For some, it's a picture in red, white, and blue of a classic-looking man (with a hefty mustache) trimming the necks, temples, and, of course, mustaches of well-dressed, decently dressed gentlemen sitting in an oily, solid leather chair.
For others, however, the term takes on a more modern coloring, with images of a hipster who perfects the same guy's perfect fade and contours.
This is the difference between the "classic" and the more modern school of barbers. We've touched on this subject in part before, but today we're going to focus on the "old-school" style and process of creating haircuts. The way the pioneers of this culture did it.
Whatever the topic, the term "classic" means something that has proven itself once and for all, something that hasn't gone out of style for years. Hairdressing is no exception here. "Nothing superfluous" is the motto of the classic barber school.
Traditions come from America in the early and mid-twentieth century, when the barbering culture as such was finally formed. At that time the haircuts that are now called classic were popular: pompadour, flattop, side part, slickback. At that time haircuts were made not because it was "fashionable" (like today), but primarily because it was practical. The pioneer and innovator in this art was Vidal Sassoon: he was the first to take into account the shape of the face, skull and physique in general, the first to start taking into account the direction of hair growth and its structure. His haircuts were based on the principle of geometry. His innovation is a kind of base, all further types of haircuts went from his style. Everything that other masters created in one way or another was invented by Mr.Sassoon.
As for shaving, while trimmers did not yet exist, they shaved with a straight razor. There were no gels, just foam to help. The skin was steamed with a hot towel (there was nothing better than that, so this technique is still relevant — if you choose a shave with a straight razor without irritation).
Also such places had a vintage interior in unobtrusive dark tones and solid furniture. In short, something that creates an atmosphere, but does not take too much attention. The range of services offered was quite narrow (limited to literally two or three), and the service itself left much to be desired. Sometimes you had to wait in line for a couple of hours, it was absolutely normal.
Obviously, the old school barbers didn't offer services like hair coloring. The classic school had nothing to do with modern beauty salons, where you can do melting, perm or even camouflage or waxing.
Of the masters, only men could cut hair, as such establishments were "men's clubs" where they could discuss the latest news and drink a glass of something strong.
All these elements were an unconscious choice, simply because they could not do otherwise. Today it is no longer necessary, but such establishments are often imitated in order to recreate the very spirit of “classic barbershops”. As the saying goes, “all new is well forgotten old”.
By the way, speaking of school — Mr.Colt barbershop has its own school where you can learn all the haircuts, including the classic. So we advise not to hesitate and start the new year with learning a new profession. Learn more about this —here.
by Anton Kolosov
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