Q & A: The Male Shoppe

Hair today, here tomorrow.

The Male Shoppe, Unisex Hair Design, 165 O’Neils Court, has moved from West Main Street and its owner, Frances Pepe, a Derby resident, is happy to be moving forward.

Pepe is personable, kind and considerate. She offers everyone who comes in hot coffee — even the UPS deliveryman. She suggests Amaretto cream. She tells me her favorite color is blue, which is probably why the salon is designed in various shades of the color.

Valley Independent: Why did you move from West Main Street?

Frances Pepe: I moved because it was time. I remodeled several times and needed a new space. Also, it was closer to my dad who is very sick.

Valley Independent: Has the move helped you business?

Pepe: It’s too early to tell whether it helped the business but it is more convenient and helped my life to be closer to my dad. It’s just a nice environment.

Valley Independent: What got you into hair?

Frances Pepe: My high school typing teacher said I should do something else with my hands, because I was not going to cut it as a secretary.

Valley Independent: Do you wish you would have made it as a secretary?

Pepe: No, no. I think she was absolutely right. Plus, my grandfather was a barber. My father said she was right. No, I couldn’t imagine what I would do if I wasn’t a hairdresser.

Valley Independent: Let’s talk hair. Favorite style?

Pepe: I don’t have a favorite style because everyone is different. I mix it up to keep it different.

Valley Independent: What’s the best product for hair?

Pepe: A protective leave-in conditioner. We prefer the brand Scruples.”

Valley Independent: What can we expect to see in hairstyles for spring?

Pepe: I hope it’s not perms. We are getting a lot calls for perms.

Valley Independent: What’s up with that?

Pepe: I don’t know, maybe they want body waves. Body waves are coming back. Highlights are always in season, low lights and dimensional color too.

Valley Independent: So, it seems you don’t like perms?

Pepe: People get confused. More of a body wave is okay. It’s a body S formation of the hair shaft.

Valley Independent: Is it better for the hair?

Pepe: Yes, in my opinion you don’t have to grow it out.

Valley Independent: Other spring styles or looks?

Pepe: People are looking for a wash-and-wear do. Blonde, too. Everyone is looking to be blonde. The younger generation is looking to go lighter. Also, smoother, softer styles are in.

Valley Independent: Why name the business the Male Shoppe if women come in?

Pepe: I didn’t. When I bought it, it was named the Male Shoppe. Years ago, it used to be a barbershop.

Valley Independent: Do men still come here?

Pepe: Oh yeah, we have a girl here who cuts and styles only men.

Valley Independent: And what else?

Pepe: Thanks for the interview. Just something about the place — it’s a great place and the girls who work here are great. If you want a two minute job, don’t come here. People come here and they relax. It’s almost like home.

The Male Shoppe is open Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Thursday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday form 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

They are closed Monday, Wednesday and Sunday. For more information, call 203 – 734-6759.

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