Matthew Hughes is head honcho at the King Street branch of exceptionally cool London barbershop Murdock. Managing to take some time away from treating the well-sculpted hair and facial hair of our good London gents, Matthew has answered a few questions about his style inspirations, and the need to maintain a healthy beard! Take a look:
Who is the modern man?
To me, the modern man should be purposeful but casual in styling, making sure that the look he is trying to achieve is accomplished without appearing like he has taken hours staring in the mirror. A personal style should also be maintained, not changed with each fad that comes and goes.
Where do you look for inspiration when it comes to grooming and style?
Absolutely everywhere. Working in an environment like Murdock means that you see guys everyday who have aspects of style that you can pinch and mould to suit you. Besides here, the streets are a great way to spot gents who have interesting but functional style. I think catwalks throw out styles and haircuts that are potentially great for a brief period, but are not always so realistic.
And how does this impact on the "Murdock experience"?
The Murdock experience is a classic, smooth experience that doesn’t need to be altered depending on what is going on at the time. I think that is why it is so successful, as regardless of what's going on outside you are guaranteed the same relaxing and satisfying experience from entry to exit.
What is your own favourite product? Has this been influenced by your own customers?
At the moment it has to be the Murdock Beard Moisturiser, paired with the Elastick for the hair. My preferred hair product can change depending on the style I'm creating, but maintaining a healthy beard and looking after your skin is always going to be key. A nice Murdock Tweed wash bag to keep them both in is probably just as essential.
Anything you avoid?
Product-wise there are plenty of things I would avoid for myself, but every product serves a purpose to an extent. The best way to learn would be to pop into your nearest Murdock branch and have a good chat with the gents in store. You'll get an honest opinion of what would suit you and what wouldn't. It’s the best way to make sure your bathroom cupboard isn't clogged up with products that you’ve opened and used once!
And finally, what's your top tip for the modern man?
Find your look and stick to it. Never try too hard.
Matthew and his team at Murdock King Street are helping you look like you don't have to try too hard every day of the week - go and check them out!
This year Decembeard is being supported by brand King of Shaves, which is a perfect combination given that the company has launched a prostyle beard styler facial stubble groomer (hard to say in one breath...) that will help keep your beard in shape until you go baby-smooth again on 1 January. It even has an adjustable trimmer, so you can keep that (Decem)beard trim when you're standing under the mistletoe at the office Christmas party. 
