WHERE TO FIND

This is full-on glamour; for red carpet celebrities, socialites lunching uptown at Sarabeth’s and any girl who wants to play “It Girl” for the night.

TREND ALERT

For the May cover of Vogue, celebrity stylist Oribe heralded Old Hollywood with the soft, tousled waves he created for Scarlett Johansson. “The look is very ’30s,” says Oribe. “It was all about getting softness and shine without any weight.”

The Veronica Lake-like look is best paired with a sweeping neckline like Johansson’s cover pose, or with a strapless dress, off-the-shoulder top, and halter tie.

GET THE LOOK

Oribe began the hair-softening process in the cleansing stage, by washing with Shampoo for Beautiful Color, which is formulated to keep color-treated hair soft. Deep conditioning Masque for Beautiful Color was combed through and left to penetrate hair strands for fifteen minutes to create an ultra soft texture. Hair was deeply side parted, sections and set in small hot rollers all over, and left in until locks were cool to the touch. Oribe brushed through the curls and finger-combed them into a retro wave style. He sprayed hair with Impérmeable Anti-Humidity Spray for hold and humidity protection, and finished with a misting of Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray for even more manageability and softness. All products by Oribe.

In addition to infrequent exposure to sunlight, vitamin D deficiency can also be caused by an incomplete diet. Those who follow a vegetarian diet are more likely to be deficient, because most dietary sources of vitamin D are derived from animal products. Other causes of deficiency include dark skin, which, unlike lighter skin, produces less vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Obesity is also linked to insufficient amounts of vitamin D in the body.

Though it’s easy enough to pop a pill (there are even prescription-only vitamin D supplements for severe cases), there are other ways to incorporate some vitamin D into your life. Some are dietary, but be aware that very few foods actually contain high levels of vitamin D. Common sources include fortified milk, salmon, sardines, eggs (in the yolk, specifically) and tuna. Some cereals are also fortified with vitamin D, and these, combined with the milk, are a great option for increasing its presence in an otherwise lacking diet.

Another easy method, of course, is to step outside and absorb some good old fashioned sunlight. For those who don’t live in adequately sunny areas, a supplement is essential in order to reap vitamin D’s benefits. Look for one that contains vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Since vitamin D is fat soluble, it’s helpful to take the supplement with a meal that contains oils of some kind – think salmon, nuts, or a salad tossed with olive oil.

And remember, even if you do soak up lots of rays, you aren’t necessarily getting your daily dose of vitamin D if you apply sunscreen. Though it protects your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays, it also inhibits the production of vitamin D to some extent. Since skimping on sunscreen is beauty crime number one, it’s important to look elsewhere to get your daily vitamin D in good measure. 

Grey is that universal color that can be worn with anything, from your concert t-shirts to your spring dresses, or combat boots and ballet flats. This trend can be seen on women going to work in the financial district or Union Square. 

Trend Alert: Seen on every hipster of all age groups, women are nailing it neutral with various shades of grey. 

Going grey is the perfect color for the fashion conscious, or the gal just wishing to update her beauty routine.

Changing your nail polish from a pink neutral to grey is the easiest way to update your cosmetic routine this spring; the various shades are endless and work with everything.

Getting the Look:  It’s easy to get stuck in a beauty rut, so the next time you find yourself at your favorite nail salon, change-up your polish, it’s the easiest and quickest way to update your beauty routine.

A Guide to a Salon/Spa Manicure:

1. Bring your own polish to the salon – my sisters and I do, often getting other clients asking for the color we are using. 

2. Ask the nail technician to cut your nails short and file them rounder into an oval shape, instead of the normal square nail you’re familiar with – this is more feminine.

3. Apply one to two coats of the color of choice, making sure the color is just right, as the color changes with each coat.

4. Make sure to ask for a high-gloss top coat, this adds shine and a dose of glamour to already chic nails.

Visiting and need a manicure:

Tnails

3212 Fillmore Street,

San Francisco, CA 94123

415- 987-1678

For more information: tammy@booknails.com

Or

Divisadero Nails

1858 Divisadero Street

San Francisco, CA 94115

 415-440-9999

There are only a few more weeks until summer, but on May 17, Macy’s on State Street will be unveiling the sizzling styles of summer inspired by the art, beauty, and culture of Brazil. With bronzed skin and sun-kissed hair, Brazilian beauties know a thing or two about looking glamorous amongst warm, humid climates. Indulge in the latin culture and find out what bright ensembles are in fashion this summer at this hot event. 

THE SCHEDULE

Take your happy-hour plans to Macy’s on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 5:30pm for the “Brasil Spring Fashion Event.” Enjoy dancing to brazilian music while you and your girl friends indulge in sweets and cocktails inspired by the Brazilian culture. If you didn’t get to touch up before leaving the office, Estee Lauder will be offering mini-makeovers to give you that beachy glow. Need some freshening up and a new summer fragrance? Try the new “Brazil Dream” fragrance by Estee Lauder while decorating your eyes and lips in the hottest shades representative of Brazil. Hosting the runway show, which will feature all of their summer styles that showcase the bold, bright colors of latin america, is Diego Rocha, a prior contestant on Bravo’s Project Accessory. Take note of all your fashion finds, because Grammy nominated singer/songwriter Bebel Gilberto will perform while you shop for all of those new trends. If that’s not enough to entice you, all guests who spend $50 in the Impulse department will receive an exclusive Macy’s cosmetic bag.

THE GUEST LIST

You don’t have to hail from Brazil to partake in these festivities. Women from all over Chicago will find enjoyment in these activities, even if you don’t have a latin american origin. 

EXTRA DETAILS

Runway Show : Impulse department, 3rd floor, 5:30pm

Macy’s State Street

111 N. State Street

Chicago, IL 60602

http://www.macys.com 

With over 20 shades, Bobbi Brown’s Long-Wear Cream Shadow ($24) will keep your lids creaseless and colorful all summer. A velvety formula that made this shadow one of Allure magazines “Best of Beauty” awards in 2011, this effortless shadow can be applied with your fingers or a brush for sheer to deeper color. 

Don’t want to have to have to pack an eyeshadow primer, eyeshadow, and eye liner for your summer vacation? Benefit’s creaseless cream eyeshadow/liner ($19) is a three-in-one product that primes, lines and colors lids in beautiful brights. In 12 colors from “tattle tale”, a rich butter cream, to “flatter me”, a toasted mauve, your lids can be dressed in a flawless, natural look for day and a smoky, glamorous look at night. The fact that you can apply it seamless with your fingers also mean’s you won’t have to worry about make-up brushes dirtying your cosmetic bag.

If you’re looking for neutrals look no farther than Stila’s Smudge Pots ($20). While it may only come in seven shades, you’ll still get a range of blendable, smudge-proof colors perfect for work or play. Apply the color “Bronze” all over lids to pair with that perfect summer tan. Blend the color right up to the brow bone, and brush a bit of shimmery nude “Kitten” in the inner corners to emphasize your gorgeous bronze glow.

For long-lasting and luminous color get your hands, and lids, on Make Up For Ever’s Aqua Cream ($23). Super creamy and high quality pigments are the perfect combination for all-day coverage. Whether your are feeling playful or demure, Aqua Cream shadows come in almost every color of the rainbow. From Emerald Green to Fuchsia, Make Up For Ever’s eyeshadows will add color and excitement to any outfit. 

THE HOTSPOT

If you know fashion, you know Urban Chic. The beloved boutique is the place to shop for stylish DC residents who make it a point to stay on top of all things trendy. Not just a hotspot for established designers, though, the fashionable haunt also carries a range of glam goods from up-and-comers. Just a taste of the boutique’s VIPs: Tibi, Milly, Max & Cleo, J Brand, Free People, BCBG, Diane von Furstenberg, Shoshanna, Mink Pink and more. Many, many more.

THE SCHEDULE

What better way to kick off the sultriest season of the year? Join Bitches Who Brunch for a phenomenally good time at Urban Chic in Georgetown. It all goes down on Saturday, May 19th, from 11am to 2pm. The fashionable brunchers-about-town are hosting a Trina Turk trunk show, packed with the season’s most desirable looks (think amaaaaazing one-shoulder maxi dresses, vintage-chic frocks and so much more). Naturally, no Bitches Who Brunch event is complete without, well, brunch! Nosh on yummy bites from Patisserie Poupon, sip a delicious mimosa or two, and partake in a few relaxing spa favors while you’re at it. Don’t forget to mention “Bitches Who Brunch” at checkout – you’ll get 15% off your purchase and a Trina Turk gift with your trunk show purchase.

GUESTLIST

The Bitches Who Brunch are Cori Sue Morris and Becca Clara Love. Mingle with the ladies and other like-minded style mavens, who all share a discerning taste for the finest the city has to offer.  

EXTRA DETAILS

Urban Chic
1626 Wisconsin Ave.
Washington, DC 20007
202.338.5398

Don’t be fooled; beauty editors, models, and actresses don’t always wake up with glowing skin.  There are days when we don’t have time to apply makeup, especially on the weekends when we are dashing out the door. Yet we all want to conceal our minimal imperfections and comply with anti-aging prevention

There are several factors that contribute to lack-luster skin: sleep deprivation, not drinking enough water, staying out late, and alcohol consumption.

Lack-Luster skin is the result of damaged lipid barriers that no longer seal in moisture, which leads to uneven and dull skin.

The good news is that there are several crèmes that give back glowing skin on contact. Some are makeup primers and moisturizers infused with illuminating properties, and then there are those that help diminish hyperpigmentation scars while lighting up the skin from within.

A good skin illuminator will enhance the complexion while hydrating and restoring the skin, giving it a huge dose of glow.

The Best Illuminators for All Skin Types:

VinoPerfect by Caudalie – Caudalie’s VinoPerfect Crème Éclat is a hydrating crème that provides the skin with an SPF 15, plus helps brighten dull and tired skin by minimizing existing dark spots and preventing new ones from forming.  Skin instantly becomes radiant and pretty – hydrated and protected from the sun’s unforgiving rays of light. $68

Complexion Brightener SFP 20 by Omorovicza is a luxurious anti-aging serum/crème that blurs away imperfections, hydrates, and provides the skin with SPF protection. Skin becomes firmer, more supple, and youthful. $140

Glow Enhancing Cream by Renee Rouleau – A deep hydrating moisturizer that restores the skins protective barrier. The result: skin is supple, soft and wrinkles and tiny laugh lines are blurred for glowing results. $69.50

Magic Lumi by L’Oreal – An affordable primer infused with rays of soft golden light. Skin is immediately illuminated with the pearl-like liquid that blurs away imperfections and leaves behind a dewy complexion.$12.95

The Radiance Cream by Eve Lom – A rich hydrating cream that gives the skin a lifting and boosting effect.  Skin is immediately softer and youthful. $90

Dermablend Skin Perfector Pigment Correcting Primer is a crème that targets skin discoloration by gently exfoliating the surface of the skin.  In addition, it acts as a hydrating makeup primer that helps illuminate the skin for a smoother and radiant complexion. $45

Here’s to Happy Glowing Skin!

Did you know daily sunscreen use cuts our risk of Melanoma in half? Studies show that it does, and it takes 5 minutes out of your day to apply the product; that isn’t too much to ask, right? Though, how can we navigate through the sea of sunscreen products to find the best one for you? Here’s some facts to help you narrow down your search, or to hopefully point you in the direction of a great product for your face and body.

 Chemical vs Physical: Physical sunscreens provide a broad spectrum of UVA and UVB protection, which reflect or scatter UV radiation before it reaches your skin. They are especially useful for individuals with sensitive skin, as they rarely cause skin irritation. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the energy of UV radiation before it affects your skin. The majority of Chemical sunscreens only offer UVB protection and not UVA (unless it has the UVA blocking agent: Avobenzone in it), which can result in long term skin injury/cancer. I prefer to stick to a physical sunscreen with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. For more information, Check out this great chart highlighting the main differences between the two.

Does anything over SPF 30 really work: Lets look at the facts on this one, an SPF 30 gives at least 95% protection against harmful UVA/UVB rays, yet both an SPF of 55 and 85 shows about a 99% protection rate. No sunscreen gives 100% coverage, and though that extra 4% coverage is essential, it’s mainly used as a marketing technique that many consumers get caught up in. The amount and frequency of application, as well as the kind of quality product your using, is what will contribute mainly to your protection. When shopping for a sunscreen, it’s important to note, though you are looking at the actual number rating (SPF 15, 25 etc) that rating is only based off of UVB and does not include UVA (which is more harmful!), so be sure to look for the “UVA/UVB Protection” or “Broad Spectrum” protection label on the bottle to get full protection and coverage.

When to apply: Sunscreen should be applied liberally to clean, dry skin 20 minutes before going outside. Be sure to cover every exposed part of your body and face (and don’t forget those hands!) Reapply every two hours, or more regularly if you are perspiring or involved in water activities. Keep in mind, even though spray lotions and gels are the least oily, they are also the ones that wash off easily and need to be reapplied more frequently.

Product Recommendations:  Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch, Laura Mericer Tinted Moisturizer, Eucerin Everyday Protective Face Lotion, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Cream (Top rated!) Dermalogica Solar Defense Booster (My personal fave, so versatile!)

Here’s my pick of the best taupe shoes for a variety of occasions.

Walkable Cuteness

Shown: Me Too Sadie, $79.95

A low espadrille and ankle strap provide more support than your typical summer sandal, with a cushioned sole and adorable tie knot over toes to show off a bright pedicure.

The Trend Setter

Shown: DV8 by Dolce Vita Minx Sandal, $138.95

Move aside, Victoria Beckham. This classic open toe sandal is balanced on a sculptural wooden wedge, and turned luxurious in suede and leather. With a heel height of almost six inches, this style is for the truly daring.

The Weekender

Shown: Vince Camuto Sanura Wedge Sandal, $117.95

Canvas and cork combine on a raffia-trimmed wedge with adjustable slingback strap and peep toe. It’s the perfect look-pulled-together-without-trying shoe to pair with your weekend capris.

The Grown-Up Flip Flop

Shown: OluKai Kui Thong Sandal, $99.95

Brushed metal dresses up a high quality leather sandal, that features a padded footbed and more support than your typical flip flop. Wear with jeans, shorts, cotton dresses and while walking the boardwalk in style.

The skin on your face is far more delicate than the skin on the rest of your body, which could make you a little wary of using self tanner on your face.  That’s why I always use self-tanners that are specially formulated for the face. Doing so avoids breakouts, and that dreaded “muddy” look that comes from applying too much heavy product.

Clarins Liquid Bronze Self-Tanning for Face & Decollete is one of my favorite products for adding a little color to your visage. In fact, I use it year round. It creates a natural looking tan and looks great on all skin tones, even the fairest complexions. The fragrance is sweet and doesn’t leave that dreaded post self tanner scent; plus, the formula is moisturizing, smooth, and refreshing. Just apply it with a cotton pad to ensure even converge and you’ll have healthy glowing skin in no time.

If you want an option that’s a little easier on the budget, give Jergens Natural Glow Daily FACE Moisturizer a try. It comes in formulas designed for both fair to medium, and medium to tan skin tones, and contains an SPF 20. The principle is similar to the popular Jergens Daily Moisturizer with self tanner, in that the color shows up gradually after a few applications. It’s fool proof, so you won’t end up with streaks, just radiant skin like you’ve spent a few weeks on vacation.

ABOUT

Originally opened in October 2008 in the über swank Plaza Hotel, this space was Caudalie’s first spa outside of Europe. From treatments to rituals and products, the protocol embraces the anti-aging and restorative powers of grapes – a trademark of the French brand.

AMBIENCE

Heralding back to the original spa in wife-and-husband founders Mathilde and Bertrand Thomas’ Bordeaux vineyard, grapes abound in the space, from photography and sculpture décor and to the indulgent 800 square foot wine relaxation room, where guests can enjoy a complimentary glass. Separate female and male locker rooms boast steam rooms, and a show-stopping VIP room is punctuated by an oversized barrel bath, stone-walled shower and blissfully serene side-by-side massage beds.

EXPERIENCE

Think relaxation with an elegant French touch of luxury. Treatments celebrate the super antioxidant benefits of grapes, with hydro massage bath options in red vine, grape and merlot all rejuvenating and relaxing beginnings to any treatment. Body wraps are available, and the merlot version is a highlight – a warm application of bentonite clay and essential oils is swathed over skin to purify, before a cocoon wrap is secured to encourage nutrients to penetrate. Perhaps the most iconic treatment, the crushed cabernet scrub utilizes a base of grape-seed, honey, brown sugar and essential oils to clean, smooth and tighten skin. A favorite before special events, the slimming concentrate treatment targets cellulite with a firm, kneading massage using the brand’s Contouring Concentrate, and is topped with a slimming mask formulated for the hip and thigh area. Stone therapy, a full slate of anti-aging facials and full body massage – including pregnancy and reflexology – are also offered, as are nail and waxing services.

IN CROWD

Housed in the Plaza Hotel, the spa attracts European travelers, uptown spa-goers and executives in need of some rest & relaxation.

WALLET WATCH

Facials cost from $185 to $375, massages from $195 to $305, nail services from $45 to $95 and a Brazilian wax (one among a full body range of offerings) is $70.

NEED TO KNOW

Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa At The Plaza, 1 West 58th Street, Fourth Floor, New York, NY 10019; 212 265 3182; www.caudalie-usa.com

L’Occitane Almond Shower Scrub: At the top of my list is this incredible, creamy shower scrub. It’s packed with almond particles, which are finely ground and suspended in a cool gel base. Perfect for achieving the kind of silky-soft gams usually only seen in commercials; it also contains intensely hydrating almond oil – the genius ingredient that leaves skin especially supple. It also happens to smell pretty great, boasting a fresh, bright fragrance reminiscent of almond tree flowers.

Fresh Brown Sugar Body Polish: An oldie, but always a goodie! Fresh Brown Sugar Body Polish is just as delightful as it’s always been. The mouthwatering emulsion is very nearly delicious enough to eat – but don’t make that mistake, ladies. Instead, stir it a touch and enjoy the incredible feeling of various oils (among them jojoba, sweet almond, evening primrose and more) mingling with pure brown sugar. You can thank me later.

Boots Hawaiian Islands Coconut and Hibiscus Body Scrub: You’ve been warned, ladies. One whiff of this tropically-scented scrub may cause you to drop everything and book your next vacation, stat – responsibilities be damned. A beautiful blend of creamy coconut and soft floral, it contains organic coconut oil and ground apricot seeds and walnut shells for an intensive exfoliating experience. It’s one of the strongest, most “scrubby” exfoliants of the bunch!

ABOUT

Located a few blocks from one of Seattle’s favorite destinations, Greenlake Park, Sugar Sugar specializes in all natural and organic hair removal and facials. It was recently featured in InStyle Magazine’s 2011 Ultimate Beauty Black Book as one of the best places for brows.

AMBIENCE

The space is very cool with large windows and a bright, airy atmosphere. There are maple wood floors, lots of white and open shelving great for housing skincare products including the Clarisonic and the Eminence Organics skincare line. The salon and treatment rooms are immaculate and you can sit on the couch in the waiting area and peruse new fashion magazine while listening to relaxing music and enjoying lots of natural light. Plus, the staff is welcoming and friendly and eager to answer any questions.

EXPERIENCE

I booked an eyebrow shaping appointment and since this was my first time sugaring, I’m not going to lie… I was a little nervous. But let me say, I had nothing to worry about.  My results are fabulous and believe me when I tell you; the process was virtually painless…it’s my new favorite form of hair removal!

 My wonderful friendly and knowledgeable aesthetician explained the all-natural sugar mixture consists only of sugar, lemon and water making it perfect for my sensitive skin. The small sugar ball is applied at room temperature so there’s no danger of burning. It’s pressed into the skin and removed in the direction the hair grows making sugaring less traumatic than waxing.

I loved that we discussed exactly the shape I wanted for my eyebrows and she meticulously created the most natural and youthful looking eyebrows. We chatted as she flicked her wrist to remove the unwanted hair and frequently gave me a mirror to check the progress. After a quick brow trim and tweezes to a few stray hairs, my beautiful brows were revealed. I had no noticeable redness, the experience was pleasurable and honestly as close to pain free as possible. I highly recommend giving sugaring a try and my experience at Sugar Sugar was so good I think I’ll venture to book a bikini treatment here next time.

IN CROWD

It’s close to the University of Washington so you’ll find plenty of twenty something coeds and sorority sisters here, but it’s also popular with the Greenlake stroller set and career gals.

WALLET WATCH

Brow Maintenance is $18 while brow shaping is $25.

NEED TO KNOW

Call for an appointment or use their great online appointment tool.

Sugar Sugar

510 NE 65^th Street

Seattle, WA 98115

206.789.1127

http://sugarseattle.net

We don’t always wake-up looking bright-eyed and bushy tailed, especially after a late night of working, parenting, or social networking.  How do celebrities like Mariah Carey, Jennifer Lopez, or Celine Dion pull it together? Most importantly, how are you going to pull it together if you’re running on less than 8 hours of sleep?

 Mally Roncal, Celebrity Makeup Artist to a bevy of beauties has a few beauty tips up her sleeve guaranteed to deliver flawless, glowing and radiant skin, especially if you’re running on empty.

 1. Cleanse, exfoliate and mask to help remove impurities and dead surface skin.  Before makeup application skin should start off clean and smooth.

 2. Apply a moisturizer and a makeup primer to hydrate skin and fill in visible pores and fine lines.

3. Concealer can either be applied before or after your foundation, conceal the spots you want concealed and use under eyes to remove dark shadows.

4. Even out your complexion with a foundation that matches your skin tone – can either be applied with a makeup brush, sponge or your finger-tips.

5. Highlight brow bone, cheek bones, temples, and down the center of your nose; swirl a universally flattering pinky-peach blush to the apples of your cheeks, don’t forget to use the diffuser brush to blend, blend and blend.

6. To brighten the area around your eyes apply a “V” with an eye brightening stick to the corners of your eyes, before or after your mascara.

7. Curl your lashes and apply two to three coats of your favorite mascara -

8. Completing the look with a light application of translucent powder if desired.

Here’s to Flawless, Radiant and Glowing skin!

For More on Beauty @MallyRoncal.com

L’Wren Scott isn’t just another pretty face, she happens to be a successful clothing designer with a celebrity clientele list that includes Nicole Kidman, Sarah Jessica Parker, Amy Adams and Penelope Cruz, and it doesn’t hurt that she’s Mick Jagger’s leading lady.

Recently she shared a few of her favorite beauty essentials that include Meta Revive Dry Shampoo, Meta Silk Shampoo/ Conditioner and the absolute beauty must is the Meta Sheer Dry Oil Finishing Spray by Serge Normant.

The Hot Spot/ Hot Product: Serge Normant’s haircare collection is basic and provocative, helping women style their everyday hair into the elegant and sophisticated styles we see on the runway and in the everyday red carpet of life.

All Serge Normant products are formulated with exotic, organic and natural ingredients that are  combined with cutting-edge bio-technology. 

Key Ingredient:

Keravis – a vegetable hair strengthening complex proven to improve damaged hair, hair becomes stronger, flexible and lush – free-flowing tresses have never been so gorgeous!

The Experience: On a personal note I am addicted to the Meta Sheer Dry Oil Finishing Spray, the scent is intoxicating, and the results are sublime. Incorporating Serge Normant into your daily haircare regimen is not only giving your precious locks a dose of glamour, but also a dose of healthy.

Getting Your Beauty Fix:

Barneys New York

77 O’Farrell Street

San Francisco, CA 94102

(415) 268-3500 or at SergeNormant.com

Mally Roncal

THE HOTSPOT

The always-bustling Grand Central Terminal will seemingly transform into a powder room when celebrity makeup artist, Mally Roncal, will descend with her pink-clad “Fight The Powder” team to reveal the dangers of using the typical translucent powder.

THE SCHEDULE

On Tuesday, May 8th, from 6:30am to 9:30am, and again from 4pm to 7pm, Mally and her team will encourage harried commuters to take an indulgent moment, and trade-in their face powders for Mally’s new Face Defender, a completely clear setting powder that is a lighter, more refreshing, and longer-lasting alternative to traditional face powder. The first 5o women to accept the challenge will receive a free Face Defender. Others will receive a pretty pink compact mirror with a QR code linked to a video featuring exclusive makeup tips and discounts from Mally.

GUESTLIST

It will be the veritable Grand Central morning and evening commuter crowd: all ages, all walks of life, all colors and all in a mad rush. But don’t discount the potential for a little beauty R&R – what woman hasn’t stolen a moment or two on the train to powder her nose and refresh the lipstick?

EXTRA DETAILS

Mally “Fight the Powder” squad will take place outside of Grand Central terminal on Tuesday, May 8th, from 6:30am to 9:30am, and again from 4pm to 7pm, with a rain date of Tuesday, June 19th.

Whether it’s brown spotting from the sun, deeper brown-to-purple spots left from an acne breakout, or red spots punctuated by broken blood vessels, the antagonist remains the same: the sun. That is why it is essential to wear an SPF of at least 30 daily to prevent further spotting and deepening of color, and make sure you apply generously.

A slew of excellent spot lightening options have hit the market, at different price points that make treatment accessible by all. Whichever option you choose, remember that patience is a virtue; it will take diligent use of the product for four to six weeks to begin to see results.

L’Oréal Youth Code Dark Spot Correcting & Illuminating Serum Corrector, $24.99

An amino acid derivative, pro-cysteine, and vitamin B3 combined with vitamin Cg to fade spots by rapidly increasingly cell turnover rates.

Philosophy Miracle Worker Miraculous All-Over Brightener and Dark Spot Corrector, $62

Sensitive skin types will appreciate gentler ingredients, like niacinamide, resveratrol and peptides, which work to brighten skin while also hydrating and soothing.

Kiehl’s Corrective Dark Spot Solution, $49.50

This silky serum harnesses vitamin C’s brightening powers with peony extract, which both target darkness in the skin. The formula is free of silicones, parabens and fragrance.

Bare Escentuals BareMinerals Intensive Glow Pads Brightening Treatment, $35

The two-sided pads come with a smooth side for everyday use, or a textured side for deeper treatment. The pads come pre-soaked in a blend of sugar cane, sugar maple, orange, lemon and lactic and glycolic acids, which refresh skin for brighter clarity.

From models and celebrities to that fashion forward coworker of yours, it seems everyone’s locks are pulling off big, bouncy ballerina buns. While it may seem simple to style, there are a few hidden tools behind constructing the bun that can transform your bad hair day or add polish to the outfit calling for a stylish top knot. Stop searching in your male counterparts drawers for a sock and purchase one of these tools to help you get a full, perfectly polished bun fit for any occasion.

Your hands, an elastic and bobby pins are not enough to get that perfectly round, exceptionally big bun. One extremely useful tool is the hair donut. Constructed from nylon mesh material, this donut shaped contraption is easy to use and will deliver large results in seconds. Gather hair into a ponytail and secure with an elastic. Pull the end of your ponytail through the whole in the hair donut, and loop the end of the hair over the edge. Continue to wrap the hair donut up the length of the hair, moving the hair around the donut in a circle. Once you get to the top, the stretchy material should stay in place and give you a perfect bun. If your hair is extra fine, you may need to secure it with a bobby pin or two. ASOS has a large hair donut ($11) in a neutral color. Another hair donut to try is the Bombshell hair donut, which comes in small ($5) and large ($11) and nearly every hair color: blonde, brunette and black.

Whether you want a large bun on the top of your head or a ballerina bun at the nape of the neck, The Wrap-Up by Sarah Potempa ($12) will deliver flawless results in minutes. Made of a flexible and bendable material that works for all lengths and types of hair, The Wrap-Up is a crescent shape tool that gets completely hidden. Start by securing your hair with an elastic in a high- or low- ponytail. Pull the hair through the center hole of The Wrap-Up and slide it down to the end of the hair. Roll the hair over the top of The Wrap-Up and continue to roll upward until you reach the base of the ponytail. Finish by bending the ends of The Wrap-Up down and around to close the circle and distribute the hair around. 

It may take a little practice, but soon you will be rocking the voluminous, round bun. 

Situated – nay, make that practically hidden – in a small corner of a fairly visible strip mall in the heart of Fairfax, Dante Salon and Wellness Spa may well be the area’s most well-known blink-and-you’ll-miss-it beauty hotspots. Dante Noory, who originally chose to focus solely on hair services, founded it in 1999. Eventually, though, the menu expanded to include a more well rounded list of services, ranging from facials to waxing.

AMBIENCE

You may miss Dante Salon and Wellness Spa if you aren’t careful, so keep your eyes peeled for the Starbucks. Pop up the outdoor staircase and you’ll find yourself at a set of double doors that leads to a brief respite from the madness DC residents know as “traffic.” The spa exudes an aura of peace and effortless tranquility; both come easily thanks to the soft ivory walls, warm lighting and sparse décor. The Greek-style columns bring a hint of elegance to the otherwise low-key beauty haunt – although the ornate chandelier in the entry area is certainly worth a second glance. More appealing to beauty junkies are the walls lined with products from Paul Mitchell, Pureology, OPI and more.

EXPERIENCE

My shampoo, blow dry and flat iron service was a treat for my unruly mane on a blustery Saturday afternoon. Stylist Ann Marie Augustine escorted me to a small shampoo area and proceeded to thoroughly cleanse my hair with sulfate-free Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and followed with the complementary Hydrate Conditioner. Creamy and nourishing, both products worked their magic without stripping my color – and also happened to leave behind a glorious scent, too. Then it was on to the styling area, where Ann Marie coated my hair with Moroccanoil, one of the hair care industry’s most miraculous products. Formulated to smooth, soften and nourish all at once, the non-greasy oil penetrates strands and leaves it primed for a perfect blow dry. That’s precisely what I got, too, thanks to Ann Marie’s expertise. After about 20 minutes of drying and flat ironing, my hair felt silky smooth – so much so that I couldn’t keep my hands off it. 

IN CROWD

With their reasonable prices, this generally no-frills spa draws wallet watchers who still demand an upscale experience.

WALLET WATCH

A shampoo, blow dry and flat iron service starts at $45. A shampoo, blow dry and curling iron service starts at $50.

NEED TO KNOW

Dante Salon and Wellness Spa
3943 Old Lee Hwy.
Fairfax, VA 22030
703.352.2800