Memphis's hair scene channels its deep music heritage, blending rockabilly pomps and soul-era classics with a nationally-recognized, world-class Black barbering culture that you won't find in Nashville.
Memphis barbers bring serious classic and Black barbering heritage — the city's music history shows up in its hair, with pompadours, slick-backs, and modern takes on soul-era styles alongside contemporary fades and buzz designs. Cooper-Young and Overton Square have the most creative modern shops.
Memphis has very warm, humid summers and mild, wet winters, with significant annual precipitation of 1375 mm.
The high humidity, especially in summer, makes frizz a constant battle for nearly all hair types. Styles that require significant volume may fall flat quickly, and sleek looks need strong, humidity-blocking products to prevent poofing. The dampness can make fine hair feel limp while causing thicker, coarser hair to expand, so moisture balance is key year-round.
Cooper-Young
As the city's artsy and eclectic heart, Cooper-Young's hair scene is creative and less traditional. Expect modern shags, bold color, and stylists who aren't afraid to experiment.
South Main Arts District
This revitalized downtown neighborhood blends historic architecture with a gallery-hopping crowd. The styles are similarly sharp and intentional—think architectural cuts, sleek bobs, and polished, professional looks.
High Point Terrace
A classic, established residential neighborhood that is home to some of the city's most beloved legacy barbershops. This is where you go for a perfect traditional cut without fuss.
A handful of Memphis-area salons and barbershops sourced from OpenStreetMap. We don't get paid to feature them — they're here as orientation, not an endorsement.
- 01 $$
Empire Hair Studio
Modern, creative cuts and color in the heart of Cooper-Young. · Cooper-Young
- 02 $
High Point Barber Shop
An old-school barbershop known for classic cuts and traditional service. · High Point Terrace
- 03 $$$
Studio 1A
Upscale, precision cuts and styling in the South Main arts district. · South Main Arts District
- 04 $$
Motherland Braids
Specializing in intricate braiding styles, twists, and natural hair care. · Winchester
- 05 $$
Omololu International
A cultural hub focused on natural hair styling, locs, and maintenance. · Bellbrook
- 06 $$
Curl Up & Dye Hair & Nail Salon
A fun, full-service salon offering a wide range of hair services. · Bartlett
- 07 $$
LaRue's Haircutters
A reliable, family-friendly salon for classic men's and women's haircuts. · Kirby Parkway
Memphis style is rooted in a real, tangible history you can still feel on Beale Street. The legacy of Elvis's rockabilly pomp and the slick, processed looks of Stax and Hi Records artists never fully left; they just evolved. Today, you'll see that DNA in the city's world-class barbershops, where a sharp fade or a perfectly sculpted high-top is a point of pride. This isn't just about a haircut; it's a continuation of a cultural lineage. Barbers here are masters of the straight razor lineup and intricate designs, a skill set that’s central to the local aesthetic.
Away from the barbershop chair, the humid climate dictates a lot. You'll see many embracing their natural texture, with an abundance of stunning braid work, locs, and twist-outs that work with the weather, not against it. In creative enclaves like Cooper-Young, the vibe shifts towards more lived-in styles: shags, mullets, and vibrant color that reflect the neighborhood's indie spirit. In East Memphis and Germantown, the look is more classically Southern and polished, but still practical for the heat. Overall, Memphis hair isn't about chasing fleeting coastal trends; it's about finding a durable, personal style that honors heritage while standing up to the Delta humidity.
For 2026, the city is seeing a subtle shift from razor-sharp precision to a blend of structure and softness. The high-contrast skin fade is giving way to softer tapers and more textured fades that grow out gracefully. While classic pompadours remain a staple, they're being styled with less product for more movement—a modern, less rigid take on the rockabilly icon. There's also a growing demand for authentic 70s-inspired cuts like the shag and wolf cut, particularly around the University of Memphis area, as a new generation rediscovers the city's soulful, gritty past. In the braiding world, intricate, artistic stitch braids and knotless styles continue to dominate, valued for their protective qualities during the intensely humid summer months.
- Men's cut
- $35–$60
- Color service
- $110–$225
A handful of haircuts pair particularly well with the way Memphis lives, works, and looks. Preview any of these on your own face before you book.
Pompadour for Oval Face
Oval faces are the perfect canvas for any pompadour style. Preview the classic, modern, and textured versions with AI try-on before your visit.
Slick Back for Oval Face
The slick back is one of the most timeless men's hairstyles. Try the classic, undercut, and modern versions with AI try-on for oval faces.
Fade Haircut for Square Face
Fades and square jawlines are a powerful combination. Find which fade height flatters your angles most with an AI hairstyle try-on preview.
Buzz Cut for Oval Face
Oval faces pull off nearly any buzz cut length. Try different guard lengths with AI try-on and find the perfect buzz for your face shape today.
Textured Crop for Oval Face
The textured crop is practically made for oval faces. Preview short, medium, and long fringe versions with AI try-on to find your ideal style.
Side Part for Oval Face
The side part is a timeless men's style that suits oval faces perfectly. Try the hard part and soft part variations with AI try-on.
See the cut on your face before your Memphis appointment.
Upload a single photo and preview any hairstyle, color, or beard on your actual face in under a minute with Hairstyle AI — free on iOS and Android. Save the preview, bring it to your Memphis barber.
Frequently Asked Questions
01. How do I keep my hair from frizzing in the Memphis humidity?
It's a constant challenge. First, use a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Second, incorporate anti-humectant styling products—look for ingredients like silicones or plant-based oils that create a barrier against moisture. A good leave-in conditioner is non-negotiable. For curly or coily hair, gels with a strong hold can define your pattern and lock out humidity. Avoid over-touching your hair throughout the day, as this can disrupt the cuticle and invite frizz.
02. Where can I find a specialist for natural hair or braids?
Memphis has a wealth of talent for natural hair. For braiding, a place like Motherland Braids is renowned for intricate and healthy styles. If you're looking for expertise in locs, twists, and general natural hair care, Omololu International is a fantastic salon that focuses specifically on these services. It's always best to book a consultation to discuss your specific hair goals and needs, as these styles are highly personalized.
03. I'm in Cooper-Young and need a modern cut. Where should I look?
Cooper-Young is the perfect neighborhood for a contemporary style. You'll find stylists who are comfortable with more creative and edgy looks. A salon like Empire Hair Studio, located right on Cooper Street, fits the neighborhood's vibe perfectly and is known for its modern approach to cutting and color. They're a great choice if you're looking for something beyond a traditional trim.
04. Can I get a good, classic men's cut without all the fuss?
Absolutely. Memphis has a strong tradition of no-nonsense, high-quality barbershops. For a truly classic experience, check out High Point Barber Shop. It's an institution known for delivering sharp, traditional cuts, tapers, and shaves without the boutique salon price tag or atmosphere. You go there for the skill and the conversation, and you leave with a perfect cut.
