Interview with Master Barber Kyra Hornung

At the age of 24, Master Barber Kyra Hornung has established herself as one of the rising stars in a field that has long been dominated by men. Despite being one of the most highly regarded talents on the east coast, she remains gracious as we discuss her career and accomplishments.

What inspired you to start a career as a barber?
It was the first time I picked up a comb and clippers. I tried it and I was scared, but the end result wasn’t awful. I expected it to be awful. My instructors inspected it and said it was good. I had no idea what I was doing, but I had the most I’ve ever had doing it. If I’m good at it and it’s fun for me, why not keep doing it? Why not get better?

Most barbers have a particular style they prefer to cut. What’s your favorite?
I prefer the skin fade or a light fade with a taper. I like the contrast with sharp clean lines they give people. When I give someone a nice fade with well-defined lines, I know they are going to feel go about themselves. That’s the best part of cutting hair for me.

There are so many places, including salons and studios you could be at, but you are currently cutting hair at a popular, predominately male shop with male customers. How does it feel?
With my kind of personality, I love it. I’m not an overly feminine person and…