It’s a concept whose time has come – a grooming salon that lends itself to both men and women.
At Steel Urban styling center in Naples, the sleek black-and-steel interior pops with red architectural accents and provides an ambiance that invites women to enter while at the same time allowing even the most “he-man” of males to offer themselves up to such indulgent treatments as hot towel shaves, deep cleaning facials, waxing, manis, pedis and precision cut hair styles.
My 27-year-old son, Matthew, told me about Steel. Raved about it would be more accurate. He’d discovered Steel and told all of his buddies about it. While Matt’s word of mouth might have brought Steel a few clients, owner Bobby Baucom is perhaps the best advertisement for the salon, as he’s drop-dead gorgeous and just about the most friendly guy you’re likely to find in Naples. Or anywhere.
As Bobby explained to me, “I wanted to be able to cater to both sexes without defining the salon as either male or female. I wanted to offer grooming services to men who like to look good, but don’t want to have to enter a feminine preserve in order to do it. Lot s of men would like to take advantage of these services, but have felt out of place walking into a women’s spa or salon environment in order to get them.”
Steel has an uber modern look and the energetic vibe of a South Beach location. Strategically placed flat screen TVs entertain clients while they’re being pampered and polished.
Perhaps the best thing about Steel is that their prices are fair. Extremely fair. In a market where fees for grooming have become cost prohibitive, Steel not only keeps things in perspective, they couple this with a staff of professional stylists who provide cutting-edge looks via real talent. Pretension is definitely not on the menu at Steel. Everyone is welcome and everyone is awed by the experience.
Bobby also offers clients shopping opportunities by stocking select retail items, including hair and skin care products and unique men’s and women’s fragrances by Italian lines Panama and Carthusia and IKKS from France.
Steel Urban Styling Center is located at 89 9th Street South in Naples, Phone: 239-643-2322. |
