Best of Citysearch Spa & Beauty

by Lauren Sloat - Citysearch Editor - 56 Reviews - 14 Lists

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From the archives: November 10, 2009

Washington, we get a bad rap. "Hollywood for ugly people," are you kidding me? We may have more important things to do than watching (or participating in) reality TV shows, but I, for one, like my politics with highlights and a monthly pedicure. What's your non-negotiable grooming habit? Let us know where you get pretty--starting November 11, vote for your favorite spas, salons and beauty spots for the Best of Citysearch Washington, D.C. (Click the vote button on any select spots' Citysearch page.) For inspiration, here are some of my favorites.

Editor's Nominees: Best of Citysearch Spa & Beauty

  1. 1 Blondie's Spa Hair Studio
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    1910 18th St Nw, Washington, DC 20009 (map)

    Finding a hair stylist is a bit like finding a husband; you have to experiment a lot, have faith and endure some awkward breakups. After some hair disasters (including the time a friend asked if my highlights were part of my Halloween costume), I've finally found "The One": Gina at Blondie's. She doesn't push products or services, nor did she insult my previous cut and color. She also takes the time to study the photos I bring in for inspiration. The free glass of wine doesn't hurt, either.

  2. 2 Bliss Spa
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    515 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20004 (map)

    The W's Bliss Spa takes customer service to a whole new level. The people manning the front desk are so happy that there's no choice but to start the experience in an excellent mood. My favorite treatments are the Pedi-colada and double chocolate pedicure; each comes with a decadent treat (one alcoholic, the other chocaholic) and uses natural, edible ingredients. I also love the focus on cleanliness and safety (no razors or jet streams here!) and the mesmerizing wall of glossy Essie polishes organized by color.

  3. 3 PR at Partners Metro Ctr
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    1001 G St Nw, Washington, DC 20001 (map)

    I tried this Penn Quarter salon on a whim and ended up leaving with a fabulous manicure. I enjoyed sitting at the bar rather than a traditional manicure table. The best part, though, was the selection of polishes--the salon always has the latest nail polish trends (like matte and suede finish). The daring gray color I chose wasn't something I'd invest in at home, but it was fun for that week, and garnered more compliments than I have ever received on a manicure.

  4. 4 Blue Mercury
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    3059 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007 (map)

    One of my favorite places to go when I need cheering up is this Georgetown spa and beauty supply store. All I have to do is fondle some fancy Fresh soaps, deeply inhale a zesty Molton Brown shower gel or wink at tube of lipgloss, and I'm instantly more happy. This is a great spot for finding obscure beauty brands (The Sara Happ lip scrub is a favorite discovery that I've passed on to all the women in my family). It's good for services, too. A stellar Bobbi Brown makeover introduced me to the fabulous lavender toner and pink shimmer brick.

  5. 5 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Grooming Lounge
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    1745 L St NW, Washington, DC 20036 (map)

    What man wouldn't feel instantly comfortable getting a pedicure after being offered a shot of whiskey? This Farragut Square lounge is the ultimate spa for the man's man--one of my friends gives her father (downtown lawyer) and brother (bearded and burly) a gift certificate every year. The concept reminds me a bit of "Mad Men"--hearkening back to a time when there was a certain glamor and style to men's grooming.