INFEATURE
PAUL IN ALL He’s a 34-year-old Brit with a cool men’s hair studio is Sydney’s hipster Darlinghurst who designs his own men’s shirts in his spare time. Paul Anthony shares the secrets to his success with Michelle Ruzzene. ON MOVING TO AUSTRALIA SIX YEARS AGO… “I always had a fascination with Australia since being a child, and as I grew up I heard more and more people say how beautiful it was. When I got to a point of knowing where I was in life I got that Australian visa and came to see for myself. It was instant love - it’s a beautiful place.”
ON STARTING HIS OWN BUSINESS… “I was working for a company here and I realised that I had way too much passion to be held back by working for someone else. So one day I walked out and set up in my apartment in Kings Cross. It grew from there and I’m thankful the Aussies have loved my vibe.”
ON OPENING HIS OWN SALON… “I saw there was a huge gap in the market for beautiful men’s hair. It was either barber or very feminine salons. I’ve created a stunning space that is very chilled, masculine and it’s the most relaxing space with all the plants and natural light.”
ON CREATING HIS OWN RANGE OF MEN’S SHIRTS … “The label came about as I myself struggled to get really great smart casual shirts that fit well. The unique focus was avoiding the chest gape which happens on so many guys (as we love a big chest) so I added the extra button in the chest area. It’s a design difference with a practice element. It’s cool.”
ON THE SHIRTS’ UNIQUE DESIGN ELEMENTS… “I always struggled to get shirts that were not too short or oversized so I created a great fit and a length that tucks well and stops the torso looking short and boxy – they’re amazing for tall guys. I only use the best cotton to ensure the shirts last and feel amazing on the skin. My eye for colour is amazing so twice a year we get stunning new colours.”
WHY HE IS FOCUSING ON MEN’S HAIR… “I’m focusing on men because I see so many cuts that just don’t make sense. I feel there’s a lack of education from stylist or barbers to the male clientele. I focus hard on consultation, and really 8 - INSTYLE MEN
getting to know what the guy wants and how his lifestyle with fit with his style. My main focus is a great cut that suits the guy and works well for him at home and when he’s just living his life.”
ON SOCIAL MEDIA… “I have a love / hate relationship with social media – it can be a great thing because it opens you up to the whole world and gives you opportunities to connect and get inspired. But it can be hard to stand out from others, as things like Instagram allow people to alter or be something they are not.”
ON HIS PLANS FOR THE FUTURE… “Stay true to my brand. Keep it simple and have a studio that’s renowned for quality and let it grow in a very chilled way. I obviously want every guy possible wearing my shirts. Get buying guys!” More info: www.hairbypaulanthony.com www.paulanthonylabel.com
