The old pleasure of a shave and a haircut remains very much alive in Chicago—supplemented with a host of new services. Here are five places that will have you spiffed up for any occasion.
The welcoming entrance to Van Buren Gentlemen’s Salon
At this guy-focused salon and spa—a Windy City favorite for more than a decade—men can indulge in massages, haircuts and old-school straight-razor shaves, plus neck and eyebrow waxing, highlights/lowlights and more. 70 W. Madison St.; 1351 S. Michigan Ave., halochicago.com
For more than a quarter century, Merchant & Rhoades has offered the same high-quality services— shaves, haircuts, beard trims, manicures and pedicures. The family-owned place, reminiscent of an antique English barbershop, also offers an extraordinary collection of fragrances and men’s grooming products—and shoeshines some gentlemen swear by. 900 N. Michigan Ave., merchantandrhoades.com
The local outpost of an English company founded in 1805, Truefitt & Hill Barbershop offers downtown denizens all the classics, delivered in a classic environment. A nice assortment of aftershaves, colognes and accessories is on offer—and the well-trained staff give first-rate oldschool straight-razor shaves. 1660 N. Wells St., truefittandhill.com
Van Buren Gentlemen’s Salon, in the financial district, offers power players a destination for a bit of R & R. The charming team offers all the main services, plus varieties of waxing. 235 W. Van Buren St., vbgents.com
Founded by Scott Yance nearly a decade ago, this Old Town location also provides the expert barber services of partner Steve Olson. Scottfree believes that true beauty begins within, offering luxury products—think Shu Umera, Goldwell and Oliplex, among others—and serving up cuts and colors with an honest, minimal aesthetic. 1710 N. Wells St., scottfreesalon.com
Photography by: COURTESY OF VAN BUREN GENTLEMEN’S SALON
