from the desk of the groomed man
The Bearded Man
A few months ago I was walking down Chapel Street when I noticed a space being transformed. Soon after, The Bearded Man opened. Combining a passion for barbering, music and coffee, owner (Josh Mihan) has delivered a unique experience, and is gaining a lot of interest from locals and Melbournites over.
Upon entering, you’re greeted by the friendly team, in a welcoming environment. Whether it’s to go and grab a coffee, listen to some relaxing tunes, or grab a cut, the atmosphere is just right. I’m fortunate enough to stock my beard oil here, and I cannot get enough of the place.
I sat down with Josh.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.
So, I’ve been in the hairdressing industry for 15 years. I started when I was 14. My father was a Barber and his father was a Barber.
I spent most of my time in Australia working at BIBA, about 7 years in total. I lived in London for 2 years where I managed a well known Barber shop called Murdocks.
How did you come up with the idea?
After travelling and observing different mens hair and grooming cultures, I came back to Australia inspired, ready to put my knowledge, experience and what I learnt, into my own shop.
I felt like there was a space within the industry for men’s Barbering to really grow and move forward out of the traditional ‘retro’ looks. It seemed like you either had the option of a hairdresser to attempt a hack into your beard or go to a typical barber where they give you what there look is, not what you wanted. So I created a place where all men with different types of hair can get a quality look that is specific to their style and hair.
What is the vision going forward for The Bearded Man?
I’m looking to really build an edge to men’s products and services and take it forward to a place where individuality and a strong sense of style can be brought out in everyone. There is alot of work to be done in Australia and in Barbering in this respect I think.
Any beard care advice?
The best kept beards are the ones that are looked after usually every 3 weeks is the right time to get a beard trim and making sure in between using a beard oil.
What’s the best thing about The Bearded Man Melbourne?
The best thing about the Bearded Man is its not just a place you can only come to have a haircut or beard trim. Sundays we have an open mic and every friday and saturdays Djs play great tunes and only vinyl of course. What could be better get a haircut, have a beer and be taken by the great environment that is the bearded man.