Meet the Ruffians #5: Creative Director Denis Robinson

For the fifth instalment in our Meet the Ruffians series we had a chat to Creative Director and Ruffians Liberty team member, Denis Robinson. With over 35 years experience in cutting hair and an eye for up and coming men’s fashion, he’s the go to man for all your grooming needs.

What’s the difference between a £15 and £55 haircut?

Attention to detail, and a desire to do the best possible job for the person in the chair. When doing a £15 haircut the focus is on doing as many as possible to increase your commission rather than ensuring that your client leaves your chair completely satisfied.

Tell us about your most memorable day at Ruffians so far.

Most memorable and scary was the day I was promoted to Creative Director, the position has really taken me out of my comfort zone and I have definitely had to learn on the job, the role is all about growing the visibility of the brand and creating opportunities for the team. The CD role is traditionally held by the person whose name is above the door so it’s quite a big responsibility to do this job.

Where do you think Ruffians should open its next shop and why?

London Bridge, as an area it really does have it all, commerce, residents, social activities and has truly turned into a go to destination.

What’s going to be the next big thing in men’s hair/ grooming?

I keep getting guys asking me to help grow their hair longer, I love it, coming from a hairdresser background it helps me keep my scissor work on point. The precision of fading is wonderful but sometimes its nice to build a more relaxed silhouette

If you could cut any celebrity’s hair, who would it be?

Jake Gyllenhaal (I don’t need to explain why)

How do you stay inspired to be the best barber you can be?

I always think that my clients deserve the best. Whether I’ve cut their hair for years or it’s their first time in the chair. I need to stay fresh, so consultations every time are what matter the most to me. You have to be open to change.

Whose personal style do you most admire?

Too many to narrow down to just one, but any guy who is brave enough to express themselves in the way that they want to rather than wearing what is ‘on trend’ just for the sake of fitting in.

Do you like to cook?

Yes when I have guests to prepare food for.

What’s your signature dish?

Slow cooked Vodka Chilli, the vodka gives it a real kick, just be careful not to spike your best friend who happens to be in recovery. (the heat thank god burns the alcohol off) and if you do spike him don’t tell him.

You’re marooned on a beautiful desert island. You’re allowed to wish for three items from home – what would they be?

My camera so I could record the adventure, my kindle with all the books I said that I would go back to when I had the peace and quiet to concentrate on them to do them justice. And third wouldn’t be from my home but the spiked best friend’s (see previous question) dog, Gadget, as I would need some company and he for sure is the best company ever.

To book in with Denis or any of the team at Ruffians Liberty click here and to read about when Denis and the team took Ruffians state-side click here.