I'll start off this review by saying that I am VERY picky when it comes to selecting who I choose to cut and style my hair. My hair is so a part of my identity. It's my signature, and as shallow as this may sound, it is my best feature. So when it comes to trusting someone with my most prized element of my style, I can be a tad anxious in the selection process. If you live or work in Downtown St. Louis, Classics is the place to go! They have offer a number of stylists who have a range of specialties for both men and women. The first time I went to Classics when my regular barber was out of town (more on him in a bit), I was randomly assigned Courtney and she was really awesome. She was a very good barber and I would totally recommend her. Pro Tip for when you drive to Classics: Park on the street just south of Washington Avenue, which is St. Charles Street. There's always ample parking back there, and you can usually beat the meter maids. They don't patrol that area as much as Washington. Classics has a pretty chic vibe inside. I love how they converted the large support poles into barber poles. What a creative use of existing structures. I've never had to wait for my appointment, but there is a very comfy looking waiting area with a leather couch. The chairs for barbers and stylists are spaced well so that you don't feel like you're sitting on top of the person next to you while you're getting your haircut. The space feels clean and well kept. As for COVID regulations, they take your temperature when you enter. Both you and your stylist are also required to have a mask on during your appointment. So now on to talking about my barber. I will say I am hesitant to write this review because I don't want everyone in St. Louis to rush to Classics to get a haircut from him. Then I won't be able to make an appointment when I need one!! Andy used to work in a shop on Cherokee Street. I went to him religiously. He is SO skilled. What I really love about Andy is the way he knows about and cares for your hair. You may ask him to cut or style your hair a certain way, and he explains to you why it might not be a good idea. He really understands hair and has earned my trust over the three years I've been going to him for my haircuts. Andy offers a variety of skills when it comes to hair. He can give you a really good fade. In the past he has done an incredible design in my hair. I have referred three or four coworkers to him, all of whom have different hair types and styles. They all love Andy as much as I do. I personally like to have my hairline outlined with a straight razor, a look I picked up when living in New Jersey. Andy's lineup is fire. He is super accurate and his lines are always super straight. When you sit in Andy's chair, it is very relaxing for a number of reasons. I've already touched on how much trust I have in his expertise. But Andy is also a great conversationalist! I love sitting down and chatting with him. Conversation has always felt so natural and free flowing. You really get the feeling like you're one of his close, personal friends as opposed to just a head of hair he has to cut before moving onto the next customer. Today, in addition to my haircut I decided to indulge in some self care by treating myself to a facial with a black cleansing mask. Oh my literal Gee. I have never been so relaxed. He starts off by reclining the chair and slathering your face with oils while a steamer gently blows a eucalyptus scented air onto your face. Next he wrapped a warm towel on my face and gently massaged it over me. Wow it was so amazing. After a few rounds of this routine, he painted the black cleansing mask on my face. I then sat and let it do its pore cleansing work! After about 15 minutes of chilling the mask was peeled off and my face felt so incredibly clean and clear. Andy's prices are so reasonable. I have never felt stressed about being able to afford two haircuts a month. For the quality of my haircuts, I think that he charges a very competitive amount. It's also nice that he accepts mobile payment so you don't have to carry cash or risk passing COVID around by using your card. Wish I could give Andy TEN stars for the quality of his work! read more