Men’s Hair 2010: Close Crop

In today’s climate of financial austerity, it’s vital that one ensures he is making the most of his natural assets – there’s no greater accessory than a well-styled head of hair. Read on to discover the best men’s hairstyles for Summer 2010…

Short styles will always be popular, perfectly conveying a confident and vital masculinity. Perfect for active lifestyles, a close crop suggests a man in control of himself and his environment.

Even really short looks require expert care and attention; gently massage John Masters Zinc & Sage Shampoo with Conditioner into wet hair every other day to maintain a healthy glow and stimulated scalp. In terms of styling product, a small amount of Murdock London Hair Play applied evenly will give a desirable texture and  level of control.

Recommended Products:

1. John Masters Zinc & Sage Shampoo with Conditioner

2. Murdock London Hair Play

A Brief History of the Moustache

With a moustache renaissance underway, Murdock take a look back at top-lip topiary over the years.

Moustache Beginnings

Moustaches have been theoretically possible since flint razors where first fashioned around 30,000 B.C, although it’s unknown whether or not Stone Age man sported the first ever example of upper-lip topiary.

The moustache is usually a proud signifier of impending pubescent transformation; it is an effective visual marker for the journey from boy to manhood. In the past, the thickness of a man’s moustache denoted military rank and experience, with new recruits making do with wispy whiskers, while seasoned commanders could show off luscious beards.       

Notable Moustaches

The last century also saw the strong negative connotations of moustaches come to the fore; Hitler and Stalin will forever associate the ‘tache with callous dictatorship, yet it also worth remembering that these were two intensely charismatic individuals whose striking physical appearances added some weight to their leadership credentials.
 
Facial hair as an indicator of villianry has been perpetuated in modern fiction and is up there with an English accent as a signpost of immoral intentions; examples include Daniel Day-Lewis's Bill the Butcher from Gangs of New York and Bugs Bunny's nemesis Yosemite Sam.
 
The 1980s were the last time the moustache was truly fashionable; Tom Selleck’s Magnum P.I. had an iconic chevron moustache, which only added to his sex appeal, while professional wrestler Hulk Hogan defied conventional wisdom and somehow managed to get away with a bleached blond horseshoe 'tache.

Whisky Tasting Evening at Murdock

Fine whisky and accomplished shaving technique should play a meaningful part of any modern gentleman’s life, so if you feel you are lacking either element then make sure you attend Murdock’s inaugural whisky tasting and wet-shaving workshop.

Scheduled for the 28^th April and 28^th May, these sessions will be hosted at Murdock in Shoreditch in conjunction with Chivas Regal premium Scotch whisky.

Commencing at 19:00, there is a short course in wet-shaving; covering both safety and cut-throat razor techniques, we will help ensure you know how to get the closest of shaves and avoid razor rash. Our impeccably trained barbers will share their tips of the trade to make sure you avoid blood on the bathroom floor.  

After brushing up on shaving etiquette it’s time for a whisky tasting session hosted by Chivas Regal. Established in 1801 in Aberdeen, Chivas is the best selling premium Scotch whisky in Europe; take this opportunity to find out just why. Enjoy the distinctive mellow, honeyed flavour in a relaxed environment free of charge.

You are guaranteed to come away from the evening feeling refreshed, educated and certainly a little sophisticated.

 

28^th May 2009, from 18:30, Murdock at Liberty, W1, Tel: 020 7573 9419

Keeping Your Beard in Shape

Beard trends come and go so it is as important to be aware of what looks fashionable, as it is to find a style which will suit your facial features. Keeping the beard long and natural will always have a certain timeless quality, but if you take this option make sure you go for a look more in common with Prince Michael of Kent and less like Tom Hanks in Castaway.

Frequent grooming is the key to beard success and is where your sense of personal style will come into play, so before you go shaving big areas around your beard, have a think about what will sort your face-size and face-shape.

Beard maintenance should begin with a trim to the required length, either by using an electric beard trimmer or by using a pair of sharp scissors, taking care not to nip any skin. Have a good look at where your beard naturally grows to; this will usually be to just below the cheekbone in a natural curve. Above this there may be a smattering of hairs which seem to be out of place; shave these off without mercy.

Below the chin is a different story. This is an area I often see much more varied beard growth-patterns, directions and thicknesses. Some beards just keep going, seamlessly merging with chest hair whilst others come to a natural but abrupt halt somewhere above the Adam's apple. If it grows neatly, then just tidy up the endline, in the same way as you did around the cheeks.

If your growth is erratic and looks unkempt then consider shaving away to create a tidy line. Start by shaving just a centimetre off the bottom, and keep going until you are happy. This will help you work out what suits your face-shape and features. Also this way you leave room for error of the razor. Aim to work in an arc, with a slightly flattened apex; start in the middle with the width of your razor and work sideways from there. The higher up your neck you go the more of the arc you will see. Avoid going right below the jaw as this can look like you are trying to create an artificial jaw-line and can look a little odd in profile. If you are slightly large in the face, this will definitely run the risk of looking as though you are 'drawing in' your jaw. In such cases you are better off leaving the natural growth underneath (kept very short) while growing it slightly longer above the jaw to create softer lines but with better contrast.

The Good Beard Guide

There are often times in life when we tire of the daily grind and of the daily shave. The solution to the former is a holiday; a solution to the latter is to grow a beard. Yet this is not necessarily a choice born out of laziness; it allows the gentleman to rest his weary skin and let it recover from any problems caused by frequent shaving. It also offers the opportunity for a man to personalise his facial hair, perhaps cultivating a new image or getting in on the latest trends; think of your beard as a free fashion accessory. Be aware though that the growth of a successful beard does require some care and attention.

If you've made the noble decision to grow a beard, you're best option is to wait until you have some time off work before you stop shaving completely. This way you avoid merely appearing to colleagues and peers as someone who has simply forgotten to shave for a few days, a look that is consistently popular amongst the homeless fraternities of the world. After 3-4 days your new growth is likely to itch maddeningly; the solution is having the beard trimmed, thus removing the sharp, pointed end of the stubble left by your last shave. Trimmed hair has a blunt end so will not scratch your skin so much. Think about purchasing a beard-trimmer as it will enable you to look just so hirsute rather than like a destitute beat poet. If you don't want to invest in a beard trimmer until you are completely sure about your new facial furniture, then treat yourself to a beard trim at one of Murdock's luxury stores.

Fitness: Avoiding Discomfort

Keeping fit and active is an important area of any man’s life, it’s integral for physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. However, as any sportsman or athlete, top professional or lowly amateur, will tell you, it’s all too easy to suffer injury or affliction that can not only prevent future exertion but diminish your present level of comfort. With this in mind, and the knowledge that prevention is always better than the cure, any sensible man should invest in as many precautionary products as he can find.

When contemplating the plethora of sporting injuries you could suffer with, it is unlikely that severe chafing is the first and most horrendous grievance to spring to mind. Yet this simple and unglamorous problem can cause intense and life-restricting pain, especially if it is the all-too-common crotch chafing which has struck you down. But fear not! For there are always simple solutions to such problems, and with Friction Zone by Brave Soldier you will never have to worry about a sore groin area or bleeding nipples ever again, well not unless that’s your predilection. The water and sweat resistant formula makes Friction Zone perfect for anyone participating in activities ranging from distance-running, cycling, surfing or any other event where bare skin will be subjected to the elements. With summer approaching, there's no better time to give the gift of comfort and skin protection; together we can make chafing history.

Avoid unnecessary pain when exercising with Friction Zone by Brave Soldier

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Men’s Hair: Quintessential Quiffs

For a slightly younger but enduringly classic coiffure, think about a textured pompadour and quiff in the style of James Dean. While still inspired by classic 1950s American culture, this look retains a modern edge and attitude. Use a very small amount Kevin Murphy Gritty Business at the roots to ensure a strong look with long lasting  direction and hold; combine  with Kevin Murphy Hair Resort worked through the middle and ends to give your hair movement, achieving a full and natural coiffure.

 

For more of a British influence, think Morrissey’s eternally accentuated and sensual quiff, maintained with a small amount of Kevin Murphy Easy Rider applied to dry hair. Constructing the perfect quiff involves the right balance of hot and cold air; cold to set in place, and warm air to ensure a lasting hold.      

  

Products we Recommend:

1. Kevin Murphy Gritty Business

2. Kevin Murphy Easy Rider

 

Men’s Hair: Fringe Benefits

The first notable trend for men’s hair this season is the side swept fringe. Whether textured and chopped or slightly longer and gentler, it should be worn with a knowing insouciance, combining Byronic heroism with an understated elegance.

The short, hacked fringe was popular when the Roman Empire was at its peak, with the charismatic Julius Caesar favouring the look.  If you're thinking about a blunt fringe, make sure that you keep the back and sides very short, for a highly stylised cut. To get this classical and defined look use Kevin Murphy Gritty Business, rubbing a small amount in the palm of your hand until evenly distributed and styling down from the roots through to the tips. Kevin Murphy Easy Rider will ensure longer styles retain movement without falling prey to some of the more disruptive elements of British weather.

Has the fringe gone a little mainstream? Asymmetric and uneven or calm and controlled, how do you wear yours?

 

Products we Recommend :

Kevin Murphy Easy Rider

Men’s Hair: Parting Thoughts

The classical, preppy look is once again at the forefront of men’s fashion, with hair styled accordingly. Distinct side partings that invoke the golden age of Hollywood; think Cary Grant sipping a highball as he lounges around West Hollywood, enjoying a decadent afternoon of professional networking.  To capture a clean, high square crop, Kevin Murphy Easy Rider used on damp hair will tame frizz, create a slick pommade and help maintain a styled, professional look; for extra sleekness work through with a Kent comb (available in-store). A liberal amount used on dry hair will give a more natural parting without compromising hold and shape. 

Products we Recommend:

Kevin Murphy Easy Rider 

Tips for the Perfect Wet Shave

Are your current shaving practices leaving you red and irritable? Do you approach your razor blade with a nauseous mixture of fear and disdain? Then read our indispensable guide to shaving…

Once properly established and refined your shaving ritual should be less a chore and more an opportunity for private indulgence, leaving you feeling clean and refreshed.

Serious exfoliation

Unless you suffer from a Benjamin Button-esque infliction, it’s likely that you’re going to have to shave on a regular basis from now until your dying days, so now’s the time to recognise the importance of pre-shave preparation.  An exfoliator (1) performs the unglamorous job of ridding the face of dead skin and excess oil, and removing dirt from your pores. The process serves to eradicate puffiness leaving you feeling fresh-faced and wide awake.  

Pre-shave lubrication  

A pre-shave oil (2) acts to further prepare the face; essential oils and gylcerin soften hair cuticles, appeasing any rebellious growths before their imminent removal, necessary when facing all but the most insignificant of stubble.

Best shaving cream and badger hair brush

The next step is to apply a high quality shaving cream (3); the canvas on which your craftsmanship will take place. Naturally such artistry requires the finest of implements; there’s a reason that badger hair brushes (4) have stood the test of time, they are as much a statement of character as they are a practical shaving tool, and a finer investment than most financial institutions these days. The cream should be applied with light brush strokes that are more renaissance painter and less amateur exterior decorator.  

Using your razor blade correctly

Once sufficiently lathered, reach for your well-crafted blade (5) and gently begin at your sideburns, working down in the direction of hair growth. Move onto your cheeks and jowls, taking care to note any changes in hair direction; using smaller, controlled movements will help avoid razor-rash or in-grown hairs. Rinse thoroughly with ice cold water to close your pores and remove any remnants of cream or oil.

Essential post-shave skincare

With your skin silky smooth and glowing with newness, you are as vulnerable to any harmful environmental conditions as Salman Rushdie is in downtown Tehran. At this stage there are a number of post-shave creams and after-shave balms (6) available; you should be using products that will replenish lost moisture and help with skin regeneration while avoiding anything containing alcohol which may dry out the skin and tighten pores over follicles, leading to in-grown hairs.

For the perfect wet shave, we recommend the following:

(1) Malin + Goetz Jojoba Face Scrub

(2) D.R Harris Arlington Pre-Shave

(3) D.R Harris Arlington Luxury Lather Shave Cream

(4) Murdock Silver Tip Badger Brush – Ivory

(5) Murdock Razor Ivory