The NYC Barber Who Cuts Hair on Roofs, Broadway, and Even in Central Park

The Vélo Barber: New York's Most Unique Hairdresser

Imagine a barbershop where the sky is the ceiling and the bustling cityscape of New York City forms its walls. That's the world of Julien Howard, better known as the Vélo Barber.

Howard, a Bronx native now living in Astoria, Queens, has blended his love for cycling and urban exploration into a career that transcends the conventional boundaries of cutting hair. He's traded the traditional barbershop for a mobile salon, bringing his skills to the streets of NYC and beyond.

From Barter to Broadway

His journey began with an inventive barter at a North Carolina boarding school—haircuts for Burger King meals. Over time, Howard honed his skills independently and obtained his barber's license. He initially navigated the city by car for his fire system inspection work, but the inefficiency sparked a revelation.

A City Seen from Two Wheels

"I was quicker on a bike, and suddenly, I had access to views most New Yorkers never see,” he says. He discovered that his passion for exploring the city and his barbering skills could be combined, leading him to become the Vélo Barber.

Howard's client list boasts names like Donald Glover, Regé-Jean Page, and Broadway star Jordan Fisher. He charges $200 per haircut, with additional fees for early mornings, late nights, beard trims, and grooming services. He operates out of the Ducati motorcycle store near SoHo three days a week and travels to clients daily, except for Saturdays.

The Magic of a Mobile Barbershop

Howard's quest for unique settings led him to acquire a mini truck with a flatbed, transformed into an open-air barber chair. He's brought his skills to locations like golf courses and even the woods. He says, "People stop and say, ‘Whoa, that looks like a little toy!’ But it’s a toy with a functioning barber chair. So, there’s a double wow factor.”

A New Approach to Barbering

While traditional barbershops are considered the safest and cleanest places for a haircut, mobile barbering has surged in popularity, particularly among millennials and Gen Z. They value unique, Instagrammable experiences over traditional ones. Howard's mobile sessions draw curious passers-by, with most officers being supportive and even requesting haircuts themselves.

More Than Just a Haircut

Howard emphasizes that his work is about more than just hair; it's about creating moments for people to appreciate the beauty around them. He dreams of taking his craft to even higher heights and further reaches—maybe even cutting hair on the Empire State Building or even in space!

This is the story of a New Yorker who's found a way to combine his love for the city, his passion for barbering, and his desire for adventure, all while creating unique experiences for his clients.