Murdock Weblog

Male Grooming in the New Decade

James — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:15:38 +0000

A survey was released last month that claimed men now spend longer on daily grooming than women; 83 minutes for us fellows compared to 79 for the ladies. What good news!

There’s very good reason why we should spend longer – we’re bigger, so there’s more to wash, hairier, so there’s more to dry, and bristlier, so we shave our faces. It’s got to be seen as positive that we are now spending a sensible amount of time getting ready; as we’ve postulated often, the daily shave should be a careful ritual rather than a laborious task – don’t underestimate the importance of a good razor, appropriate pre-shave care and a protective, moisturising finish.

Also announced was the news that we now only spend 19p less than women a month on grooming products, so that’s approximately £25 every four weeks. To be honest, this is slightly disappointing – we earn more so shouldn’t we at least spend as much?

Check out our website, treat yourself to a couple of new products and address the imbalance.

Male Grooming in the New Decade is a post from: Murdock Weblog

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Spring Hair 2010

James — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:22:11 +0000

The most visible hairstyle for men on the catwalks this year is a variation of the rockabilly quiff. An ever-present style through the years, the quiff suits most gents, even those not deemed aesthetically suitable for the catwalk.

The most extreme quiffs are replicas of the big, extravagant, rolled curls sported by the teddy boys of the 1950s – probably not suitable for the City, but certainly popular around Shoreditch and other areas of east London.This was on display on the Milanese catwalks last month, with Jil Sander and Bottega Venetta showcasing a Fifties look that is more teddy-boy than all-American boy; we’re talking big hair and a bit more attitude with your tweed blazer.

Of course, a more minimal is out there for the less stylistically-revolutionary – just towel dry hair, apply a strong product, twist forward and place down to one side – no need for anything too fancy at all.

And more classical styles endure, such as the clean, crisp quiffs and partings of the Rat-pack’s heyday, demonstrating the continuing sartorial impact of Mad Men. The return to shorter styles is certainly beneficial for us barbers, as it means more frequent haircuts, but it also allows men to relax into relatively unfussy, traditional cuts that give off the right amount of masculine confidence.

Murdock Recommends:

Hair Doh (100ml) – £12.00

Kent Folding Comb – £8.00

Spring Hair 2010 is a post from: Murdock Weblog

Murdock Shoreditch Window Display

James — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:34:36 +0000

Our Shoreditch store is currently boasting an eye-catching display by Wallpaper* Magazine's Interiors Editor, Benjamin Kempton.

A regular Murdock client, Benjamin has a varied design background in theatre, interiors and fashion, aswell as a keen interest in composition and design, style and space. Following a degree in set design at Wimbledon School of Art, he spent 6 years at the World of Interiors as editorial stylist. His role at Wallpaper* involves the research and production of large-scale shoots and Wallpaper* events, in addition to commissioning freelance stylists to work on interior projects for each issue.

He is a natural at forming good working relationships with designers and manufacturers and has displayed a happy knack for discovering and showcasing emerging talent, introducing exciting new stylists to the pages of Wallpaper* from France, The United States and New Zealand.

Last year took him to Shanghai and Beijing, where he designed and realised the construction and set-up of the two Wallpaper* offices in which the team produced its very special and exciting ‘Made in China’ issue.

Just pop by our Old Street store to enjoy his latest work; why not enjoy a wet shave or revitalising facial aswell?

Murdock Shoreditch Window Display is a post from: Murdock Weblog

Murdock Mayfair Stylists Recommend…

James — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 16:54:46 +0000

Book an appointment for our Mayfair Barbershop

Stefan, Mayfair Store Manager

Shave

For some guys, the daily shave is still a chore that should be completed as soon as possible; warm water, shave cream, lather, razor – nothing to prepare the skin. The beauty of Proraso Pre and Post Shave Cream is its simplicity, just slap some on before and after the shave, for a smoother, more enjoyable experience.

Face & Body

A really good exfoliator for men is surprisingly difficult to find, especially given the proliferation of products our female counterparts can choose from. So it's a real relief that we stock the Zirh range – clinical, effective and energising, the Zirh Scrub will revitalise any gent.

Hair Styling

For a lot of my clients, it's essential to like neat and tidy in the day, but to show a more fashionable side once night falls. Hair Play is perfect for this; offering great flexibility and hold, so you can change your style after work with a minimum of fuss.

Cologne

Coming from an Italian familiy, and frequently making trips back to see relatives, I can really appreciate Acqua di Genova. This continental, even decadent, fragrance conjures up happy memories of the Italian summer.

Luke, Mayfair Store Barber

Shave

I think I'm one of the quick-shaving guys Stefan is talking about! Jack Black Beard Lube does a more than capable job, acting as both pre-shave oil and shave cream. Also great if you like to travel.

Face & Body

I'm going to have to continue the Jack Black love-in and recommend the Hand Healer! Although I'd like to think the winter is all but over, this non-greasy cream has been protecting my hands evey morning since about October…

Hair

I think the entire Murdock styling range is excellent, with each product offering something different. My personal preference has to be for the Matt Mudd though, it gives light, effortless definition that doesn't weigh hair down.

Cologne

My favourite cologne is Hierbas de Ibiza Agua de Colonia. It's got a really natural, light but masculine fragrance that can be worn all day without being over-powering; it's also something of a well-kept secret, so there's little danger of bumping into someone who smells the same.

Murdock Mayfair Stylists Recommend… is a post from: Murdock Weblog

Murdock Shoreditch Stylists Recommend…

James — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 16:27:59 +0000

Darren Agyei-Dua, Shoreditch Store Manager

Shave

My favourite product to shave with is Proraso; the traditional shave jars are simple but extremely effective, providing a creamy lather and a close comfortable shave.

Face & Body

Most men are guilty of overlooking the importance of keeping the face clean and fresh, which is especially unforgiveable in a city such as London where everyday dirt and pollution can quickly accumulate. A good exfoliator is crucial, and there are few better than the Zirh Aloe Scrub for leaving skin refreshed and super-clean.

Hair Styling

The Murdock Matt Putty is a great texture paste for a styled, slicked-back look without overloading hair.

Cologne

Fragrances are obviously all about personal preference, but I don't think you can do any better than Numero Uno by Carthusia;a warm, very wearable cologne with just the right amount of masculine intensity to make an impression.

Thom Bushnell, Shoreditch Store Barber

Shave

I'm a big fan of the entire Jack Black range, so I'd probably go for the Supreme Cream Triple Cushion Shave Lather. Like all Jack Black products, it's completely natural, ensuring a smooth, ultra-close shave with no irritation.

Face & Body

Spending much of my day in very close proximity to men's faces, the most frequent condition I encounter is dry or damaged skin. A lot of men still don't moisturise regularly, but it's vital for protecting the face, especially after shaving; I recommend DR Harris Arlington Aftershave Milk, a smooth, milky lotion that smells great.

Hair

As I say, I love the Jack Black range, and their High Definition Hair Pomade is outstanding. It offers the perfect amount of pliable control, so hair stays put all day long without stiffness or heavy build up; ideal for choppy, separated styling with short hair, or a sleek slicked-back look for long hair.

Cologne

Out of all the ranges we stock, Etat Libre d'Orange certainly provides the most distinct, memorable fragrances. My favourite cologne from the range has to be Charogne; a really suave, seductive fragrance full of exotic aromas to compliment any well-travelled gent.

Murdock Shoreditch Stylists Recommend… is a post from: Murdock Weblog

Murdock at the Tash for the Cash Charity Event

James — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:47:28 +0000

Murdock Shoreditch Store Manager Darren Agyei-Dua recently took part in the 'Tash for the Cash' charity event, shaving off one of HLW International's oldest and most distinguised moustaches. Over £9000 was raised for the Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Check out the photos below.

If you would like to book one of our barbers for a similar event, please drop us a line.

Nervous smiles to begin with

Not looking too happy at the prospect of losing the 'tache

A nice thick lather

A good lather is vital for a clean, smooth shave

Peerless technique from Darren

All done

Murdock at the Tash for the Cash Charity Event is a post from: Murdock Weblog

Murdock at the BRIT Awards 2010

James — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:52:40 +0000

The nominees for this year's BRIT Awards, held on Tuesday 16 February at Earl's Court Arena, London, have been announced. We can exclusively reveal that joining the likes of Robbie Williams, Dizzee Rascal, Jay-Z and Peter Kaye at the event will be a selection of Murdock barbers!

We've been asked to man a pop-up barbershop in the backstage area to take care of any last minute grooming requirements, so I imagine we'll be preening Mika's locks and finishing off Robbie's coiffure, we'll be there on rehearsal day and show day if any of you happen to be backstage, to book your slot backstage brits@murdocklondon.com.

If you fancy the same level as service as some of the world's biggest music stars, then book an appointment at one of our stores or treat someone with a gift certificate.

Murdock at the BRIT Awards 2010 is a post from: Murdock Weblog

British Hairdressing Awards 2009

Models Needed for Murdock Training Nights

James — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 17:40:14 +0000

Murdock Shoreditch are hosting training evenings every Wednesday from 6pm onwards.

All services will be performed by our talented trainees and fully supervised by Darren, our Store Manager.

Although we will be offering our services for free, we do ask that models make a donation of £10 to The Prostate Cancer Charity.

Anyone interested in being a model, please call 020 7729 2288, email shoreditch@murdocklondon.com,or just popp into our barbershop at 340 Old Street, EC1V 9DS.

PLEASE NOTE: THERE IS CURRENTLY A WAITING LIST FOR MODELS, BUT DON'T DESPAIR, WE'LL ENDEAVOUR TO GET TO YOU IN THE END

Models Needed for Murdock Training Nights is a post from: Murdock Weblog

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The Murdock Guide to Mayfair

James — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 14:11:42 +0000

The newest Murdock barbers and grooming store can be found in Mayfair, west London. Located on Stafford Street this is an area with a rich tradition of high fashion, quality tailoring and luxury grooming, so we feel right at home!

While other Mayfair barbershops and male grooming salons are either over-complicated and ultra-modern or antiquated and behind the times, we strive to find the perfect balance between providing the finest traditional services in a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere and offering the best in high-end male grooming products and gifts for gentlemen.

Here’s a look at some of our favourite destinations in the surrounding area:

Paul Smith

Little more than a stone’s throw from Murdock is the Paul Smith furniture and curiosities shop on Albermarle Street. Selling art, antiques and jewellery sourced from around the world, this unique collection is sure to interest any well-travelled Murdock regular.

With many pieces customised, refurbished or re-covered with distinctive Paul Smith designs, this is much more than a run-of-the-mill vintage or second hand shop; a great place to look for a unique and distinctive gift this Valentine’s Day.

Royal Academy of Arts

The Royal Academy of Arts located at Burlington House is a prestigious institution dedicated to the promotion of the fine arts, so definitely worth combining with an afternoon visit to Murdock for some relaxed and cultured down-time.

Upcoming exhibitions include ‘The Real Van Gogh: The Artist and his Letters’ from January 23rd.

Dover Street Market

A multi level fashion retail space created by Comme des Garcons founder, Rei Kawakubo. With six floors of minimalist bare walls and steel beams there is ample room for the wares of over a dozen designers including Raf Simons, Junya Watanabe, Thom Browne and Moncler Gamme Rouge. The ‘blank canvas’ nature of the store allows designers to develop their spaces as they see fit, leading to a real sense of creativity and originality in an area of London better known for its traditional menswear.

Savile Row

A brisk stroll from Murdock Mayfair is the Mecca of tailored menswear; Savile Row. The short street is famous for its traditional bespoke clothing, boasting menswear luminaries such as Ozwald Boateng, Gieves & Hawkes, Kilgour and Norton & Sons, outlets every modern gent should be acquainted with.

The Murdock Guide to Mayfair is a post from: Murdock Weblog

The Murdock Guide to Shoreditch

James — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:20:43 +0000

The very first Murdock barbershop and grooming store opened in on Old Street back in 2006 the area of London infamous for being the birthplace of many fads and fashions; what better location to launch a new cutting edge male grooming enterprise?

From Shakespeare’s early shows to the death of a royal mistress, the east London area of Shoreditch has a historic tradition of eccentricity, vice and artistic performances.

In our time here over the last 4 years we have seen it change considerably with more retail, bars, dining, and fun to be had. These changed have helped shape our store, with the reach of customers expanding from the old locals, stretching up into hackney, and all the way to Hollywood.

Here’s a quick look at some of Shoreditch’s places of interest:

Albion

Located on the ground floor of the Boundary building, the Albion is one of three eateries on the site, so definitely a place of interest for the peckish gent. With a menu serving up hearty British café fare such as English breakfast, pies and fish and chips, diners at the Albion can enjoy traditional comfort foods in hip, modern surroundings. The perfect place for an informal business lunch or a personal rendezvous.

Bordello

Whether you have a dirty weekend away planned or you’re looking to treat the other half (and yourself), you'll find what you're looking for at the aptly named Bordello. This East End boutique stocks raunchy lingerie by Der Kommissar, saucy honeymoon attire, exotic corsets, luxury toiletries and vintage boudoir-style furniture. Well worth a visit, particularly with Valentine’s Day creeping up.

Present

Present store owners Eddie Prendergast and Steve Davies are founders of men's mega-brand Duffer of St George, but don't hold that against them. Present's bright white, clinical interior houses labels from streetwear Billionaire Boys Club and Japanese Haversack to the smarter Raf by Raf Simons and the limited edition haute couture items. A great range of high quality menswear with something for every guy, the perfect destination after a trip to Murdock.

Shoreditch House

A private members club, Shoreditch House boasts a rooftop swimming pool, a gym, sauna and steam room facilities, a games room, numerous spaces for socialising and indulging and a clientele of the most interesting people in East London. Members and guests only, but not ridiculously exclusive so start hoping that you get an invite to a private party or meeting.

Not forgetting, of course, Murdock's Shoreditch store, located at 340 Old Street.

The Murdock Guide to Shoreditch is a post from: Murdock Weblog

The Murdock Guide to Mayfair