A newly established barbershop in Langebaan has got tongues wagging, but not because of its kwaai haircuts.
The Bikini Barber speaks for itself, as its stylists serve customers in itsy bitsy broekies en bras.
It opened on March 22 in Gateway Centre, and according to marketing manager Marlize Erasmus, the “business is booming”.
She said the main reason for establishing the shop was to create jobs.
“Secondly, there is no barbershop of the sort in SA, which seems like a brilliant business venture. Langebaan is a coastal location, hence the bikinis,” Marlize added.
“Also we add fun to the whole barber business and men enjoy getting spoiled especially by ladies in bikinis.”
The barbershop currently has seven female employees and offers a range of services including haircuts, beard treatments and colouring, as well as manis and pedis, facials and even relaxing massages.
Marlize said that the stylists are provided with uniforms and shoes, while a beautician comes in to do their make-up, hair and nails, and of course waxing.
She said besides the necessary qualifications the stylists are required to be “bikini body fit”.
“We offer full training and supply the ladies with start-up kits. Our ladies are comfortable working in bikinis and the shop also has heating.
“Business is booming, we have never been so busy since opening our doors.”
However, not almal is happy with their success and the shop owner, who asked to remain anonymous, said she has had a klomp mense come to her house and complain, and some even tried to take pictures of her children.
On top of that, keyboard warriors have had a field day on social media commenting on the stylists in their bikinis.
Kevin said on Facebook: “Nee f**k dan sal ek maar laat Ali al an met sy p*** teen my arm staan maar die k@k soek ek nie.”
But, Marlize said they are min gespin: “Haters will hate, we are simply moving forward. We are extremely proud how our ladies are handling all the negativity, body shaming and slander.”
A proud Melanie van Dorp said she loves her job.
“I'm busy furthering my studies and this is helping me achieve my goals. We absolutely love our working environment.
“About the hate comment, we just scroll past. We know what service we offer and we have happy clients.
“People gossip and just as a side note we are not getting cold, the shop is nice and warm,” she laughed.
Johan Venter, a client, complimented the women adding: “Thank you for my haircut and shave. Excellent service, I will definitely recommend you guys.
“Girls are pretty. Good music to go with and I will definitely come again.”