Thom has been with Murdock London since early 2009, catering for the needs of East London’s most style conscious gents. A highly experienced and talented hairdresser, he provides perfect cuts, engaging conversation and grooming advice throughout the year.

Mr Paul Newman

How would you describe the Murdock Shoreditch customer?

Thom: Our clients are an eclectic bunch, ranging from City workers to creative industry professionals. Whoever I have in, my main aim is to make him feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible.

I live in Stoke Newington, so I see a lot of my regulars around the area – it’s nice to build up a friendly rapport and really feel part of a community.

Who would your ideal person to style be?

I’d have to say Paul Newman – though I probably wouldn’t change much! He always seemed to carry himself with a masculine confidence and calmness. He had a classic handsomeness, but I feel he would look just as good in East London today as he did in Hollywood in the 60s.

Special mention goes to Jack Nicholson who can carry off a receding hairline with real swagger, and David Hockney who looks perfectly unique.

Favourite band?

Easy. Joy Division.

Describe yourself in five words:

Visvim Yucca Moc-Folk

Timeless, meticulous, aware, individual and hirsute.

How long do you take on your hair every day?

My hair is relatively short so I usually just towel dry, and run some product through – swept back and loose. For the evening I will style a side parting for a more classic look, maybe even use some pomade for added shine.

Summer 2011: what will be happening in terms of men’s hair?

Personally, I’ll be letting things grow a little longer and looser, moving away from the sharper finishes that have been prevalent over the last few seasons. Getting in touch with my inner hippy.

And your summer style essentials?

Denim and heavy fabrics can get really uncomfortable in the city – lightweight cotton trousers will make life a lot more pleasurable, and when combined with a light jacket or blazer, you can effortlessly achieve a smart, laid back look. Check out Visvim and Post Overalls for inspiration.

For 2011, I’m really enjoying the Native American vibe coming though. Pendleton and Ralph Lauren have been pushing the prints for a while now, but hopefully the look will get more attention in London this summer.

Present Menswear

Favourite era in men’s style:

I think the 1960s are an obvious choice – but I always preferred the drama and intensity of the late 1970s punk movement – it really was a groundbreaking time with men breaking boundaries and expressing themselves outside of the fashion normality.

Favourite places around Shoreditch:

Redchurch Street has an increasing number of great shops and cafes, while Present on Shoreditch Hight Street caters almost perfectly to my fashion taste – not to mention a great cup of coffee. In the evenings, I like the more traditional British boozers such as the Red Lion, while The Boundary is great for food especially in the summer.

Other passions:

I’m really into photography, especially architectural shots – it’s great to wander around the City at the weekend without crowds of rushing professionals.

Loved the Allen Ginsberg exhibition at the National Theatre.

Japanese fashion and lifestyle magazines are a guilty pleasure, they really know how to do contemporary workwear. Check out Free & Easy, Huge and 2nd.

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