I needed to get a haircut, so I checked out a not too distant barbershop that a friend had mentioned offered straight shaves.

Their information is below. They take walk-ins only, no appointments.

Ron's Barber Stylist Shop
Address: 2000 Mendon Rd, Cumberland, RI 02864 Phone:(401) 333-0060

 It's a nice little old style 2 seat barbershop with lots of antique barbering paraphenalia on the walls and shelves. They have a nice collection of shaving mugs located atop the soffit containing the mirror lighting. They seem to carry most of the Pinaud line of products, but I don't believe there's much demand. They carry a host of other brands as well.

The stylist Ann who sat me explained that she was the only one in the shop who does straight shaves. She also explained that she only works Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

She first gave me my haircut, and did a fine job. She trimmed my goatie without the use of a trimmer guide, using only her comb to judge the depth. I have to say, it looks great, and better than my #2.5 job ever did.

She began the shave by adding the headpiece to the chair, then laying me back. She then rubbed some warm moisuring/lubricating lotion into my skin. I asked her what the product was, but I was apparently to comfortable too remember. After she had let that sit, as she explained, to soften my beard, she applied the 1st hot towel. It was not hot enough in my opinion, but it felt great regardless. She let that sit for maybe 2-3 minutes then replaced it with another. Again, very relaxing. She then began the shave using a replaceable type straight razor and warm lather that I didn't see her prepare. She was very gentle, and didn't pull my beard at all. In fact, if often felt like there was no cutting going on. When she finished, she wiped my face, then applied another hot towel. After a minute, she removed it and applied aftershave to my face. On top of this she then lightly laid a cold damp towel on my face. That was it, all done.

I checked out, total $26. Not too bad for something as relaxing as that. My only complaint, the shave isn't that close. She didn't go against the grain, but maybe this isn't something that is normally done in a barbershop. I don't have any prior experience to gauge it against.

If you are in the area, and want a nice pampered nostalgic shave, I'd recommend checking Ann out.

- John