New Bedford Barbershop Delivers Vintage Vibes, Classic Cuts and Modern Fades With Old School Flair

Nestled on Purchase Street, the newest addition to the neighborhood is not just a barbershop; it's a journey back in time.

Stepping through the doors, you're transported to an era where style met substance, and every haircut was a work of art. This vintage-inspired haven combines the charm of yesteryear with the expertise of today, offering a haven for those seeking more than just a trim. From the moment you walk in, the scent of traditional tonics and the sounds of reggae, ska, and light rock set the tone for an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

Welcome to Stepping Razor, a big city barbershop where old school cuts and fades are not just services; they're a nod to the timeless artistry of grooming.

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Located at 747 Purchase Street, where Your Father's Mustache once operated for the past 42 years, owner Danny Baptista made sure to keep the tradition of a working barber shop alive and well. Originally from Taunton, MA, Baptista has been cutting hair professionally since 2003 and now resides in New Bedford's South End with his wife and family.

For the past 14 years, he's owned a shop in Brooklyn and now travels back and forth between New Bedford and New York to keep both businesses flourishing and thriving. Currently, the Purchase Street location is only open Thursday and Friday from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM and 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM on Saturday for the time being or until the shop picks up more business.

Baptista and his wife both decided to move to New Bedford after seeking beachfront property, eventually becoming the deciding factor to keep the business in the city to help give back to the community that they live in. He opened up his own barber shop, and his wife opened up shop with Bushwood Tailors in New Bedford's Kilburn Mills.

The Story Behind The Name 'Stepping Razor':

"I've been a Reggae musician since the '90s and have always loved the reggae culture," Baptista explained, "The term is Jamaican and translates to something along the lines of 'Bad ass.' It doesn't matter how small someone is, or the size of the razor, it's the skill and confidence behind it."

What Do You Enjoy Most About the City of New Bedford?

"I enjoy the diversity; it reminds me of a mini Brooklyn," Baptista said, "I thoroughly enjoy the attitude of the working-class people here. They're go-getters and hardworking. Also, the Portuguese food is phenomenal."

How Would You Describe Your Style of Cutting?

"I focus on old-school traditional men’s parlor service. Always a straight razor on the neck and a hot towel after the cut. Proficient with scissor cuts and old school hot towel shaves. Fades as well."

How Would You Describe the Decor and Vibes of the Barber Shop?

"The walls are covered with skateboards, photos, posters, basically all the stuff I’m into," Baptista said, "I’ve been training in Muay Thai for over a decade, so there's a nod to martial arts. There's lots of boxing memorabilia, hot rods and motorcycles, pin-up girls, surf and skate culture, and even paintings from Mexican culture. It's rock and roll meets reggae."

As I welcomed Baptista to the Downtown District, I asked him if he could give a message to his new neighbors and potential future SouthCoast customers; what would that message be? His humble response did not disappoint.

“Support independent businesses as much as you can, and if you have the desire to start a business, go for it," Baptista concluded, "The worst that can happen is it fails, but at least you can say you tried. It’s our duty to support these businesses to keep the city thriving, and that's exactly what I plan on doing."