As some of you may know, one of my favorite ways of discovering a city and its surroundings is through its beauty boutiques. Not that long ago, I wrote about my favorite New York City beauty boutiques.
And not that long ago, I was in Boston, rediscovering the first American city I ever fell in love with (when I was 6 years old – the reason why I came back for college). Here are my favorite Boston beauty boutiques.
A Matter of Face (425 Hanover Street)
While the North End might be better known for its Italian pastry shops, cafes, and restaurants, the neighborhood would not be the same without this intimate boutique owned by the ever-smiling Paula. Stop in for a makeover in between your latte and dinner reservation.
B Boutique (558 Adams Street, Milton)
Known first and foremost for her classy, always-perfect wedding makeup, this boutique is a treasure trove for niche brands. I go there for Becca eye pencils and to get my eyebrows waxes by the beautiful, blonde, and leggy owner, Danielle.
Beauty & Main (locations in Wellesley and Hingham)
I started shopping at Beauty & Main in college, at their Cambridge Square location. While that store is no more, I continue to go to the Wellesley and Hingham locations for my makeup go-tos: Trish McEvoy mascara and Laura Mercier tinter moisturizer. And yes, if you need to, you can pick up some Alchimie Forever there also. I love the neighborhood boutique feel, the amazing service, and the fun events.
Beauty Cafe (515 Main Street, Melrose)
Whether you go to see Karen, the owner, to ask for skin care advice or to pick up a gorgeous piece of cocktail jewelry for yourself or as a gift, or stop by to see Heather for one of her fabulous facials – you will leave happy and smiling – and with glowing skin.
Bella Sante (various locations)
Whenever I have some time in between meetings, I head to the Newbury Street location for a manicure, pedicure, or if I am really lucky, both. There is a reason why this spa is repeatedly voted top pedicure spa in Boston. Don’t take my word for it… go try it for yourself.
The Beauty Mark (33 Charles Street)
Located near landmark Charles street institutions such as The Hungry I and Linens on the Hill, this tiny jewel of a boutique is packed with the best makeup brands. Stop in for a lipstick, and leave with fuller eyelashes. Indeed, Amy is the eyelash queen, known for eyelash extensions and refills. Her newest brainchild is Townhouse Beauty Bar, right across the street, where stylists will make your hair look as good as your eyelashes.
And should you decide that you need something a little bit more medical than the expert advice of any of these owners, and their amazing products, head to The Newbury Center (69 Newbury Street, make sure to meet the beautiful Nicole, wife of plastic surgeon Dr. Ramsey Alsarraf), or Boston Dermatology & Laser Center (30 Lancaster Street, Ste. 400).
