred to as the “Oscars of hair,” NAHA recognizes the work that pushes the professional beauty industry forward, celebrating innovation, vision, and exceptional skill.
This year, at the 37th Annual NAHA Awards on May 31, 2026, Sebastian Professional Top Artist Marylle Koken took home the top honor in Haircutting, further cementing her place as one of the most influential voices in modern hair design.
Marylle’s win is more than a personal milestone, it’s a celebration of precision cutting as a true art form. At NAHA, winners are selected through a rigorous, multi-round blind judging process led by industry experts, recognizing not only aesthetics but also technical excellence and innovation.
To stand out in this category means mastering:
- Shape and structure
- Movement and texture
- The balance between creativity and wearability
Marylle’s winning collection exemplifies all three, bringing together technical discipline and rebellious artistry in a way that feels both editorial and accessible behind the chair.
As Sebastian Professional Top International Artist and Creative Ambassador, Marylle Koken has built her reputation on pushing boundaries while staying grounded in craftsmanship.
Born in Holland, trained in France, and shaped by the energy of Los Angeles, her journey has been defined by a global perspective and relentless creative drive. By 19, she had already joined the Sebastian International Team, one of the youngest stylists to do so and has since developed an impressive career spanning: Editorial work and campaign styling, Fashion week and red carpet artistry, Salon ownership at The Harlot in Los Angeles, and Advanced education and mentorship for professional stylists
Her work consistently reflects a distinct aesthetic: rebellious, directional, and detail-driven making her a standout voice in contemporary hair.
Congratulations Marylle!