Hair and now

Tomcats

Photo: Talia Simhi

For the high-maintenance uptowner: BBraxton

Husband-and-wife team Brenda Braxton and Anthony Van Putten’s spalike retreat spoils fellas unafraid to indulge in a mani ($20) and pedi ($30). Their mahogany-paneled salon also caters to black hairstyles, serving up Afro trims ($25) and sleek bald pates ($20).
Ask for Female barber Rumi Kitagawa and aesthetician Tanesha Barnes, who will, respectively, smarten up that shaggy mess on your head and soothe your skin.
Extras If you like the Art of Shaving balm that was slathered on your mug during your appointment, you can take home the luxe grooming line ($14–$70).
1400 Fifth Ave at 116th St (212-369-3094, bbraxton.com).

For the rockabilly dude: Tomcats

Specializing in ’40s and ’50s haircuts ($15–$25) including WWII flyboy-style crew cuts and fades, this Greenpoint joint has a laid-back, country vibe. Grab a cold beer from an authentic icebox in the cream-and-red space and relax to bluegrass while you wait for your shave ($25).
Ask for Co-owner Joey Covington (pictured), who has been working as a barber across the country for 13 years and sports an Elvis-style pompadour.
Extras An in-house pinstriper, an artist who tricks out choppers with swirls and other designs, can also custom-paint motorcycle helmets, cars and even bags ($60 per hour).
130 India St between Franklin St and Manhattan Ave, Greenpoint, Brooklyn (718-349-9666).

For the tweed-sporting classics lover: Freemans Sporting Club

This tiny yet bustling gentlemen’s haven is hidden in the back of refined clothing shop Freeman’s Sporting Club. Outfitted with four stations, the minimalist spot is somewhat cramped, but the payoff—retro snips ($40) and expert old-fashioned shaves ($35)—is worth the lack of elbow room.
Ask for Ivan Ferdinand, who keeps the conversation alive with nary an awkward silence.
Extras An apothecary-style boutique stocks elegant grooming products such as Marvis Italian toothpaste ($9 for 2.5 oz.) and Dr. Harris shaving creams ($18–$29).
8 Rivington St between Bowery and Chrystie St (212-673-3209).

For the alternative culture addict: Frank’s Chop Shop

An offshoot of underground urban magazine Frank’s 151, this narrow space—formerly a yarmulke factory—now houses a staff of barbers well versed in old-school and up-to-the-minute cuts ($25). Plant yourself in one of three ’40s Koken barber chairs for the Chop Shop’s specialty, the Classic Shave ($15), which involves a hot towel, a straight razor and a gentle touch.
Ask for Head barber Mr. Bee, who can trim names and geometric designs into the side of your scalp.
Extras Peek into the glass case by the register for limited-edition New Era caps ($40–$80) .
19 Essex St between Canal and Hester Sts (212-228-7442).