Making the cut: Top barbershops for a classic wet shave
The rise in popularity of modern barbershops with traditional wet shaves reflects the fact that the city’s well-groomed men recognize the importance of a sheer cut and straight-razor-shaved hair. Unlike hair salons, barbers equipped with shears, clippers and a straight razor blade, are specialists in what men desire and will provide an experience like no other. These are the city’s top places for men to get a gentleman’s cut and a traditional wet shave.
For a classic British experience
Fox and the Barber is a classic tiled barber shop with 1940s-inspired lighting that provides an experience that truly delivers a traditional gentleman’s grooming experience. Their 75-minute wet cut and finish includes a beard trim capped with a classic straight razor blade. To really experience a classic gentleman’s shave, the 45-minute Acqua di Parma club shave provides the premium experience of a steamed towel shave prepared with the luxury Italian product, Acqua Di Parma, a rich layer of shaving cream and beard balm for an ultra smooth shave.
Price: HK$950-$1700
Location: Central
Contact: +852 2405 6880
For a Classic Mandarin experience
Nestled on the second floor of the Mandarin Oriental hotel, the 1930’s-inspired The Mandarin Barber provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a gentleman’s club. It provides a VIP room for the comfort and privacy of a premium shave and trim, and the option to unwind with its restorative grooming treatments that includes lifestyle massages, waxing treatments and facials for men.
Price: HK$1750 up
Location: Central
Contact: +852 2825 4088
For a full range grooming service
HERR is an elegant grooming space housed discretely within the luxury tailoring shop, Attire House. Aiming to “create an environment that is a true escape from the city”, guests are encouraged to detach, relax, and put their trust on the careful executions of the parlour’s skilled staff. The luxury barber shop’s services include bespoke gentleman’s cut for both men and their sons, and a traditional wet shave paired with top-notch styling products, lathers and facial massage.
Price: HK$1000
Location: Central
Contact: +852 26199007
For a Classic Canton experience
Serving Hong Kong’s eastern district since 1962, Wan Chai- based canton barber shop, Oi Kwan Barbers, has stood against the test of time, evolving with numerous changes that the neighbourhood had gone through as it remains relevant to modern men. Still armed with traditional Canton barber techniques, each haircut is finished with hair wash, deep cleaning treatment, hot towel and a quick massage. Its signature grooming package provides a unique experience that offers a wide selection of premium shaving products and a comprehensive personalized haircare consultation.
Price: HK$2388
Location: Wan Chai
Contact: +852 2303-1733
For a Modern experience
Modern street fashion calls for statement looks that fashion stylishly bold and dramatic looks. A vibe that influences the Central-set, Selvedge Barbers, a hair salon that specializes in the trendiest and most contemporary hairstyles for men. Its latest look-book features intelligent layering techniques that are meant to be styled into more than just one look, offering customers a personalised signature cut that reflects their day-to-day mood and style preference. Include a traditional hot towel shave for a whole-rounded experience.
Price: HK$750 Up
Location: Central
Contact: +852 2577 3080