Behind the chair - George
Wellington Barbers Series - Quick Intro
George has owned over a dozen barbershops and hair salons through his 60+ year career, won hair competitions, had his name on radio daily but today you can still find him behind a chair at Dukes Barbers.
How long have you been cutting hair, and where did you train?
I’ve been cutting hair for over 65 years. I first learned from my father, who was a hairdresser, and by the time I was around 17 I was working full-time as a barber. I’ve spent my entire career cutting hair and barbering in Wellington.
So you started your career in hair salons and learned to cut both men’s and women’s hair?
After training with my father in men’s barbering, I went on to the Jays College of Ladies’ Hairdressing, where I retrained and gained experience in women’s hairdressing as well.
Back in the day you used to compete in, and later judge, hair competitions and shows around Wellington and New Zealand. Can you tell us about that?
Yes, back in the day I competed in both men’s and women’s hairdressing competitions, and later I was invited to judge as well, I was unpacking an old box recently and found some of the trophies.
Those events were huge, held every year and always drawing a big crowd. I was fortunate to be supported by major companies like Wella and L’Oréal, which made the experience even more special. Sadly, I don’t think those competitions are really around anymore, but at the time they were such an exciting part of the industry, and I loved being involved.
What are some styles and trends you’ve seen make a comeback recently?
The classic short back and sides is definitely back, often with a little more length left on top for styling.
If you could cut anyone’s hair, dead or alive, who would it be?
I've always loved Elvis, he was an icon. In our salon at the present we have lots of big pictures of Elvis, and he's one person that stands out in my life.
What do you get up to outside of work?
I’ve always enjoyed boating, it’s something I grew up doing with my father, who was a keen sailor himself.I joined the Port Nicholson Yacht Club, where I’m still a member today, and I continue to enjoy spending time out on the water.
Who is a style icon (past or present) whose hair you admire?
Again it would be Elvis, he was an icon. I even used to try and style my hair taking inspiration from him.
How have men’s grooming habits changed since you started cutting hair?
I think more men are taking care of their hair, beards, and skin, maybe it’s all the social media but there is more awareness about taking care of yourself.
Have you noticed a change in culture, with more women coming to barbershops for a haircut or feeling more comfortable there?
Yes, definitely. Over the years I’ve seen more and more women coming into barbershops, and they’re much more comfortable with it now. What used to be seen as a space quite strictly for men has opened up, especially when the barbers are experienced in ladies’ cuts. I think a lot of women also enjoy the straightforward service, just coming in for a damp cut, and a quick blow-dry to finish, without the full routine of a shampoo and complete blow-wave. It saves time, money, and still delivers a great result.
Would you give any advice to a woman who’s never been to a barbershop in Wellington for a haircut compared to going to a salon?
If you’re heading into a barbershop, make sure the barbers there have proper training and experience in women’s hair. Many barbers are only trained in men’s cuts especially if they have gone to a barberschool, so it’s always worth checking. At Dukes, our team is trained in both barbering and women’s hairdressing, so our female clients can feel confident they’re getting a quality and skilled haircut.
If you could give just one piece of hair advice, what would it be?
Without sounding like I'm trying to give a sales pitch, it would be having your hair cut regularly. I'd suggest every 4 - 6 weeks so it can help keep your hair healthier and your style looking tidy, sharp, and well-groomed.