What It’s Like To Be A Female Barber? (A Perspective You Hadn’t Thought About)

It’s a shared frustration all around the globe.

I've been in the barbering industry since 2011, and nearly every time I write for a magazine or participate in an interview, the question that arises 8 out of 10 times is, “What’s it like to be a female barber in a male-dominated space?” Whenever I conduct an online poll, the same question pops up. This newsletter is aimed not just at women, but also at men, to help them understand how to better support their female counterparts in challenging situations.

Early Career Challenges
In my early years of barbering, I felt being a female in this space was a disadvantage. It seemed I had to do more to be considered on par with the “average” male barber. There were instances where clients would choose a junior male barber, brand new to the field, over me, despite my competence and comfort with most haircuts and fades. It was discouraging, especially in the first part of my career. 

I knew I had to level myself up in some way. I was always the first to arrive and the last to leave. I took pictures and studied my work, as well as the work of other barbers I admired. Despite investing in my craft early on and attending shows, it often felt like it still wasn't enough to be considered a serious contender. Often, I was dismissed simply because I was a female. At this point, I knew I had to work harder to stand out and build my reputation.

Competitive Drive and Personal Growth
My competitive nature, largely influenced by my upbringing, has always driven me. Growing up my family often compared the kids to each other see “who would turn out the best”. It was a strange yet normal part of my childhood. Engaging in activities considered “masculine,” like sports or getting tattoos, often led to disappointment from my family. Nonetheless, I pursued them, learning the hard way just like everyone else. Being an underdog is a familiar role for me, and it continued in the barbershop.

Female Perspective in Barbering
One of my bosses warned me about what he would classify as potentially offensive conversations, but working there felt like chatting with regular friends. I did not feel sexualized but I did notice a different treatment towards more feminine-looking female barbers when it came to people making assumptions and comments. Being a lesbian probably made it easier for me to blend in with straight male colleagues because it was easy for them to feel like I was just “one of the guys”. It was generally easy for me to build a strong relationship with the men I have worked with. The bond of connecting with co-workers was the easy part for me, the harder issue was getting clients not to overlook you as a barber based on gender. 

For female barbers facing tough situations in the shop, it's crucial to have a plan of action. Here's a strategy that can help navigate these challenges:

• Establish Clear Boundaries: Define what you are comfortable with in terms of conversation and client interaction. Communicate these boundaries clearly to your colleagues and clients. 

• Seek Allyship Within the Shop: Identify colleagues who are supportive and understanding. Build relationships with them so you have allies in the shop. These allies can provide support and stand up for you in challenging situations.

• Develop a Conflict Resolution Plan: Be prepared for potential conflicts. This might include having a script of sorts ready for how to address inappropriate comments or actions. Practice assertive communication that is firm but respectful. Don’t tolerate feeling uncomfortable or unsupported in the workplace. 

• Focus on Professional Development: Continue to build your skills and knowledge. Attend workshops, seminars, and networking events. This not only improves your craft but also builds your confidence and professional network. You are bound to find others like you or who you can connect with near and far in the barber community. 

• Create a Support Network Outside the Shop: Connect with other female barbers or professionals in the industry. Online forums, local groups, or industry associations can offer advice, mentorship, and a sense of community.

• Document Incidents: If any serious issues arise, such as harassment or discrimination, document them. Keep a record of dates, times, and details of the incidents. This documentation can be important if you need to escalate the issue.

• Plan for the Long-Term: Reflect on your long-term career goals. Sometimes, if the environment is consistently toxic and efforts to change it have failed, it might be worth considering a transition to a different shop or even starting your own business.

Remember, every situation is unique, so adapt these strategies to fit your specific circumstances. The key is to prioritize your well-being and professional growth while navigating the challenges in the industry.

As time went on for me, I started to notice things. Once barber battle shows came around to the West Coast, there was this category that started forming “Female Comb-Over Battle” or a category made just for “women.”  My feeling when it started was that it was kind of cool to have this entry way category to join when you’re first getting into that doesn’t feel AS SCARY as jumping into the general category. At the time, I had joined 3 battles to get my name out there and try this scene. By the 3rd one, I knew going into it that I had a “BETTER” chance at winning than joining the general category. I remember thinking, this shouldn’t be what I should be after. If I want to be seen and respected as any man in the field, I have to compete against them, not just women. 

I was soon on a new mission. I had to create a name for myself amongst both genders and the only thing I knew I could bet on was my effort. Where and how can I outwork every single person in any situation? That was the burning question in my mind every single day. 

Broadening Perspectives
I carried a chip on my shoulder for a long time, attributing negative experiences to being a female barber in a male-dominated space. However, meeting Patty Cuts, a white barber working in a predominantly black barbershop, opened my eyes to different forms of bias. His experience with racial differences made me realize that these challenges are not unique to me.

It is fascinating how our perspectives can change. Understanding others' experiences, like Patty's, made me realize biases exist in various forms. This realization has shown me how client assumptions based on ethnicity or appearance can influence their choices in a barbershop. We see that happen all the time. 

Client comments I’ve heard through my career: “If I have asian hair, I should go to an asian barber.” “If I want a conservative haircut, I shouldn’t go to the girl with a faux hawk, she will give me something too crazy.” “If I want my son to get a mohawk, I have to drive to the ghetto to get one.” “Whoever has the best fade in the shop is the barber I want to go to.” 

Standing Out and Embracing Identity
Thankfully, I eventually realized that being a female barber is not the disadvantage I once thought it was. I began to see how I could stand out among male colleagues. Embracing my identity in the industry has diversified my clientele and made people feel comfortable approaching me.

Once you change the story in your mind, the world around you shifts. I started hearing more comments like 'I love female barbers because they know what looks better on guys' and 'female barbers are more detail-oriented,' among other positive remarks.

For those working with female barbers, the best way to support them is by listening and providing a safe space for open communication. Reflecting on instances where I felt unsupported has highlighted the importance of having each other’s back in difficult situations.

Building a better mindset.

Developing a positive mindset has given me more control over my reactions and feelings. I didn’t have a female barber role model when I started, but now there are many inspiring women in the industry. 

Here is a list of women I’ve met and watched over the years that you should check out:

1. Brandi (@theoriginalbarberdoll)

2. Nicole (@_nicolerenae)

3. Jeannie (@crispy_jeannie)

4. Allison (@allison_cuts)

5. Assyria (@assyria.gindo)

6. Hayden (@hayden_cassidy)

Embracing Challenges and Inspiring Change
In a male-dominated field, it's crucial to use our unique positions to create new stories that can surprise and inspire. I’ve enjoyed changing the perceptions of clients who had never been to a female barber before me. Changing minds often requires firsthand experiences that challenge existing beliefs. Even if it’s a small window of change, overtime will compound to a new way of thinking as long as everyone is putting their best foot forward. 

Remember, the value we place on our art is critical. We're just getting started this year. Let's make an impact and share our values in the barbering industry with the world.

Sof!