Shop Talk: The Cut That Counts with Chuck Falk

While suits, dress shirts, and neckties are the hallmarks of a “proper outfit,” one of the most underrated style moves isn’t hanging in your closet — it’s sitting on your head. A great haircut. After all, a barbershop isn’t just where you go to tame stray hairs or refill your pomade. It’s a clubhouse, a confessional, and occasionally, a comedy stage — thanks to the barbers who shape it.

One guy who’s nailed the art of blending sharp fades with a family-like vibe is Chuck Falk, owner of Cleveland-based Principle Barbershop. I first met Chuck before he ever picked up clippers — back when we overlapped at a Cleveland clothing boutique. Even then, he was one of the most stylish yet approachable guys in the creative scene. So when he opened his own shop, it felt inevitable. Hospitality comes naturally to him.

Of course, beyond community, a barbershop is where men can sneak in what feels like a therapy session — only cheaper than a therapist and with better-smelling aftershave. “To have 30-40 minutes to sit and not worry about anything is such a sacred experience,” Falk said.

I caught up with Chuck to hear how a $100 haircut and shave back in 2008 pushed him into barber school, how he’s rocking neckties these days, and the one pet peeve that probably makes every barber silently roll their eyes.

The Tie Bar: How did you first get into barbering?

Chuck Falk: Back in ‘08 or ‘09, I walked into Freeman’s Sporting Club on Rivington Street in NYC. The custom suiting up front and the old-school barber shop in the back flipped a switch for me. I paid $100 for a shave and a haircut, and I left that day wanting to be a barber. Not long after, I stopped doing what I was doing, moved into my parents’ basement, and started barber school. I’ve been trying to give that same experience to my clients every day ever since.

TTB: In your experience, how can a fresh haircut boost someone’s confidence, similar to how putting on a necktie can?

CF: A haircut does more than change your appearance — it changes your outlook. It brings a feeling of relief, satisfaction, and a new start, if you will. The experience itself is awakening. Just walking into the shop, seeing your barber, and having those conversations during the cut can be motivating, much like looking in the mirror and fixing your tie. It’s the ultimate “look at me, I look good” moment we share with ourselves.

TTB: Barbershops have always had a strong sense of community. Why do you think that is?

CF:The barbershop is community. It’s a meetup of everyone in the neighborhood, and it’s been this way since the beginning of time. People gather in the shop to see others, check in on each other, and support the barbers who work there. I’ve seen old friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, golf buddies — you name it — run into each other. They catch up, have conversations, get a haircut, and then head back to the grind.

It’s a much-needed break from today’s busy world. To have 30-40 minutes to sit and not worry about anything is such a sacred experience. And then, to literally have that weight lifted off you and walk out feeling your best…it’s more than a haircut.

TTB: How would you describe your personal style?

CF: My personal style can be summed up in a few words: intentionally simple. I’m attracted to straightforward but well-designed, well-made items. If a garment is crafted properly — whether it’s a shirt or a pair of pants — and has clean lines, I’m all about it. I like to be comfortable but current. I’m pretty conservative when it comes to clothes. I haven’t gotten into much of the super-baggy silhouettes or technical fabrics. I’d dress head-to-toe in Ghiaia if I could.

TTB: What’s your go-to style uniform when you’re working in the shop?

CF: Lately, my work uniform — and I mean for the last many years — has been muted-color Dickies, a Principle Barbershop tee, or a beat-up band shirt, paired with Shoes Like Pottery sneakers. On the weekends, you can still find me in some ALD NB 650s. That’s a great shoe.

TTB: When you’re putting together outfits, what kind of vibe are you aiming for?

CF: I’m a dad, but I don’t want to dress like that dad. I try my best to wear pieces with some style — something that sets me apart from the rest. Even if it means explaining the difference between a 6.5 oz washed cotton single-stitched tee and a Bella+Canvas tee…come on, guys, step it up.

TTB: How are you styling neckties in 2025?

CF: Wearing and styling ties is fun these days. So many of us haven’t worn a tie since before COVID — except, unfortunately, for a funeral. Ties are definitely making a comeback in our wardrobes. They’re a surprise that puts a smile on both the person wearing one and the people commenting on it. They’re such a fun and unexpected accessory to include in your day-to-day.

I like wearing ties loose but intentionally — not all the way up, and without the top button fastened. It’s a more chill, casual way to wear one. Ties also add that extra pop of color to your outfit, allowing you to really highlight a color palette.

TTB: From your perspective, what are some key dos and don’ts for anyone in the barber’s chair?

CF: One of the biggest pet peeves that comes to mind is when a client constantly moves their head to make eye contact while I’m trying to cut their hair. Hey guys, I know you’re talking to me — I’m right here. I almost poked a guy’s eye out once. He turned his head to the left because I was standing on the left, and my shears were right there. It was a close one. So, gentlemen, keep your head still. We got you!

HERITAGE GRID TIES