The Art of Shaving

I came into Art of Shaving for a straight razor shave after doing No-​Shave November. The price was comparable to other barbers in the area.
Roberto did a great job, and my face is as smooth as it has ever been. He was very friendly, talkative but still focused on what he was doing. Would highly recommend.

Roberto you are awesome in every way! I purchased the royal package for the hubby, and he absolutely loved it. No Knicks or cuts. Just a smooth relaxing shave. He even cleaned up his neck afterward.
He was fast, but not where you felt like he was rushing. He also gave my hubby some shaving tips.

My boyfriend is growing out his first beard and desperately needed the grooming essentials. The staff was extremely helpful when it came to picking out the electric razor, pre-​shave, and after shave creams to help maintain his wire like whiskers. He absolutely loves all of the products!
I will definitely continue to come back and buy for his beard needs!

I want to give this place more stars, I really do. The barber was very friendly and my beard was looking great when I walked out. Unfortunately, the skin around my beard looked like I had a VD on my neck. I’ve never broken out after getting a shave (let alone after shaving myself)– but boy did I this time. Even the back of my neck broke out, and my regular barber shaves that without incident every time i get a haircut.
I think the problem had to do with the barber here using very short strokes which cause a great deal of irritation. And left me irritated.

I’ve been to lots of Art of Shaving locations every time I travel, and I must say, this location let me down.
I was lost and walking around trying to find this place, and I called over 7 times in 15 min trying to ask them for help finding them, and no one answered the phone.
Not only did they just lose out on $ 60 business, but now they get another bad review on Unilocal.
I’m sorry to say, your location is not up to par with the others.
On to the next shave place in Chicago…

The staff at this location is amazing! Very helpful, knowledgeable and informative without making me feeling pressured. I had questions on how to use my current Art of Shaving kit and learned the proper way to use it. Thank you!
I also booked and got a shave from the barber Roberto. He was by far the best at giving me a straight edge shave to date!!! His attention to detail, technical ability and overall customer service was spot on!!!
I highly recommend Roberto and if you haven’t experienced a straight edge shave this is the place to go!!!
Thank you!

So the hubby wants to try out a safety razor… I know nothing about men’s facial shaving stuff.
We stopped in here and man, did we learn everything possible about shaving!!!
The salesman was helpful, informative, funny, and nice.
We ended up getting about $ 400 worth of stuff… this isnt cheap. I realized its a little ridiculous in price, however most of the products seem like they will last forever. The shaving cream is amazing. You need the smallest dollop to make a lather for your entire face.
Overall, I find this a great place to get a little something special for someone… especially a gift that you dont really know what to get.

My double edge razor blade was confiscated at the airport, so I needed a blade and I wasn’t going to settle for some disposable razor. Luckily this store was within walking distance of my hotel. I stopped in, explained my run in with TSA and asked to buy a single razor.
The lady went into a back room and handed me a single, new, Merkur razor blade on the house. What class and excellence towards customers!
Thank you for helping me out.

Coming to the Mag Mile for a proper shave like a grown-​up? Wow. Who would have thunk it? After some initial hiccups in arranging my shave, the day finally came when I sat my butt in the barber’s chair and got to experience a luxury I rarely allow myself. I’m not a fan of shaving. I do it so that I don’t hear a chorus of «La Da De, La Da Da» as I walk down the street, but it’s not something I do as regularly as I should. It’s funny: as a little kid, I loved to watch my dad shave and pretend that I had a beard to shave as well. As an adult, I realize it’s a pain in the a$$ to do it all the time. I’d much rather have someone do it for me… while in pure comfort.
Enter: The Art of Shaving.
I was scheduled for a Royal Shave: forty-​five minutes of indulgence in the ‘proper’ way to shave (something I, evidently, never do). It began with sitting in a fine-as-frog’s-hair leather barber chair that lured me to sleep. Worried that I would get Sweeney Todd’ed (my cousin), not even my crazy anxieties could wrest me from the sleep that the chair demands. Since I am writing you this review today, trust that I was not made into pie bu the demon barber of the Mag Mile. Where was I? Oh yes, comfy chair. Next came the hot towel which enveloped my face in warmth and was followed up by oil to soften the hairs and protect the skin. Asking the look I was seeking, barber Peter Vitale lathered me up and got to work crafting a signature look that would make Tyra jump up and down whilst eating chicken wings and snatching the weave off of Naomi’s head. I looked good. I looked really really good. I’m trying to be humble, but I can’t. It’s not a testament to my genes. It’s praise for the work Vitale does. I felt like a celebrity. Not only that but for a big, burly guy (who could probably whoop some a$$ with little trouble), Vitale’s hands are soft and smooth. I liked having him touch my face. I know, I know… it’s weird. I told him this and he laughed. He says people call him ‘Kitten Paws’ because so many people comment about the relaxing feeling of his soft hands. I appreciate it. For a high-​end experience, you want the hands manipulating your face to feel good, not like sandpaper.
But, I wasn’t done. I received a second, scented hot towel to the face and instead of the stinging alcohol of Brut, my aftershave balm was smooth, soothing oil mask. One more cold towel with lavender cooled everything down and a final application of post-​shave balm made sure my skin wasn’t on fire nor would it break out. It was a pretty special experience. Indulgent, for sure, but incredibly satisfying. I’d, gladly, do it again.

I purchased this as a gift for my boyfriend.
I paid a fairly decent amount for the «Royal shave/​facial/​haircut»
I asked my Boyfriend how it went and he said «fine». He loves getting a straight razor shave, and to hear such a blah response about a place was very disappointing. I knew he just didn’t want to hurt my feelings since it was a present.
First things first, it includes a «facial», a FACIAL, includes a forehead, which they evidently forgot was part of the face.
His hair was SOOO heavily gelled, that I thought he time traveled back to the early 90’s, or at the very least, one of the AXE hair commercials. This place was close to where an event was for the night, and I thought he’d love to get pampered, while I was getting my hair done. He came back to pick me up and he had to wash his hair out. Gross.
The aftershave that they put on him smelled like some farm animal, and left his face horribly sticky feeling.
If you are looking for an hour of pampering for your urban man, please look else where.

I created a Unilocal account just so I could rave about the service at this location, and I haven’t even set foot in here yet. They did considerable damage-​control for the online store.
I originally placed an order online for an anniversary gift. After a week went by and I had not yet received a shipping confirmation, I sent a polite email inquiry. They responded with a phone call instructing me to call and provide some additional information within the end of the day or my order would be canceled. I did that and was basically asked to read back the order with prices — this was supposedly some grand security measure. I was told the issue was cleared up and that I’d be getting a shipping confirmation within two days. Two days later and still no confirmation. I spoke with someone again, and while listening to the rep tell me that my order will be «expedited» and shipped out by the weekend (I needed it for Saturday, which is why I originally placed an order two weeks in advance), I realized that there was an AOS location in downtown Chicago. The salesperson there placed my desired products on hold for me to pick up tomorrow.
Bottom line: Very pleasant and competent at the physical store location. I should have checked there first.

If I could give this zero stars I would. .. not because the guy that cut my hair was not nice (he was), and not because I do not like their products (I do). But rather I would give this nothing if I could because I went for a hair cut and shave, and I lost an entire layer of skin on my neck. Unacceptable.
I was really looking forward to treating myself to the shave — something I have never done before and have always wanted to do. But I could tell about half way through that it was not the relaxing experience I hoped for. With each swipe of the straight razor, I felt more and more like I was making a mistake. When I got home, my neck was literally bleeding and on fire (I have applied aloe and ice to no avail), and now I am certain that I’ve had better shaves at home with a dull disposable razor.
My advice is to spend the money on a good shaving cream and a sharp, regular razor. Your neck will thank you.

We went to Art of Shaving to buy gifts for the groomsmen in our wedding. They have great products to begin with and I have bought things for my (now) husband and for my father here before, but we had such a great service experience at this store that it made it that much better. The associate that helped us was really great in suggesting gifts that were within our price range, that would appeal to everyone, and to help us weigh the pros and cons of all of the products. He was super friendly and helpful and we ended up staying in the store for a while as he told us about his own wedding and how he met his wife. It was very sweet.
They also have a great little one chair barber «shop» in the back of the store where they do straight razor shaves and other skin treatments for men. Since my husband bought all of his groomsmen’s gifts there, they gave him a complimentary shave for either the day of or the day before our wedding.

Don’t buy their products and definitely don’t utilize their services.
*Disclaimer* I’ve had numerous barber shaves from numerous barbers in numerous states and this was BY FAR the worst experience I’ve had.
First off, they called me 4 hours before my appointment to tell me that they scheduled me for a time that the barber doesn’t actually work. Then they asked if I could come in within the hour… on a Thursday… during the day.
They called back an hour later to say that it would be ok if I came in at the scheduled time. I should have realized at that point that they must have argued with the barber and convinced him to stay late.
When I got there, it was all business. I sat down in the chair, he asked what I wanted, mocked me for it, and then away he went.
What followed was the fastest shave and haircut I’ve even gotten. The barber was completely careless and paid absolutely no mind to what I asked for… only to the clock.
I went in with long curly hair (that I wanted to keep) and a beard. I left with short hair and a poorly shaven face.
If you’re a girl looking to get your man a cool gift… a barber shave IS a great idea. Just don’t get it here.
If you’re a guy looking for a quality shave and/​or haircut… seek elsewhere.

I konw I’m a female, BUT I must say if you want an instant relationship lifter, have your man get groomed at the Art of Shaving!
My man was looking a bit hairy. I nickname him a chia pet because he can shave his face at night, and in the morning he’s prickley again. but I loooovve him anyway.
Anywhoo, one day we walked into the Art of Shaving. He was hooked up with a fantastic shave and lining. He looked extremely handsome and smelled extra fresh. I bought him the lavendar face balm, and we both love it. All the ladies (and some men) know there’s nothing like a freshly groomed man! Woot!

I have a very, very happy man at home thanks to Art of Shaving.
I went in there last week to check it out 1) as I have passed it numerous times cutting through Northbridge Mall and 2) because I wanted to get my fiancé something really nice for his 30^th birthday.
I went in on a Thursday afternoon and the staff was incredibly attentive, professional, and extremely knowledgeable about all of their products. I have to admit, the only reason I didn’t buy anything that day was because the prices put me off a bit — very expensive.
I thought about it over the weekend, realized my man deserves the best, and went back there yesterday to purchase it for his b-​day. Adanand (sp) and Melissa were super nice and helpful, explained the way all of the gizmos and products worked, and even applied a discount to my total even though it was to be applied to my next purchase!
I gave him his gift last night, and the look on his face was priceless. Little did I know he had been wanting to buy this for himself, but didn’t because it was too expensive.
I am very happy with the service I received and my fiancé couldn’t have been happier with everything. He used it this morning and said it was the best shave he’s ever had, not to mention he smelled amazing which is a bonus for me.
I can confidently say Art of Shaving has a new and returning customer.

This is as good as it gets when it comes to shaving products. I have been using this product line for a few years now. My intention of not using it won’t happen. This is NOT cheap stuff at all but this is shaving at it’s best. The nice thing is that you don’t need to use much saving cream at all.
Great people as well. I did visit this place once and was very impressed. Product line is nice too. I’ve gone between the unscented line and the lavender line. The crew is very knowledgeable on products (although I pretty much knew what I wanted). I HATE shaving but this line makes shaving something you want to do. The 4 step process makes this happen. First, is the pre-​shave preparation gel softening the skin. Then you apply the shaving cream (get the beaver or badger brush) and apply to the skin (you might be amazed how little cream you’ll use and how long a tub will last). A little lather will go a LONG way. Obviously you’ll shave it off and I noticed a difference that my shave was so smooth. Few (and I do mean few) if any bumps. The post shave cream provides great moisture for the skin.
This place has a real old school feeling. As I already said, the guys were fantastic. Great line for both men & women. I’ll sum it up like this. Ladies, imagine when you receive some Origins product and how you felt. This is the male equal if you need to find a gift for a man. If the women’s line is as good as the men, grab some for yourself.

This is among the best retail establishments in Chicago! The entire staff is well versed in their product line, exceptionally professional, incredibly personable; its truly an upscale experience without being pretentious. Beyond the shopping experience, the AoS products are EXCEPTIONAL… I’m a guy who hates to shave, that was until I was introduced to this line by Adnan, the store’s manager. Now, I look forward to the experience of my next shave! Trust me, using the series of recommended products isn’t hype or a sales pitch, its the reality of getting the best shave and skin you’ve ever known.

Your attention please, ladies and gentlemen (In Bob Sheppard’s «Voice of God» soothing baritone). I’m about to solve many of your gift needs.
Got a man in your life that you care about? Pamper him at the Art of Shaving. Trust me, it is the perfect gift. You can hook him up with Aaron, the barber, for a straight razor shave or haircut. I’ve indulged in this treat at another location and it’s great. Or you can just get some of their shaving products.
Never done a brush shave? You are missing out. You’ll get much better results and fewer nicks and cuts. My wife got me a starter kit years ago, and I’ve been converted. It took me a bit to get used to the new routine, but it was well worth it. That kit included a book that described the history of shaving (did you know they used to use sea shells to do it?) and tips on how to get the perfect shave (not going against the grain was a particular lifesaver). You’ll need the preshave oil, shaving cream (which I prefer) or soap, a badger hair brush and after shave balm (nothing with alcohol as that dries out your skin and makes you look old-​who wants that?). So, work that oil into your beard, lather up your brush with the cream and cover your beard with it. Shave with the grain and across if needed. Rinse off with cold water and slap on some of the post shave balm and you are golden.
There are a lot of different scents and sizes. Start with something small to find a scent you like and then get the big ones. You’ll also want one of those travel kits with TSA sizes and an alum block or pen that stops any nicks and cuts you may get.
I had been waiting for this shop to open since I saw the «coming soon» sign. It’s a really nice shop. There is plenty to take in, so have a look around. Yes, they have stuff for the ladies too. And they also have gold and silver shaving stands, razors and brushes if you need some bling. Got the back ups I needed and hopefully helped out fellow Unilocalers in the process.

Ever since I saw the «Coming Soon!» signage in the mall, I knew I wanted to give this place a shot. It’s a new store in a nation wide chain, but it doesn’t feel like a chain.
I’ve never been to a proper barber, and this was an outstanding first experience. Aaron was a great barber — he was talkative, but not overly so. He’s been doing that work for 10+ years and it showed. His skill with the blade and confidence made it easy for me to forget that there was a large man using a 4″ razor blade on my neck.
The whole barber experience there was relaxing, from the dark wood decorating to the classy lighting to the smooth music. The hot lather and warm towels make shaving at home feel like shoving icepicks somewhere unpleasant. Ok, it’s not that bad, but if I could afford it I would have Aaron give me the deluxe shave every day.
This isn’t an every day kinda thing, but it’s a great treat to yourself after a rough week or before a hot date. I’m sure it’s a little expensive for a barber, but you’re getting 5-​star service on Michigan Avenue. Crap, I know girls who drive 45 minutes and spend $ 100+ on their hair every 2 – 3 weeks. I think $ 35 — $ 60 on some manly grooming isn’t too much every now and then, am I right or am I right?