By Vaishnavi Pumynathan

Street barbers, a trade that originated in the 1950s, lined Aliwal Street, known as the ‘Barber Row’, offering gentlemen an affordable haircut, shave, ear cleaning and a trim of eyebrows and nostril hair. Maximising functional spaces at back alleys and street corners, all it needed was a simple setup with reclining leather chairs, plastic stools, wall mirrors and small box-shaped cupboards neatly filled with trusted barbering tools such as scissors, clippers, blades, brushes.

Today, a vanishing trade of Kampong Gelam, the street barbers have paved the way for hip barber shops specialising in full modern services and themed concepts appealing to younger generations.  Whether you are out for the classic cut or modern twist, raise your grooming game with four barber shops that deliver the sharpest cut, sleekest shave and trendiest colour.

 

The Gentlemen’s Society

From start to finish, expect luxurious haircuts and shave experiences treated with the utmost care and respect at the Gentlemen’s Society. Founder Aida transformed the shop to showcase a sophisticated lounge decked in emerald green and gold, serving free-flowing drinks before being ushered to a private chair where hair gets done to perfection. Emphasising total relaxation, facial grooming and massage services are also popular choices for pampering. An exclusive retreat for men, the shop counts celebrities, professional athletes and even Arab royalty amongst its patrons. No matter if you like your hair parted at the side or even flipped up in the front pompadour style, there is a cut and style for every personality.

The Gentlemen’s Society
12 Baghdad Street
Singapore 199669

 

Liem Barber Shop

Liem Barbershop celebrates individuals who are passionate about grooming and style. Following its success in Vietnam, the local outfit is an amalgamation of street attitude, cool suaveness and top-notch technique. Seen through their interiors and stylists’ charm, the shop embraces Chicano culture, a fusion of Mexican and American styles, and eclectic style sensibilities. From old favourites, reinvented classics to the newest hair trends, hair cuts and style range from clean-cut to edgy. If you have been wanting to change up your appearance or simply step up your style a bit, they specialise in meticulous haircuts, hot towel razor shaves, best fades and post-cut styling.

Liem Barber Shop
48 Haji Lane #02-01
Singapore 189241

 

NYO Studios

Bursting with enthusiasm, Not Your Ordinary (NYO) Studios ensures everyone leaves looking and feeling good. With private prayer rooms and a waiting area fully decked out with Netflix, playstation and light refreshments, feel right at home with the crew.  Previously a staff nurse with 13 years of experience, founder Captain made a career switch after a hand injury. Armed with healthcare knowledge, they emphasise on consultation and communication of their haircare plan before beginning. Women can look forward to being pampered in a private sanctuary at level 3 for hair cuts, treatments and styling. Don’t miss out on their scalp treatments too, as healthy-looking hair starts from the scalp.

Not Your Ordinary Studios
755 North Bridge Rd #02-01
Singapore 198723

 

Rooftop Barber Studio

Rooftop Barber Studio is the perfect spot for haircuts after work and before drinks. They specialise in stylish fades, sharp scissor cuts, sleek beard shaves, slit eyebrows, fresh colours, and trendy hair colour tattoos. For the ultimate experience, opt for one of their packages which includes a haircut, facial and massage. Founder Firdaus is a Wahl Professional SEA ambassador, UK certified hair and beauty educator, and 2018 Golden Scissor bronze winner for hair tattoo. A firm believer in nurturing the next generation of barbers, Firdaus conducts advanced barber courses focusing on techniques and creativity. They are serious about men’s grooming and it shows, so make this your next go-to for a style upgrade.

Rooftop Barber Studio
2 Haji Lane #02-02
Singapore 189195