ld styles always come back, and in this case, it's lack of technology (which wasn't really a style-choice back then, rather than the only option available). What I'm talking about is the old-school face-shave; it was a little bit of pampering for the guys, but they would never admit it back then, hiding behind the façade of dinky old chairs and one of those swirly poles out front. Well, times they are a changing, and pampering is no longer something for men to avoid, nor be ashamed to enjoy. The old-style manual face-shave is back (sorry Braun 360° Complete), except this time it's a little different – now, luxury and style are its main accomplices. At least at The Shave of New York.

Sit back in that comfy, black leather chair, lean back your head and enjoy the shave – this Nolita barbershop is changing the meaning of the B word to something way more opulent than you would ever normally associate it with. The quality of this shop's old-style barbering is the same, because the family behind the shop has been in the business for over 40 years. The owners, siblings Daniela and John Scala, must have grooming skills in their genes since their uncle owns a barbershop called Francesca's in Grand Central. The duo got experience working in the business for ten years before they decided to go out on their own and open The Shave. "We want to educate men how to achieve the perfect shave using the right products, " said Daniela. The store specifically only uses two shaving products, Truefitt & Hill, and Taylor's Old Bond Street, which have both been around since 1805 and the mid 1800's respectively. "We only carry products that don't have any alcohol, synthetics or dyes, peppermint oil, benzacane or menthol – we use those products because they're all natural," the sister-half of the ownership duo explained.

Having opened only slightly over a week ago on June 1st, The Shave of New York has received a considerable amount of attention, from both customers and from the media. "There's nothing like it in the area," said Daniela of her shop. "We're going back to the basics," she said; they're bringing back the traditional shave and showing men how to do it right. The shop also offers haircuts, scalp and skin treatment, as well as free shaving consultations. As you are sitting in the barber chair, getting your head massaged, you probably don't think life could get any better… but it can. The Shave gladly offers their customers unlimited complementary alcohol or cappuccinos to enjoy – within reason, of course!

From the store's sign alone, passersby can tell that, although the services go back to the basics, this place has style that Uncle Joe's Barbershop definitely lacked 50 years ago. The lettering is swirly and rich looking, which gives it a classy, traditional look. At the storefront window, you can see what is called a "Service Menu" where you can take a peek at what the shop has to offer if you feel like getting a spontaneous haircut or hot-towel shave (both walk-ins and appointments are accepted). Inside the shop, the style is blatantly classic with wood everywhere – the shelving on the walls filled with skin-smoothing potions and products to be sold, and the barriers between shaving sections are all natural, medium-brown wood, while the walls are brick. This natural simplicity is juxtaposed with glistening chandeliers hanging from the off-white ceiling, which is lined with crown molding, all of which add touches of luxury and elegance.

So come on by, have the best shave of your life, buy some of the store's own products (travel brushes, razors and regular brushes), have a seat, relax, have a beer or an cappuccino and let all your troubles fade away as you close your eyes and are taken back to a simpler time when shaving was an experience and not just a mundane daily routine (except with more luxurious furnishings). - M.K.