a day ago
- Lifestyle
- South China Morning Post
In pictures: in streets or salons, Hong Kong barbers make the cut
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.
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.
A young boy gets a trim at a Hong Kong barber shop in 1976. Photo: SCMP Archives
