Our Team
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Nick Slick - Owner, Barber, Colorist
Nick is the founder and owner of Hairpin and Strop, and our sister shop Slick and Dapper in Oakland. Nick has been cutting, coloring, and styling hair for clients of all ages for 20+ years, dishing out great looks from Kansas City to Palm Springs, LA, and across the Bay Area. Nick started his career cutting his Uncle Pat’s hair in the kitchen as a nine year old, got licensed in his early 20’s, and opened Slick and Dapper on a shoestring in 2012. It has since gone on to amass a devoted clientele and win Best of the Easy Bay in 2024.
As a trans barber he loves helping people find a look that brings out their true identity. He’s so excited to welcome you to recently opened Hairpin and Strop, which is the fabulous incarnation of the Slick and Dapper on Broadway.
When he’s not in the shop giving cuts that make you feel like your best self, he’s tending to his flock of tiny dogs, Seven, Snuggles and Scamp.
See schedule to book today!
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Phoenix Cutler - Master Stylist, Colorist, Barber, and More
When Nick was asked to describe what Phoenix does, he said, “Oh honey! She can do EVERYTHING.” Phoenix is a multi-talented stylist, colorist, barber, and all around hair maven. Whether you need a fresh cut, a new color, or a complete transformation with make-up or wigs, Phoenix has you covered.
An experienced professional with more than a decade of experience in the business, Phoenix is passionate about gender affirming services and making everyone that walks through the door feel stoked about their look. She is excited to cultivate trans and queer community at Hairpin and Strop. See the schedule to book today!
When she isn’t serving clients in Reno, Oakland, and beyond, she is hanging at home being witchy and vibing with her plants. She also loves dishing out free haircuts to people experiencing homelessness.
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Asia J
Asia is an Oakland legend and rockstar. She’s has been working across both Slick and Dapper locations for over ten years. She’s is a full time stylist and full time culinary student, and is an avid baker on the side. She is versatile in all hair types and styles, and is a talented braid specialist.
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Mateo G
“With over a decade of experience in barbering, I specialize in short cuts and straight razor shaves, perfecting my craft with every client. My favorite color is black, reflecting my bold and edgy style. Beyond the chair, my greatest joy comes from my kiddo, who inspires me daily. Each of my tattoos tells a unique story, adding depth to my personality and artistry.“
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Tasha Edges - Stylist and Barber
Tasha “Edges” is a seasoned beauty professional with over 34 years in the cosmetology industry. As a skilled hair educator and master barber, she is known for her precision, creativity, and signature styles that set her apart. Tasha’s passion goes beyond the chair—she is dedicated to uplifting others through education and empowerment. With a heart for all people, she creates an inclusive, welcoming space where everyone is valued and celebrated.
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Pari Milani - Master Colorist and Stylist
Pari is an accomplished colorist and stylist that has been practicing in the Bay Area for over a decade. She specializes in high end cuts and color, taking clients on a journey of self expression through hair.
Pari sees clients at her private studio in Marin, and moonlights a few nights a month at Hairpin and Strop. See the schedule to book! Or visit her gorgeous Mill Valley location, Wednesdae.
Whether you’re seeking a bold transformation, a subtle shift, or an ode to the colors of the world, Pari is here to make it happen.
Outside the salon, Pari is known to drive classic cars with one of her 20 dogs in the passenger seat.
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Allie Gates (Ms. Chroma) - Gallery Curator, Occassional Barber
Allie Gates and Nick Slick met while working together at Rudy’s Barbershop in Santa Monica from ‘07-’12 and have been pals ever since. Allie started her career as a kid dying her own hair pink with Manic Panic in the bathroom, got formally licensed as a teenager, and has been cutting hair for friends and family ever since. Allie is a painter and serves as the curator for the Gallery at Hairpin. She also works a couple Sundays a month as a barber.
She’s excited to connect with new and old clients alike and achieve the hair they’ve been dreaming of. She’s also open to meeting emerging local artists - we want to show your art!
See the schedule to book a cut, and check out www.mschroma.com or follow @mschroma for all things art
