Free Domestic Shipping over $150. Free International Shipping over $400+.

How to Talk to Your Barber: Rob McMillen of Mildred, NYC

Most guys have a go-to cut for when it’s time to visit the barbershop. It’s probably something you’ve been getting for the past several months, or maybe even years. Even if you want something new, barbershop lingo can be hard to articulate and we’d rather stick with the old than to possibly end up with a terrible cut while risking something new. That’s why we stopped by Mildred, NYC to get a cut and have a chat with owner Rob McMillen about barbershop tips, and how to make the most of your next haircut experience. Time to switch it up for fall.

How he got his start

“My first introduction to the industry was at my father’s barbershop in Youngstown, Ohio. I was 17 and I fell in love with the energy and atmosphere of the barbershop. I worked there through college as a shopkeep, but left after I graduated to peruse a career in higher education. As time progressed, I missed the shop and got a chance to start with Blind Barber in the East Village around 2011, things just continued to grow from there!”

About The Mildred Neighborhood

“The Lower East Side still has an energy and diversity like no other place in Manhattan, and I have always been in love with it. A lot of our friends and family are there and across the bridge in Williamsburg, so it just feels like home.”

The New Look For Fall? Grow It Out

“We are so lucky to get such a diverse set of clients that no two days are the same, but we always see trends evolving. As of late we’ve seen a more deconstructed version of the traditional barber looks that add more texture and personal style, 90’s Leo with cleaner lines if you will. Honestly, we do our best to not be so trend-driven and make sure we provide a consistent, confident look for our clients. I love to see folks let it grow out a bit and experiment as the weather changes. As I mentioned above, a lot of folks are wearing a deconstructed version of traditional barber looks.”

The Craft of Haircutting Vs. Creativity.

“Craft first and foremost. I am so fortunate to have a wonderful trusting client base that takes a great deal of my creative input, but my main goal is to provide a haircut that lasts, which really lends more to the structure of the cut.”

How Often To Visit Your Barber

“It varies of course, short looks 2-3 weeks, middle 3-5, and longer 4-6, roughly.”

The Taper Vs. The Fade

“Traditionally a taper would focus on the edges of the look, think sideburns and back of the neck, fading normally is reserved for the overall cut up to the temple area.”

Discuss your cut by length

“The clipper number is a proper guideline for some, but clipper numbers indicate actual length. I think establishing length is important first, most barbers and clients use a number indicating a clip or guard however we find the most success by establishing a base length for the cut and explaining how that will impact he overall look. Any informed barber or stylist should work with the client to be sure they understand all terminology and how the finishes will be completed, never hesitate to ask your barber or stylist or state what you really prefer.”

Get Involved

“Never hesitate to ask questions and make sure you feel involved throughout your grooming routine!”

To schedule a haircut  with Rob, visit Mildred’s website here

If you liked this story, check out more in our Urban Transplants issue.


More from this issue

Want to See More?

View All Issues
New to O.N.S? Well, welcome.
Ollie's been waiting for you!

Sign up to our list and get 15% off plus lots of cool perks:

VIP Online Sales
In-store Parties & Events
Exclusive Capsule Launches
Art & Music Showcases
O.N.S Manual Features