Clean shave. Crisp shirt and trousers. A luxury watch. And a wee dram to whet the appetite. There’s nothing quite like a sharp dressed man. If your wardrobe is badly outdated or you’ve had the same haircut since high school, it might be time to seek advice from the experts. Here are four local businesses that are helping Bundy men lift their style game with fashion and finery.
The Cartels Barber Shop is a sophisticated den, where gentlemen can unwind and experience traditional grooming at its finest. A red, white and blue barber pole at the entry harks back to the time when barbers used to perform medical procedures. The interior décor emulates a high-end cocktail bar and gives a gentle nod to Columbian drug cartel leader, Pablo Escobar.
Award-winning barber and owner Jess Smoothy (pictured) and the highly experienced team at Cartels offer the full range of grooming services; everything from hot steam luxury face shaves and beard trimming to classic styles and modern precision cutting. Their work is intricate.
The standard of service they offer is far higher than what you might have come to expect from your regular mens’ hairdresser; right down to the complimentary beer or spirit. They also stock a fine range of balms, colognes, oils and waxes and can provide expert advice on how to style you hair at home and care for your beard.
The Cartels Barber Shop 2/197 Bourbong Street, Bundaberg
Inn Style Mensland has all the gear to make you look grand. Started by Ian McCloskey and his father 35-years-ago, the store caters for men of every age and taste. Dress yourself from head-to-toe, for any occasion, from this one-stop shop. From socks, jocks and swimwear to boots, belts, bags and hats.
Heading to the polo, horse races or an evening with The Bundaberg Whisky Club? Ian stocks a wide range of sports jackets, polo shirts, chinos, dress shorts and boat shoes from labels like Scotch & Soda, Daniel Hechter, Greg Norman, Ben Sherman, Coast Clothing, Thomas Cook, Geoffrey Beene, Uberstone and Industrie. They can also dress you for your wedding, prom or next black tie event.
Whether you’re a chef, tradie, doctor or corporate type, Inn Style has an expansive range of durable work wear from brands like Ritemate, Bisley, Cherokee, FXD and UNIT. And they can custom embroider too.
Inn Style Mensland 23 Electra Street, Bundaberg
Nestled at the Bourbong Street entry to Palace Arcade is Bundaberg’s longest serving and most trusted jewellery store. Ritchies Jewellers first opened its doors in 1889 and, like a fine diamond, has been passed down through generations of local families. Today, Ritchies remains family owned and operated by Trent Cullum (pictured second from left) and his wife, Shaye.
At 38-years-of-age, Trent is one of Bundaberg’s few remaining manufacturing jewellers. You can watch this award-winning jeweller and his talented team in their workshop, as they craft custom one-of-a-kind precious keepsakes for men, women and children. They also service, repair and remodel much loved treasures on site.
Trained by his watchmaker father, Richard, Trent stocks an impressive range of mens’ watches. Whether you’re looking for luxury, dress or sport – they’ll have just the watch for you. Ritchies has an eclectic selection of mens’ fashion and fine jewellery to complete any look, including cuff links, bracelets, chains and rings. Their sparkling crystal and glass decanters, tumblers and stemware make excellent gifts for the man who has everything.
Ritchies Jewellers Shop 9/133 Bourbong Street, Bundaberg
The Bundaberg Whisky Club started as a bit of a social lark between mates Tai Burgess and Shane Chung (pictured seated). The pair opened their club up to other whisky lovers earlier this year and hosted their ‘First Pour’ at Bert’s cocktail bar. The club now hosts ticketed whisky tasting events for men and women every three months. The events are designed for all whisky enthusiasts; from connoisseurs with discerning palates to those who are only just discovering the pleasure of fine spirits.
Wearing their best garb, guests are invited to taste five different whiskies, paired with food. It’s an opportunity for club members to learn about new drops they may not have known about previously. Here, there’s no such thing as a right or wrong taste. Every preference is celebrated and club members are encouraged to share their own nose, palate and finish notes. Neat, water or on ice. One cube or several. The glass can be half empty or half full, as long as it has whisky in it!
Whisky drinking is considered a gentlemanly pursuit or ritual, and the club is keen to keep it that way by encouraging responsible alcohol consumption. Committed to fostering healthy relationships with alcohol, many of its members partake in a dry week each month.
Contact The Bundaberg Whisky Club : [email protected]