Q&A with Ruffians
With services ranging from the archetypal short back and sides, to moustache trimming and beard consolations, Ruffians is perhaps Edinburgh’s most prominent location for male grooming.
Established four years ago in the capital’s West End the company scooped up the British Hairdressing Award’s trophy for Best Independent Newcomer along with Best New Salon at Creative Head’s eminent industry awards a mere six months after its opening.
Now having extended their expertise to London alongside manufacturing their own products, EdinBeauty held a Q&A with Ruffians to discover more about their take on men’s grooming in Edinburgh.
Q: What up-and-coming men’s hairstyle and grooming trends are popular amongst Edinburgh customers for 2016?
A: “Over the last year or two, we've seen a move into textured, messy looks. The haircuts are simple - generally a short back and sides - but the styling of the top section is important in expressing individuality. Embrace the Scottish elements and go for a windswept, natural look - there's less faff in the mornings, and it's very easy to fix up throughout the day!
As for facial hair - peak beard has not been reached yet! Beards tend to be shorter than they used to be, kept need and tidy around the face.”
Photo Credit: Tommy Cairns
Q: How is men’s street style becoming more prominent? Is social media is helping to boost its popularity?
A: “Men's style as a whole has increased in popularity - meaning that guys are far more inclined not only to put their outfits together well, but also to consider their hair and facial hair. I think it's unlikely that an incredibly well groomed man would have a terrible outfit; and vice versa… So the rise in prominence goes hand in hand with this newfound fluidity of stereotypical gender roles, which has allowed men to look after their appearance more than they used to.
As for social media boosting its popularity - this has worked, simply as style is so visual and social media really taps into the sharing of visual inspiration. It's also a way for guys to check out the latest styles and trends on their own phone, without the prying eyes of friends getting in the way.”
Photo Credit: Tommy Cairns
Q: Do you think street style is how a lot of male customers see hair and beard trends that they would like to try for themselves?
A: “It's a mixture of street style, celebrity culture, an increasing awareness of fashion. Don't underestimate the power of David Beckham, David Gandy and certain actors to inspire men's hair.”
Photo Credit: Tommy Cairns
Q: Lastly, what sets Ruffians apart from other barbers in Edinburgh?
A: “Ruffians' main focus is customer service and experience - it has been founded on an ethos that listening is key, and that the customer's journey is the most important thing. Our haircuts are top quality, performed by experienced, personable and passionate stylists. We believe ourselves to offer the best service, due to our ability to really listen to the customer's needs.”
To discover more about the artistry behind barbering, check out YouTuber Steve Booker's video from his experience at Ruffian's below.
Edinburgh fellaes, what are your favourite hairstyle and beard trends right now? Share them with us using the hashtag #EdinBeautyTrends.
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