ISSUE 38 APRIL – JUNE 2023 | £5 | www.modernbarber.co.uk Be inspired by an exclusive collection directed by Ian Harrold, featuring five barbers at the top of their game Your go-to grooming guide for 2023 Build your profile and increase your profits A CUT ABOVE
CONTENTS ISSUE 38 | APRIL – JUNE 2023 18 34 58 26 REPORT 6 EVENTS: Everything you need to know about the Modern Barber Awards 2023 7 NEWS: The latest industry updates BUSINESS 10 Chris Foster’s guide to building your barber profile 12 Find out how Joe Mills reinvented himself through hard times FEATURES 15 GLOBAL BARBER: Meet Kim Seung Rae 18 INSIDE: Lucky Sevens, Weston-Super-Mare 20 SUSTAINABILITY: Barbers reveal the benefits of running an eco-centric business 26 GROOMING GEAR: The ultimate grooming and styling launches for your toolkit 28 THE BEARD CONSULTATION: Two barbers discuss the importance of a beard consultation 31 INTERVIEW: Rino Riccio opens up about trusting in his craft SHOPPING 32 GEAR: The latest tools and products to upgrade your kitbag CREATIVE 34 PORTFOLIO: Five collections to inspire 54 HOW TO: Mike Taylor talks us through the steps to create a curly mullet COMMUNITY 56 10-MINUTE CHAT: Will Brown talks to us about the importance of mental health training 58 COMMUNITY: How Claire Chambers’ was inspired by her Grandad to enter the industry 60 MY BIGGEST CHALLENGE: Nicky King tells us about striving for his barbering ambitions 62 BACK TO MY ROOTS: Miles Wood-Smith shares his journey to becoming a master barber 63 SOAPBOX: Anderson Boyce makes a case for quality barber education 64 FIT TO FOLLOW: The standout stars from social this month 2/ WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK
EDITOR: Sian Jones [email protected] 020 7349 4798 CONTRIBUTOR: Charlotte Grant-West [email protected] 020 3841 7369 CONTENT WRITER: Chloe Weldon [email protected] 020 3841 7362 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Josie Jackson [email protected] 020 3841 7368 GROUP SALES MANAGER Jackie Brown [email protected] • 020 3841 7366 ADVERTISING Alex Farrell [email protected] • 0203 841 7373 Matt Crane [email protected] • 020 3841 7367 DESIGN AND PRODUCTION: April Harris HEAD OF GLOBAL MARKETING Chloe Monina [email protected] • 020 3728 9062 MARKETING EXECUTIVE: Tina Hill tina.h@@thepbgroup.com • 020 3728 9062 HEAD OF AWARDS MANAGEMENT: Lizzi Brady [email protected] EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jayne Lewis-Orr [email protected] • 020 3841 7360 MANAGING DIRECTOR Mark Moloney SUBSCRIPTIONS: Subscriptions can be securely purchased online through modernbarber.co.uk/subscribe or by calling +44 (0)1371 851874. For general enquiries and change of address info, please contact [email protected] UK SUBS £20 pa for four issues, INTERNATIONAL SUBS £40 pa for four issues including postage and packing. Returns: ESco Business Services Ltd, Trinity House, Sculpins Lane, Wethersfield, Braintree, Essex, CM7 4AY Printed by Buxton Press Ltd, buxtonpress.com Modern Barber Magazine, Professional Beauty Group and M Squared Media accepts no responsibility for damage or loss, however caused. While every effort is made to ensure facts are correct at time of going to press, no responsibility can be accepted for incorrect product descriptions or facts. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publishers. Modern Barber is a trading name of M Squared Media Ltd 06318537. Registered address: Allington House, 25 High Street, Wimbledon Village, SW19 5DX Modern Barber’s circulation has been independently audited and verified by the Audit Bureau of Circulations (abcstandards.org.uk) and reaches over 7,000 independent addresses. GET IN TOUCH 4 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK FOREWORD W elcome to the April – June issue of Modern Barber, where our spring cover features five talented barbers who, under the guidance of American Crew All Star Educator Ian Harrold, came together to create an inspiring collection exclusively for this issue. I was lucky enough to join the team at their shoot where I was able to see first-hand the incredible talent and camaderie there is in this industry. There’s no question that barbering is continuing to face tough times – from the rising cost of living to an everincreasing skills gap. In this issue we spoke to Chris Foster who dishes out some tangible tips you can adopt to help boost your business and Joe Mills reveals why reinventing himself was essential for his business. In our sustainability and grooming special we talk to the barbers who are reaping the financial rewards from making eco-friendly changes to their business on page 20, and on page 26 we share the latest innovations and recommendations from some of the best in the business. As you know, here at Modern Barber we’re big on community. In this issue, we talk to award-winning barber Will Brown about mental health in the industry today whilst Nicky King delivers a large dose of bravery in our Biggest Challenge as he reveals how a birth defect and scepticism from those around him didn’t stop his barbering ambition. Finally, I’m pleased to announce that entries for the Modern Barber Awards are open! You can find all the categories and entry information on page 6, but don’t wait too long because entries close on 5th May. The awards are a great opportunity for us to celebrate the talent and creativity in our incredible industry, but not only that, it also gives you the chance to reflect on your successes and achievements too. Just being a finalist is a huge endorsement and something to be proud of. The awards are also a fantastic networking opportunity, and personally, I love the chance to meet you all face-to-face, and hear your stories and plans for the future… so what are you waiting for? Sian Jones | Editor 60 38 18 COMMUNITY PORTFOLIO INTERIORS 12 BUSINESS SPRING INTO ACTION
INTERNATIONAL INSIGHT 6 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK MODERN BARBER AWARDS 2023 Join us to celebrate your successes and your peers at the barbering industry’s biggest awards ceremony The Modern Barber Awards are back for 2023 and bigger than ever before! This year the awards will be happening on one unmissable evening on Sunday 15 October with categories to celebrate all aspects of the industry from Training and Teams to Community Hero and Client Experience. Check out the FAQs at modernbarberawards.co.uk and put yourself, your team and your business forward to be recognised as the very best in the industry. “Be prepared and think about what you want to do and what you would like to showcase. Don’t try to be anyone else because it never works.” Eleni Tsesmatzoglou, Best All Round Barber, 2022 “Hit it with everything you’ve got because there’s a lot of talent out there.” Sirak Kebede, Best Apprentice, 2022 “If you’re like me, you’ve probably started an entry and deleted it a hundred times. My best advice is to believe in yourself and enter a category that resonates with you. Provide as much evidence as possible to demonstrate why you would be a worthy nominee and have fun with it. Enjoy entering such an amazing award show.” Ken Hermes, Community Hero, 2022 HERE’S A REMINDER OF THE CATEGORIES BEST SHOP INTERIOR COMMUNITY HERO MODERN BARBER AWARDS 2023 WWW.MODERNBARBERAWARDS.CO.UK TIPS ON ENTERING THE AWARDS BEST ALL ROUND BARBER SPONSORED BY DENMAN SPONSORED BY ANDIS BEST APPRENTICE BEST TEAM SPONSORED BY VAGARO BEST TRAINING BEST BUSINESS LEADER SPONSORED BY CAPTAIN FAWCETT BEST CLIENT EXPERIENCE BEST PHOTOGRAPHIC ENTRY SPONSORED BY NHBF SPONSORED BY STMNT 6 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK
R evlon Professional kicked off the year with the opening of its all-new Academy in Paris. The new space, featuring a dedicated American Crew Academy launched on 26 January 2023. To celebrate the occasion, American Crew Founder, David Raccuglia flew in from the USA for a oncein-a-lifetime photoshoot with some of the brightest stars of the American Crew community across Europe. UK and Ireland Lead American Crew Allstar Educator Ian Harrold commented: “I was on hand to give guidance where needed on product solutions to enhance their hairstyles, and to coach the guys to make sure they were happy with the hair as it was being shot, and to encourage them to tweak the hair where necessary.” DAVID RACCUGLIA MARKS OPENING OF REVLON PROFESSIONAL ACADEMY IN PARIS SPRING BUDGET 2023: WHAT IT MEANS FOR THE INDUSTRY Sunday 23 April is set to be a date you won’t forget – as the Hair & Beauty Charity will be hosting its first ever Spring Party, at iconic nightclub EGG LDN. Hair legend Nick Irwin will lead on the decks, with more announcements to come, as we gather to celebrate a charity that does so much for our industry. From 8pm until 3am, the Hair & Beauty Charity will take over EGG London’s loft and outdoor terrace – and for those who don’t want to stop there, you’ll have free entry to the rest of the club until 6am. If you fancy yourself as the next Peggy Gou or Fat Boy Slim, please submit your videos/resume to be in with a chance of playing a slot at one of London’s biggest nightclubs; email [email protected] to be considered. Tickets are on sale now on the Hair & Beauty Charity shop: hairandbeautycharity.org/shop THE HAIR & BEAUTY CHARITY LAUNCH THEIR FIRST EVER SPRING PARTY REPORT WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 7 SP RI NG PARTY For only £25 a ticket, join us at the iconic club EGG LDN, for a night of incredible DJ's from the UK hair & beauty industry! 19+ Photo ID required for entry. 20.00 - 3.00 SUN 23/04 EGG LDN, 5-13 VALE ROYAL, N7 9AP SCAN ME TO GET YOUR TICKETS NOW! That’s how many Brits admit to feeling more guilty about “cheating” on their hair or beauty professional than they would their romantic partner, a new study has revealed. Capital Hair and Beauty quizzed 2,000 UK adults about their feelings towards ‘cheating’ on their hairdresser, barber, or health and beauty professional. 15 OCTOBER, MODERN BARBER AWARDS, LONDON 14, 15, 16 OCTOBER, SALON INTERNATIONAL, LONDON 27 NOVEMBER, BRITISH HAIRDRESSING AWARDS, SPONSORED BY SCHWARZKOPF PROFESSIONAL HEADS UP! DATES FOR THE DIARY IN 2023 On 15 March, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced the Spring Budget stating the UK will avoid recession this year. Changes that are likely to affect the industry include confirmation that there will not be a further hike in energy bills and that the hours of free weekly childcare for working parents is to be extended to cover children below the age of three. Richard Lambert, Chief Executive of NHBF said: “The UK can’t be the ‘best place in the world for female entrepreneurs’ with hair and beauty businesses clinging on by their fingertips and a gaping hole in employer support for apprenticeships. As a result of exponential increases in energy and business costs, some employers are now tragically being forced to let apprentices go because the numbers simply don’t add up anymore. So much for supporting the next generation of entry level British talent. Whilst the investment zones, support for childcare and ‘Returnerships’ may benefit some in the sector, there is little to offer immediate relief to businesses locked into extortionate energy contracts. We call on the Government and Ofgem to facilitate urgent talks with suppliers to at least allow business contract payments over a longer period of time.”
8 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK REPORT HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional, are recognised globally as the ultimate accolade in the hair industry. Since their launch, the awards recognise the most credible names as both finalists and winners. This year’s awards will be held on Monday 27 November 2023 at JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel, London. Fancy yourself as this year’s Men’s Hairdresser of the Year? Find out how to enter at: bha.evessiocloud. com/BHA23 ENTRIES OPEN FOR THE BRITISH HAIRDRESSING AWARDS 2023, SPONSORED BY SCHWARZKOPF PROFESSIONAL! COLLECTIVE PRIDE AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED! SLIDERCUTS ANNOUNCED AS FRESHA AMBASSADOR Modern Barber is saddened to hear the news that award winning barber, Lee Dixon died suddenly at 29 years old. Lee was a talented barber and educator at Mike Taylor Education and achieved great success both in his stage work as well as at his Bond’s barbershop in Wareham. Mike Taylor Education paid tribute on their Facebook page with these touching words “Lee loved the barbering industry. He loved showing off his passion and helping educate barbers and hairdressers to learn new skills. Lee loved going on stage and showcasing his skills. Nothing was too much for Lee, he was so hard working and would not flinch at a seven-day week. He would go the extra mile for all of his students. Lee had a skill of making people feel comfortable which in turn relaxed them and they got so much from their education from him.” TRIBUTES PAID TO BARBERING TALENT LEE DIXON MIKE STOKOE, @STOKOECARTOONS Stories on, in and about the industry…Share your thoughts with us @modernbarbermag The Collective Pride Awards return this year, and on 8 March this year’s winners were announced ahead of the ceremony which will take place on Monday 3 April 2023, at London’s Barber Surgeons’ Hall, with the media support of Modern Barber, Hairdressers Journal International and Professional Beauty. Read on to find out who this year’s unsung heroes are: Exceptional College Award – South Devon College, sponsor VTCT Exceptional Educator Award – Jack Maude at Milton Keynes, sponsor Lions Barber Collective Achievement Award – Dan Burnett, sponsor Lions Barber Collective My Saviour Award – Sarah Hashim, sponsor STMNT Beyond Business Award – Captain Fawcett, sponsor Phorest More Than Award – Matthew Elliott, sponsor Andis Against the Odds Award – Courtney Griffiths, sponsor Denman This year at the Collective Pride Awards ceremony one of the seven winners will be awarded the 2023 Unsung Hero Award, sponsored by American Crew, in memory of Sam Wall, for their outstanding and heroic contribution to others. For more info and tickets to the night visit www.collectiveprideawards.co.uk. Barber of over twenty years, author, speaker and educator, Mark Maciver (aka @Slidercuts) has been announced as an official Fresha brand ambassador. Already a trailblazer in the industry, Mark has upgraded to Fresha’s all-in-one business software to enhance his business and find even greater success in the industry. Mark told us: “I understand the influence that I have in the barbering community, and because of this, I want to be careful of the brands I work with, to ensure that they are genuine, authentic, and do bring value to barbers’ lives and businesses. For me, Fresha’s software completely passed that test, the features on Fresha are built with incredibly high standards, and it is a brand that I am happy to put my name behind and recommend to my community.”
BUSINESS 10 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK BOOST YOUR PROFILE A s a fellow barber, I understand the struggles of making a decent living in this industry, especially with all the financial pressures we are all going through right now. I’ve seen far too many talented professionals drop out of the game due to financial struggles, and it breaks my heart. One of my good friends, who was an exceptionally skilled barber, threw in the towel simply because he felt undervalued and underpaid. It’s a tragic story, but it’s a reality for many in the industry. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. Barbers have the power to increase their earnings and their profile in the industry by implementing some easy win strategies. As barbers, it’s important to constantly remind ourselves of the simple things we can do to increase our take-home pay. This includes simple changes such as up-selling new products and services to our clients and ensuring we are selling our skill set to become more valuable to the audience we are serving. We can always retail better and get more money out of our existing clients. Chris Foster, The Profile Guy, shares his advice on how to maximise your earnings in 2023
BUSINESS WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 11 Start by identifying your unique skills and knowledge. What sets you apart from other barbers in the industry? What can you teach others that they can’t learn elsewhere? The most important question is what problem are you solving? If you’re not solving a specific problem it would be extremely difficult to sell your products. Once you’ve identified your niche, start creating content that provides value to others. This could be as simple as writing an e-book that outlines your best haircutting techniques or writing an online course that teaches others how to run a successful barbershop. Leveraging your expertise and creating high-quality content that provides value to others, will establish you as an expert in the industry whilst generating a passive income. Another strategy is to increase your earnings by attracting high-paying clients. One of the most effective ways to attract a wealthier clientele is to establish yourself as an expert in your field. This can be achieved through a combination of demonstrating high-quality work, professional communication, winning industry awards and consistent branding. It is important to have a well-designed website, social media profiles and portfolio that showcases your work in the best possible way. By aligning your content with luxury brands, watches, tailors, and other high-end products or services you can attract a similar clientele and build a reputation as a premium service provider. Follow and engage with these brands on social media and create content that aligns with their values and image. This could include highquality images of your clients, highlighting the premium products and services you offer, and demonstrating the level of care and attention to detail that goes into every appointment. Establishing yourself as an expert, creating information products, providing exceptional customer service, and pricing your services appropriately are all key components of building a profile that attracts high-paying clients. By adopting these strategies, you can take your career to new heights and achieve the financial success that you deserve. @THEPROFILE.GUY, WWW.THEPROFILEGUY.COM EASY WINS AND TOP TIPS TO BOOST YOUR BUSINESS: • Create an online store: In addition to offering physical products in your shop, consider creating an online store to sell your grooming products or merchandise. This can help you reach a wider audience and create an additional stream of income. • Develop a signature service: Consider developing a signature service that is unique to your brand and appeals to a specific audience. This can help you stand out in the industry and attract new clients. • Partner with influencers: Consider partnering with social media influencers or other businesses in the industry to promote your services or products. This can help you reach a wider audience and create new opportunities for income. • Share and sell your knowledge: Barbers are experts in their craft, and they have years of experience under their belts. You can leverage your years of experience and create information products, teach classes or workshops, and create online tutorials. One of the key reasons why barbers may choose to create information products over physical products is the lower cost implications, as creating and distributing digital products like e-books, online courses or video tutorials generally involves lower production and distribution costs compared to physical products. START BY IDENTIFYING YOUR UNIQUE SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE. WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER BARBERS IN THE INDUSTRY? WHAT CAN YOU TEACH OTHERS THAT THEY CAN’T LEARN ELSEWHERE? THE MOST IMPORTANT QUESTION IS WHAT PROBLEM ARE YOU SOLVING?
BUSINESS 12 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK REINVENTING YOURSELF W hile the stresses and nuances of the last few years have been challenging for everyone, Joe Mills, Modern Barber Best Business Leader of the Year 2022, believes it also gave the industry an opportunity to reflect and adapt for a brighter future. “Owning your business is a rollercoaster ride irrespective of the issues of the last few years. For me personally the last few years were pretty brutal,” reveals Joe. He tells us that nine months of closures due to the Covid-19 pandemic had an unprecedented financial and emotional impact on everyone, and after closing his Primark operation another shop experienced major flooding and closed its doors for nine months. “This has taken its toll on me and the team around me. However, it hasn’t all been doom and gloom, there were some amazing highs including the support from the team and clients, and the journey we had to work through everything.” Joe tells us that existing challenges, as well as the additional stress from the last few years, led him to take some much needed time for reflection, something many of us did coming out of lockdown. “I needed time to think about what I wanted to do moving forward. The decision was kind of made for me to be honest with rising bills and continuing issues with my premises. So, I decided to close my two salons and move out of the area where I’d been for around 21 years.” Although there were moments where the decision to close his salons felt difficult, his overriding feeling was thinking ahead to his next step. “This was more about the unknown and coming out of my comfort zone. Once you face your fear, things are easier to deal with. As an industry it was easy to get bogged down with the everyday and not take time to think where we wanted our businesses to go. “As business owners we have to make sure we understand our business inside and out. Face the tough questions and ask the people around us what they think,” he explains, adding that being a business owner can be a lonely place. “Adapting and changing is important. Don’t stand still too long, look around and see what your competition is and what they are doing. Standing still isn’t an option.” So what about Joe’s new venture? In January this year he launched a brand new creative space called Woolf Kings X in Kings Cross, which encompasses his session agency, a photographic studio and a space for barbers and stylists all under one roof. “We’ve now created a gender fluid space in Kings Cross, which for me was very important. It was a decision we had been discussing with the team for a few years and now seemed like the perfect time.” For Joe and the team, the focus was on enhancing their skill sets and the creative space. “It’s about evolving, adapting and knowing what it is you want to do. What are your goals? Once you know these then you can make a plan. Find people inside and outside your network you can go to for advice and support. Make that plan and make it happen.” THE DECISION WAS KIND OF MADE FOR ME TO BE HONEST WITH RISING BILLS AND CONTINUING ISSUES WITH MY PREMISES Joe Mills reveals how evolving during challenging times ensures the future of the barbering industry
BUSINESS WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 13 FOR CHANGING YOUR BUSINESS DIRECTION AND EVOLVING FOR THE FUTURE 1 THINK THROUGH WHAT YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE AND WHY 2 PLAN IT OUT ON EVERY LEVEL 3 CROSS CHECK AND GET OTHER PEOPLE’S OPINIONS JOE’S TIPS
INTERNATIONAL INSIGHT RECRUITING THE PERFECT BARBERSHOP TEAM When a staff member leaves and your barbershop is faced with a vacancy, it doesn’t necessarily have to be replaced like for like. Circumstances could dictate that when a senior member of staff has resigned, you may have an existing team member ready for promotion. When recruiting, you need to ask yourself what kind of person your business needs to take it forward. Are clients asking for services that you don’t currently provide? Can you see a gap in your local market? Do you need more cover for evenings or weekends? EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS FOR BARBERSHOP RECRUITS Ensure the business and new employee sign a formal contract of employment. The NHBF provides Members with access to contracts and staff handbooks for employees and apprentices. It’s good practice to send out the contract for signing with the offer letter in advance of day one. TAKING ON AN APPRENTICE Taking on an apprentice is your chance to offer someone a great opportunity and pass on your skills and experience to a new generation. It’s also an excellent way to grow your loyal workforce to suit the needs and culture of your business. COMMERCIAL FEATURE With worker shortages across many industries, recruitment is a hot topic at the moment, so the NHBF is here to advise you on recruiting the perfect barbershop team The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) is UK’s largest trade body for the hair, beauty and barbering industries, with over 5,500 Members. Training an apprentice is also more cost-effective than hiring pre-skilled staff. The NHBF website has extensive information on how to hire an apprentice. Become an NHBF Member and get immediate access to an amazing range of benefits plus valuable discounts on business essentials. • Business support • Employment support • Health and safety • Business coaching FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NHBF.CO.UK/JOIN/ • GDPR support • Client complaints and ADR • Insurance • And more… BENEFITS FOR MEMBERS INCLUDE: 14 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK
GLOBAL BARBER WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 15 GLOBAL BARBER We speak to Kim Seung-Rae, Founder of Kenko Barbershop in Hongdae, known as the Street of Youth, to find out what the barbering scene is like in South Korea
GLOBAL BARBER 16 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK HOW DID YOU GET INTO BARBERING? When I was young, I had a haircut at the barbershop I went to with my father, and I remember how it felt in the barbershop and how cool and gentlemanly the barber looked too. As a result, I began to have a good feeling about a career as a barber. Even before I started working as a barber I was curious about it from a young age and I started cutting my own hair as well as other people’s. Being a barber means so much to me and I love making a customer’s hair look neat when they leave the shop. WHAT OR WHO HELPED YOU TO PERFECT THE SKILLS YOU HAVE NOW? To become a barber, I went to lots of traditional barbershops and visited older barbers who gave me so much advice. This helped me improve my traditional cutting skills, setting me in the right direction. I keep developing and working towards being as close to perfect as I can be throughout my career; I spend a lot of time talking to my fellow barbers about skills and we help each other improve. You can learn from anyone, whether they are beginners or experienced barbers. TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE BARBERING INDUSTRY IN KOREA? Young barbershop owners have started to appear in Korea’s barber industry over the last few years, and the declining barbershop industry is gradually reviving. Older barbers also communicate with younger barbers and share trends and skills. More and more students want to enter the industry and education and educational programmes are growing too. Korean barbers are outstanding at what they do due to their cutting abilities and a feel for what works. People should start paying attention to Korean barbers, they’re going to show the industry some interesting work. WHAT INSPIRES YOU? I get a lot of inspiration from old objects or pictures from the past. I am mostly inspired by hairstyles and fashion from old movies. There are even times when I’m inspired by myself. When I’m alone, I tend to think a lot about my skills or my work, and in the process of thinking about it, I find something creative and new. I can take unexpected inspiration from reflecting on my own work, it’s an opportunity for me to develop even further. WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR 2023 AND THE FUTURE? My plan for 2023 and the future is to create a project that everyone can participate in for a public cause. Although I like to work for myself, if you look around you can see that there are a lot of people who are in trouble and need help. My goal is to carry out volunteer projects to help bring people together. My ambition is to host barber contests or events where Korean barbers can communicate with barbers from all over the world, helping to establish us in the industry. WILL WE GET TO SEE YOU IN THE UK SOON? I can’t afford to go to the UK now but I hope to visit soon. I think British barbers are really talented people and if I get a chance I’d love to work in the UK.
INSIDE 18 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK With a little help from his nearest and dearest, Charlie Venn was able to bring his dream barbershop to life, taking inspiration from the 1950s and American barbershop culture INSIDE WHEN DID THE BARBERSHOP OPEN? Lucky Sevens Barbershop was opened in September 2019. WHEN YOU ACQUIRED THE PROPERTY, WHAT WAS IT BEING USED FOR? The barbershop is actually attached to a salon, and the space was originally used as a training academy – where I started my journey in the hair industry! TELL US ABOUT THE RENOVATION PROCESS AND ANY CHALLENGES? The renovation went pretty smoothly; there were long days and nights but my dad is a talented man, and he lent a hand. My partner, Tash, fellow barber, Dan and other family and friends also helped out. Between us all we managed to take it from a training academy to a three-chair barbershop in under two weeks. WHAT WAS YOUR BUDGET? I spent just under £6,000 on renovations. IS THE BARBERSHOP MEANT TO APPEAL TO ANYONE IN PARTICULAR? I always had a vision of what my dream barbershop would look like, and we managed to achieve that. I always knew that I wanted a bright and welcoming space where everyone was welcome.
INSIDE WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 19 LUCKY SEVENS, 58 BAKER ST, WESTON-SUPER-MARE, BS23 3AQ HOW MANY CHAIRS ARE THERE? When we opened, we had three chairs however we have now grown to five, to facilitate four barbers and an apprentice. DESCRIBE THE LIGHTING IN EACH AREA – WHY WAS IT CHOSEN AND WHAT EFFECT DOES IT HAVE? The shop is covered in LED light panels. We tried to eliminate any shadows and I like to think we got it just right, although it did take time and patience. WHAT DECORATIONS DID YOU GO FOR ON THE WALLS AND WHY? The walls are covered in everything from skateboards, motorbike helmets and more. All of the items were collected over time, and every item has a story. WHAT IS THE FLOOR MADE FROM? The floor is covered in lino – cheap and cheerful. We have just replaced it for the first time in three and a half years. DO YOU HAVE ANY REGRETS, OR THINGS YOU WOULD DO DIFFERENTLY? None at all! Opening my own barbershop was the best thing I ever did. I always knew I would make it happen one day, and it’s exactly the vision I had in my head. DOES THE BARBERSHOP LOOK DIFFERENT IN SEPARATE AREAS, AND IF SO, WHY? All in all, I would say the theme of Lucky Sevens Barbershop travels throughout all the working spaces. WHAT MAKES THE SPACE UNIQUE? Lucky Sevens Barbershop is a bright and colourful space – whereas a lot of shops around me are dark or neutral. I wanted to bring back that busy style, where people ask questions and show interest in what’s around them. WHAT INFLUENCED THE DESIGN? The space is heavily influenced by the classic American barbershop, mixed with my love for the 1950s and a touch of modern flair. WHAT IS THE COLOUR SCHEME, AND WHY DID YOU PICK IT? The blue was based on a 1950s Chevy pickup, with a pastel pink to complement. It was a unique colour and throughout the build people were unsure but I knew it would all come together. DO YOU HAVE ANY UNIQUE PIECES OF FURNITURE? Yes, instead of your typical styling stations, we have tool stations. These were part of a classic range, which meant they were definitely a big expense, but along with the chairs, they make a strong statement and help reinforce the theme of the shop.
FEATURE DOES IT PAY TO BE SUSTAINABLE? 20 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK From eco-friendly top tips to greenwashing, we look at how you can make an impact in favour of sustainability “By working with a company called Eco Offset, they looked at our annual carbon footprint and suggested how we can reduce it. They also helped us decide what products to invest in around the world to offset our carbon output.” Joe Steven, Co-Founder of OS Lifestyle “Addressing the product range first and foremost is likely the quickest way to alter your sustainability journey for the better. Our barbers use our vegan, cruelty-free and ocean friendly products on every haircut. Along with this, our products are proudly contained within a 100% recycled PCR bottle.” Elliott Pritchard, Murdock London “Share your journey with your clients and be as open as possible. It’s a great chance to talk about the things you’re doing to be more eco-friendly. It’s also key to getting started – you’re never going to be 100% perfect but even just taking a few steps in the right direction can really make a big difference.” Jess Rigg of Green Salon Collective “L’ANZA’s T.R.U.E Clean Shampoo uses over 70% less water than a standard liquid shampoo, is vegan and cruelty-free, and is packaged in ocean-bound plastic packaging. Simple swaps like this can really help reduce your carbon footprint, and you can market products to your customers too.” Aimee Pardey at L’ANZA “Adopting energy-saving practices is a super easy first step and makes a huge difference to the planet, your guests, and your finances.” Zyon Mena, Head Barber at Cutters Yard, Aveda Men 5 SIMPLE STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY R ising environmental concerns in recent years have pushed many industries to act on their sustainability efforts and make changes within their business. An increasing number of hair salons and barbershops, have started to think more about what they can do to become sustainable and eco-friendly. An eco-conscious outlook not only gives the environment a helping hand, but will also get you noticed by potential clients who share the same values.
FEATURE WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 21 MONEY MADE GREEN Green Salon Collective share simple changes you can make in your barbershop to become more sustainable: Switch to LEDs to reduce energy costs Turn off lights when not in use Change to a renewable energy provider Reduce waste – recycle hair to stop it from going to landfill Go paperless – offer digital entertainment materials, email receipts, and reuse cardboard packaging Change to plastic-free or compostable towels, or ensure you’re washing towels in the most sustainable way and filtering out microplastics Ensure appliances are repaired and recycled Use warm water instead of hot to reduce energy Avoid single use plastics where possible, and refill and reuse before recycling MAKE THE CHANGE Becoming more eco-friendly may not only entice your clients in for extra visits but can also save you money “An eco-salon towel will help you reduce water and electricity usage but also save you time. It works the same with LED or automatic lighting – it will cut electricity bills straight away.” Zyon Mena, Head Barber at Cutters Yard, Aveda Men “Reducing your energy usage, water consumption and waste are all ways that you can reduce your bills and therefore your salon costs. You’re also able to take advantage of the marketing opportunity. Being eco-friendly can attract new clients and retain current ones.” Jess Rigg, Green Salon Collective “Becoming more sustainable has saved us money and made our business more streamlined and efficient. Initially there is a cost to making your company sustainable but you’ll be saving money in the long run as well as making a positive change.” Joe Steven, OS Lifestyle GREENWASH GUARDS UP! Any barber, barbershop, and business can claim to be a sustainable and eco-friendly company, but without credible evidence, these exaggerated claims can be seen as greenwashing. “The more vague and unspecific, the more likely it is greenwashing,” says Zyon. But how do you identify this? “Look for specifics,” says Jess. “For example, look for measured impacts and statistics rather than just buzzwords like ‘natural’ and ‘eco’. Never be afraid to ask questions or to see proof of certifications – any brand worth their salt will be able to answer all your queries relating to sustainability.” Similarly, Aimee recommends researching the company’s goals and ethos when it comes to sustainability. “In relation to brands and their sustainable values, it’s a good idea to research how long companies have been making their sustainability claims for, as over recent years, many have just jumped on the bandwagon,” she says. “Most brands will have evidence or certifications to back up their claims and as a business, are transparent and honest across the board.” “SOME OF THE CHANGES WE’VE MADE IN OUR BARBERSHOPS HAS MEANT NONE OF OUR WASTE GOES TO LANDFILL. WE RECYCLE OUR OWN HAIR, WE’VE SWITCHED TO A CLEAN ENERGY PROVIDER, USE ENERGY SAVING LIGHTBULBS, AND WE’VE REDUCED OUR USE OF PLASTICS AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.” JOE STEVEN, CO-FOUNDER AT OS LIFESTYLE
FEATURE 22 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK IT’S EASY BEING GREEN Two barbers share the reasons why they decided to embrace sustainability wo barbers share the reasons why they decided to embrace sustainability Based in Truro, 1981 is the first zero waste barbershop in the UK. Owner, Damien Diablo, explains how the impact of global warming in his local area inspires his sustainable ethics. WHEN DID YOU BEGIN YOUR SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY? My journey started before I was barbering, when I was in the music scene playing in bands. I rubbed shoulders with a lot of old school punks who had a different mindset and I carried that ethos into barbering. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO EMBRACE SUSTAINABILITY? In the planning of the shop, I wanted to make sure everything was sustainable, recycled, upcycled and reusable, and that there was no disposable aspect of the shop. Moving back down to Cornwall and being surrounded by beautiful beaches had an impact too - especially when you see everything being washed up and you know none of it is going to decompose. It makes you think about how the hair industry contributes to that. WHY DO YOU THINK SOME SHOPS ARE RELUCTANT TO MAKE SUSTAINABLE CHOICES? Most people are put off by having to spend a few extra pounds for a sustainable alternative. I’ve always attacked it with a different mindset of passion over profit. If you really believe in something and you want it bad enough, you’ll sacrifice to make that change happen. If everyone made a small sacrifice then those changes can slowly happen. WHAT HAS THE REACTION BEEN FROM CLIENTS? Most of our clients know that we are the first zero waste barber shop in the country, and for the other clients that don’t know it’s an added bonus. They walk out feeling like they look good and that they’ve made a positive choice for the planet. DO YOU OFFER SUSTAINABILITY SPECIFIC TRAINING? We don’t, but our focus is making sure the staff know the reasons behind why we do or don’t do certain things. No one is saying you have to drop everything and start afresh - if you are a manager or a business owner and you want to be a bit more environmentally conscious, then do a bit of research and make your team aware of what’s going on and how you can make changes to influence positive outcomes for the planet in general. We spoke to Lou Brikett, Director at WhiP, a sustainability focused salon in London and Brighton, about the eco-centric ethos at the heart of the business. WHEN DID YOU BEGIN YOUR SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY? From the very beginning! When the salons were conceptualised in 2017, we wanted to be a pioneer in the eco space, and thankfully we achieved it. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO EMBRACE SUSTAINABILITY? As the co-founders had already made sustainable choices outside of the salon it made sense to be proplanet and eco-conscious inside the salon itself. We believe that by doing our bit the influence is naturally felt throughout the business from the staff to clients and our online following. WHY DO YOU THINK SOME SHOPS ARE RELUCTANT TO MAKE SUSTAINABLE CHOICES? It’s difficult to change habits and people are uneasy when they have systems that work already, it’s the “if it’s not broken don’t fix it” mentality. Some salons may be unknowingly enabling some unethical practices so it’s important to know and investigate how your supply chains operate. WHAT HAS THE REACTION BEEN FROM CLIENTS? Many clients choose us purely because we’re sustainable so they are happy we are keeping up the good work! We are constantly reaching new clientele and people find they are making more considered choices. DO YOU OFFER SUSTAINABILITY SPECIFIC TRAINING? Yes, we do. Our staff enjoy learning how to better practice sustainability and we believe there is a domino effect through individual networks. We like to improve our systems all the time and we’re keen to listen out for new technologies to make sure our business is at the forefront of sustainability objectives. 1981 BARBERSHOP, CORNWALL WHIP, LONDON AND BRIGHTON
GROOMING 26 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK K I L L E R K I T B A G ESSENTIALS To help you keep your kitbag stocked up with true essentials, we’ve curated a list of some of the top products on the market – but don’t just take our word for it… PLAY TIME “My go-to essential product is Murdock London’s Hair Play. It’s a versatile styling cream that can be used as a pre-blow-dry product or as a finishing product. I use it on almost every client, whether I’m blow-drying the hair smooth and off the face or applying into longer, shaggier lengths as a finishing product – and it’s even great to diffuse into curly hair. It’s lightweight, it makes the hair look and feel healthy and it has a great medium hold that is reworkable. I honestly don’t go a day without using it.” Ben Vowles, Master Barber at Murdock London PART OF THE CREW “There are four products that I never leave out of my kitbag: American Crew Firm Hold Gel is a must; it’s a strong hold gel that can be used as a base product and dried in with a hairdryer with ease. It can also be used as a finishing product to achieve a high shine. Then I have three pucks which I always carry, but if I had to choose, it would be the new American Crew Whip – which has rapidly become a go-to for clients, as well as when I’m on a photoshoot. Whip for me has a light, pliable hold with a natural shine – I dry it into fine hair to add thickness and control.” Ian Harrold, Attitude Men’s Hair TOTAL TEXTURE “Dark Stag Salt Spray is my go-to product in my kit bag because it’s perfect for almost everything! It brings out the texture in a short, cropped cut beautifully, it helps bring life to waves and curls without making the hair crunchy and dry, and it gives just the right hold and volume when dried into a pompadour. On top of that, it actually smells incredible. I love using it in my own hair to give that lived in, just got back from the beach look. It really is my all round go to styling product.” Bethan Brennan, Cresswell Barber Co.
GROOMING WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 27 PRECISION AND POWER “Like a lot of other barbers, I’ve been so excited for the BaByliss PRO LoProFX to drop. There’s a new Cordless Clipper and Skeleton Trimmer, which echo the same power and precision as the core ranges from BaByliss PRO but come in a brand new black matt metal housing. It’s the classic clipper but reimagined with modern barbers in mind and the ergonomic housing is built to sit comfortably in your hand. Plus, you get a massive 120 minutes of continuous run-time on a full charge, and it’s useable both corded or cordless – so you’re never out of power.” Tariq Howes, BaByliss Pro Ambassador and Owner at Avenue Male Grooming TIME TO SHINE “Uppercut Deluxe ‘Deluxe Pomade’ has been a staple styling product for me for the past 10 years. This water-soluble pomade is perfect for achieving a classic, high-shine look that lasts all day without feeling stiff or crunchy. It’s incredibly versatile and can be used to create a range of timeless styles – from slicked-back looks to pompadours and quiffs. Additionally, the coconut scent gives off a fresh and clean aroma that complements any style. Uppercut Deluxe Pomade is a must-have for anyone who appreciates the timeless, classic looks and definitely deserves a place in your kit bag.” George Coady, Trait Studio THE PERFECT TONIC “If I had to choose just one standout product it would be our Grooming Tonic, simply because I love the diversity it offers. It can be used to help with sectioning when doing longer scissor work, as it provides a small amount of hold when used on wet hair. You can use it as a pre-blow dry, as the Argan Oil in the product helps to protect hair from heat, and I even think it’s great when used on its own, creating a soft finish which is great for curly hair. A top tip of mine is that it also works great as a topper product; applying a small amount on top of already styled hair gives a healthy glow and shine.” Paul Taylor-Clinch, Technical Training Manager for Reuzel Europe
FEATURE 28 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK I t’s well known that consultations, whether for styling, cutting, or grooming are a key part of a service, for both you and your client. Which is why, like any hair consultation, barbers should always consider beard consultations. “A consultation can be as quick as one minute or as long as 30 minutes,” says Mark Maciver, Barber, and Owner of Slidercuts, explaining that the time during a consultation is used to fully understand what it is your client wants from you and gives you the opportunity to let your client know what is achievable. “It’s important to understand what your client is after, what look they want, and the feel they want,” Mark says. “Many clients will come in, sit down, and say, ‘neaten up my beard’, without realising that ‘neaten up’ might mean something different to them than it does to you.” Although, a consultation for a haircut may be easier to approach than one for a beard, it’s important to break it down and give your client different things to think about. “We’ve been doing haircuts for so long that we have a fixed set of styles that people go for. Beards on the other B R A V E T H E B E A R D hand, are a more recent trend,” he says. “There are so many variations that you do need to have that conversation to avoid your client leaving unhappy due to the lack of consultation.” Natalie Cresswell of Cresswell Barber Co. tells us that when it comes to grooming beards she likes to get clients comfortable both mentally, and physically. “You want to gown them up, and stand to face them, so you have your back to the mirror and are investing in your client, ready to start the conversation and listen,” she tells us. In Natalie’s experience, being a female can be challenging when grooming her male clients’ beards. “Men are far more precious over their beards than their head hair, so the client needs to feel at ease and feel as though they can trust you. Clients are particular about how they want their beards, and being female, they tend to assume I can’t cut beards very well, so it’s an extra effort for female barbers to be able to gain that trust. For me the key is to listen to exactly what your client wants. It’s important to take your time and show respect by paying close attention and letting them speak.” This is why facing them during the consultation, will give a professional and kind approach to the service. Like head hair, thorough beard consultations are advised before you pick up your grooming tools, here, Mark Maciver and Natalie Cresswell explain why
FEATURE WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 29 Not only is it crucial to gain clients’ trust during a consultation, but it’s also key to check their existing beard. “Check the length, shape, growth patterns in the hair, and their skin sensitivity,” Natalie says. “Having a conversation about how your client’s skin reacts to any products, whether they’re allergic to anything, and if they’re sensitive to a cut-throat razor, allows you to respond in an educated way.” But it’s not all down to you as a barber, explains Mark. “With beards, there’s so much more than what the barber is doing, especially with afro beards, it takes more than just cutting it into the right place, cutting the right shape and having the right shape,” he advises, adding: “It’s about how the client takes care and uses the appropriate products. Many people have beards that become dry and begin to break, and the reason is because they’re not taking care of it, or they feel the only time they need to do something with it is when they go to the barbers.” Having an understanding of different beard textures, as with head hair textures, will enable you to give your client the appropriate knowledge on how to keep it healthy and well maintained. “Ensure your clients are using shampoos that give hydration to the beard and are not harmful to the skin. Remind them to oil it, comb it out, or brush it,” Mark advises. “Everything you feel you should do to the hairs on your head, you should also be doing to your beard.” It’s also a great way to earn a little extra cash. “If your shop sells retail products, beard balms and oils always smell amazing,” Natalie shares. “And men particularly like to invest in hair products that smell good – sometimes buying the product because of the smell over what it actually does for their hair – so it’s a really easy way to encourage your client to treat themselves and purchase products.” And a final bonus tip: “If your clients are going to grow out a beard, make sure to remind them to watch out for the pieces of dirt – or food especially – that get trapped,” Mark says. A fruitful beard doesn’t mean fruit in the beard! SHAVING GAME NATALIE’S TOP TIPS TO REMEMBER DURING A BEARD CONSULTATION • Don’t be frightened to speak your truth – you’re a professional, teach them what is best according to your professional judgement • Pump up the chair to a comfortable position for yourself so you’re not bending down too much – always look after your back • Always lock the chair – this prevents any injuries when using grooming tools • Clean your tools in front of your client – bonus points to gain trust • Spend five to ten minutes making sure the beard trim is perfect once completed – don’t be afraid to ask if they would like it any shorter • Make sure the client is 100% happy before they leave – give them a hand mirror to see their newly trimmed beard up close and personal GET TO THE POINT MARK MACIVER SHARES WHAT TO ASK YOUR CLIENTS DURING A BEARD CONSULTATION • What would you like done to your beard? Some clients may come in and know exactly what they want done, whereas others may need more help. • What kind of look and feel are you going for? Sometimes, clients won’t be able to explain what they would like done, so this question will help narrow it down. • Would you like the lines around your beard to look sharp, natural, or somewhere in between? This helps you understand exactly what look your clients are going for. They might just say ‘shape up’ or ‘line up my beard’, but have you asked what type of line up they want? • What kind of shape are you after? Do they want a neater version of what they have now? Do they want oblong? Do they want the sides lower? The bottom longer? Give them different options to think about.
INTERVIEW WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 31 After my last collection called Raw, I took a step back to take time to consider what’s happening in my life. Before, I was obsessed with what I needed to be doing to keep up in the industry but now I’m more confident in myself and the direction I’m going. I can understand where I want to go, where the industry is going and how it is changing. Previously, I don’t think I managed my craft enough. I’m still learning new things, so the future looks slightly different now. I do a collection every year and I found that I was becoming very addicted to competition, where winning awards and being nominated felt like proof that I was doing something right. I wanted to be nominated everywhere and although my previous collection had a lot of recognition, now I’m no longer shooting to win a competition or receive accolades, I’m doing it for myself. I know a few people in the industry who have decided not to enter awards anymore because they don’t think they’ll win, but I’ve realised that first and foremost I have to be proud of myself and my work. Tom Connell, Davines Hair Art Director, said to me “You need to keep doing this because if people like you keep applying, and showing something different, the industry is going to change.” So, my main goal now is winning an award that creates a change. At the moment my inspiration comes from nature as well as reading about people’s experiences with mental health and combining these themes together. Over the last few years, I started to take care of myself and my own mental health more. It was like finding a new part of me that I’d never met before. Now it’s influencing my work and giving me the energy to push myself in a different way because I now share this experience with all these people as well. At Manifesto, we are putting together a lifestyle collection where we’re not going to prepare too much for it. We’re going to have a few people in the shop, ask them what they’re looking for and then we’ll shoot something real, with no Photoshop. We believe when we’re cutting hair, we are not just making someone’s hair shorter we’re making them feel more confident – we’re giving people an identity. Everyone wants to do something cool, but maybe it doesn’t really represent the person in the chair. So, this shoot will be focused on paying attention to the client and what they want, but ultimately listening to each other more.” TRUSTING YOUR CRAFT Rino Riccio, Head of Education at Manifesto London, sat down with Modern Barber to tell us about the changes he’s experienced over the last year and finding new inspiration in unexpected places “PREVIOUSLY, I DON'T THINK I MANAGED MY CRAFT ENOUGH. I'M STILL LEARNING NEW THINGS, SO THE FUTURE LOOKS SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT NOW”
GEAR 32 / WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK IT STARTS AT THE SCALP With soothing ingredients such as Sorbitol and Niacinamide, the new L’Oréal Professionnel Paris Scalp Advanced range tackles sensitivity, oiliness and dandruff. The 2-in-1 Shampoo & Mask Deep Purifier is set to be a hero, purifying the scalp of product build-up, sweat and oils. RRP from: £20.15 GO FOR GOLD A golden combination of a full-size clipper motor and high-carbon blades meet to create more power and more precision in one trimmer, achieving impeccably close detailing and lasersharp lines. Introducing, the Wahl Gold Cordless Clipper. RRP: £185.99 GEAR From wash regimes, barbershop furniture and everything in between – check out the new launches Modern Barber is loving… ZERO SHINE, TOTAL STYLE Perfect for creating texture and adding definition, Dark Stag’s Matte Clay has a water-soluble formula for easy wash out and is scented with a tropical coconut fragrance. Trade price: £13.50 SCRUB-A-DUB-DUB Give your clients a little luxury with the Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Detox Foaming Salt Scrub, which exfoliates the scalp and eliminates product build-up and oil. RRP: £27.55 CELEBRATING 100 YEARS Commemorating 100 years of business, Andis Company is launching the bespoke Trimmer – which delivers power and precision with a high-speed rotary motor, and features a lithium-ion battery, providing 1.5 hours of cordless freedom to create tight lines, slick fades and top-notch design work. RRP: £275
GEAR WWW.MODERNBARBER.CO.UK / 33 MOISTURE MATTERS The new five-piece Insight Man range includes everything from a Shaving Soap to a Hair & Body Cleanser – all containing the key active ingredient, organic Date Extract, which provides moisture, elasticity and toning benefits. RRP from: £13.50 STAYING STRONG A high-shine hair styling pomade that offers strong hold for medium/thick hair, Captain Fawcett’s Strong Pomade, which features a subtle and sophisticated fragrance of verdant wood notes, warm spice and a spike of citrus, is launching soon. RRP: £19 SLEEK SEAT Available at Salon Supplies, Welonda’s Mr Mo Styling Chair features either an adjustable or fixed back rest, and is characterised by a sleek design with round shapes, stainless steel details and a satin finish. Contact Salon Supplies for pricing at [email protected] TAKE A SEAT Kingsman, the new Barber seat by REM, is made in Britain for the traditional barbershop, with a reclining seat system and adjustable headrest. It’s available in 24 colours and with a heavy-duty Hydraulic Base system – guaranteeing years of trouble-free use. RRP from: £1,462 KING OF CURLS Containing natural oils, black cumin and macadamia oil, Murdock London’s Textured Hair Oil boosts hair elasticity, curl retention and leaves a natural healthy sheen. RRP: £24
AMERICAN CREW HAIR: GEORGE SMITH, SMITH ENGLAND SPONSORED FEATURE THE CURL “AMERICAN CREW PREP AND PRIME WAS USED TO DAMPEN THE HAIR, THEN AMERICAN CREW CONTROL FOAM WAS EVENLY DISTRIBUTED THROUGHOUT THE HAIR, USING A LITTLE AMERICAN CREW WHIP TO SCRUNCH INTO THE ENDS. FINALLY, AMERICAN CREW FINISHING SPRAY WAS APPLIED TO CONTROL THE ENDS.” THIS MODERN BARBER EXCLUSIVE SHOOT WAS DIRECTED BY IAN HARROLD, LEAD EDUCATOR FOR AMERICAN CREW. IT THROWS A CURVE BALL AT TRADITIONAL MEN’S BARBERING TECHNIQUES AND EXPLORES THE EXTREMETIES THAT CAN BE APPLIED BY USING THE AMERICAN CREW GROOMING RANGE
HAIR: BOBBY GORDON AND ALEX WAKEFIELD, FELLA SPONSORED FEATURE MOD ESQUE “AMERICAN CREW PREP AND PRIME WAS USED TO DAMPEN THE MODEL’S HAIR. AMERICAN CREW TEXTURE FOAM WAS THEN APPLIED THROUGHOUT THE HAIR TO ACHIEVE SEPARATION, AND AMERICAN CREW MOLDING CLAY WAS USED TO ADD DEFINITION.”
HAIR: MAX HILL, MAX.OLIVER SPONSORED FEATURE BRUSH STROKES “AMERICAN CREW PREP AND PRIME WAS APPLIED TO DAMPEN THE HAIR. AMERICAN CREW BOOST SPRAY WAS THEN APPLIED TO DRY HAIR FOLLOWED BY AMERICAN CREW FINISHING SPRAY TO GIVE SOME HOLD.”
SHOOT DIRECTOR: IAN HARROLD FOR AMERICAN CREW MAKE UP: GRACE HAYWARD FASHION: CLARE FRITH PHOTOGRAPHY: CHRIS BULEZUIK SPONSORED FEATURE RICHARD ASHCROFT ESQUE “AMERICAN CREW PREP AND PRIME WAS APPLIED TO DAMPEN THE MODEL’S HAIR ON SET. AMERICAN CREW CONTROL FOAM WAS THEN APPLIED TO ENHANCE CURL AND MOVEMENT. FINISHING WITH AMERICAN CREW BOOST POWDER TO ACHIEVE HEIGHT AND SEPARATION IN THE CROWN.” HAIR: LAURA SCOTT, MARK LEESON
THE ROOTS FOUNDATION HAIR: PJ SHEPHERD MODEL: RUEL FEBRUARY PHOTOGRAPHER: LIAM OAKES
HAIR: LUKE BURGON MODEL: JAKE HOBBS PHOTOGRAPHER: LIAM OAKES
HAIR: LIV PLUM MODEL: BEN RAY PHOTOGRAPHER: LIAM OAKES