Thursday, December 29, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
Fashion Tip: How to Choose the Right Tie
Men do not often have the luxury of accessorizing. We seldom have the chance to wear necklaces or earrings or carry around handbags. For most of us, a tie is the only way we can accessorize our look; however, wearing the wrong tie for the wrong occasion can make a guy look completely out of place. Here are a few guidelines that can help you choose the right tie for the right situation.
1. Color. While everyone has their own preferences, I tend to lean towards classic and traditional looks. Traditionally, a tie should be a lighter color than one's jacket, and darker than one's shirt. The tie should not match the color of either the shirt or the jacket, however. For example, with a white shirt and black jacket, a red tie is appropriate, as would be blue or yellow. Wearing a black tie with a black jacket will make you look like a 1950's FBI agent, an undertaker, or a maitre d'.
2. Pattern. I detest patterned ties. In my opinion, they are tacky and do not match many outfits. One would never wear a striped tie with a corduroy jacket, for instance, or a paisley tie with a houndstooth jacket. Stick to solid colors and you will never look out of style.
3. Fabric. Silk ties are perfect for virtually any occasion, they belong as much in the board room as they do in a wedding ceremony. I also like ties made out of synthetic materials, since they tend to hold their color longer and do not fade with washing. When dealing with removing a stain from a tie, it is always best to leave the cleaning to a professional dry cleaner.
4. Width. Skinny ties should only be worn by skinny men. If you are a bigger guy, avoid the skinny tie, unless you want to look like John Belushi's character from the Blues Brothers.
5. Length. The universal rule regarding tie length is that the pointed end of the tie should reach just above the belt buckle. Of course, the location of your belt buckle is going to be different if you wear high-waisted pants. In this case, it is perfectly acceptable for the tie to reach the belt buckle. In no circumstance should the tie extend below the belt buckle.
6. The Knot. Knot size is often a matter of individual taste, though some knots tend to be more stylish and trendy than others. Currently, fatter knots are in style. Some knots are also better suited for more formal occasions, such as the Windsor knot and the half-Windsor. The most common knot, which is also the easiest to tie, is the four-in-hand knot. This knot is used by about 80% of tie-wearers, and while it is acceptable for work situations, it is generally considered too informal for weddings and special occasions.
1. Color. While everyone has their own preferences, I tend to lean towards classic and traditional looks. Traditionally, a tie should be a lighter color than one's jacket, and darker than one's shirt. The tie should not match the color of either the shirt or the jacket, however. For example, with a white shirt and black jacket, a red tie is appropriate, as would be blue or yellow. Wearing a black tie with a black jacket will make you look like a 1950's FBI agent, an undertaker, or a maitre d'.
2. Pattern. I detest patterned ties. In my opinion, they are tacky and do not match many outfits. One would never wear a striped tie with a corduroy jacket, for instance, or a paisley tie with a houndstooth jacket. Stick to solid colors and you will never look out of style.
3. Fabric. Silk ties are perfect for virtually any occasion, they belong as much in the board room as they do in a wedding ceremony. I also like ties made out of synthetic materials, since they tend to hold their color longer and do not fade with washing. When dealing with removing a stain from a tie, it is always best to leave the cleaning to a professional dry cleaner.
4. Width. Skinny ties should only be worn by skinny men. If you are a bigger guy, avoid the skinny tie, unless you want to look like John Belushi's character from the Blues Brothers.
5. Length. The universal rule regarding tie length is that the pointed end of the tie should reach just above the belt buckle. Of course, the location of your belt buckle is going to be different if you wear high-waisted pants. In this case, it is perfectly acceptable for the tie to reach the belt buckle. In no circumstance should the tie extend below the belt buckle.
6. The Knot. Knot size is often a matter of individual taste, though some knots tend to be more stylish and trendy than others. Currently, fatter knots are in style. Some knots are also better suited for more formal occasions, such as the Windsor knot and the half-Windsor. The most common knot, which is also the easiest to tie, is the four-in-hand knot. This knot is used by about 80% of tie-wearers, and while it is acceptable for work situations, it is generally considered too informal for weddings and special occasions.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
10 Items No Man's Bathroom Should Be Without
Men are low-maintenance creatures. We do not care if our toilet paper is quilted and scented or if our toothbrushes have a dozen different types of bristles designed to reach every corner and crevice of the mouth. Nonetheless, there are a few essentials which no man's bathroom should be without.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Joke of the Day
A customer walks into the shop and the barbers asks, "How do you want it cut today?" The customer says, "Can you make it wavy on top, faded on one side, and make the neckline crooked and uneven?" Confused, the barber asks, "Why would you want your hair cut like that?" The customer replies, "Because that's how you did it the last time!"
Are You A Dapper Dan Man?
Friday, December 16, 2011
Tip Of The Week: Dry Eyebrows or Facial Hair?
During the winter, it's not uncommon for the harsh winds and dry indoor heat to strip away moisture from the hair, skin, and scalp.
The best way to keep facial hair and eyebrows moisturized during winter? Moisturize the hair with a conditioner or skin lotion, and then immediately coat the hair with a thin layer of pomade or styling wax. The wax will create a protective barrier against the winter element, much like lip balm or Chapstick.
The best way to keep facial hair and eyebrows moisturized during winter? Moisturize the hair with a conditioner or skin lotion, and then immediately coat the hair with a thin layer of pomade or styling wax. The wax will create a protective barrier against the winter element, much like lip balm or Chapstick.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Barbershops of Stamford CT
Beard Growing Tips
First, you must decide if the bearded look is right for you. Regardless of your body type, a beard will make you look heavier and make your face look rounder. Quite frankly, a beard will make you look about fifteen pounds heavier. This is important to realize if you are very self-conscious. Another thing to remember is that until your beard has grown to a sufficient length, it will itch like crazy.
Still thinking about growing a beard? Well, there is more to it than to simply stop shaving. Be sure that you can even grow a beard in the first place. Many people who attempt to grow a beard will discover that there are some areas of the face where hair simply will not grow. This is a matter of genetics. Start your bead by growing a week's worth of stubble. Check closely in the mirror to make sure that the hair is coming in evenly. Once you have determined that there are no patches where hair won't grow, it is time to do some manscaping.
Manscaping is a popular term which applies to the grooming of facial hair. The first step of manscaping is to determine the border. In other words, you must determine how far under the chin you want your beard to grow, how wide you want the sideburns to be, and other shape-related considerations. Some people prefer a full beard where no edging is needed. Edging can be done with a razor or clippers, and is done in order to refine the shape of the beardline. Some people prefer narrow beards (a beard design commonly known as a "chinstrap") which will require regular edging.
Beard length is the final consideration. Some men prefer to trim their beards with scissors, while others prefer to use a set of clippers with an attachment. Most retail stores sell beard trimmers, which are essentially a small set of clippers with an adjustable attachment that will trim the beard to the desired length. Whether your goal is to have a long flowing beard or a close-cropped beard, it is always a good idea to trim it regularly. This will ensure an even length all the way around.
Caring for a beard is no different than caring for any other type of hair. A beard should be kept clean, and can be washed with a mild soap or shampoo. Some men even apply conditioner to their beards in order to keep the hair soft, since facial hair can be quite coarse and wiry.
Perhaps The Worst Named Hair Product Ever
5 Beauty Tips For Men
After spending over a decade working in the beauty industry, I have discovered that men are every bit as self-conscious as women, and sometimes even more so. Unfortunately, if you are a man, you have very few places to turn for beauty advice. While your wives or girlfriends may have the best of intentions, it is seldom wise to follow their advice since men have very distinct and unique grooming needs. Simply put, what works for a woman doesn't always work for a man. Here are a few beauty tips for men everywhere, as given by another man.
1. Moisturize. This is the single most important key to having good skin. As men, our very lifestyles can wreak havoc on our skin. Fast-food diets, smoky bar rooms, and exposure to sunlight can all cause premature aging. Why do you need to moisturize your face? The same reason why you pull out your old leather baseball glove once a year and oil it.
2. Sunscreen. By the time you notice the effects of UV damage to the skin, it is usually too late to do anything about it. Research suggests that the majority of the damage which occurs to our skin happens in our teens and 20's, even though the effects are not seen until we are in our 30's or 40's.
3. Eyebrows. The eyebrows are the frame of the face, and wild and bushy eyebrows will only detract from your other features. Eyebrow grooming is not difficult; simply go to the salon every 6-8 weeks and have them trimmed, tweezed, or waxed. Make sure that your stylist doesn't go overboard with the arching, as this can look feminine. You only want your brows maintained, not re-shaped.
4. Ears, nose, and neck. As a man ages, he will discover hair growing in places where hair has no business growing. Unfortunately, this usually happens right around the time when hair stops growing in the places you want it to. Just as old people migrate to Florida upon retirement, your hair will seem to migrate from your scalp to your ears, neck and nose as you get older. Ask your barber or stylist to check these areas and keep them hair-free. Do not be embarrassed to ask; they have been thoroughly trained in this area.
5. Hands and Nails. No woman wants to be touched by hands that are callused, with fingernails that are jagged and caked with dirt and car grease. There is nothing effeminate about getting manicures. After all, they are called manicures, not girlicures! In my salon, about 30% of our manicure clients are men, who come from all walks of life and backgrounds. Everyone from lawyers to mechanics to truck drivers get them, maybe you should too.
1. Moisturize. This is the single most important key to having good skin. As men, our very lifestyles can wreak havoc on our skin. Fast-food diets, smoky bar rooms, and exposure to sunlight can all cause premature aging. Why do you need to moisturize your face? The same reason why you pull out your old leather baseball glove once a year and oil it.
2. Sunscreen. By the time you notice the effects of UV damage to the skin, it is usually too late to do anything about it. Research suggests that the majority of the damage which occurs to our skin happens in our teens and 20's, even though the effects are not seen until we are in our 30's or 40's.
3. Eyebrows. The eyebrows are the frame of the face, and wild and bushy eyebrows will only detract from your other features. Eyebrow grooming is not difficult; simply go to the salon every 6-8 weeks and have them trimmed, tweezed, or waxed. Make sure that your stylist doesn't go overboard with the arching, as this can look feminine. You only want your brows maintained, not re-shaped.
4. Ears, nose, and neck. As a man ages, he will discover hair growing in places where hair has no business growing. Unfortunately, this usually happens right around the time when hair stops growing in the places you want it to. Just as old people migrate to Florida upon retirement, your hair will seem to migrate from your scalp to your ears, neck and nose as you get older. Ask your barber or stylist to check these areas and keep them hair-free. Do not be embarrassed to ask; they have been thoroughly trained in this area.
5. Hands and Nails. No woman wants to be touched by hands that are callused, with fingernails that are jagged and caked with dirt and car grease. There is nothing effeminate about getting manicures. After all, they are called manicures, not girlicures! In my salon, about 30% of our manicure clients are men, who come from all walks of life and backgrounds. Everyone from lawyers to mechanics to truck drivers get them, maybe you should too.
Shaving: What Not To Do
If attaining the perfect shave was easy, barbershops would have gone the way of horse-drawn buggies and rotary telephones. The fact that barbers spend several months learning the fine art of shaving is proof that it takes more than just a steady hand and some shaving cream to get the job done properly.
When shaving, knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. The cardinal rule is to never shave against the grain, or in the opposite direction of the hair's natural growth. This rule is often overlooked since shaving against the grain will give you a closer shave, but it will also lead to irritation and ingrown hairs.
It is also important to pay close attention to the sharpness of your razor blades. At one time or another we have all tried to squeeze one more shave out of a disposable blade, and this decision often results in nicks and cuts. The life of your blade depends on the coarseness of your hair; those with baby-fine hair can get more shaves out of a single blade than someone with thick and wiry hair. If you have very coarse stubble, it is generally not a good idea to shave more than three times with the same razor. As a razor dulls, you will have to apply more pressure to shave, which will result in damaging the skin.
Do not fall for the gimmicks when choosing a razor. These days, they have razors with six blades and razors that vibrate, and razors with indicator strips that will tell you when it's time to change blades. Most of these products are over-priced and unnecessary. By learning how to shave properly, you will be able to get a good shave with even the cheapest of disposable blades.
If you have sensitive skin, it may be a wise idea to invest in a hot lather machine, which will heat up any regular can of shaving cream. Heat will soften the hair, thereby making it much easier for the razor to cut. Some people prefer to shave in the shower for the same reason; the steam generated by hot water will also soften the hair.
Even the best of us sometimes nick ourselves, or suffer from the occasional razor burn. I have discovered a very effective trick for battling post-shaving irritation. Immediately after shaving, I rub a stick of unscented deodorant on my skin. It is important to use the stick variety of deodorant for this, since aerosol deodorant will not have the same effect. Unscented deodorant will stop small nicks from bleeding, it will soothe the skin, and it will completely get rid of any redness or bumps on the skin.
Originally published by Marlin Bressi for Helium.com. To read more of Marlin's articles, visit his homepage at http://www.helium.com/users/318715
When shaving, knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. The cardinal rule is to never shave against the grain, or in the opposite direction of the hair's natural growth. This rule is often overlooked since shaving against the grain will give you a closer shave, but it will also lead to irritation and ingrown hairs.
It is also important to pay close attention to the sharpness of your razor blades. At one time or another we have all tried to squeeze one more shave out of a disposable blade, and this decision often results in nicks and cuts. The life of your blade depends on the coarseness of your hair; those with baby-fine hair can get more shaves out of a single blade than someone with thick and wiry hair. If you have very coarse stubble, it is generally not a good idea to shave more than three times with the same razor. As a razor dulls, you will have to apply more pressure to shave, which will result in damaging the skin.
Do not fall for the gimmicks when choosing a razor. These days, they have razors with six blades and razors that vibrate, and razors with indicator strips that will tell you when it's time to change blades. Most of these products are over-priced and unnecessary. By learning how to shave properly, you will be able to get a good shave with even the cheapest of disposable blades.
If you have sensitive skin, it may be a wise idea to invest in a hot lather machine, which will heat up any regular can of shaving cream. Heat will soften the hair, thereby making it much easier for the razor to cut. Some people prefer to shave in the shower for the same reason; the steam generated by hot water will also soften the hair.
Even the best of us sometimes nick ourselves, or suffer from the occasional razor burn. I have discovered a very effective trick for battling post-shaving irritation. Immediately after shaving, I rub a stick of unscented deodorant on my skin. It is important to use the stick variety of deodorant for this, since aerosol deodorant will not have the same effect. Unscented deodorant will stop small nicks from bleeding, it will soothe the skin, and it will completely get rid of any redness or bumps on the skin.
Originally published by Marlin Bressi for Helium.com. To read more of Marlin's articles, visit his homepage at http://www.helium.com/users/318715
Monday, December 12, 2011
Vintage Photo of a Barbershop in Virgil, Kansas
Joke of the Day
A balding man asks his barber why he is always charged full price for his haircut. The barber replies, "Don't be ridiculous. I only charge you half of what I charge other clients for a haircut." The balding man points to the price list on the barbershop wall. "The sign says six dollars for a haircut, and that's how much you charged me." The barber replies, "I only charged you three dollars for your haircut. The extra three dollars is my finder's fee for having to search for it."
Makeup for Men?
Why should women get to have all the fun? Sure, there are many men out there who would rather go shoe shopping with their wives or sit through a chick flick than to wear makeup, but for guys like me it's a brilliant idea.
My first encounter with makeup came during my high school days. I was the kind of guy who liked to stay out late on school nights, which often left me looking like Lon Chaney in the morning. One morning, I decided that I could use a little makeup in order to get rid of the dark circles under my eyes. Fishing around in the bathroom closet, I found some of my mother's concealer. Of course, I had no clue what I was doing at the time, but after a few days of playing around with the makeup I was able to come out of the bathroom looking half-decent. Before long, I had mastered the art of covering up various bruises, pimples, and blemishes. I even found a good use for my mother's brown eyebrow pencils; using them to pencil in the missing hairs of the bad-boy goatee I was trying to grow.
After I grew up and moved into my own place, I abandoned my morning makeup routine. As a man, I was much too embarrassed to go to the beauty aisle of the local supermarket in order to purchase makeup. But whenever I went shopping and found myself walking past the rows of concealers and foundations and eyeshadows, a hidden part of me secretly yearned for the day when some enterprising company would come out with a line of makeup geared specifically for men.
You see, the main reason why men do not purchase makeup is because of the embarrassment. No man wants to look into the puzzled face of a cashier as she scans his Maybelline Custom Face Perfector Cream Foundation (which provides both full or sheer coverage, depending on your taste). It is not a question of, "What will it take to get a man to wear makeup?" It is a question of, "What will it take to get guys to purchase makeup?" The answer is packaging. Stick a picture of a hockey player or a lumberjack on that compact of pressed powder and guys will buy it.
Maybe I represent a small percentage of men in my fascination for makeup; but then again, maybe this country is full of millions of guys just like me. Guys who don't plan on stocking up on lip gloss and mascara, but who nonetheless would like a little help looking a little more presentable in the morning.
My first encounter with makeup came during my high school days. I was the kind of guy who liked to stay out late on school nights, which often left me looking like Lon Chaney in the morning. One morning, I decided that I could use a little makeup in order to get rid of the dark circles under my eyes. Fishing around in the bathroom closet, I found some of my mother's concealer. Of course, I had no clue what I was doing at the time, but after a few days of playing around with the makeup I was able to come out of the bathroom looking half-decent. Before long, I had mastered the art of covering up various bruises, pimples, and blemishes. I even found a good use for my mother's brown eyebrow pencils; using them to pencil in the missing hairs of the bad-boy goatee I was trying to grow.
After I grew up and moved into my own place, I abandoned my morning makeup routine. As a man, I was much too embarrassed to go to the beauty aisle of the local supermarket in order to purchase makeup. But whenever I went shopping and found myself walking past the rows of concealers and foundations and eyeshadows, a hidden part of me secretly yearned for the day when some enterprising company would come out with a line of makeup geared specifically for men.
You see, the main reason why men do not purchase makeup is because of the embarrassment. No man wants to look into the puzzled face of a cashier as she scans his Maybelline Custom Face Perfector Cream Foundation (which provides both full or sheer coverage, depending on your taste). It is not a question of, "What will it take to get a man to wear makeup?" It is a question of, "What will it take to get guys to purchase makeup?" The answer is packaging. Stick a picture of a hockey player or a lumberjack on that compact of pressed powder and guys will buy it.
Maybe I represent a small percentage of men in my fascination for makeup; but then again, maybe this country is full of millions of guys just like me. Guys who don't plan on stocking up on lip gloss and mascara, but who nonetheless would like a little help looking a little more presentable in the morning.
Waterbury, CT Barbershop
How to Style a Mohawk
Like many people, I went through my punk rock phase as a teenager. Unfortunately, much to the dismay of my parents and employers, I never quite grew out of it. As a result, I've seen a wide variety of unique hairstyles; but the mohawk will always hold a special place in my heart.
Nearly every substance known to man has been applied to the hair in search of the ultimate styling product for a mohawk. Some products, while providing the right amount of hold, are often messy and difficult to remove from the hair. Back in my high school days, the product of choice for maximum height was Elmer's glue. Glue-infused hairstyles are not for everyone, of course, but there is perhaps no better way to achieve the mile-high classic punk mohawk. The beauty of Elmer's glue is that it can be applied to damp or dry hair and it is also water-soluble. The down side is that Elmer's glue tends to flake off, making you look as though you have a rather nasty case of dandruff. This is especially true on dark hair colors, since blonde hair hides the dry glue better. Even though Elmer's glue is water-soluble, it does take a few good scrubs in order to wash it out.
To remedy this problem, many haircare manufacturers started experimenting with producing a professional hairstyling glue that was both effective and easy to wash out. Originally marketed to salon clientele in the mid-to-late 90s, these "hair glues" can now be found in most supermarket haircare aisles. Perhaps the most popular is Got2Be Glued, whose yellow tube has achieved modern-day cult status as the go-to styling product for extreme hairstyles. Paul Mitchell's styling glue and Joico's ICE Spiker have also become standards in the world of mohawks.
Every respectable mohawk also needs a good hair spray. Those with shorter and finer hair types can achieve a modest mohawk with nothing more than a can of Aqua-Net. The key when choosing a hair spray is to avoid the costly salon brands; they are simply not strong enough to get the job done. What you need is a good old-fashioned lacquer spray, the kind that makes hair feel as though it's made out of plastic when it's dry. To style a mohawk with lacquer spray, you will need a blowdryer. On hair that is slightly damp, apply a generous amount of spray and blowdry upwards into a mohawk shape. You can also turn your head upside down for this part. The goal is to create as much volume as possible. Once the hair is mostly dry, you can re-apply the hair spray and then shape the mohawk with your hands. It is important to let the hair dry the rest of the way on its own, since the evaporation process will cement the hair into place. Once dry, a final coat of lacquer can be sprayed on for good measure and to smooth down any stray hairs.
For a mohawk to last throughout the day, it may be necessary to tease or back-comb the hair near the scalp in order to provide a solid foundation for the style. If you don't know how to tease hair, just ask your grandmother and she'll explain it to you. Teasing is a fundamental part of achieving any style where height is necessary, such as a beehive or a pompadour. If you're too young to know what a beehive or a pompadour is, again, ask your grandmother!
If you prefer the faux-hawk look of today rather than the classic punk mohawk, the same basic techniques apply, but it is advisable to stick with professional haircare products. Professional products contain less harsh chemicals, won't build up on the hair, and are easier to wash out. If you're looking for a faux-hawk that you can wear out at night and wash out by morning, stick to a professional styling glue and a can of salon-quality hairspray.
Nearly every substance known to man has been applied to the hair in search of the ultimate styling product for a mohawk. Some products, while providing the right amount of hold, are often messy and difficult to remove from the hair. Back in my high school days, the product of choice for maximum height was Elmer's glue. Glue-infused hairstyles are not for everyone, of course, but there is perhaps no better way to achieve the mile-high classic punk mohawk. The beauty of Elmer's glue is that it can be applied to damp or dry hair and it is also water-soluble. The down side is that Elmer's glue tends to flake off, making you look as though you have a rather nasty case of dandruff. This is especially true on dark hair colors, since blonde hair hides the dry glue better. Even though Elmer's glue is water-soluble, it does take a few good scrubs in order to wash it out.
To remedy this problem, many haircare manufacturers started experimenting with producing a professional hairstyling glue that was both effective and easy to wash out. Originally marketed to salon clientele in the mid-to-late 90s, these "hair glues" can now be found in most supermarket haircare aisles. Perhaps the most popular is Got2Be Glued, whose yellow tube has achieved modern-day cult status as the go-to styling product for extreme hairstyles. Paul Mitchell's styling glue and Joico's ICE Spiker have also become standards in the world of mohawks.
Every respectable mohawk also needs a good hair spray. Those with shorter and finer hair types can achieve a modest mohawk with nothing more than a can of Aqua-Net. The key when choosing a hair spray is to avoid the costly salon brands; they are simply not strong enough to get the job done. What you need is a good old-fashioned lacquer spray, the kind that makes hair feel as though it's made out of plastic when it's dry. To style a mohawk with lacquer spray, you will need a blowdryer. On hair that is slightly damp, apply a generous amount of spray and blowdry upwards into a mohawk shape. You can also turn your head upside down for this part. The goal is to create as much volume as possible. Once the hair is mostly dry, you can re-apply the hair spray and then shape the mohawk with your hands. It is important to let the hair dry the rest of the way on its own, since the evaporation process will cement the hair into place. Once dry, a final coat of lacquer can be sprayed on for good measure and to smooth down any stray hairs.
For a mohawk to last throughout the day, it may be necessary to tease or back-comb the hair near the scalp in order to provide a solid foundation for the style. If you don't know how to tease hair, just ask your grandmother and she'll explain it to you. Teasing is a fundamental part of achieving any style where height is necessary, such as a beehive or a pompadour. If you're too young to know what a beehive or a pompadour is, again, ask your grandmother!
If you prefer the faux-hawk look of today rather than the classic punk mohawk, the same basic techniques apply, but it is advisable to stick with professional haircare products. Professional products contain less harsh chemicals, won't build up on the hair, and are easier to wash out. If you're looking for a faux-hawk that you can wear out at night and wash out by morning, stick to a professional styling glue and a can of salon-quality hairspray.
Joke of the Day
A man enters a barbershop for a shave. While the barber is lathering him up, he mentions the problems he has getting a close shave around the cheeks.
"I have just the thing," says the barber taking a small wooden ball from a nearby drawer. "Just place this between your cheek and gum."
The client places the ball in his mouth and the barber proceeds with the closest shave the man has ever experienced. After a few strokes, the client asks in garbled speech, "And what if I swallow it?"
"No problem," says the barber. "Just bring it back tomorrow like everyone else does."
Adventures in Mustache Growing
The absolute best part of being unemployed (and single) is that I have time to try out all different kinds of mustaches. Even though I may not have any money in my bank account, at least I can send my upper lip on a wild and crazy adventure it won't soon forget. And what an adventure it will be!
Of course, my immersion into the world of exotic mustache-growing has been met with trepidation by some of my friends, although I suspect this is simply a matter of jealousy. My friends, mostly women, are follicularly challenged in the upper lip area (except for Francesca, my Italian cousin). Some of these friends even went so far as to suggest that one of the reasons why I'm unemployed (and single) is because of my propensity toward growing outlandish mustaches.
I began my hairy adventure a little over a week ago, when I decided to stop shaving in order to see just what my loveable little follicles have been up to. I was pleasantly surprised by the lushness of my face sod, so I decided to begin my mustache madness adventure the same way one would begin any adventure; with a well-thought-out plan of action.
The first mustache style I settled on was the "Hulkster" (inspired by octogenarian pro wrestler Hulk Hogan). I decided to begin my journey with the Hulkster for several reasons. The Hulkster provides a foundation, a starting point if you will, to other more elaborate and outlandish mustaches. It's also a great way for a man to change his entire outlook on life. The Hulkster is a bold statement, breaking free from the confines of the upper lip and advancing downward to the chin. It is the rebel of mustaches, the preferred facial hair style of bikers and bar room brawlers, and within hours of sporting the Hulkster I began to feel like a rebel myself. I felt menacing, like a biker with rabies. My first public appearance with the Hulkster was at my local Walmart, where I found myself scowling fiercely (like a biker with rabies) at every fat woman in a motorized cart who happened to drive into the back of my legs. At one point I may have growled at one of them. I don't remember.
Since it's so easy to get carried away with the Hulkster, I decided that my next mustache style should be something a little more refined, so I selected the most grandiose of all mustaches, the handlebar. This is where I find myself at this very moment, waiting for my mustache to grow long enough so that the ends can be twirled upward. I can hardly contain my enthusiasm for all of the wonderful adventures I can have with this particular mustache.
The handlebar mustache, a style which I like to call the "Rollie Fingers" (inspired by the Hall of Fame pitcher who brought back the handlebar 'stache after a century of obscurity), evokes more fantastic imagery than any other style of facial hair. The handlebar is the preferred mustache of interesting men: magicians, 19th century strongmen, and silent movie villains who tie damsels to railroad tracks. It is a dramatic and theatrical mustache, even though it emanates a certain bygone gentility (much like the Colonel Sanders goatee, which is really nothing more than a less-defined handlebar mustache with a disconnected chin puff). Some would even say that the Rollie Fingers is the undisputed King of All Mustaches.
From the handlebar, I plan on taking my mustache on a law enforcement adventure with an American classic, the "Copstache". Yes, I'm aware that common sense would dictate that my journey should go from the Rollie Fingers to the Colonel Sanders to the Walrus (a.k.a. the "Brimley" or the "Hyneman"), but I suspect it's only a matter of time before I re-enter the workforce and like most vacations, you have to squeeze in as much adventure as you can in the shortest amount of time possible.
The Copstache will also allow me to transition to one of history's most notorious mustaches, the Hitler. By shaving an inch or so from each side, I can go from peace-keeper to brutal dictator. It is unfortunate that this style, commonly known as the "Postage Stamp", has fallen out of favor since WWII. In pre-war times, the Postage Stamp was the preferred mustache of funnymen, like Charlie Chaplin and Oliver Hardy. The great cartoonist Max Fleischer even had one. I don't expect to have much success with the Hitler, because most modern attempts at a Postage Stamp revival have failed miserably. Michael Jordan sported one for a Hanes commercial in 2010, which caused much hullabaloo (although it probably didn't do much to boost underwear sales). One of the few remaining Postage Stamp aficionados is Robert Mugabe, who (like Hitler) is also a crazy dictator.
The final mustache of my foray into follicular farming is the venerable pencil mustache, or the "John Waters". The pencil mustache earned its name because it is thin and narrow, giving the impression that it has been drawn across the upper lip with a pencil. I love the pencil mustache because there is an inherent creepiness to it, evoking the spirit of folks like Vincent Price, Gomez Addams, and (to a lesser extent) Little Richard. The John Waters brings to mind a bygone era, a nostalgic meandering which takes the wearer to smoke-filled jazz clubs and mambo dance halls.
I intend to end my mustache adventure after sporting the pencil mustache, at which time I will return to my normal clean-shaven self. But until that day comes I intend to enjoy life by living vicariously through my upper lip. Who knows, maybe I'll become unemployed once again at some point in the future, which will give me an opportunity to explore the wonderful world of sideburns.
Of course, my immersion into the world of exotic mustache-growing has been met with trepidation by some of my friends, although I suspect this is simply a matter of jealousy. My friends, mostly women, are follicularly challenged in the upper lip area (except for Francesca, my Italian cousin). Some of these friends even went so far as to suggest that one of the reasons why I'm unemployed (and single) is because of my propensity toward growing outlandish mustaches.
I began my hairy adventure a little over a week ago, when I decided to stop shaving in order to see just what my loveable little follicles have been up to. I was pleasantly surprised by the lushness of my face sod, so I decided to begin my mustache madness adventure the same way one would begin any adventure; with a well-thought-out plan of action.
The first mustache style I settled on was the "Hulkster" (inspired by octogenarian pro wrestler Hulk Hogan). I decided to begin my journey with the Hulkster for several reasons. The Hulkster provides a foundation, a starting point if you will, to other more elaborate and outlandish mustaches. It's also a great way for a man to change his entire outlook on life. The Hulkster is a bold statement, breaking free from the confines of the upper lip and advancing downward to the chin. It is the rebel of mustaches, the preferred facial hair style of bikers and bar room brawlers, and within hours of sporting the Hulkster I began to feel like a rebel myself. I felt menacing, like a biker with rabies. My first public appearance with the Hulkster was at my local Walmart, where I found myself scowling fiercely (like a biker with rabies) at every fat woman in a motorized cart who happened to drive into the back of my legs. At one point I may have growled at one of them. I don't remember.
Since it's so easy to get carried away with the Hulkster, I decided that my next mustache style should be something a little more refined, so I selected the most grandiose of all mustaches, the handlebar. This is where I find myself at this very moment, waiting for my mustache to grow long enough so that the ends can be twirled upward. I can hardly contain my enthusiasm for all of the wonderful adventures I can have with this particular mustache.
The handlebar mustache, a style which I like to call the "Rollie Fingers" (inspired by the Hall of Fame pitcher who brought back the handlebar 'stache after a century of obscurity), evokes more fantastic imagery than any other style of facial hair. The handlebar is the preferred mustache of interesting men: magicians, 19th century strongmen, and silent movie villains who tie damsels to railroad tracks. It is a dramatic and theatrical mustache, even though it emanates a certain bygone gentility (much like the Colonel Sanders goatee, which is really nothing more than a less-defined handlebar mustache with a disconnected chin puff). Some would even say that the Rollie Fingers is the undisputed King of All Mustaches.
From the handlebar, I plan on taking my mustache on a law enforcement adventure with an American classic, the "Copstache". Yes, I'm aware that common sense would dictate that my journey should go from the Rollie Fingers to the Colonel Sanders to the Walrus (a.k.a. the "Brimley" or the "Hyneman"), but I suspect it's only a matter of time before I re-enter the workforce and like most vacations, you have to squeeze in as much adventure as you can in the shortest amount of time possible.
The Copstache will also allow me to transition to one of history's most notorious mustaches, the Hitler. By shaving an inch or so from each side, I can go from peace-keeper to brutal dictator. It is unfortunate that this style, commonly known as the "Postage Stamp", has fallen out of favor since WWII. In pre-war times, the Postage Stamp was the preferred mustache of funnymen, like Charlie Chaplin and Oliver Hardy. The great cartoonist Max Fleischer even had one. I don't expect to have much success with the Hitler, because most modern attempts at a Postage Stamp revival have failed miserably. Michael Jordan sported one for a Hanes commercial in 2010, which caused much hullabaloo (although it probably didn't do much to boost underwear sales). One of the few remaining Postage Stamp aficionados is Robert Mugabe, who (like Hitler) is also a crazy dictator.
The final mustache of my foray into follicular farming is the venerable pencil mustache, or the "John Waters". The pencil mustache earned its name because it is thin and narrow, giving the impression that it has been drawn across the upper lip with a pencil. I love the pencil mustache because there is an inherent creepiness to it, evoking the spirit of folks like Vincent Price, Gomez Addams, and (to a lesser extent) Little Richard. The John Waters brings to mind a bygone era, a nostalgic meandering which takes the wearer to smoke-filled jazz clubs and mambo dance halls.
I intend to end my mustache adventure after sporting the pencil mustache, at which time I will return to my normal clean-shaven self. But until that day comes I intend to enjoy life by living vicariously through my upper lip. Who knows, maybe I'll become unemployed once again at some point in the future, which will give me an opportunity to explore the wonderful world of sideburns.
Winter Scalp Care Tips
Many people are well aware of the benefits of protecting their skin during the harsh months of winter, but few people give much thought to protecting the scalp, which is arguably the most delicate skin on the human body. Why is winter scalp care so important? Just as a house needs a strong foundation, healthy hair requires a healthy foundation. The scalp is the hair's foundation, since it contains the follicles, blood vessels, and sebaceous glands that are responsible for healthy hair.
Here are five tips that will help ensure proper scalp care throughout the winter.
1. Proper hydration is essential. Many skin care experts will agree that most conditions, including dry scalp, can be greatly improved by keeping the body hydrated. Drinking 6-8 glasses of water daily can help prevent most skin and scalp conditions stemming from dehydration.
2. Decrease shampooing frequency. Frequent shampooing can strip away the oil which is produced by the sebaceous glands in the scalp. This oil is necessary to protect the scalp from moisture loss. Just as a lip balm creates a barrier between the lips and the elements, sebum (the oil secreted by the scalp) creates a protective barrier between the scalp and the elements. Shampooing 2-3 times per week is frequent enough to keep hair clean, without stripping the scalp's precious oils.
3. Keep it covered. Wearing a hat will protect the delicate scalp from the ravages of the winter wind. The wind, not the temperature, is the main culprit when it comes to dry scalp. Cold winds have a chapping effect on the skin, and this includes the scalp.
4. Use alcohol-free styling products. Since the scalp is drier during the winter, the worst thing someone with a flaky dry scalp can do is to use styling products with a high alcohol content. Alcohol will dry out the skin and dry up the scalp's oils.
5. Massage your scalp. Gently massaging the scalp will stimulate blood flow, which will improve the condition of the scalp and hair. Decreased blood flow in the scalp will result in itching, flaking, and a host of other problems. A healthy scalp should be slightly pink in color. If your scalp is white, this is usually an indication of poor blood flow.
These five tips will keep the scalp healthy year round, but are especially important during the dry and harsh months of winter.
1. Proper hydration is essential. Many skin care experts will agree that most conditions, including dry scalp, can be greatly improved by keeping the body hydrated. Drinking 6-8 glasses of water daily can help prevent most skin and scalp conditions stemming from dehydration.
2. Decrease shampooing frequency. Frequent shampooing can strip away the oil which is produced by the sebaceous glands in the scalp. This oil is necessary to protect the scalp from moisture loss. Just as a lip balm creates a barrier between the lips and the elements, sebum (the oil secreted by the scalp) creates a protective barrier between the scalp and the elements. Shampooing 2-3 times per week is frequent enough to keep hair clean, without stripping the scalp's precious oils.
3. Keep it covered. Wearing a hat will protect the delicate scalp from the ravages of the winter wind. The wind, not the temperature, is the main culprit when it comes to dry scalp. Cold winds have a chapping effect on the skin, and this includes the scalp.
4. Use alcohol-free styling products. Since the scalp is drier during the winter, the worst thing someone with a flaky dry scalp can do is to use styling products with a high alcohol content. Alcohol will dry out the skin and dry up the scalp's oils.
5. Massage your scalp. Gently massaging the scalp will stimulate blood flow, which will improve the condition of the scalp and hair. Decreased blood flow in the scalp will result in itching, flaking, and a host of other problems. A healthy scalp should be slightly pink in color. If your scalp is white, this is usually an indication of poor blood flow.
These five tips will keep the scalp healthy year round, but are especially important during the dry and harsh months of winter.
Originally published by Marlin Bressi on the Yahoo Contributor Network
Joke of the Day
An attractive young girl was giving a man a manicure in the barber shop.
"How about a date when you finish work?" he asked.
"I can't" she replied, "I'm married."
"So call up you husband and tell him you're going to visit a sick girlfriend," said the man.
"Why don't you tell him yourself?" asked the girl, "he's the one shaving you."
Heard any good jokes lately? Let's hear it, and if it's any good we'll publish it here at The Barbershop. zendog64@yahoo.com
Roy the Barber
During childhood, every occasion seems special. Running barefoot through sprinklers or spotting a dropped dime along the sidewalk were reasons for celebration. Unfortunately, adulthood has a way of squeezing the magic out of moments like these, turning once-special moments into absurd whims of fancy. If I, in my age of adulthood, decided to lie upon the snow-covered ground and create an angel in the snow, I would succeed not in creating a special moment, but only drawing worrisome and troubled stares from my neighbors.
When I was a kid, going to the barbershop was one of these special occasions. Opening the door and walking past the red and white striped pole was like entering a secret and forbidden temple; a universe where old men gathered to talk about politics and women and complain about how things were never as good as they used to be.
I marveled at the man in the white apron as he swiped his razor across the leather belt, honing the blade to deadly sharpness before shaving off the whiskers of one of the neighborhood men in deft strokes of his wrist. His name was Roy, and all over town the name "Roy the Barber" was spoken with respect and a sense of reverence.
When Roy called you over to his chair it was like being summoned to the altar of a high priest. You carefully hoisted yourself up onto the hulking chair, an enormous throne with enough chrome embellishments to make a '57 Cadillac green with envy. You sat upon the black leather seat and gazed out over the sea of old men, the glare from the sun shining off of their bald crowns. They would wink at you, saying something like "you better not squirm, kid, or old Roy just might cut your ear off". You knew they were only joking, or maybe just trying to scare you, but you laughed it off because you knew that it was just a test, just an initiation into this great fraternity of men.
Roy fastened the paper strip around your neck and buttoned on your cape, and on your high throne of leather and chrome you felt as though you were wearing the vestments of some very powerful religion, about to take part in a timeless tradition, a ritual.
The best part of the haircut was Roy's witty remarks. "You better buy yourself a stick to keep all the girls away," he would say with a wink and a nudge. Between snips of his mythical scissors, he would proceed to ask me about my wife and kids and, being a six-year-old kid myself, I would laugh at the absurdity of his remarks. Then came the crowning moment, perhaps the most sacred rite of the entire barbershop ritual: Roy would lather the back of your neck with hot white shaving cream, and then with his gleaming blade of steel he would shave your neck. It was the Holy Communion of the barbershop ritual. "You look like a new man," he would say with great aplomb, "your wife won't even recognize you when you get home!"
Even though Roy the Barber said the same inane witty remarks countless times over the years, I never got tired of hearing them. They resonated in my mind, echoing like the catchphrases of my youth. Every month like clockwork I would go to the barbershop, right up until the time I graduated from high school and moved away, leaving my small town and Roy's barbershop behind.
These holy temples of manhood held an important place in our lives. They were gathering places where everyone knew your name, and the haircut you received paled in significance to the experience of being around wise old men who told tales of the olden days; barbershop philosophers who always had something wise and profound to say about the world and the state it was in. They would speak of the world going to hell in a hand basket, and even though your young mind had no idea what a hand basket actually was, you were certain that it was a rather uncomfortable means of conveyance to the underworld.
A few years ago I went back to that small town, a sentimental journey to catch a glimpse of the places of my youth. Perhaps I wanted to see if they had changed, or if they had stayed the same in light of the changing world around them. The red and white pole still remained, silenced under years of grime and dust. The windows of the old barbershop were all boarded up. Grabbing a passerby by the lapel of his jacket I asked what had happened to the barbershop, what had happened to Roy the Barber? He's been dead five or six years now, said the man.
I sat upon the cracked concrete stoop in front of the building, on the silent steps where hundreds of wizened men had once passed. In the recesses of my mind I could hear the footsteps of those men, those mystical seers and sages of yesteryear. On the breath of the wind I could hear the voice of old Roy the Barber, telling me to never get old. Was he merely joking about the inconveniences of adulthood, or was he attempting to instill a greater wisdom? Perhaps the wisdom was revealed in that very moment, as it occurred to me just how fast time flies by, and that the saying about how you can't go home again was entirely wrong. You can indeed go home again, but only if you're prepared to discover what has become of the people and places you had loved.
I wiped from the corner of my eye a wayward tear, briefly mourning the demise of a great man, a personal hero. I mourned the demise of the last great bastion of free-thinking man, the hallowed and fraternal order of the barbershop. And just like those old-timers I had revered in my wide-eyed youth, I was left to tell stories of olden days; stories of how things were never as good as they used to be.
When I was a kid, going to the barbershop was one of these special occasions. Opening the door and walking past the red and white striped pole was like entering a secret and forbidden temple; a universe where old men gathered to talk about politics and women and complain about how things were never as good as they used to be.
I marveled at the man in the white apron as he swiped his razor across the leather belt, honing the blade to deadly sharpness before shaving off the whiskers of one of the neighborhood men in deft strokes of his wrist. His name was Roy, and all over town the name "Roy the Barber" was spoken with respect and a sense of reverence.
When Roy called you over to his chair it was like being summoned to the altar of a high priest. You carefully hoisted yourself up onto the hulking chair, an enormous throne with enough chrome embellishments to make a '57 Cadillac green with envy. You sat upon the black leather seat and gazed out over the sea of old men, the glare from the sun shining off of their bald crowns. They would wink at you, saying something like "you better not squirm, kid, or old Roy just might cut your ear off". You knew they were only joking, or maybe just trying to scare you, but you laughed it off because you knew that it was just a test, just an initiation into this great fraternity of men.
Roy fastened the paper strip around your neck and buttoned on your cape, and on your high throne of leather and chrome you felt as though you were wearing the vestments of some very powerful religion, about to take part in a timeless tradition, a ritual.
The best part of the haircut was Roy's witty remarks. "You better buy yourself a stick to keep all the girls away," he would say with a wink and a nudge. Between snips of his mythical scissors, he would proceed to ask me about my wife and kids and, being a six-year-old kid myself, I would laugh at the absurdity of his remarks. Then came the crowning moment, perhaps the most sacred rite of the entire barbershop ritual: Roy would lather the back of your neck with hot white shaving cream, and then with his gleaming blade of steel he would shave your neck. It was the Holy Communion of the barbershop ritual. "You look like a new man," he would say with great aplomb, "your wife won't even recognize you when you get home!"
Even though Roy the Barber said the same inane witty remarks countless times over the years, I never got tired of hearing them. They resonated in my mind, echoing like the catchphrases of my youth. Every month like clockwork I would go to the barbershop, right up until the time I graduated from high school and moved away, leaving my small town and Roy's barbershop behind.
These holy temples of manhood held an important place in our lives. They were gathering places where everyone knew your name, and the haircut you received paled in significance to the experience of being around wise old men who told tales of the olden days; barbershop philosophers who always had something wise and profound to say about the world and the state it was in. They would speak of the world going to hell in a hand basket, and even though your young mind had no idea what a hand basket actually was, you were certain that it was a rather uncomfortable means of conveyance to the underworld.
A few years ago I went back to that small town, a sentimental journey to catch a glimpse of the places of my youth. Perhaps I wanted to see if they had changed, or if they had stayed the same in light of the changing world around them. The red and white pole still remained, silenced under years of grime and dust. The windows of the old barbershop were all boarded up. Grabbing a passerby by the lapel of his jacket I asked what had happened to the barbershop, what had happened to Roy the Barber? He's been dead five or six years now, said the man.
I sat upon the cracked concrete stoop in front of the building, on the silent steps where hundreds of wizened men had once passed. In the recesses of my mind I could hear the footsteps of those men, those mystical seers and sages of yesteryear. On the breath of the wind I could hear the voice of old Roy the Barber, telling me to never get old. Was he merely joking about the inconveniences of adulthood, or was he attempting to instill a greater wisdom? Perhaps the wisdom was revealed in that very moment, as it occurred to me just how fast time flies by, and that the saying about how you can't go home again was entirely wrong. You can indeed go home again, but only if you're prepared to discover what has become of the people and places you had loved.
I wiped from the corner of my eye a wayward tear, briefly mourning the demise of a great man, a personal hero. I mourned the demise of the last great bastion of free-thinking man, the hallowed and fraternal order of the barbershop. And just like those old-timers I had revered in my wide-eyed youth, I was left to tell stories of olden days; stories of how things were never as good as they used to be.
The Barbershop Is Open!
Welcome to Ace of Fades, your virtual neighborhood barbershop. Here at The Barbershop our mission is to provide you with the best men's grooming advice and tips, while celebrating and paying homage to barbershop culture.
Here you will find reviews of grooming products, useful articles which will show you how to look your best, and a ton of other interesting guy stuff, from vintage barbershop photos to entertaining stories about all things grooming-related.
Have an old barbershop photo to share? A favorite tip for shaving? An interesting story about your local barber? We'd love to hear them! Send your suggestions to zendog64@yahoo.com
Here you will find reviews of grooming products, useful articles which will show you how to look your best, and a ton of other interesting guy stuff, from vintage barbershop photos to entertaining stories about all things grooming-related.
Have an old barbershop photo to share? A favorite tip for shaving? An interesting story about your local barber? We'd love to hear them! Send your suggestions to zendog64@yahoo.com
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