Barbersociety magazine Q3 2025 Eng Web

LEXIE SHAY HAIR IS HAIR. SIMON THE BARBER PUT IN CUTTING HOURS – NOT TIKTOK VIEWS. LAURENS PROPHITIUS BEING GOOD AT CUTTING HAIR, DOESN’T MAKE YOU AN ENTREPRENEUR.

#25

BARBERSOCIETY MAGAZINE

BELIEF. HOPE. LOVE. THE REAL DRIVERS OF SUCCESS.

FALL 2025 | #25 | € 15

CHARLES GRAY TIMING IS EVERYTHING.

BarberSociety Magazine introduces N EW digital subscription!

BarberSociety Magazine’s international English language edition is now available as a digital subscription or single issues!

Access exclusive content tailored for barbers and their clients—delivering the inspiration, tips, and stories you need anytime, anywhere.

The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails ligt in de Boulevard Tower van The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas,

Photography: © David J Crew , Clique Hospitality, Alex Jerome

en is een super de luxe barbershop zoals je er nog nooit een hebt gezien. Je kunt er niet alleen high-end kapsels en geweldige whiskeycocktails krijgen, maar ze bieden ook een ongelooflijke speakeasy met opwindende live muziekoptredens zeven avonden per week, waaronder ‘All Request Sundays’, ‘Wild West Wednesdays’ en ‘Faded Karaoke’, een avond waarop gasten zelf het podium op kunnen om hun favorieten te zingen, onder begeleiding van een live band. Met eerdere

verrassingsoptredens van beroemdheden, waaronder Bruno Mars en Anderson Paak, Zac Brown, Dave Matthews, Machine Gun Kelly en Travis Barker, weet je nooit wie er op het podium zal staan.

De Barbershop biedt stijlvolle coupes, gezichtsbehandelingen, een traditionele scheerbeurt, baardverzorging en nog veel meer, in combinatie met het volledige barmenu. Een ervaring die je nergens anders zult vinden.

Why Go Digital?

Stay ahead with worldwide trends, techniques, and interviews Discover business tips and lifestyle inspiration for barbers and beyond Automatic updates—always have the newest issue in hand every quarter.

INTERVIEW

From Lawyer in Uruguay to the Global Stage as Barber Interview with Emanuel Medina

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@ema_medinaok @ema_medinastudio

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Fidel ‘Gucci’ Hernandez

The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails The Cosmopolitan, grote zaal van het casino, ingang aan de Las Vegas Boulevard 3708 S. Las Vegas Blvd.

Las Vegas, NV 89109 +1 (702) 698-7434 https://thebarbershoplv.com @thebarbershoplv

Smerling ‘Rockstar’ Montero

Nick Karel

BARBERS & THE CITY

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Emanuel Medina (29) was once on his way to becoming a lawyer in Uruguay. But eight years ago, his life took a different turn. Swapping heavy law books for scissors and a razor, he has since dedicated himself to mastering and elevating the art of barbering.

His talent and commitment quickly set him apart, and today he’s recognized as a prominent figure in the industry.

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Founding editor Marc van de Hare Editor in Chief Miranda Vlas, press@barbersociety.com Editor Leny Vlas Journalists Ben Copeland, Miranda Vlas Columnists Chris Foster, Dennis van Lierop, Cor Bouw Contributors Scott Anthony, Robert-Jan Rietveld, Jim Shaw, Adam Szulc Art direction & graphic design Merktuig, Jarno Aafjes, Dagmar van den Brink Online sales www.barbersociety.com/magazine Advertisements & Publisher BarberSociety B.V.Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Miranda Vlas +31 (0)6 54 212 432 info@barbersociety.com www.barbersociety.com @barbersocietymag ©BarberSociety is a publication of BarberSociety B .V. Nothing from this publication may be copied without the prior consent of the publisher. BarberSociety may not be included in a portfolio of magazines without prior written consent. BarberSociety is not responsible for any inaccuracies in this publication. BarberSociety is not responsible for any actions by third parties that could ensue from reading this publication.

BarberSociety reserves the right to publish submitted materials entirely or partially without notification.

The publisher excludes any liability for damage due to printing errors or other inaccuracies. More information is available at www.barbersociety.com.

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EDITORIAL

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FROM CANAL SIDE TO GLOBAL STAGE Charles Gray’s hair revolution

BUT IT SHAVES SLICK AS HELL.” 12 Column Robert (Schorem) aka The Bloody Butcher “LATHERING UP IS A BITCH,

AUTUMN/WINTER HAIR TRENDS Jim Shaw 14 ByMEN’S TRENDS 16 Jordan Donegan, Javier Ventoso, Jürgen Niederl, Robert-Jan Rietveld (Schorem), Husso, Sara Allsop, Montse Morella, Lexie Shay

HAIR IS HAIR 44 How Lexie Shay is Flipping the Script

50 Grooming, In Shop, Lifestyle PRODUCT NEWS

54 Column Cor Bouw BARBERS & THE CITY & Hotspots on Bali, Indonesia 56 Barbershops BELIEF, HOPE & LOVE

THE DUTCH BARBER BEHIND FOOTBALLERS

62 Q&A with Simon the Barber BOOKED, BUSY… AND EMPTY Chris Foster 66 Column V-SHAPED TAPER

by Wahl 68 Step-by-Step ALL-IN THE FAMILY with Laurens Prophitius 72 Q&A NATIONAL BARBER MUSEUM IN OHIO Szulc Revisits Barbering History 78 Adam BARBER’S MISSION FOR MENTAL HEALTH Scott Anthony 82 ByA MASTER WHY TATTOO DESIGNS ARE NOT A BUSINESS STRATEGY Column Dennis van Lierop

Hair: Josh Lamonaca, @joshlamonaca (UK) Photography & video: Jordan Doyle Collection: RACE

86 BARBERPOLE IS TRAVELLING TO… 88 THIS Haircon (UK) 3

E D I TO R I A L

Belief Hope Love Success

“Timing is everything in this game,” says Charles Gray.

Whether you’ve just bought your first clipper or you’ve been cutting for thirty years, it always comes down to that one moment when everything clicks. And Charles knows what he’s talking about. He breaks the rules, builds his own empire, and proves that success doesn’t come from following the crowd, but from believing in your own vision.

That’s the vibe of this whole issue: what really drives you? I ask myself that question often. Sure, I love cutting hair, the customers, the shop vibe. But it goes deeper.

The legacy of three generations of barbers. The pride when a colleague nails a killer cut.

Or when someone tells me after BarberSociety Live: “I feel completely recharged,” or “Your magazine made me rethink the way I run my business.” That’s what it’s about. Energy, skills, and drive.

Belief – knowing what you stand for Charles shows it. Lexie Shay from Australia too. With her one-liner “Hair is hair,” she breaks down all the barriers and fell in love with men’s hair all over again.

And as Cor Bouw writes in his column: belief starts with knowing what you stand for. Your shop, your style, your vibe. And sticking with it, even when the rest of the world goes the other way.

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Hope – that drive to keep going Hope is what keeps you going when literally no one comes into your new shop, as was the case with Robert and Leen back in the early days of Schorem.

They gave themselves two more months – and the rest is history.

You see hope in Scott Anthony, using barbering to open up the conversation about men’s mental health. And in Lexie, proving that color in men’s hair is as normal as sneakers under a suit. Hope takes guts – and guts make the difference.

Chris Foster puts it bluntly: stop destroying yourself with comparison. “Just hit that unfollow button.” Choose your own path. Hope doesn’t live in glitter or glamour, not in metrics or trophies. It lives in the people around you.

Love – the fuel that never runs out Without love for the craft, you won’t last a single day.

Just ask Laurens Prophitius, carrying the legacy of three generations of barbers. For him, success comes down to three things: mastering broad skills, loving your customers, and staying true to yourself. His advice: “Being able to cut well doesn’t make you an entrepreneur. You have to master both disciplines.”

You feel that same love in the passionate Simon the Barber, cutting pro footballers but staying grounded: “Put in cutting hours – not TikTok views.”

But love is also discipline, says Dennis van Lierop. Passion is great, but without a plan, it’s chaos.

“Creativity without strategy is useless.” Harsh, but true.

What else is in this issue?

The boldest autumn men’s hair trends A V-Shaped Taper step-by-step by Wahl Fresh product news Barbers & the City – Bali edition A trip to the legendary National Barber Museum in Ohio with Adam Szulc The vibe of the epic Haircon UK event This edition is not just pretty words, but a reality check.

Success is not glitz and glamour, not views or followers. It’s believing in yourself, keeping hope alive when things get tough, and loving your craft and the people in your chair.

But always with a plan.

And for me personally? That faith, hope, and love are literally under my skin. The barber pole tattoo on my wrist – my only tattoo – symbolizes BarberSociety and my love for this craft.

The best part? Around 200 barbers worldwide now wear the same tattoo. One logo, one community, one passion.

You feel it at BarberSociety Live.

You read it in this magazine.

And you see it every day in your own shop.

This is already the 25th international issue of BarberSociety Magazine since our first English language edition in 2019. Flip through these pages and you’ll realize: it’s never just about cuts or shaves. It’s the laugh you share with a customer, the stories exchanged while the clippers buzz, and the knowledge that we’re building something bigger than hair – a legacy for the next generation.

So keep your clippers and scissors sharp, and keep your mind sharper. I’m proud that this magazine helps sharpen your skills, grow your vision, and push you forward with confidence.

Belief. Hope. Love. And guts.

That’s what it’s all about.

Make it a great fall!

Marc van de Hare Founder of BarberSociety Owner of Van de Hare Amsterdam Barbers

Cover image The cool cover image for this autumn edition comes from Josh Lamonaca’s RACE collection. More from this collection can be seen in the Haircon report at the back of this edition. Scan the QR codes and check out the cool RACE videos:

China, here we come!

We are extremely proud to have been invited again to a cool BarberSociety show in China at the 17th World Hairdressing Congress.

Keep an eye on social media in November!

For a preview, check out the spectacular 2024 WHC BarberSociety Show in China:

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INTERVIEW

From canal side to global stage: Charles Gray’s hair revolution How a Menspire creative director broke free to build his own empire, smashing the boundaries between men’s and women’s hair along the way.

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@charlesgrayofficial @hairinmotioneducation

Timing is everything

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Picture this: you’re prepping models for one of the biggest hair shows in Europe, but instead of a fancy backstage area, you’re standing next to an Amsterdam canal with the wind whipping around you. For most people, this would be a nightmare. For Charles Gray, it was just another Monday.

“We ended up doing all our prep work outside by the canal because the backstage area was packed,” Charles laughs, remembering his time at BarberSociety Live back in 2018.

“The wind was going mental, but honestly? It felt more like an experience. You’ve got these beautiful Amsterdam canals right there, and we’re creating these amazing looks.

It was pretty special.”

That moment pretty much sums up Charles Gray (34): adaptable, creative, and always ready to turn a potentially tricky situation into something memorable.

It’s an attitude that’s taken him from a small salon to the global stage, and eventually to building his own international hair education empire.

The Menspire Chapter: Learning the ropes Charles spent six solid years with Menspire, working his way up to creative director of their education team. It was the kind of job most people in the industry would kill for - traveling the world, teaching passionate barbers, being part of something that was genuinely changing men’s grooming.

But here’s the thing about success: sometimes it can feel like a trap. “I hit this point where I knew I’d outgrown what I could do there,” Charles explains. “Don’t get me wrong - I’m massively proud of what we achieved at Menspire. But you know when you get that feeling?

Like you’ve ticked all the boxes and the only way forward is to do your own thing?”

It’s a feeling plenty of us know.

You’re good at your job, maybe even great at it, but something’s missing. For Charles, that something was the freedom to create exactly what he envisioned, without having to run it past committees or fit into someone else’s brand guidelines.

If you can’t nail the basics, nothing else matters

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Going solo: The birth of Hair in Motion Leaving Menspire wasn’t just about going freelance - Charles had bigger plans. He wanted to create something that would shake up hair education and, crucially, break down the artificial walls between men’s and women’s hairdressing.

“I didn’t just want to go solo,” he says. “I wanted to build something new. And I definitely wanted to get back into women’s hair too. Why should we limit ourselves to just one side of the industry?”

The result was Hair in Motion, and at its heart is something Charles calls the Circle Membership. Think Netflix, but for hair education. Thousands of members from over 100 countries pay a monthly subscription to access everything from basic cuts to advanced styling techniques.

“It literally works like Netflix,” Charles grins. “You can browse whatever you want, watch it whenever you want, as much as you want. We’ve got beginner stuff, advanced techniques, men’s hair, women’s hair whatever you’re into. No rules, no set curriculum. Just learn what you need when you need it.”

More than just scissors: Building partnerships that matter Success brought other opportunities, including what started as a simple ambassador deal with a scissors brand called Leaf. But Charles being Charles, it didn’t stay simple for long.

“It started with a mate of mine who owned this scissors company,” he explains. “He wanted me to be their first ambassador because he liked what I was doing. But over time, it grew into something much bigger.”

Now Charles is creative director for the brand and actually owns shares in the company. But what

really gets him excited isn’t the business side - it’s their approach to sustainability.

“Every time someone buys a pair of scissors, they plant 10 trees,” Charles says, and you can hear the genuine enthusiasm in his voice. “Everything they do is about sustainability and making quality tools affordable for everyday stylists, not just the big names with massive budgets.”

The men’s hair revolution: Breaking down the walls Having worked on both sides of the gender divide, Charles has a front-row seat to one of the biggest changes happening in our industry right now.

The old rules about what barbers do versus what hairstylists do?

They’re basically dead.

“The crossover is massive right now,” he says. “You’ve got guys growing their hair out long, women going for really short cuts.

Ten years ago, if you wanted clipper work, you went to a barber. If you wanted longer, softer looks, you went to a salon. But that’s all changing.”

And Charles sees this as nothing but good news for barbers willing to expand their skills.

“Yeah, there’s still a gap when it comes to barbers doing longer men’s hair,” he admits. “A lot of people are comfortable with clippers all day but struggle when they need to do scissor work on length. But we’re seeing more and more barbers wanting to learn women’s techniques too.”

His advice? Embrace it.

“We’re all just learning more skills and becoming better at what we do. That’s got to be a good thing, right?”

High fashion, high learning One of the more unexpected parts of Charles’s journey has been his work in high fashion.

We’re talking Vetements

campaigns in Switzerland, Fred Perry shoots in underground London clubs the kind of stuff that’s about as far from everyday salon work as you can get.

“Fashion work is completely different,” Charles explains.

“You’re not cutting hair, you’re styling it, manipulating it, making it work with the clothes and the overall look.

It’s mental stuff - shaved heads, mohawks, things you’d never do in a normal salon.”

But here’s the clever bit: Charles doesn’t see this as separate from his regular work.

Those extreme styling techniques?

That understanding of how hair works with fashion? It all feeds back into his education programs and day-to-day approach.

“You take little bits from those crazy shoots and work them into everyday trends,” he says.

“It’s all connected.”

Back to basics: Why fundamentals still rule everything Despite all the high-fashion shoots and international success, Charles is absolutely clear about one thing: if you can’t nail the basics, nothing else matters.

“You need to be rock solid on the fundamentals,” he says, and there’s no messing about in his tone. “Cutting hair, styling hair, being confident with every single client who walks through your door. Until you’ve got that foundation locked down, forget about photo shoots and creative work and teaching.”

It’s advice born from watching too many people try to skip steps.

“I see loads of people coming into the industry who want to do the flashy stuff without putting in the groundwork,” Charles continues. “But every single person you look up to in this industry started exactly where you’re starting. They didn’t jump straight to the fun bits.”

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The art of the calculated risk Looking back over his career, Charles identifies two massive risks that changed everything: leaving his first salon to join Menspire (which barely existed at the time), and then leaving Menspire to start his own thing.

What’s next: The Aveda game-changer Just when you think Charles might be ready to sit back and enjoy his success, he drops a bombshell.

Hair in Motion has just landed a partnership with Aveda - and not just any partnership.

Life, work, and getting the balance right Despite all the success, Charles has learned some hard lessons about work-life balance. There were times when he was working seven days a week, completely burning himself out.

“Both times, people thought I was mad,” he laughs. “The first time, I was joining a company that wasn’t even really a company yet. The second time, I was leaving this amazing job that people would kill for.”

“They’ve never done this before,” Charles says, and you can hear the excitement. “Aveda has always been completely in-house with everything. But now we’re official partners. We use their products, they use us for education - even for their own internal training.”

“Your career should support your life, not the other way around,” he says now. “Yeah, there are times when you need to go mental with work to get to the next level.

But if you’re still doing that years later, you’re missing the point.”

But here’s the key - both risks were calculated and timed perfectly.

“Timing is everything,” Charles explains. “Take a risk too early, when you’re not ready, and you’ll probably end up back where you started. Never take risks at all, and you’ll stay in the same place forever. But take the right risk at the right time? That’s when magic happens.”

Collection: British Hairdressing Awards, Mens Collection 2024 Hair: Charles Gray (UK) Hair Assistants: Alessandro Barca, Rachel Dee Photography: Chris Bulezuik Stylis: Tobias Make up: Jaydeen Sarah

The trick is knowing when you’re ready, which usually means you’ve mastered your current level and you’re genuinely outgrowing it.

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For a company that started with one guy’s vision of breaking down industry barriers, it’s pretty massive validation.

“It’s a complete game-changer for us,” Charles admits. “Going from a small brand to partnering with a global company like that - it shows what’s possible when you stay true to what you believe in.”

It’s advice that hits different when it comes from someone who’s actually been there and made those mistakes. “I want to be present for my family, to have time with my kids,” Charles continues. “So I need to build my business in a way that gives me that life. The work serves the life, not the other way around.”

The bottom line Charles Gray’s story isn’t just about one guy’s success - it’s about what’s possible when you combine solid skills with smart risks and genuine vision.

The industry is changing fast, with traditional boundaries disappearing and new opportunities opening up all the time.

But here’s what hasn’t changed: the need for absolute mastery of the fundamentals, the importance of timing your moves right, and the value of building something that means more than just making money.

“We’re in an amazing time for this industry,” Charles reflects.

“Clients want to try new things, they’re open to change, they’re bringing us ideas we never would have thought of. As creatives, as professionals, we’ve got more opportunities than ever.”

The key is being ready for them when they come. Whether you’re a barber thinking about expanding into longer cuts, a salon stylist considering men’s work, or someone dreaming of building their own education brand, Charles’s journey proves one thing: with the right skills, the right timing, and the willingness to take calculated risks, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.

Collection: Hair In Motion Academy

Just don’t be surprised if you end up prepping models by an Amsterdam canal along the way. Sometimes the best moments happen when you least expect them.

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C O LU M N T H E B LO O DY B U TC H E R

Hello BarberSociety,

Here’s that grumpy old bastard again, Bertus from Schorem, who’s actually just Robert from Rotterdam…

@schorembarbier @the_bloody_butcher

@batcitybabe

barbering history. A year we buried ourselves up to our neck in debt just to make our dream come true…

Before Leen and I actually kicked off Schorem, we first spent hours and hours ‘meeting’ to discuss exactly how we envisioned it.

And by ‘meeting’ I mean mainly sitting in the pub, downing buckets of Belgian beer, and with slurred tongues not only making plans about our tonsorial future but also solving all the world’s problems between two gulps of beer… I still have a massive collection of beer coasters at home that we found in our pockets the next morning, full of scribbled-down ideas.

It took about a year, maybe a year and a half, before we finally signed the lease for our dream spot. A year in which we step by step gathered what’s now our world-famous interior. A year where we cooked up everything – from our logo, white jackets, outfits, website, to our guerrilla media attack. A year we dug into

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Until finally… we opened the doors and… for the first three or four months, not a single soul came in, which brought us to the brink of bankruptcy. We were literally tearing our hair out (well, Leen was. Mine grows everywhere except on my skull), but we gave ourselves two more months, which turned out to be crucial...

Slowly but surely, it started to get busier... And busier... And busier...

Then we appeared on national TV for the first time on the program ‘Kassa’, where yours truly dropped the memorable line during the big shaving cream test: “Lathering up is a bitch, but it shaves slick as hell...” That got picked up by a very popular Dutch talkshow ‘DWDD’ as ‘TV moment of the week’ and landed us at their table. Looking back, that was our big turning point...

I can totally imagine you, dear reader, thinking now: “What a cocky sod, listen to him blow his own trumpet…” And you wouldn’t be wrong. But there’s a reason I’m tooting my own horn here…

When Miranda from BarberSociety first asked me to scribble down a piece, I thought: “Do I really feel like this…?” Truth is, I’m a lazy

bastard. But secretly I kinda love going against the grain (not literally shaving against the grain, relax), cause I’m a stubborn bastard. So every time I’m asked to write about a certain topic, I see it as an opportunity to kick up a fuss and talk about something completely different...

This time the theme was ‘Belief, Love, Hope. About real success drivers’ and my first thought was: “What the fuck am I supposed to do with that..?”

But hey, it did get me thinking, and I love that. Because what the hell is success anyway?

Here’s what Google says: “Success is the pursuit of achieving your personal goals, a favourable ending or outcome, or reaching desired results.

The definition of success, however, is highly subjective and differs per person, culture, and stage of life. What is success for one person may be something

entirely different for another, since it depends on individual values, dreams, and life stories.”

Can’t argue with that…

When we started Schorem, our personal goal was to start a shop that we ourselves would want to visit... We started by believing in it, and believe me (!) that is the foundation of EVERYTHING. Without belief, every plan, every dream is doomed to fail...

Then we put SO MUCH LOVE into that shop. We hammered every nail into the wall ourselves and we even drove all the way to a small village for one goddamn bakelite socket.

And hope...? “Hope keeps the fools smiling” and it’s the reason you drag your ass out of bed every morning.

I’m a happy man. Can’t get more successful than that…

RoBert(us)

Lathering up is a bitch, but it shaves slick as hell

Hair: @the_bloody_butcher, Photography: @jelleinmyear Model: @spykervogel, Products: @reuzel

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Men’s autumn/winter

@jimshawhair

Autumn is just around the corner, and with that in mind, I’ve rounded up some of the hottest men’s hair trends predicted to dominate the new season - from bold colour choices to must have cuts and styling tips.

Award winning men’s hairdresser, Jim Shaw, shares his trend predicitions for the upcoming autumn/ winter season.

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Bleached up

Metallic pops

Bleached blonde and platinum hair are taking center stage this autumn/ winter. It’s a bold look perfect for men who like to make a statement and want to embody a cool, edgy aesthetic. That said, platinum hair does require maintenance. For clients opting for this hue, it’s important they have a solid at home hair care routine to keep the colour looking bright, brass-free, and healthy. I particularly love a platinum tone paired with a short cut for a fresh, modern vibe.

For clients looking to add a touch of fun and individuality through colour, metallic shades are in this season. Think electric blues and iridescent greens - these hues work beautifully on both blonde and brunette bases.

Strategically placed colour blocked panels can really elevate the hair look, adding a quirky, eye-catching twist to the style.

hair trends

Disconnected undercut

Longer length

Pompadours and quiffs

Undercuts are having a major moment this year, and the disconnected undercut is set to be especially popular during the colder months.

This style features longer hair on top and much shorter sides and back, with a sharp, distinct contrast between the two lengths. Unlike blended undercuts, this version is all about bold separation.

It pairs perfectly with sleek, slicked-back styling for a modern, sophisticated finish.

Longer styles are all the rage this season, with many men embracing a more indie inspired look. Layers are a great addition to this style to give the length more movement and texture.

To style, clients should use a texturising spray such as a sea salt spray to add grit and dimension while keeping the look effortlessly cool.

For those who love a sophisticated hair look, pompadours and quiffs aren’t going anywhere.

These both provide height and volume and are often paired with sleek styling for a more polished finish.

A pompadour can also be paired with a side parting for a further sophisticated finish and added flair.

For men with thinning hair this style can also add the illusion of volume. Pomades and waxes are great for both the pompadour and quiff to provide hold and retain shape of both looks.

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JORDAN DONEGAN

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Collection: Doof Dreamers Hair: Jordan Donegan (AU) Photography: Ben Blyth Styling: Daniya Sammour Make-up: Sophie Harris Assistant: Luke Lawless @jordandoneganhair, @the_studio_x WINNER 2025 AMBA Freestyle Collection

AUSTRALIA

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Collection: Doof Dreamers Hair: Jordan Donegan (AU) Photography: Ben Blyth Styling: Daniya Sammour Make-up: Sophie Harris Assistant: Luke Lawless @jordandoneganhair, @the_studio_x WINNER 2025 AMBA Freestyle Collection

JAVIER VENTOSO

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Collection: BROO.OKK Hair: Javier Ventoso (SP) Hair assistant: Oscar Ventoso Photography: Esteban Roca Make-up: Bea Torres Communication: Óscar Martínez @javier_ventoso

SPAIN

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Collection: BROO.OKK Hair: Javier Ventoso (SP) Hair assistant: Oscar Ventoso Photography: Esteban Roca Make-up: Bea Torres Communication: Óscar Martínez @javier_ventoso

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Collection: BROO.OKK Hair: Javier Ventoso (SP) Hair assistant: Oscar Ventoso Photography: Esteban Roca Make-up: Bea Torres Communication: Óscar Martínez @javier_ventoso

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Collection: BROO.OKK Hair: Javier Ventoso (SP) Hair assistant: Oscar Ventoso Photography: Esteban Roca Make-up: Bea Torres Communication: Óscar Martínez @javier_ventoso

JÜRGEN NIEDERL

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Collection: Dia de Los Muertos Hair: Jürgen Niederl, Holy Tiger Barbershop (AT) Photography: @stellakager Styling: @adilozancic Make-up: @birgitmoertl @grave_tiger, @holytigerbarbershop

AUSTRIA

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Collection: Dia de Los Muertos Hair: Jürgen Niederl, Holy Tiger Barbershop (AT) Photography: @stellakager Styling: @adilozancic Make-up: @birgitmoertl @grave_tiger, @holytigerbarbershop

SCHOREM

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Hair: Robert-Jan Rietveld (NL) Photography: Jelle Mollema @jelleinmyear Products: REUZEL @schorembarbier, @the_bloody_butcher

THE NETHERLANDS

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Hair: Robert-Jan Rietveld (NL) Photography: Jelle Mollema @jelleinmyear Products: REUZEL @schorembarbier, @the_bloody_butcher

SCHOREM

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Hair: Robert-Jan Rietveld (NL) Photography: Jelle Mollema @jelleinmyear Products: REUZEL @schorembarbier, @the_bloody_butcher

THE NETHERLANDS

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Hair: Robert-Jan Rietveld (NL) Photography: Jelle Mollema @jelleinmyear Products: REUZEL @schorembarbier, @the_bloody_butcher

JORDAN DONEGAN

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Collection: Daddy Issues Hair: Jordan Donegan (AU) Photography: Ben Blyth Styling: Daniya Sammour Make-up: Sophie Harris Assistant: Luke Lawless @jordandoneganhair, @the_studio_x Finalist 2025 AMBA Modern Barber of the Year

AUSTRALIA

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Collection: Daddy Issues Hair: Jordan Donegan (AU) Photography: Ben Blyth Styling: Daniya Sammour Make-up: Sophie Harris Assistant: Luke Lawless @jordandoneganhair, @the_studio_x Finalist 2025 AMBA Modern Barber of the Year

HUSSO

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Collection: Mettle Hair: Husso (UK) Photography: Liam Oakes Images: FPA @husso_the_barber, @brushbarbers

UNITED KINGDOM

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Collection: Mettle Hair: Husso (UK) Photography: Liam Oakes Images: FPA @husso_the_barber, @brushbarbers

SARA ALLSOP

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Collection: Mr Asia 1971 Hair: Sara Allsop (NZ) Photography: Jock Robson Styling: Lenard Johnston Props: Paula Thompson Make-up: Richard Symons @saraallsop, @dharmahairnz

NEW ZEALAND

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Collection: Mr Asia 1971 Hair: Sara Allsop (NZ) Photography: Jock Robson Styling: Lenard Johnston Props: Paula Thompson Make-up: Richard Symons @saraallsop, @dharmahairnz

MONTSE MORELLA

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Collection: To Be Art Director: Montse Morella (SP) Image: David Arnal Best Digital Finalist AIPP Awards ‘24/’25 @momotra

SPAIN

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Collection: To Be Art Director: Montse Morella (SP) Image: David Arnal Best Digital Finalist AIPP Awards ‘24/’25 @momotra

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Collection: To Be Art Director: Montse Morella (SP) Image: David Arnal Best Digital Finalist AIPP Awards ‘24/’25 @momotra

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Collection: To Be Art Director: Montse Morella (SP) Image: David Arnal Best Digital Finalist AIPP Awards ‘24/’25 @momotra

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Collection: To Be Art Director: Montse Morella (SP) Image: David Arnal Best Digital Finalist AIPP Awards ‘24/’25 @momotra

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Collection: To Be Art Director: Montse Morella (SP) Image: David Arnal Best Digital Finalist AIPP Awards ‘24/’25 @momotra

LEXIE SHAY

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Collection: Pretty Tough Hair & Styling: Lexie Shay (AU) Photography: Glenn Saggers Make-up: Amber Shay Assists: Ana Pennisi, Melissa Ball, Micheal Lees Models: Jahl Herapath, Ben Anderson, Matthew Haynes, Ricky Morey, Jayden Crump, Joesph Drahm @thelexieshay, @vaultninetyone Finalist AHIA 2025 Men’s Hair Specialist

AUSTRALIA

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Collection: Pretty Tough Hair & Styling: Lexie Shay (AU) Photography: Glenn Saggers Make-up: Amber Shay Assists: Ana Pennisi, Melissa Ball, Micheal Lees Models: Jahl Herapath, Ben Anderson, Matthew Haynes, Ricky Morey, Jayden Crump, Joesph Drahm @thelexieshay, @vaultninetyone Finalist AHIA 2025 Men’s Hair Specialist

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Collection: Pretty Tough Hair & Styling: Lexie Shay (AU) Photography: Glenn Saggers Make-up: Amber Shay Assists: Ana Pennisi, Melissa Ball, Micheal Lees Models: Jahl Herapath, Ben Anderson, Matthew Haynes, Ricky Morey, Jayden Crump, Joesph Drahm @thelexieshay, @vaultninetyone Finalist AHIA 2025 Men’s Hair Specialist

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Collection: Pretty Tough Hair & Styling: Lexie Shay (AU) Photography: Glenn Saggers Make-up: Amber Shay Assists: Ana Pennisi, Melissa Ball, Micheal Lees Models: Jahl Herapath, Ben Anderson, Matthew Haynes, Ricky Morey, Jayden Crump, Joesph Drahm @thelexieshay, @vaultninetyone Finalist AHIA 2025 Men’s Hair Specialist

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© Photography: Lilani Hale, @orangedmedia

How Lexie Shay is flipping the script on everything we think we know about cutting hair

@thelexieshay @vaultninetyone

INTERVIEW

“ Hair is is hair” “I’m actually not a ‘barber’.”

Wait, what? Here we are, about to feature someone in a barber magazine, and that’s how she opens? But before you flip the page, hear Lexie Shay out.

“I’m a hairdresser, but I think hair is hair, you know?”

And there it is: “hair is hair” -three words that sum up everything wrong with how this industry thinks about itself. “We’ve spent decades drawing imaginary lines between ‘barber’ and ‘hairdresser,’ between ‘men’s cuts’ and ‘women’s styles,’ when really, we’re all just trying to make people look and feel amazing.”

At 34, Lex runs Vault Ninety One in Cairns, Australia, and she’s living proof that the best stylists are the ones who refuse to stay in their lane. She’s worked with traditional English barbers, she’s a Danger Jones educator pushing color boundaries in men’s hair, and she’s currently on Australia’s Fame Team 2025. But ask her what she does for a living, and she’ll tell you she just cuts hair.

All hair. Any hair. Because hair is hair.

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Twenty years of figuring it out Lex’s been at this for two decades now, but she’ll be the first to tell you that the learning never stops.

“The moment you think that you know everything is the moment you’ve shot yourself in the foot,” she says, laughing about how moving from small-town Cairns, AUS, to bigger cities repeatedly over the years kept bringing her back to earth. “I thought I was the best because I had a booked column and sort-after where I was living, until I moved to a bigger city, and suddenly I realized I had so much more to learn..”

That cycle of confidence, humbling, and growth repeated itself throughout her career, eventually landing her in England for five years where everything clicked. Working with traditional English barbers and getting featured with Barber Society, she discovered something that reignited her passion for the craft, that is barbering.

“When I lived in England, I became friends with these amazing barbers all over the country.

The traditional English barber scene is just incredible—there’s this whole culture and artistry to it that blew me away,” she explains. “I fell in love with men’s hair all over again, with the shapes you can create and how dramatically you can transform someone’s entire look.”

The revelation hit her: men’s hair offers this incredible opportunity for transformation. “Most men don’t wear makeup or do all the beauty stuff that women do, so their hair is really the main way to change their whole appearance,” she explains.

“And when that’s your only tool for transformation, it’s actually amazing what you can create when you have the tools to do it.”

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Building something different When Lex came back to Australia in 2020, she had a problem. After discovering who she really was in England, she felt like a square peg trying to fit into round holes at every salon she worked in. “I felt like I stood out like a sore thumb, and I wasn’t really appreciated or celebrated like I felt overseas.”

So she did what any reasonable person would do—she said “screw it” and opened her own place.

Vault Ninety One isn’t your average salon. Walk through the doors and you’ll immediately notice it’s “massive but homey” and “definitely not what the normal salon looks like.” But the real difference isn’t in the decor —it’s in the energy. “When people walk in the door, we’re all big smiles, and we actually know our clients and welcome them in like they are coming home, not just some generic greeting.”

The conversations aren’t cookie-cutter either. “We’re actually getting to know people,

and making them feel welcome, and that it’s their house, too, and they can do whatever they want, within reason, but they’re just comfortable. I’ve found once a client feels more at home in the chair they open themselves up more to change. That trust is built.”

The salon brands itself as “vegan-friendly, all-inclusive, and badass hair”—a description that perfectly captures Lex’s approach. The vegan-friendly part isn’t about dietary choices (she still eats meat) but about the team’s health: “The chemicals that we breathe, whether the colors and the products, because we’re consuming it so much, I feel like we have to go more down the track of eco-friendly, because it’s not as harsh on us.”

As for the inclusivity? “I wanted to create a space where everyone felt welcome, no matter what you look like, you could just wear whatever, be whoever you want to be... everyone is celebrated however they look, and however you want to present yourself,

because authenticity is the most important thing for me.”

The color revolution Here’s where things get really interesting. As a Danger Jones educator, Lex is on a mission to get more blokes comfortable with color. But she’s not talking about subtle highlights—she’s talking about global bright colours and coloured facial hair.

The challenge? Convincing guys it’s okay to experiment. “Every time I mention color to my male clients, they’re like, ‘Oh, I can’t do that.’ So I ask them, ‘Well, why not? Do you actually like how it looks?’ And they’ll admit, ‘Yeah, it’s sick, but “men” don’t do that.’

That’s when I hit them with, ‘But why can’t they, though?’”

And it’s working. She’s watching clients transform not just their hair, but their confidence.

“They really become themselves, and it’s really nice to see them evolve and become happier within who they are.”

Fame, fortune, and fighting stereotypes This year, Lex was selected for Australia’s Fame Team 2025—a massive deal that’s opened doors she never expected. We’re talking Fashion Week, flying to England for Haircon, visiting GHD labs in Cambridge, and rubbing shoulders with industry legends who actually know who she is.

But perhaps her most meaningful work came through her recent collection, “Pretty Tough,” which

Authenticity is the most important thing for me Her strategy is brilliantly simple: start small and plant seeds.

“I’ll say, ‘Let’s just bleach out a little section,’ and then next appointment it’s, ‘How about we add just a touch of color here?’

You’re gradually building their confidence, and before you know it, they’re rocking full pink mohawks and colored beards.”

Right now, pink and blue are dominating the men’s color scene.

“Pink and blue are huge for guys right now, which is amazing to see. I think Machine Gun Kelly really helped normalize pink hair for men, but blue is what I recommend for guys who are just starting out—it’s the easiest color to transition into.”

she created for the AHIA Men’s Hair Specialist 2025 competition. The inspiration was heartbreakingly personal —losing male friends to suicide because they never felt they could express themselves authentically.

“Pretty Tough has been on my mind for years, ever since my time in England. I fell in love with the classic English barber look and the unapologetic, androgynous fashion scene.

This collection is all about that freedom — mixing soft, feminine tones with the grit of an English gangster. It’s about showing you can be tough and tender, bold and beautiful.

I’ve lost friends to mental health struggles because they didn’t feel safe to be themselves. This is my way of saying style has no gender rules — pastel pink doesn’t make you less of a man, and embracing your softer side doesn’t take away your strength. Every look in my collection tells its own story, but they all share one message: be who you are, and wear it proudly.”

She didn’t win the competition, but that wasn’t really the point.

“I don’t care about not winning.

Just becoming a finalist was a win for me, but honestly, it wasn’t even about the competition. It was about putting the message out there that it’s okay to struggle, and it’s okay to be whoever you want to be. It was a platform to normalise the conversation.”

The real talk about running a business Ask Lex about the hardest part of her job, and she doesn’t talk about technical challenges or keeping up with trends.

She talks about people.

“I think every hairdresser and barber should do a side of psychology,” she says. “You need to learn how to read people or even read their reactions to what you’ve done, because there’s so many times where I’ve put my heart on my sleeve and done the most amazing haircut or amazing color and I’m so proud and they just say: ‘thanks.’ And it’s like a dagger in the heart. But mostly we have people sit in our chairs and the moment of physical touch people tend to open up and we don’t have the tools or knowledge on how to guide them through their emotions.”

The business side? “No one told me running a business is so damn hard but I wouldn’t have it any other way.” But she’s figured out what works: authenticity and community. Every week, the salon shuts down for hands-on training, whether you’re an apprentice 47

or a seasoned stylist. It’s the education she wished she’d had coming up.

When clients get weird Of course, working in a salon that celebrates authenticity means you get some interesting requests.

The strangest? “I’ve literally been asked to shape someone’s head into an alien,” Lex laughs.

“Like alien versus predator vibes.”

Most stylists might have suggested something more conventional, but Lex grabbed her trimmer and went to work. “It was like a wedge and I literally just carved it with a trimmer. It looked almost like a bowl cut, but it was shaved right into the skin tucked right into the

head. And it was like a V shape at the back.” The client loved it, and Lex still considers it “the most insane and most fun haircut” she’s ever done.

Highs, lows, and almost losing it on stage Ask Lex about her most memorable career moment, and she doesn’t talk about awards or accolades. “Probably just opening my shop,” she says, “I get it still now, just from clients and even other hairdressers, past and present staff of mine, they’ve all just said, thank you for 48

opening a place that they feel welcomed in.” Creating a space where people with tattoos, piercings, or alternative style don’t feel judged? That’s success in her book.

As for her biggest blunder?

Picture this: her first main stage event at Salon International, thousands of people in the audience, and Lex so nervous she almost threw up on stage.

“The first few steps on stage, mic’ed up and it almost came out!, and then it was just a big laughing moment for everyone,” she recalls. Sometimes the most human moments are the ones that connect you with people.

The Australian hair landscape When it comes to trends in Australia, Lex sees a shift toward more structured, geometric cuts for men. “Right now it’s not a lengthy mullet, but pieced in around the nape, but tapered on the sides.” The key? “As long as your perimeters are cleaned up, you can do whatever on the top and it looks good.” She’s also noticing more textural contrast: “Really strong shaped and cleaned around the perimeter and then really shaggy and textured in the internal.”

The secret sauce What drives Lex’s success?

One word: community. “I used to be very much, I needed to do this on my own, never asked for help, but that has led me to burnout more times than I’d like to admit, “ she confessed. “But the older I’m getting, the more I realize that the more successful people you have around you, the better you become... you are just as good as the people you surround yourself with.” Her mother’s advice rings true: birds of a feather flock together. “If you have a supportive community and you have people that want the same things, you’re going to be the best version of yourself because

they’re always going to be supportive of you.”

What’s next?

Well, Lex has got ADHD, which means her brain is “all over the place,” but she’s got plans.

Multiple Vault Ninety One locations across Australia, maybe overseas. But she’s learned not to box herself in too tightly.

“I don’t want to put myself in a box either because that’s just an inspiration. But also if I do get led in a different direction, I don’t want to have that kind of thing in the back of my head and be like,

I wanted to create a space where everyone felt welcome

‘no, I can’t do that, I already had this plan.’ You know, what if something better comes up?”

Why it all matters What makes Lex special isn’t just her technical skills or her eye for color—it’s her refusal to accept that things have to be the way they’ve always been. She’s proving that the old divisions between “barber” and “hairdresser,” between “men’s” and “women’s” hair, are mostly just artificial barriers that keep us from doing our best work.

“There are so many different hairdressers in the world and every hairstyle has been done, but there’s only one you, one creative you,” she says.

“Just putting your spin on things and not trying to recreate or copy what other people have done. As long as you’re true to yourself, no one can question anything of you.”

In an industry that’s often obsessed with following trends, Lexie Shay is busy creating them. And the best part?

She’s having a blast doing it.

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DEPOT® CURL-LINE Naturally curly hair is often drier, more fragile, and prone to frizz.

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Together they complete the curl line for soft, shiny curls with flawless style.

More information www.depotmaletools.com

NEW

DARK STAG FULL FIBRE PASTE

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Hair: @ross_blue_steel_barber Photography: @jhmed

GROOMING

Dark Stag expands its professional styling range with Full Fibre Paste, a reworkable fibre paste that delivers thickness, volume, and control with a natural finish.

Designed for daily use in the barbershop, Full Fibre Paste offers a clean, efficient styling solution with medium hold that stays flexible and touchable throughout the day. Adds visible body without grease or residue.

With a eucalyptus and cedarwood fragrance More information www.darkstag.com

WAHL Professional pushes boundaries with the launch of the Limited Edition Vapor™.

This clipper combines the power and precision of the iconic original clipper with a unique hydro-dip design – no two are alike. The soft touch finish ensures maximum grip and comfort, while the ergonomic design seamlessly aligns with the natural position of the hand and fingers.

With an 8000 RPM motor, the Vapor™ delivers consistent power for every hair type and texture.

Available throughout Europe, but only in limited quantities – a must-have for barbers who want to stand out from the crowd.

IN SHOP

NEW WAHL VAPOR™ – LIMITED EDITION

More information www.wahl.com 51

CLARKS 1 Desert Boot Beeswax 2 Torhill Hi Black Leather 3 Wallabee Canvas Olive 4 Walla Eden Lo

Clarks is celebrating a special milestone this year The iconic British footwear brand turns 200. Since 1825, Clarks has been known for craftsmanship, comfort, and pioneering design, with classics like the Wallabee, Desert Boot, and Torhill taking center stage.

Clarks has also been internationally recognized and embraced in the music world. Artists such as David Bowie and The Beatles wore Clarks. And new generations of artists — including Liam Gallagher of Oasis, Dave Grohl, Jorja Smith, and Drake — are fans as well.

More information www.clarks.com

These Clarks models are available at selected retailers.

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LIFESTYLE

2

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LIFESTYLE

3

4

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C O LU M N C O R B O U W

The barber profession: belief, hope & love Belief – Faith in the craft Every strong barbershop starts with belief in the craft. The trust that craftsmanship will always hold value. That style, grooming, and precision are not mere luxuries, but fundamental to how someone presents themselves and feels.

Belief lives in a clear vision: knowing what the shop stands for, choosing quality over speed, and building a brand that is recognizable and true to its own style.

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Hope – The power of looking forward A visit to the barbershop is about more than today. It’s about how someone feels when he steps out tomorrow, walks into the office, or attends a special occasion. Hope is the confidence a customer takes with him: that he is ready for what comes, with self-assurance and a fresh look.

Hope also lies in continuously developing the shop. Responding to trends, investing in new techniques, and building a place customers will still want to visit five years from now.

Cor Bouw is business coach & consultant for Keune Haircosmetics, owner of Dutch Hair & Barbers and founder of the franchise and chair rental formula ‘Barbershop De Praatkamer’. For Cor, attention, experience and education are the core values for success - both in the chair and in the business.

Barbering is more than just a haircut or shave. It is a craft built on conviction (belief), forward-looking (hope), and love for the profession (love). In the barber’s chair, it’s about more than just the result; it’s about the experience, the connection, and the trust customers feel.

Love – Passion for the profession and the customer Without love for the profession, there is no real barbershop.

Love is in the details: the precision of a fade, the sharpness of a beard line, the scent of shaving soap, the music that fits the mood, and the genuine attention to the person in the chair.

It’s that passion that makes customers not only return but also bring others with them. Love for the profession shines through in everything: from the tools being used to the way someone is welcomed and sent off.

Experience – The connecting factor Belief gives direction, Hope builds the future, and Love brings the profession to life. Experience is where it all comes together.

It’s the feeling that makes a customer think: “This is where I want to come back.”

Experience runs through the entire journey: walking in, being greeted, the treatment, the conversation, the scent, the sound, and that moment when someone looks at themselves in the mirror, nods with satisfaction, and walks out the door.

Practical advice Make sure to include all three elements every day: Belief: Stay true to your vision 1 and your craftsmanship.

Hope: Work today on what will 2 make you stronger tomorrow.

Love: Show your passion for 3 your profession and your customers.

Technical skill is what customers see, but the experience is what they remember. And that’s exactly what makes barbering timeless and distinctive.

Cor Bouw @barbershopdepraatkamer 55

BARBERS & THE CITY

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For this edition of Barbers & the City, we take you to tropical Bali, the island of sun, surf, and spirituality.

Famous for its stunning beaches, rice fields, and vibrant culture, Bali has also developed a thriving barber scene in recent years.

From luxury barbershops to creative hubs where craftsmanship meets lifestyle, the island breathes inspiration. Discover the shops setting the tone here, along with the must-visit hotspots recommended by local barbers.

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BARBERS & THE CITY

THE BARBER CLUB BALI

Tommi Bolin—founder of the Bali Barber Expo—is part of the team, connecting the shop to the wider global barbering community.

The result: a fresh landmark for barber culture in Bali.

Beach Club La Brisa Jl. Pantai Batu Mejan Gang La Brisa Echo Beach Canggu +62 811 3946 666 www.labrisa-bali.com @labrisabali

From Australia to Bali: The Barber Club has landed on the island.

Bringing the same mix of precision, passion, and premium service that made the brand a success Down Under, The Barber Club Bali adds its own twist, tuned to the island’s vibrant lifestyle.

OUR HOTSPOTS IN CANGGU

Housed in a multi-level salon, it’s more than a barbershop.

With an academy on site, it’s a creative hub where education and craftsmanship go hand in hand. Expect classic cuts, sharp fades, beard trims, and grooming treatments, all in a luxurious yet welcoming space.

After a long day behind the chair, Mason is the go-to spot in Canggu.

Their wood-fired dishes and house-made charcuterie are perfect to share with friends, and the cocktails always hit the spot.

It’s the kind of place where you can switch off, enjoy good food, and feel at home. Trust me, dinner at Mason never disappoints.

La Brisa is my go-to beach club at Echo Beach in Canggu.

It feels like a piece of art built from old fishing boats, with a vibe that’s both laid-back and stylish.

Fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and sunsets you’ll never forget set the tone. La Brisa is a hotspot you really need to experience.

Jalan Pantai Berawa No 102 Canggu Bali, Indonesia +62 838-7041-5433 www.thebarberclubbali.com @thebarberclubbali

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Mason Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.39a Canggu +62 857 9250 5028 www.masonbali.com @mason.bali

Vault Jl. Pantai Berawa No.99 Canggu www.vault-bali.com @vault.bali For nightlife, my absolute favorite club is Vault. It’s underground, with this dark and electric energy that feels so different from anywhere else. The DJs are always on point, and honestly, I’ve never had a bad night there—they always know how to set the mood.

Old Man’s Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.117X Canggu +62 361 8469158 www.oldmans.net @oldmansbali

while weekends explode with themed parties and raw Bali vibes.

Deus Ex Machina - Temple of Enthusiasm Jl. Pantei Batu Mejan No.8 Canggu www.deuscustoms.co.id @deuscafe_indo Deus Ex Machina in Canggu is where men’s fashion meets culture. Part flagship store, part gallery, part surf and moto workshop - and yes, even a spot to get inked. It’s raw, stylish, and full of attitude. Their designs are unique, the quality is amazing, and everything feels so effortlessly cool. Trust me, you don’t just shop here, you live it.

Old Man’s is my favorite beach club bar at Batu Bolong where Canggu’s nightlife kicks off. Happy hours, live music, DJs, and Dirty Ol’ Wednesday keep the energy high,

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BARBERS & THE CITY

BALI BARBER Co-located with The Shampoo Lounge Jalan Raya Basangkasa 8X Seminyak Bali, Indonesia +62 877-6156-7657 www.balibarber.com @balibarber You can’t miss Bali Barber, with its five spinning poles and spiral staircase leading into a buzzing loft in Seminyak (with a second spot in Sanur). Consistently top-ranked on TripAdvisor and Google, it blends Balinese hospitality with classic Western barbering at its best.

Signature packages like The President’s Package, Millionaire Experience, and Bali Big Boss deliver more than sharp cuts and hot shaves - they include head and shoulder massages, hand and foot grooming, cold beers, 60

premium cigars, and classic rock. And yes, the conversation is always on point.

top-shelf cocktails with front-row views of the Indian Ocean. Classy without trying too hard.

For weddings and special events, top resorts and villas rely on Bali Barber’s elite groomsmen service.

And thanks to its co-location with The Shampoo Lounge, Bali’s leading salon and spa, guests enjoy the ultimate Salon • Spa • Barber experience - making it the island’s one-stop grooming destination for men and women alike.

Doppio Pink Right next to Bali Barber Jl. Raya Basangkasa No. 9 Seminyak +62 813-3706-9480 @doppiopink

OUR HOTSPOTS IN SEMINYAK The Legian Jl. Kayu Aya Seminyak Beach +62 361 730622 www.lhm-hotels.com @thelegianbali This is how you do sunsets in Bali.

Oceanfront, laid back, and refined. The Legian serves

Just steps from the barber chair, Doppio Pink is where the expat crew kicks back over strong coffee and easy conversations. No frills, no fluff, just a chill hangout spot that gets it right.

Motel Mexicola Jl. Kayu Jati No. 9X Seminyak +62 361 736688 @motelmexicola When the night calls for tequila and trouble, Mexicola delivers.

Neon lights, loud music, and enough mezcal to keep you moving until late. Leave the filter at the door.

Boy’N’Cow Jl. Raya Kerobokan No.138 Seminyak +62 361 9342798 @boyncow Dry-aged beef, craft cocktails, and a steakhouse with attitude.

Boy’N’Cow is the place to refuel after a fresh cut. Meat, whiskey, and a no-nonsense vibe. Exactly how dinner should be.

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INTERVIEW

From FC Utrecht to international stars: the dutch barber behind footballers Nassim – nickname ‘Simon’ – is 29, a new school barber, and the owner of Essence Barbers in Utrecht, the Netherlands (two locations).

His minimalist style, sharp management, and uncompromising punctuality attract a broad audience: from kids to 70+, as well as a growing list of top athletes and artists. He launched his own shop in 2021, immediately added an academy (an accelerated 3.5-month program), created his own product line, and regularly hosts look & learns with international names. In this conversation: the origin of “Simon,” his entrepreneurial drive, the academy, and above all – how he grew from cutting one footballer to becoming the barber of entire teams and international stars.

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@simondebarber_ @essencebarbers

Q&A WITH SIMON THE BARBER, OWNER OF ESSENCE BARBERS

Why “Simon the Barber”? Your name is Nassim, right?

“It became my nickname.

Back when I played football at VV Maarssen, I was so strict about being on time that a teammate once said: ‘You really act like a Simon.’ Everyone laughed and the name stuck. I’m pretty autistic when it comes to time: appointments run on time, I never run late. That’s also part of my work culture, if you’re structurally late, you don’t fit here.”

Where does your entrepreneurial drive come from?

“I come from an entrepreneurial family. That shapes you. I’m creative, I want to work with my hands, and I want to organize everything properly.”

How did you end up in barbering?

Put in cutting hours – not TikTok views

“I first studied accounting —did an internship, but it wasn’t for me. Still, I finished my degree.

My dad built a little cutting shed in our garden, where I started practicing on my brothers and football teammates. Then I went to barber school, worked nine months in a hair salon in Utrecht, and seven years with Ramses Versluis (Retouch). In total, I had about 8.5 years of experience before starting Essence.”

Essence Barbers: when and why?

“During COVID I thought: am I going to complain or seize opportunities? I checked which properties were available, took over a location on Oudenoord, and worked on concept, team, and products.

In 2021, Essence Barbers opened.

In March 2024 we opened our second location in Leidsche Rijn.”

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Top athletes: from FC Utrecht to international stars. How did you get into footballers’ circles?

Why the name Essence Barbers?

“‘Essence’ for me means the core, the soul of something. That’s exactly what I want to create with my shops. A haircut grows out, but the energy someone takes away after a visit stays. Essence Barbers isn’t just a place to get a quick fade. It’s a place where people can be themselves, where respect and community are central. For me it’s always about the essence: what do you leave behind with someone? If a person leaves with a great haircut and a great feeling, I’ve done my job.”

Your own academy – how does it work?

“I got a lot of DMs: ‘Can I learn from you?’ I bundled my knowledge—much of it from England—into my own program.

Duration: 3.5 months. Of course, it’s about the quality of the cut, but I also teach the whole picture: technique, posture, customer experience, marketing, positioning. Everyone here works according to the same strict method: first cut and blow-dry until the style is right, then use the clippers.”

New school, English influences – where did you get those from?

“As a young barber, I saved € 1,500 per month, spent € 1,000 on look & learns in England, and lived on € 500. At that time, I didn’t find the level in the Netherlands what I was looking for, so I brought that style here.

Minimalistic, modern, clean.”

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“Word of mouth. It started eight years ago with one player.

During training, teammates noticed his haircut: ‘Who cuts your hair?’ Then the second comes, the third, the fourth…

Eventually, you’re cutting the entire team. Every two weeks on Thursday afternoon, I go to the club with my tools - after training.

Ideal for them: they don’t need to go anywhere.”

Who have you cut?

“At FC Utrecht, lots of players.

Also Alexander Isak (now Premier League top; I said back then he’d be worth huge sums), Xavi Simons, Lacazette, Ryan Cherki - international top. I’ve also flown to Lisbon (Benfica), Dubai, Ibiza.

Everything is arranged: flight, stay. It sometimes feels like a mini-holiday, but it’s just work.”

And outside football?

“I’ve been cutting kickboxer Tyjani Beztati for about eight years now, great guy and now a friend. And rapper Kevin (aka Slowflowanimal) comes from Rotterdam to Utrecht every week. It’s not about showing off online; it just happens. Only when they themselves say, ‘Take a picture,’ I’ll do it. Discretion is key; people come here for relaxation.”

Do you talk with top players and artists a lot about football or music?

“Not necessarily. For them, the chair is a moment to relax.

We can just as easily talk about holidays, business, investing – anything. If they bring it up, fine, but it’s not necessary.”

Do fans and customers notice that in the shop?

“Of course, when Kevin walks in or a Dutch Premier League player, people want a picture. For me, it’s normal by now. But it remains a calling card: what you see on TV comes back in the chair.

Customers bring photos: ‘I want this haircut.’”

Does cutting celebrities’ hair help your turnover?

“It’s great for marketing, but it can’t be your foundation.

You need a steady, loyal customer base and capacity. If you cut 20 footballers but only make € 2,000, it’s pointless. I focus on business growth: staff, processes, quality – only then visibility.”

How do you manage a team of 8–9 people?

“We have one line. Everyone works according to the same process; if you step outside, you don’t fit.

Punctuality is sacred. I call colleagues ‘partners’, I don’t want to be seen as ‘the boss,’ even if I make the final decisions.”

What defines Essence Barbers?

“Minimalist look, sharp content, craftsmanship, good energy.

Everyone is welcome: biggest group is 15 to 35, but we also cut 70+. And we deliberately cut kids, that’s the next generation.

Everyone in my team is skilled, but just as important is the vibe.

People don’t just come for a haircut, they come for the atmosphere, the conversations, the feeling of being seen.”

Why did you launch your academy at the same time as the shop?

“The demand was there.

And I wanted to make it easier than my own route: endless training courses, expensive trips.

My program is short, intensive, and practical. Not just cutting, but also vision, positioning, and process. I bring well-known foreign barbers to the Netherlands.

That way, Dutch hairdressers don’t have to travel all the time.

It’s about sharing knowledge and raising the level.”

Tell us about your product line.

“Developed during lockdown, launched in 2022: webshop + shop sales. I looked: what do customers struggle with? How do we solve it?

Less is more, functional and clean - just like our style.”

And events like BarberSociety Live?

“Very important. In the Netherlands, there’s still too little attention for the men’s hair profession. BSL is a place where you can be visible, connect and the scene is growing. We were there as Essence and want to step it up bigger next year.”

Belief. Love. Hope – about the drivers of success.

What do you believe in as an entrepreneur?

What do you hope for– for yourself and for the trade?

“To stay healthy and be there for my family. Business-wise: strategic growth with multiple locations and international rollout of products, but all in balance.

I’d rather have ten shops and peace of mind than twenty and a headache. For the trade, I hope for more recognition, bigger events, international influences - the barbering industry grows every year.”

What’s your most important tip for young barbers?

“Don’t be a ‘TikTok barber’ who mainly counts views. Look beyond the short term. It’s not about quick money or fame, but about building something that lasts.

Put in cutting hours – like pilots log flight hours. Gain experience: work in different shops, build up techniques and mentality, develop your own style.

Don’t copy; be unique.”

What has been your best moment so far?

“Seeing my parents and wife proud. I want to be an example to my brothers; I want to show my son: work hard, do good, stay calm – then you’ll succeed.”

“Work incredibly hard and believe one thousand percent in your concept. Don’t wait for things to ‘just happen’ - plan, execute, improve. God decides your fate, but you have to take your steps.”

How important is love for the profession and your customer?

“Without it, I’d have quit long ago.

I’m in love with the profession.

You can feel it in everything: working on time, a perfect fade or shape, but also the peace and trust in the chair. Without love for the profession, you can’t keep this up. You make long days, carry a lot of responsibility. That only works if you are truly passionate about it.”

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C O LU M N C H R I S FO ST E R

Busy…

Booked, busy… and empty The truth about success no one tells barbers

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Invest in your relationships

Behind the Glitz & Glam But let me tell you, all that sparkle means a lot less if you lose sight of what actually keeps you grounded: your relationships.

You know, when we talk about success in the barbering world, it’s easy to get caught up in all the external stuff.

How many clients you’re pulling in, the cash flow, the fancy gigs that take you across the globe I’ve been there, done that!

I’ve had those career shiny moments, flown out to L.A. for A-listers, done fashion shows in Korea, Moscow, New York, I’ve stood on stages in India and the U.S. and Canada waving the flag for British Barbering.

See, a lot of us, especially us guys in the industry, we get hyped up on the numbers. We measure ourselves by the external markers followers, likes, how packed the appointment book is. And if we don’t measure up we feel less than. But at the end of the day it’s the people, the real relationship in your life, that actually give all of this meaning.

The Pitfall of Comparison I’ve had times when, despite all those achievements, I didn’t feel successful at all. Because I was comparing myself to everyone else, looking sideways instead of focusing on my lane.

That comparison game will poison your success. It’s easy to start comparing yourself, looking at what everyone else is doing, and feeling like you’re not measuring up. But the real gold is in focusing on your own lane and nurturing the connections you have.

Valuable Lessons So let me give you a couple gems I’ve learned along the way.

If scrolling through certain social media accounts is messing with your head, just hit that unfollow button. There’s no shame in protecting your mental space.

Mix it up, by following stuff outside the barber world, art, architecture, totally different fields. That gives you a fresh perspective and keeps you from that toxic comparison game.

And let’s not forget the self care.

Get moving, exercise, eat right, whatever keeps your mind and body sharp. But above all, invest in your relationships. Those are the things that truly last. The key to some of my greatest career achievements has happened through my relationships. Trust me, no one’s going to care how many likes or followers you’ve had when you’re six feet under. What they’ll remember is how you made them feel and the bonds you built.

That’s the real legacy.

So, my fellow barbers, let’s focus on what truly counts and stop chasing the shiny object and make those connections the centre piece of our success.

Keep it real, keep it human, and let those relationships be the thing that truly drives you forward.

That’s the legacy.

That’s success.

Chris Foster @theprofile.guy

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Step-by-Step V-Shaped

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1

2

5

6

Taper

As part of the global “Future Makers™” campaign, WAHL Professional brought together some of the world’s most talented barbers in Los Angeles to define the trend cuts for 2025, including a ‘V-Shaped Taper’, which was created by Atilla Can from the WAHL Professional Education Team Germany.

The V-Shaped Taper is a sleek and sophisticated style characterized by its sharp, tapered back that forms a distinct “V” shape. The taper creates a clean, polished look, while the V shape adds an element of boldness and modernity to the classic taper.

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1

In the top profile, section left from right with

a center part. Section front from back at top of ear.

In side profiles, section horizontally at parietal.

Section out fringe from recession to recession creating a triangular section.

4

4 Moving into back profile, section left from right with

a center part. Section a 1” vertical subsection off of center part from crown to occipital. Hair is directed straight out from the head shape at a 90⁰ elevation and cut with a 90⁰ finger angle using guide from crown to establish length. Continue movements working to the right directing hair straight out from the head shape using a traveling guide. Repeat movements on the left using center subsection as guide.

2 Drop down top profile. Section a 1” vertical subsection

at center part. Direct hair straight up and cut horizontally using the WAHL VAPOR™ clipper with no guard and lever closed. Working down towards the right, take another 1” subsection directing hair straight up and cutting horizontally using the length from previous as the guide. Repeat movements working to parietal. Repeat movements on opposite side using center subsection as guide.

5

Going back to the center, repeat movements

cutting hair between the previous cut section and the occipital in back profile. Repeat movements on the left using center subsection as guide.

6 Section horizontally at occipital. Section a 1” vertical 3

Drop down fringe. Section a 1” vertical subsection off

of a center part. Hair is directed straight up and cut between the hands and head shape with a 45⁰ finger angle using the crown length as beginning guide. Cut from short to long maintaining length towards the front.

Working down to the right, take another 1” subsection and direct hair straight up, cutting from short to long using a guide from previously cut section. Repeat movements on opposite side using center length as guide.

subsection at center of nape. Using the WAHL VAPOR™ clipper, no guard and lever closed, cut with a 45⁰ finger angle creating short to long from nape to occipital.

Working towards the right using a guide from previous, each section is held straight out from the head shape and cut at a 45⁰. Repeat movements on opposite side.

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7

8

11

12

7

Moving into the right side profile using the Wahl WAHL

VAPOR™ clipper and #3 premium cutting guard, cut up to just below the parietal. Continue movements to back right corner at hairline in back profile.

8

Dropping down to a #1 premium cutting guard start

blending up at hairline adjusting lever as needed.

Then, using a #2 premium cutting guard blend out any lines adjusting lever as needed.

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Then, remove the guard and using clipper over comb

continue belending the side into back profile ensuring to shift comb at the back hairline to remove corner.

10

Using the WAHL DETAILER® LI-trimmer,

detail around the ears and front hairline ensuring to blend in sideburns. In the back, the hairline is cut in to a V shape.

11

Using the WAHL KUNO clipper and TEXTURIZING BLADE,

add texture throughout.

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low dry using the WAHL VANQUISH™ blow dryer B and detail as desired.

Professionals can learn these techniques and explore the latest looks via education.wahlglobal.com

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Campaign: Wahl Future Makers Vol.3 / V-Shaped Taper Hair: Atilla Can, @atilla.can, Wahl educator Germany Photography: WAHL Professional Tools: WAHL VAPOR™, WAHL KUNO, WAHL DETAILER LI, WAHL TEXTURIZING BLADE, WAHL VANQUISH™ @wahlproeurope, @wahlpro

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A L L-I N T H E FA M I LY

Tradition, a blend of past and present Interview with Laurens Prophitius

@kapsalon_prophitius

Being good at cutting hair, doesn’t make you an entrepreneur

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A barbering tradition spanning three generations, steeped in strong wartime stories, entrepreneurship, and the camaraderie of the barbershop. BarberSociety Magazine spoke with Laurens Prophitius (46) to talk about his grandfather Gerrit, his father Bert, and his own role in the family business in Otterlo, the Netherlands: Prophitius Men’s Hair Salon, also known as the Otterlo Barber.

What followed was a conversation filled with anecdotes, memories, and reflections on how the trade has changed over the years - yet in many ways remained the same.

Laurens, your grandfather Gerrit was the first to step into the trade.

How did that start?

“My grandfather was actually destined to become a farmer, just like his father. They lived in Hierden, near Harderwijk, and farming life was laid out for him.

But he wanted nothing to do with it, he wanted to be a barber.

His grandmother supported him and gave him money to buy a white barber’s coat. When his parents found that coat in the laundry, they were shocked.

Eventually, his father said: ‘If you really want this, then make sure you become a good one.’

And that’s exactly what he did.

At the age of fourteen, in 1935, he became an apprentice to a barber in Harderwijk.”

What was his life like during the war years, 1940–1945?

“My grandfather was part of the resistance and was arrested by the Germans. He was given a choice: forced labor in Germany or working as a barber for the Wehrmacht (Ed.: German Army) in Ermelo (NL). He chose the latter so he could pass on information.

The resistance thought that was clever: this way, he could be their eyes and ears in the barracks.

He cut German soldiers’ hair but sometimes deliberately used a blunt razor so shaving would be far from pleasant. Eventually, he had to go into hiding and even spent some time in a beet pit.

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As a child, I would hang on his every word when he told those stories.”

And after the war?

“After the war, he started his own business in Amsterdam.

My grandmother was from Amsterdam, so it was a logical step. He built a loyal customer base there. In 1960, they moved to Otterlo because my grandmother was ill and they were told there was not enough healthy air in the city. He started over there, in a small building without running water. Nevertheless, it became a success. My grandfather became national champion in the men’s category in 1950. That was his way of proving he could be the best.

He continued to participate in competitions and professional clubs, because you had to keep developing your skills.”

What are some of the best stories about your grandfather?

“The story about the mayor is probably the best. At that time, Otterlo wasn’t yet connected to the sewer system. After shampooing the mayor with a shampooing jug, my grandfather took him outside to the water pump in the garden. The mayor had to bend over to rinse his hair.

He was shocked: ‘Don’t you have running water here?’ Not long after, Otterlo was connected.

Whether that was because of this incident or not, it’s still a wonderful story.”

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“My grandfather was known for his entrepreneurial spirit and sold not only shaving soap and hair products but also men’s coats, binoculars, and – yes - condoms and dentures. Once, a tourist broke his denture and heard that barber Prophitius always had something for everything.

He walked in and asked if my grandfather indeed sold dentures.

My grandfather casually showed him a box full of old dentures from a dentist. His explanation was even better: he smeared lipstick on

Gerrit, starting out as a barber in Harderwijk, 1935

Bert at Dorpsstraat 22, late 1960s

Grandpa, national champion in 1950, Amsterdam (front left)

Grandpa at the current location, late 1970s

Bert in the ladies’ section of the current shop, early 2000s

one, pressed it against the gums, and said: ‘Look, this way you can see exactly where it needs to be ground down.’ The customer politely declined. That box is still there.”

“And then there were the condoms: taboo in the 1960s and 1970s, especially here in the Veluwe, in the middle of the Bible Belt. Boys who wanted to buy them didn’t dare ask in a crowded shop.

My grandfather had come up with a solution. He had two drawers: the top with change, the bottom with condoms. While cashing up, he left the bottom drawer open just a bit too long.

Add a wink, and the young man got the message. The condoms were discreetly slipped in with the change. When we renovated the shop in 2001, we even found a box of Durex from 1988.

My grandfather joked: ‘They’re still fine, you’ll just get a new customer nine months later!’”

What about your father Bert?

“My father actually wanted to be a painter. He was, and still is, incredibly creative. But it was hard to make a living from it.

My grandfather advised him to become a barber and keep painting as a hobby. He obtained all the hairdressing qualifications, even though his heart was in women’s hair. He was a real all-rounder. To this day, he still paints every day.”

You literally grew up above the shop. What was that like?

“Very special. Our house was above the salon, and my grandfather lived next door.

As a child, I spent all day in the shop. My grandfather kept a cupboard with toy cars just for me.

Many customers I cut today still remember me as a toddler.

So it felt natural to enter the trade myself.”

How did your own training and start in the trade go?

“I went to the Hair Stylists College in Arnhem. Then I worked partly in Putten with a strict but excellent mentor, and partly with my grandfather. I also had to gain experience outside the family ‘The eyes of a stranger compel,’ as they say. My grandfather was strict but fair. He corrected me in front of customers, sometimes harshly, but I learned a lot from it.

In 1998, I officially joined the partnership, and from 2002 onwards, I worked full-time in the business in Otterlo.”

What did you learn most from your grandfather, and from your father?

“From my grandfather I learned the precision of barbering: clean cuts, camouflaging crowns and scars, and the importance of discipline. He was my best friend; I stood by his side daily in the barbershop for twenty years.

From my father, I learned more

Grandpa at the current location, early 2000s

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The condoms were secretly slipped in between the change about women’s hair: blow-drying, perms, and cutting long hair.

Both were very passionate and wanted me to truly master the trade. Together, they gave me a broad foundation.”

You also said he had many inventions of his own, like the cotton wool comb?

“Definitely. My grandfather put cotton wool between the teeth of his comb to better catch stray hairs while thinning. I still use it and teach it to trainees. Another one: we had a trapdoor in the floor with a bin underneath to sweep hair into - it worked then and it works now, and customers love it.”

Any more hilarious anecdotes?

“A lady once came in and literally asked: ‘Can you also trim my pussy?’ The entire shop full of men went silent. My grandfather said: ‘Please sit here, spread your legs a little, lift up your skirt and I’ll start.’ Of course, it was a joke, but she didn’t appreciate it and 76

stormed out, slamming the door harder than ever. It turned out she really had her cat with her in a bicycle crate. The hilarity was enormous. Moments like that show a barbershop is more than a workplace: it’s a stage for stories and humor.”

What was it like working with three generations together?

“It was special, but sometimes difficult. My grandfather had his way, my father his, and I came with new ideas like a cash register, a debit card machine, a website, and signage. That caused clashes. But in the end, we always found a middle ground.

My grandfather and I were two peas in a pod. He was my rock, and we could share everything. The fact that he lived to 96 and remained active in the shop for so long is extraordinary. He was called ‘the oldest working barber in our country’ and worked as a barber for 81 years.”

What makes your barbershop unique?

“The mix of tradition and innovation. We’re a true village shop where coziness is central, but at the same time, we follow industry developments. I rarely use clipper guards, like my grandfather, but I apply modern techniques when useful. And just like him, I see it as my job to also look after customers’ health and identify skin problems.

I took a dermatology course and sometimes refer people to their doctor.”

How do you see changes in the industry over the years?

“Barbershops have sprung up everywhere over the last fifteen years. That’s great, because it shows that the profession is alive and well. But the quality varies.

Many barbers work with clippers and guards, which is fine if you know what you’re doing. But I’ve noticed that many young barbers don’t master certain basics,

Three generations together

Grandpa at the current location, mid-1990s

Grandpa in 2016 – celebrating 80 years as a barber

Grandpa at Dorpsstraat 22, late 1960s

such as cutting with scissors and a comb. Especially now that longer styles are making a comeback, barbers need to know how to work with scissors. I firmly believe in broad professional skills. Entrepreneurship has also changed. In the past, you first had to obtain a diploma in business administration; you learned how to run a business, do administration and build up a buffer. Now anyone can just open a shop. As a result, you sometimes miss out on professional maturity and stability in the industry. Being good at cutting hair doesn’t make you an entrepreneur. Both sides are necessary to keep going.”

This issue’s theme is ‘Belief. Love.

Hope.’ What do those words mean to you in relation to success?

“For me, success comes down to three things. Belief: you must master a broad range of professional skills - not only fades, but also scissor work and different styles, so you can always keep up with fashion.

Love: for the trade itself, for conversations with customers, and for the shop’s atmosphere.

Hope: that traditional scissor work never disappears and that the next generation of barbers takes over. Maybe even my own son. Success to me is staying true to yourself and not putting on an act to fit an image. That way, you’ll last the longest - and customers notice that too.”

Finally, looking back, what makes you most proud?

“That after three generations we still have the same fire for the trade. My grandfather, who wanted to be a barber against all odds. My father, who channeled his creativity into women’s hair and painting. And myself, who knew from childhood this was my place. Now I see my son (10) watching curiously and helping out sometimes. Whether he becomes a barber or not, he should choose his own path.

But the idea that there might be a fourth generation waiting in the wings gives me great satisfaction.

The best compliment is when customers say that you don’t just come to us for a haircut, but for the whole experience and the atmosphere in the shop.”

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B AC KG R O U N D

From Poznań to Ohio: Adam Szulc revisits barbering history Few barbers embody the spirit of the craft quite like Adam Szulc. Hailing from Poznań, Poland, he has carved out an impressive career as a Master Barber, author, television personality, educator, and even as a pioneer of the straight edge movement with roots in the hardcore punk scene. In 2021, Szulc achieved a milestone no European barber had reached before him: induction into the Hall of Fame at the National Barber Museum in Canal Winchester, Ohio, USA. Recently, he returned once more to the museum - a place he considers both a guardian of tradition and a beacon for the next generation of barbers. Adam Szulc shares his impressions of this unique institution.

National Barber Museum in Canal Winchester, Ohio

By Adam Szulc — barber, author and Hall of Fame inductee The small town outside the capital city of Columbus, Ohio, is a real mecca for any barbering enthusiast. Also, for anyone interested in general history and how society changes.

Here sits the world’s largest 78

@adamszulcbarber

Mike Ippoliti (l) & Adam Szulc (r)

museum of barbering, the National Barber Museum, which is run by the curator Mike Ippoliti. It was founded by local barber Ed Jeffers in 1988.

Crossing the Threshold To cross the threshold of this facility is to be invited on a craftsman’s journey through more than two hundred years of U.S. history. There are exhibits from colonial times with English elegance, primitive chairs, and a potbelly stove as the heart and main equipment of the barbershop, to the present day, where modernity is only slightly different from the traditions of the profession.

The Barbershop as Social Fabric The barbershop is a sensitive social fabric, just as men are sensitive, though they would never want to admit it. This museum takes us through the centuries in a gentle way. In it, we can see how haircutting, shaving, or beard trimming was handled.

But the museum exhibits not only the fashions that changed over the centuries, it also shows

the timeless style of several traditional hairstyles. Flat Top, Slick Back, Pompadour, or Side Part – each of these haircuts has its own history and many stories. Each begins in the 19th century and each blossomed again between 2010 and 2020, when the next golden age of barbering began. These four haircuts show that history is important in our industry, that there is continuity, and that successive generations of young barbers are looking ahead, carrying the torch of change while keeping their feet firmly rooted in the past. It’s a beautiful generational connection.

An Invitation from the Curator Mike Ippoliti invites everyone to visit the National Barber Museum in Ohio. The facility is open mostly on weekends, but those interested can call ahead and make an appointment for an amazing barber tour.

Writing Next Please! in the Library I have been there many times.

In 2019, I wrote my second book there, titled ‘Next Please!’, using

the large library of books about American barbershops.

The museum also houses the Hall of Fame, a memorial to the most important barbers who wanted to do more for the industry than just cut hair - although the latter, as we know, is our most important responsibility. In 2021, I was also inducted into the Hall of Fame, right behind Anthony Mancinelli - the world’s oldest barber according to the Guinness Book - who worked until he was 108 years old. I had the opportunity to meet him six months before his death.

An International Barbering Family In the extensive library I already mentioned, there is also a copy of BarberSociety Magazine.

Thus showing that we are a large international barbering family.

Looking Through Centuries of Tradition I, on behalf of the curator Mike and the volunteers taking care of the place, invite you to visit. It is worthwhile to look at barbering from the perspective of hundreds of years of tradition and history.

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About the National Barber Museum Founded 1988 by local barber Ed Jeffers Location Canal Winchester, just outside Columbus, Ohio, USA Curator Mike Ippoliti Collection Highlights Artifacts spanning more than 200 years of barbering history Colonial-era barber chairs, tools, and stoves Extensive library of books and archives on American barbershops Classic hairstyle exhibits: Flat Top, Slick Back, Pompadour, Side Part Hall of Fame honoring barbers who shaped the industry Visiting Open mostly on weekends Private visits possible by appointment Tours led by curator and volunteers Fun Fact The library also houses a copy of BarberSociety Magazine, reflecting the global barbering community.

More information www.nationalbarbermuseum.org

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INTERVIEW

@scottanthonys

Behind the Chair 82

A master barber’s mission for mental health

By Scott Anthony

I started my barbering journey in 1999, shortly after returning from U.S. Army training. At first, I was set to work on heavy equipment but something inside told me my true path was elsewhere. I didn’t just want to build things with my hands, I wanted to help build people. That decision led me to the barber chair, and I’ve never looked back.

Today, I’m a Master Barber, educator, and owner of the Scott Anthony Barber Academy (USA). Barbering has taken me across the country, but it’s what happens behind the chair - the conversations, the healing, the moments of real connection - that fuels my purpose every day.

The Weight I Carried My passion for helping others wasn’t born out of comfort, it came from struggle. I grew up with an amazing mother who did everything she could to protect and raise us right.

But we lived in a household overshadowed by a dysfunctional stepfather, and it made our home anything but safe.

The way my mother, my siblings, and I were treated left scars.

That pain became a burden I carried quietly for years, learning to be strong when I didn’t feel it, and surviving instead of thriving.

But those early years also planted a seed. I made a promise to myself: that if I ever found a way out, I’d use it to help others through the hard parts of life.

Today, as an adult and mentor, that’s exactly what I do.

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About Scott Anthony Scott Anthony is a Master Barber, national educator for Heiniger and American Crew, competition judge, awardwinning stylist, and owner of the Scott Anthony Barber Academy in Pawtucket, RI. He offers mentorship programs for at-risk youth and speaks nationally on the role of barbers in mental health, addiction recovery, and trauma-informed community leadership. www.ribarberschool.com

It’s my passion to show people that they can live free from the trauma of their past.

That they are more than what they’ve been through.

That healing is possible. And that their story is far from over.

From the Chair to the Stage Since launching my career, I’ve had the privilege of traveling as an educator for Heiniger Professional Clippers and American Crew, sharing knowledge, technique, and inspiration with barbers across the country. I’ve won national competitions, worked on movie sets with celebrities, judged barber battles, and collaborated with some of the most respected names in the industry.

I’ve also been featured in top barbering magazines, offering my perspective on barbering, personal growth, and how we, as barbers, can play a bigger role in supporting our communities.

In 2005, I took counseling classes at Zion Bible Institute, driven by a need to understand how to help people navigate pain and trauma.

Those lessons -paired with my own lived experience- became the foundation for how I support others behind the chair and beyond it.

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Creating a Culture of Care At my academy in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, we don’t just teach fades and lineups, we teach how to listen, how to see people, and how to lead with integrity.

One of the initiatives closest to my heart is our mentorship program for at-risk youth. We use barbering to redirect troubled teens, offering structure, discipline, and a future - often for kids who never saw one before. For some, a pair of clippers becomes their way out.

Barbers: The First Line of Connection Barbers are often the first to notice when something’s off.

A client’s silence, their energy, their tears - we see it.

We hear it. And we need to know how to respond.

Make a difference 1 Create a Safe Space

Let your chair be a place where people feel safe to be themselves - no judgment.

2 Listen Without Trying to Fix

You don’t need to solve their problems - just being present is powerful.

3 Spot the Signs

Withdrawal, irritability, appearance changes - these can all signal deeper issues.

4 Have Resources Ready

Know who to refer to: Counselors, crisis hotlines, or community support.

5 Guard Your Own Mental Health

You can’t carry everyone else’s weight if you’re falling under your own. Take care of you.

Barbering has given me more than a career - it’s given me a platform to break cycles, to help others heal, and to remind people that they’re never alone.

Let’s be barbers who lift as we cut, who listen as we style, and who leave people better than we found them - not just in appearance, but in spirit.

If you’re behind the chair, remember: you hold more than tools - you hold trust. And trust can change everything.

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C O LU M N D E N N I S VA N L I E R O P

Faith. Love. Hope.

Why tattoo designs are not a business strategy

Creativity without strategy is useless

What really matters: Success factors in the barber industry

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Sounds good. But doesn’t help.

Faith. Love. Hope. Three words you see often. On forearms.

In insta bios. On posters in break rooms. Well-intentioned but when it comes to business success, they’re little more than hollow promises.

I put it simply: “Great tattoo desings – but terrible business advisors.”

Because if you want to run a successful barbershop today, you’ll need more than just good vibes.

Between romance and reality Many entrepreneurs start with a dream. With love for the craft. With hope for freedom. With the belief that quality will prevail. But without structure, that passion often turns into frustration.

Success needs more than devotion. It needs systems.

Decisions. Leadership.

And the courage to look in the mirror – even when it’s uncomfortable.

What really matters – success factors for the industry I have spent years observing the industry, supporting founders, salon owners, and barbers on their journey.

In my experience, the core success factors are clear:

1

Clarity over chaos If you’re not clearly positioned, you won’t be clearly perceived.

Successful barbershops know who they are, who they serve, and what sets them apart – and stay consistent.

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Systems beat moods Passion is important. But without functioning processes, routines, and standards, it drains your energy. Success needs structure – and the willingness to simplify.

3

Leadership starts with you Clients feel whether you’re grounded. Your team feels whether you have clarity.

Leading means showing up – with skill, with presence, and with self-reflection.

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Growth requires decisions Don’t stay stuck in ‘maybe.‘ If you want to move forward, make choices. About pricing.

About your audience. About collaboration. About change.

5

Reliability builds trust Reliability is the new currency of loyalty. Clients return when things run smoothly. Teams stay when leadership is solid. Brands grow when they show consistency.

Between craft and character In the end, it’s not about putting tech above instinct – but finding balance.

Those who only feel get lost.

Those who only plan lose touch.

Success happens when values become visible. When structure creates clarity.

And when what you do aligns with what you stand for.

Creativity without strategy is useless.

Dennis van Lierop, Coach & Mentor @halo_edutainment More information www.halo-academy.de 87

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Haircon, Manchester, UK, June 2025

Photography ©: Mauro Carraro

Keune Rodeo show X Trevor Sorbie

Photography ©: Mauro Carraro

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Rob Wood of Novo Cabelo (l)

Paul Mac Special (r)

Photography: © Joshua Mason & BarberSociety

Captain Fawcett (l) & Summer edition’s cover model Ricki Hall (r)

Daniel Gallego (l) - Winner Best International Men’s Commercial Collection

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Haircon, Manchester, UK, June 2025

Photography ©: Mauro Carraro

Menspire - Race collection

92 The MHFED Elite show

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Haircon, Manchester, UK, June 2025

Photography ©: Mauro Carraro

The Wahl team - Rockstar/Popstar

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Tonsor 1951 - Men in Motion

Wahl Masterclass

Toni & Guy X GHD Provoke

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Haircon, Manchester, UK, June 2025

Sebastian Professional - An Icon Reborn

Photography ©: Mauro Carraro

Josh Lamonaca - Only Men’s

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Wez Jones of MHFED Elite team

Team BarberSociety with Haircon event director Michael Dynan (m) Jorge X - International Hairdresser of the Year

Sam Rascals (r)

Haircon, Manchester, UK, June 2025

from l to r: Alex Artero, Marc van de Hare, Paco Lopez, Oscar Mendoza

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Photography: © Joshua Mason & BarberSociety

MHFED team with founder Adam Sloan (m)

eu.wahl.com 98

@wahlproeurope