Up until now, I’ve had a pretty standard view on barbers and haircare. It used to be something I saw as an inconvenience, and non-essential. That was until I stepped into West and Hunter, a male grooming club in London.
Situated conveniently on the Chiswick High Street in London, West and Hunter has risen the bar for the gold standard in male grooming. I was lucky enough to meet and be looked after by the founder, Zamaine Ismail. It’s easy to appreciate the laid back, club aesthetic, that is until you notice the cigar menu, and then you realise this is somewhere very different.
Zamaine said the idea of West and Hunter came to him as a result of working in places like Selfridges where relaxed and aesthetic would be the last words to come to mind. The niche in the market for an atmospheric, relaxed club barber had remained untapped until that point, so it was the natural place to start.
When considering locations for West and Hunter, the Chiswick area was an obvious choice. West and Hunter’s sleek black look makes the grooming club look like somewhere you want to be. When I asked Zamaine about his famous client base, his lips were sealed. Let’s just say he knows how to get rid of paparazzi.
Every appointment at West and Hunter comes with a thorough consultation. You’re able to choose from a menu what services you’d like to experience, whether it be a luxury shave, a scrub facial or haircut. I personally recommend ‘The Indulgence’ experience, which includes a bespoke haircut, luxury shave, facial and head massage.
You’ll be looked after by hair and face professionals who probably know your hair and skin better than you do. Once you’ve picked out your hair service, you are treated to exclusive Balmain Paris hair products, ultra high quality ingredients for this experience. West and Hunter also offer their own high-quality products available for purchase.
The Bar is really eye catching and has a selection of drinks including herbal tea, barista quality coffees or for something a little stronger there whiskies, gins and more. The drinks are also complimentary across all services with W+H Gentlemen’s Grooming Club.
When asked about his inspiration when designing and creating West and Hunter, Zamaine Ismail said that the club aesthetic, and the à la carte style was high on his list. Despite its popular location, you still feel the exclusivity as if it was your very own private barber. Once your hair is finished, you have a selection of facial care treatments to choose from. Skincare is often overlooked by many, but is vital for healthy skin and overall hygiene. Throughout my experience, I was recommended skin care advice to keep my skin glowing and clear. It is also important to point out they are a plastic free, cruelty free and environmentally conscious business.
As I walked out of West and Hunter, I had a new confidence as my skin was glowing, and my hair was perfect.
To discover more, visit: westandhunter.com
All imagery courtesy of West and Hunter.
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