well-groomed in downtown

Hip Montrose barbershop cuts a cool space in downtown's Understory

The Argyle League is coming to Understory.

Photo courtesy of The Argyle League

Take a look at the perfectly coiffed gents with their lustrous beards strolling around town and it’s clear that hip barbershops are here to stay in Houston.

One such hotspot is The Argyle League, which has just announced a new outpost in downtown’s bustling Understory hall (800 Capitol St.) early next year, courtesy of global development and construction firm, Skanska. The Argyle League will be nestled in the tunnel level of Understory’s expansive market hall, occupying 1,300 square feet of retail space, according to a press release.

Owner Carlos Carrillo, who has grown The Argyle League’s original barbershop from three barbers to 12, noted in a statement that eight chairs in the Understory location will accommodate busy downtown patrons.

Established in 2014 in Montrose, The Argyle League has grown to become one of Houston’s most popular local barbershops. It was dubbed the "Coolest Barbershop in the World" by an online ranking as well as earning a host of local accolades.

The men’s style salon has made a name for itself with its upscale atmosphere and luxurious services including full shaves, beard trims, precision haircuts with hot towel treatments, complimentary trims between services, and — every guy’s fave — free bourbon and beer for patrons.

The Argyle League adds yet another attraction to Understory, which also boasts distinctive culinary offerings that include Boomtown Coffee, MONA Fresh Italian Food, Mama Ninfa’s Tacos y Tortas, Flip ‘n Patties, SeaSide Poké, East Hampton Sandwich Co., and Silver Lining Bar. Understory is the first dining and cocktail space in the tunnel network to be active seven days a week, from morning to night, with a wide variety of culinary, retail and cultural offerings..

downtown

RODEO ROYALTY

Bun B debuts exclusive Western streetwear collab at RodeoHouston

Photo by BFA for Crown Royal

Bun B takes the RodeoHouston stage in style, debuting an exclusive Western streetwear collab with Purple Brand and Crown Royal.

Houston's rodeo scene got a hefty dose of Western-meets-streetwear flair as Bun B took the RodeoHouston stage in style during his highly anticipated concert on March 7. Since 2022, the rap icon has been turning heads with custom outfits styled by Luke Cosby, co-founder of Purple Brand. But this year, some of Bun B's looks weren't just exclusive; they inspired his capsule collection with Purple Brand and Crown Royal, making his performance a combination of music, fashion, and culture.

"Performing at the Rodeo is an honor, and I love every aspect of creating that show. I look forward to my on-stage look every year, and trust Purple will create something that I love," Bun B shared in a statement. "Being able to bring two brands I respect together to form this unique look and create a collection inspired by those looks, made this Rodeo even more special."

The capsule collection, available at Purple Brand's Galleria boutique and online, consists of three pieces, including the Crown Royal x Purple Brand Jeff Hamilton Varsity Jacket, Crown Royal x Purple Brand Bun B Signature Poncho, and Crown Royal x Purple Brand Graphic Tee. According to Cosby, every detail was carefully curated for a one-of-a-kind look. Premium wool, leather accents, and bold embellishments blend rich texture with modern streetwear elements.

The collection is available online and in Purple Brand's Galleria boutique. Photo by BFA for Crown Royal

"The collection was heavily inspired by Crown Royal and Bun B himself, his dynamic stage presence, his legacy in Houston, and the Western aesthetic that defines the Rodeo," Cosby tells CultureMap. "We took cues from classic rodeo fashion, Crown Royal branding and colors. The poncho, for example, is a recreation of the standout piece Bun wore on stage last year, blending tradition with contemporary design. Each piece reflects Houston's culture while feeling fresh and elevated."

Net proceeds from the collection and other events in the Crown Royal Saloon & Showroom during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo will be donated to Soldiers' Angels' LA Wildfire Relief Fund, supporting fire relief efforts for veterans in the Los Angeles area.

The Crown Royal x Purple Brand collab features luxe textures, bold embellishments, and undeniable Houston energy.Photo by BFA for Crown Royal

"As a long-time sponsor of the RodeoHouston, it was important to elevate our presence by extending our partnership to leaders in the community. Bun B is a Houston legend. His presence at RodeoHouston and annual Birthday Bonanza is a highly anticipated moment that unites the city," Hadley Schafer, vice president of Crown Royal, tells CultureMap." In our second year partnering with Bun B, we are thrilled to evolve our partnership in a way that pays homage to rodeo tradition and the Houston community."

Photo by BFA for Crown Royal

Bun B takes the RodeoHouston stage in style, debuting an exclusive Western streetwear collab with Purple Brand and Crown Royal.

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