UrbanUpdate

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Childhood friends Michael Portman and Jayson Rapaport couldn’t find a decent place in Austin to get a haircut "without all the hassle," so they built one. Seven years later, they’ve just opened up their sixth location of Birds Barbershop in the city. Far from a chain cuttery, each shop is designed to reflect the music scene in its respective hood, says Portman. Patrons play with vintage arcade games, listen to visiting DJ’s, and sip on Shiners beer (supplied by the independent brewery in Austin), all of which is included with a trim. And while the majority of the clientele are men, women are always welcome--hence the name Birds. "A party always gets better when there are ladies around," says Portman.

The Vibe: "Most of the shops have a rock ’n’ roll vibe, because hair and music are inextricably mid. From Blondie to David Bowie to Karen O’s bangs from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, we’re always looking to music for hair inspiration. We usually design with a black and white aesthetic and pops of color, and have big mural art from local artists, as well as a lot of cast offs, like molded fiberglass signs you’d find at a bus stop. The terms ’mid century’ and ’arcade’ are perpetually being searched on my craigslist app."

The Cut: "I think Shaggy from Scooby-Doo comes to mind when people think of Austin, but the city has become much more cosmopolitan. Guys come in for high and tight styles, often with a pompadour on top and nothing on the sides -- very similar to Macklemore, who has actually been here for a cut. The hard side part is still popular with our guys, too. Some want it so defined they shave it into the head. It looks pretty natural, you’ve probably seen it and not realized it."

Portman’s Favorite Grooming Goods:

Aesop Body Cleansing Slab: "This is a massive bar of soap and great all-in-one product for guys with hair that’s so short or shaved they don’t wash it."

Malin + Goetz Cilantro Conditioner: "We sell a ton of this, the freshness resonates with men really well."

Verb Ghost Oil: "Austin isn’t a boardroom town but guys love that buttoned up look juxtaposed with a well-manicured beard. This is a moringa nut blend oil that gives you that slick shine without looking too greasy."

Bird’s Barbershop’s newest location:

5000 W Slaughter Ln

Austin, Texas 78749

(512)758-7800 _

For other locations, visit birdsbarbershop.com

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