Aidann Gia Bacolodan, Pace University
The Campus Clipper invites students to step into a third space characterized by eclectic music—sung in a range of different languages—and the chatter from businessmen and schoolboys alike. Boris, the owner, wears black latex gloves as he works and tends to his clients. I brought my friend Pasha in, as he needed some refinement to his aesthetics before his fraternity formal. He described the state of his hair as somewhere in-between an overgrown mullet and a shag. Situated just around the corner from Baruch, Third Avenue Barber Club is known for its premium walk-in and membership services.
Barber shops, in recent years, have changed. They were once length-specific, but in a changing world, barbers need to know how to cut longer hair. Boris keeps several mannequins to practice on in the back of his shop, in order to perfect his craft after taking a course on longer hair. He hopes to shift his business model towards offering clients membership, though he is refraining from closing off walk-ins, as he hopes to remain accessible.
Boris provided an analysis of Pasha’s hair, woven throughout his stories and anecdotes. He noted where my friend’s split ends were as he spritzed water across his locks.
“He was incredibly friendly and prioritized understanding exactly what I wanted from my haircut. When I was unsure about certain parts, he took the time to figure out and understand what would suit me best,” Pasha took note.
Boris, the manager, had to close his first barbershop after eight years, but reopened a shop recently in the Gramercy district of Manhattan. As I observed his skillful craft for the afternoon, it became evident that he was extremely knowledgeable in the world of hair.
”While barbers’ expertise lies in shorter cuts, Boris showed exemplary detail when cutting longer hair,” my friend commented. “He took great care in pinning my hair in such a way that he could cut in proper layers while keeping my scalp comfortable.”
Pasha started with an overgrown shag, which was refined to a neater mullet with layers and cleaner bangs. I could actually see his face after the precise haircut executed by the barber.
”In my experience, a lot of stylists/barbers ask for what style you want, do the entire haircut, and then ask if it’s to your liking when it’s too late to make major adjustments,” Pasha reflected. “Boris avoided this by checking in with my opinion at every major step, which not only ensured that I got the cut I wanted, but also made me a lot more comfortable in the barber’s chair.”
Third Avenue Barber Club is a quaint establishment for walk-in and reserved haircuts. With membership services offering unlimited haircuts and unlimited skin fades, the shop provides customers with a range of choice and selection when paying for their luxurious services. Thankfully, the business has partnered with the Campus Clipper for a student discount when clients present their valid student ID and coupon below.
