Words: Alex Woodhall
Along with his tailor, cobbler and watchsmith, a gentleman’s barber is one of the most important people in his life. Your hair, after all, is the only thing you wear every single day and keeping it kempt is critical. Once you find the barber you have a rapport with, wholeheartedly trust to do right by your lid and doesn’t cost you so much you can’t afford a trim every four weeks – never let him go, it could be years before you find another that good. But how do you go about seeking out this scissor wielding wizard? There are a few giveaways to look out for before you’ve even let him take a clipper to the back of your head.
Get a recommendation
Next time somebody walks into the office with a clean cut ask them who was behind the trim. The proof is often in the cut and it’s also better to get a recommendation than walk in blind.
What’s the product like?
Nosey around the spot before you commit to a cut. If the products on shelves are akin to that of a supermarket’s own brand, then it’s probably not the kind of place you want snipping at your head. Quality products tend to mean they know what they’re doing – although it’s not a guarantee.
How well-groomed is your barber?
I don’t think it’s a coincidence that the two best barbers I’ve ever had possessed enviably impressive facial hair and immaculately cut side partings. If you’re trusting a barber to tidy up your hair, surely his own should be up to snuff?
Take advantage of the consultation
That period between the handshake and the clippers being turned on is crucial in deciding whether this is the one for you. Think of it as a date where you typically get to know each other before diving into any physical contact. Is he filling you with confidence? Explaining things thoroughly? Offering suggestions? If none of the above apply, it’s time to cut it short and admit you’re better as friends – before promptly never calling each other again.
Who else is in the shop?
If the other clients waiting to be chopped are sporting lucid mohawks, shaved-in thunderbolts or dreadlocks, it may not be the place for you. You can tell a lot about a barbers by the clientele. If they’re putting you off, it’s probably best to continue the search elsewhere.
(Main image: Takara Belmont / Ruffians)
Recommended reading: What haircut to get based on your face shape
Recommended styling products:
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
