While barbershops are often thought of as old-school establishments where older men stop in for a quick trim and a fresh shave, this is not exactly the case when it comes to today’s modern barbershops. On the contrary, the new wave of barbershops caters to a younger, style-savvy crowd that is looking for more than just a quick haircut.
The Fitting Room is one of these businesses that is changing the way consumers think about barbering. Not only is the business located in the heart of Toronto's lively Dundas West neighborhood, but it also boasts a unique barbershop atmosphere that combines distinct elements of culture and style to provide customers with an unparalleled salon experience.
The Fitting Room is the brainchild of successful entrepreneur Bryan Brock and experienced barber Brian Cafua. The two decided to open up a shop that combined an old-school barbershop aesthetic with a social, community atmosphere to create a brand that fits every man’s lifestyle.
To achieve this modern barbershop ambiance, Brock and Cafua outfitted their shop’s interior with an eclectic mix antique pieces and modern touches. The focal point of the shop is a vintage Koken barber chair sitting beneath the front windows, while the rest of the room boasts contemporary amenities such as a lounge with flat screen TVs and a curated section of lifestyle products sourced from local artisans. The communal atmosphere means that customers frequently drop by the shop to socialize, network and even attend local events such as the recent viewing parties for the World Cup.
Of course, the primary reason that customers visit The Fitting Room is to receive an expert cut from Cafua and his team of highly-skilled barbers. These barbers are equipped with a diverse set of skills that allow them to offer everything from seamless straight razor shaves to a classic scissor cuts, depending on the customer’s individual style. The shop even offers cuts for boys under the age of 12 so that sophisticated dads can treat their sons to an authentic barbershop experience.
By combining quality services with the welcoming social environment of a bygone era, The Fitting Room offers Toronto’s fashion-forward men a wholly unique barbershop experience.
Contemporary Men's Barbershops
The Fitting Room Combines Culture and Style with Expert Haircuts
Trend Themes
1. Modern Barbershops - Traditional barbering has been modernized to serve style-savvy men desiring an individualized and community-oriented salon experience.
2. Classic and Contemporary Design - Barbershops are integrating a mix of antique accents with modern conveniences to provide a unique atmosphere for customers.
3. Event Hosting - Social and community-focused barbershops are hosting events to enhance customer experience and foster a sense of belonging.
Industry Implications
1. Beauty & Personal Care - Businesses in this industry have the opportunity to rethink traditional services and create unique experiences that foster community and cater to a new generation of customers.
2. Retail - Retail businesses can source and sell lifestyle products that complement their barbershop's unique atmosphere to elevate their brand and provide a holistic experience for customers.
3. Hospitality & Events - By incorporating event hosting into their business model, barbershops have the potential to generate additional revenue from events and attract new customers through unique experiences.