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In pictures: in streets or salons, Hong Kong barbers make the cut
Whether it’s on the roadside or at a high-end hair salon, here’s how Hongkongers have been styling it out since the 1970s
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Haircuts are not just a basic necessity – they also reflect Hong Kong’s cultural evolution and economic development.
Back in the day, roadside barbers and small back-alley salons just offered quick trims. These affordable services were popular among working-class families.
During the 1940s and 50s, a wave of Shanghai immigrants brought with them refined hair styling and shaving techniques. Shanghai-style salons quickly set a new trend, offering elegant and quality grooming in addition to the bare basics.
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By the 80s and 90s, as fashion became more global, high-end salons started to emerge and Hongkongers embraced modern cuts and a wider variety of hair treatments.
We look back at some South China Morning Post photographs, showing street-side barbers and top salons, capturing how Hongkongers have cut and styled their hair from the 1970s to the 2000s.
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