When I first moved to the city one of the things that would have been invaluable to me would have been a guide to the best beauty salons. Aside from meeting new people, finding somewhere to live, I needed to know where I could have pamper sessions and keep myself beautified. First impressions count for everything. I didn’t have this guide so I have had to purposely scope out the best places no matter where I am in the city. If you’re looking for somewhere or just looking to change, read on dear reader.
North
Nails – Nail Girls London is the spawn of a sister duo who were tired of damaging polishes, harsh chemicals and wanted to offer a fun service, allowing you to mix and match different treatments for a better experience. Hailed by Vogue and worshipped by fellow Islingtonites. This North London salon will pamper you with manicure/pedicure starting at £29 and you can watch movie classics whilst you’re being beautified. Find them at 50, Cross street – a stone’s throw from trendy Upper Street.
Hair – Need to fix your mane? The Blow Bar is ideal for quick fix styles. If you’re on your way from office to party, this is a great place to go for gorgeous styles at great prices. Champagne, cocktails and beer on hand you can do your hair and have your pre-party drinks at the same time. Find them at Camden Passage, Islington near Angel station.
Tan – We are a far cry from Summer here in England and you haven’t spent the last 10 days yachting around St. Tropez. This doesn’t mean you can’t look like you have! Go and get a spray tan at The Tanning Shop on 52, Parkway, Camden. They won’t miss any bits and are experts at getting round those sketchy areas.
Central
Nails – The Beautiful Nails Studio on Tottenham Street is a no frills experience. Great prices (from £7 for colour change) and long lasting stunning nails, you won’t be disappointed. Book for an appointment though as there can be queues!
All over pamper – Casablanca Spa on Edgware Road is an Aladdin’s cave of beauty and spa treatments. As well as being good value – I loved the Dermalogica facial (lasts an hour and a steal at £40) – the beauticians are friendly and for just a short period of time you can forget you’re in the busy city centre and escape to Morocco.
Hair – Praise thanks to the hair gods that famed Hershesons opened their Blow Dry Bar in Topshop, Oxford Circus. £24 for a blow dry, I don’t really need to say anything else. Choose from their menu of signature styles and if you are going for something a little different, choose a hair extension piece and they will fit it and style. I had one of their “ponies” and I felt like Rapunzel with really stylish hair!
East
Nails - If you’re East, you can’t not have your nails done at Wah Nails. An institution in it’s own right, they are the ones responsible for the trendy nail patterns you can find on the hands of Dalston and Shoreditch socialites. Animal print, Chanel-like – this is THE nail destination for the fashion friendly.
Mobile – Don’t have time to run anywhere? That’s ok, Rachel McGregor is East London’s mobile beautician of choice (she is that good). Before going mobile Rachel was at Spitalfields’ City Beach. She covers a broad spectrum of treatments including nails and waxing (she takes no prisoners). Call her on 07985 312987 to book.
