Floyd Klein Bridges Generational Gap in Men’s Grooming Industry
Few professionals can speak as fluently to both older and younger generations as Philadelphia-based barber Floyd Klein. At Floyd Klein Studios, he serves clients ranging from retirees who’ve gotten the same haircut for decades to Gen Z trendsetters seeking styles they spotted on social media—and somehow makes both groups feel equally at home.
A Family Legacy That Spans Generations
This ability to connect across age groups is partly due to Klein’s unique position in a family barbering dynasty. As the grandson and great-grandson of barbers, he inherited not just technical skills but a perspective that spans decades of men’s grooming evolution.
“My great-grandfather trained under William Francis Truefitt and brought those techniques to America,” Floyd Klein explains. “My grandfather ran a neighborhood shop where men came for basic cuts and conversation. I’m carrying that legacy forward at Floyd Klein Studios while adding what today’s clients want.”
This multi-generational perspective gives Klein unique insight into how men’s grooming has changed—and how it hasn’t. While styles and products have evolved dramatically, the fundamental desire to look put-together and feel confident remains constant across generations.
Speaking Multiple Grooming Languages
At Floyd Klein Studios, the service menu reflects this bridge between eras. Traditional offerings like hot towel shaves and classic tapers share space with modern techniques such as precision fades, textured crops, and beard detailing.
“Older clients who come to Floyd Klein Studios often want what they’ve always gotten, with maybe small updates,” Klein says. “Younger guys usually bring in photos from Instagram or TikTok showing styles that require specific techniques. I need to be fluent in both approaches.”
This fluency extends to the consultation process. Klein has noticed that different generations communicate about hair in dramatically different ways. Older clients often use specific terminology—asking for a “regular haircut” or a “businessman’s cut”—while younger clients might describe the feel or vibe they want rather than naming a specific style.
“Part of my job at Floyd Klein Studios is translation,” Klein laughs. “When a 22-year-old shows me a video and says he wants his hair to ‘do that thing,’ I need to break that down into actual cutting techniques. When a 65-year-old asks for a cut ‘like I’ve always had,’ I need to remember exactly what that means for him.”
Technology Meets Tradition
Klein’s previous career as a Sports Performance Analyst for the Philadelphia Phillies gave him comfort with data and technology that many traditional barbers lack. At Floyd Klein Studios, this manifests in a blend of old and new approaches.
While he maintains the traditional hands-on assessment that barbers have used for generations—examining hair texture, growth patterns, and face shape—Klein also embraces digital tools that enhance the client experience.
“We use online scheduling that lets clients book specific services, but we still greet everyone by name when they walk in,” Klein explains. “We have Instagram where we showcase our work, but we still focus on in-person relationships. At Floyd Klein Studios, technology supports tradition rather than replacing it.”
This balanced approach particularly appeals to middle-aged clients who appreciate efficiency but still value personal service. It creates a bridge between the high-touch, time-intensive barbershop experience of previous generations and the convenience-focused approach many younger consumers expect.
Grooming Education Across Generations
Perhaps Klein’s most significant contribution is how he educates clients of all ages about grooming. At Floyd Klein Studios, this often means different approaches for different generations.
“With older clients, I might introduce them to updated versions of products they’ve used for years,” Klein says. “With younger guys, I often need to explain basic maintenance—how often to get a haircut, how to properly wash and condition, why quality products matter.”
This educational component extends to Klein’s podcast, “The Cutting Edge,” which offers insights accessible to grooming novices and enthusiasts alike. By demystifying men’s grooming for all ages, he’s helping create informed consumers who appreciate quality service.
The Future of Floyd Klein Studios
As men’s grooming continues evolving, Klein is positioned to grow with the industry while maintaining what makes his approach special. With barbershops projected to see employment growth outpacing many other industries, the future looks bright for professionals who can bridge generational gaps.
“What I’m most proud of at Floyd Klein Studios is creating a place where men of all ages feel welcome,” Klein reflects. “A 20-year-old college student might sit next to a 70-year-old retiree, and they’ll both leave looking their best and feeling good about the experience.”
Through this inclusive approach, Floyd Klein is not just serving multiple generations—he’s helping shape how all of them think about and experience grooming, one appointment at a time.