Barbershops: Grooming For Men Without The Frills

As dudes, grooming can be a difficult subject to figure out- no self respecting man wants to be dragged by their girlfriend into some frou-frou salon. Hence, why barbershops were created back in the day, ensuring that men had a place where they could go for haircuts, straight razor shaves, and conversation of course. Barbershops have made a recent resurgence across the country, and with a modern spin, they have become a trendy place for today’s manly men. The classic leather chairs and dark wood interiors remain, but now these barbershops have everything from flat screen TV’s to pool tables and full service bars. While the aesthetics may have changed, the great service is still the same. Barbers are specially trained in men’s grooming and can give a better skilled haircut then just using a comb number. Most will even offer a shave with a straight razor, which is an awesome experience for those who have never done it. Granted, mine was after a month long beard competition, but it was cool nonetheless, and the closest shave I’ve ever had. Barbershops are re-establishing themselves as “cool” places for guys to hangout and get their grooming done in comfortable environment. These new modern barbershops are basically man caves that offer haircuts minus the frills and fluff. Here are 5 of our favorite places:
“As dudes, grooming can be a difficult subject to figure out- no self respecting man wants to be dragged by their girlfriend into some frou-frou salon”
Bolt
Located in Downtown LA and West Hollywood, Bolt embodies the classic neighborhood barbershop. They offer a variety of cuts and shaves as well as shoe shining and teeth whitening. You can even play shuffleboard or have a drink while you’re there as they have numerous beers on tap.
Blind Barber
This barbershop located in East Village, New York features a classic looking interior and is a self-proclaimed “return to the roaring 20’s”. They’ve also combined this classical style with that of a vintage cocktail lounge. They have a full service bar complete with signature cocktails as well as a bouncer.
Fino
Located in Las Vegas, this men’s grooming lounge provides everything from cuts to hand/foot detailing and body waxing. With its dark wood interior, it feels more like a cigar lounge then a barbershop. Their other services include TV, internet, and a complimentary bar.
Proper
This Los Angeles barbershop blends modern art and street culture with the traditional and old fashioned. They offer shaves and cuts as well as beer and an X-Box in their back lounge. They also do birthdays, bachelor parties, and even offer a special groomsmen package for the groom on his wedding day.
Baxter Finley
Simple and understated, Baxter Finley offers a haircut or a shave in a quiet environment. Wood covers the floor and ceiling and the walls are lined with bright white subway tiles. Located in Los Angeles, this shop decided to forgo the “gimmicks” like drinks and television, and are completely focused on the craft. While this may not appear as much fun as the others, they are all about providing great service in a professional and relaxing environment.







