Thread: Straight Razors in New Orleans

I'll be spending a week in New Orleans starting tomorrow, and hope to shop for a straight razor or two.

Does anyone have any intel on where to go? Any particular shop? I've heard about Aiden Gill, but not whether he carries new or vintage razors.

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers,

Jack

Well, I went to New Orleans, spent a day eating, drinking, and shopping my way up and down Magazine St., and spent 2 days of Jazzfest. I stopped in Aiden Gill's place at 2026 Magazine St. This is the temple to the luxury shave. This place is immaculate. He does the shaves, sorry, the finest shaves in the world, in the back, past the dazzling displays of shave accoutrements: all manor of quality shave soaps, brushes, creams, balms, aftershaves ... you name it. He has some great displays of old straight razors, but only appears to sell one brand new: the Fromm. It looked pretty nice. The nicest lady in the world informed me that the straight razor shave at Aiden Gill's is not possible due to sterilization regulations. But judging from the countenance of the customer just leaving, the Aiden Gill shave is transcendant ... and may or many not include a nice drink. The nicest lady in the world informed me that the shave really counts on the prep as the foundation of the whole shave -- she might have mentioned 5 hot towels. I passed on the Fromm razor for no particular reason, but did buy, at ther suggestion, some Santa Maria Novella Crema de Barba. I tried to get in for a shave, but couldn't find the right time. But I'll definitely go back, with an appointment, no matter what takes me to New Orleans again.

If anyone gets to New Orleans, drop in or call ahead. I dont' think you'll be disappointed.

Cheers,

Jack

Sounds like you had a great time. I've heard the SMN creme is good stuff. Enjoy the ride, cause that's half the adventure.

Well, I didnt see your thread when posted, but my only advice would have been that the French Quarter Antique/junk shops are massively overpriced in their offerings of straight razors.

Originally Posted by Pete_S

Well, I didnt see your thread when posted, but my only advice would have been that the French Quarter Antique/junk shops are massively overpriced in their offerings of straight razors.

I appreciate that, Pete -- and that is exactly what I noticed. Little selection, high prices. I did find an antique place out on Magazine street that had about 10 old straights. The only one that looked interesting was a Genco with translucent dark green scales. it was pretty clean, and straight at the bevel, but had some rust on the spine and jimp area that made it seem not worth it for $85, even were I to negotiate down from that.

Cheers,

Jack