Here’s to You
Hey, Mom, give yourself a break! We know you're always on call, but why not give yourself an hour (okay, or a day…) to indulge yourself? To help you kick back, we've compiled this guide to the best spas and specialty shops in 11 different cities. Bookmark it for yourself or share it (oh-so-subtly) with your spouse and kids so that they know just what sort of "surprise" you're in the market for.
ATLANTA: Spa Fiori
If you want all the bells and whistles of perfect skin, then Spa Fiori is your go-to destination. Here, you can refresh and refuel skin with an anti-stress, anti-aging or deep-pore facial. The spa is also hailed far and wide for its long-lasting, super-smooth waxes, perfect for these pre-summer days. (If you've got to get it done, may as well make it last, right?)
6955 McGinnis Ferry Road
Suite 116
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Phone: 770-814-0089
Aviary Organic Beauty Collective: Spa
Allure magazine continually gives shout-outs to this organic beauty emporium. Whether you’re after a facial for glowing skin or an acupressure massage to whisk all your motherly muscle tensions away, you can find it here. Bonus: Aviary is committed to both natural beauty and the most relaxing environment.
Aviary Organic Beauty Collective
659 Auburn Ave.
Studio 125
Atlanta, GA 30312
Phone: 404-577-2460
Renew Day Spa
Founder Lyn Winegar’s goal when she began 23 years ago was simple: Meet the personal well-being needs of her mostly female clientele. Her commitment to that goal keeps her among Atlanta’s favorite spa spots. Whether you choose the 90-minute hot-stone massage or the rose massage and facial, it’s hard to go wrong.
4347 Shallowford Road
Marietta, GA 30062
Phone: 770-998-8592
Ann Mashburn: Boutique
In 2010, Ann and Sid Mashburn opened this feminine companion boutique two doors down from the store named after Sid. Garnering praise as one of Atlanta magazine’s best prep shopping locales last year, you’ll have to take a peek at Ann’s signature shirt dresses along with perennial favorite labels like J Brand and Petit Bateau.
1198 Howell Mill Road
Atlanta, GA 30318
Phone: 404-350-7132
Just the Thing: Jewelry
If baubles and accessories are your thing, skip over to this pretty cottage that boasts an array of extras on an affordable budget. (Think: mostly under $100.) Guaranteed you won’t leave without at least one piece of JTT-customer favorite Brazilian gold jewelry.
529 Pharr Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30305
Phone: 404-869-4100
Bee: Boutique
You can’t help but love a store that carries a little bit of everything, especially when it's also eco-friendly. Bee features cute clothes from recycled linens, vintage kicks, blast-from-the-past furniture styles and its very own upholstery line, called La Ruche. With all that on sale, it's hard to imagine anyone walking out empty-handed!
26 East Andrews Drive
Atlanta, GA 30305
Phone: 404-365-9858
BOSTON: Skoah Boston: Spa
Skoah’s mod, minimalist design is a feast for the eyes, but the real treat is this spa’s customized, just-for-you facial. A personal “skin care trainer” will whip your complexion into shape and have you walk away glowing from within. Moms-to-be should try the “tummy and mummy,” which takes care of pre-baby skin worries by calming breakouts, banishing puffiness and soothing irritation.
641A Tremont St.
Boston MA 02118
Phone: 857-350-4930
'Etant: Spa
The Improper Bostonian called it “Boston’s Best Massage.” Allure did, too. Mostly because no matter what your need is, you can find it at Etant. Integrative massages are to-the-nines relaxation experiences; sports and deep-tissue massages soothe the active or athletic mom; and four-handed massages work the tightest muscles.
524 Tremont St.
Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-423-5040
Ardan Spa and MedSpa
Ardan has a body treatment made for every need. Want to nix cellulite? Get the algae wrap. Want to revive post-pregnancy sagging? Try the full body firming treatment. Need to exfoliate away dead cells? The change of seasons is for you. Add in an array of light-touch facials, and you’re all set at this spa and medspa location.
72 Central St.
Wellesley, MA 02481
Phone: 781-235-7788
Lekker: Boutique
Boston magazine has tabbed Lekker for its best-in-show home accessories. It features the latest and greatest in everything contemporary, whether you need a new outdoor lantern or a piece of furniture in a solid pop of color.
1317 Washington St.
Boston, MA 02118
Phone: 617-542-6464
Forty Winks: Boutique
Moms rarely treat themselves to new lingerie, but undergarments are good for the soul. Even if you’ve been through a years-long drought, take one walk through this flirty, airy shop and you’ll be tempted to buy more than a few pieces. In addition to dainty bras and briefs, Forty Winks also carries gotta-love-’em shapewear essentials and ready-for-summer swimwear. We bet you never realized underwear could be so fun.
56 JFK St.
Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: 617-492-9100
Good: Boutique
Good founder Paul Niski loves jewelry that’s one-of-a-kind, whether it’s a vintage find or a handmade global acquisition. Since his Beacon Hill shop “reinvents” itself every few months, you’ll always find something unique. Why not pop in and discover something new? A woman can’t help but love great artisan jewelry.
133 Charles St.
Boston, Massachusetts 02114
Phone: 617-722-9200
CHICAGO: Urban Oasis: Spa
Head to Urban Oasis for a major massage. This spa has some of the more traditional techniques—prenatal, hot stone, deep tissue—but you can also request Bamboo Fusion, Thai or even Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy, where a therapist massages you with her feet while balancing with parallel bars mounted to the ceiling. Amazing!
939 W. North Ave., Atrium
Chicago, IL 60642
Phone: 312-640-0001
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12 W. Maple St., Third Floor
Chicago, IL 60610
Phone: 312-587-3500
Chicago Touch: Spa
Flexibility reigns at Chicago Touch, where each therapist specializes in techniques like pre- and post-natal massage, myofascial trigger point therapy for chronic pain, acupuncture and Swedish massage. Feel free to schedule ahead, or walk in whenever for a little upcharge. Overall, you can’t get a better bang for your buck at $60 for a 50-minute session.
1335 W. Lake St.
Chicago, IL 60607
Phone: 312-929-3083
Allyu: Spa
Chicago mag readers named Allyu among its favorite Chicago spas last year, and for good reason. A dim space is lit with candles for relaxation and reflection while you order up any number of vegan treatment services: mani-pedi, massage, waxing, facial—you name it.
600 W. Chicago Ave.
Chicago, IL 60654
Phone: 312-755-1313
Paper Doll: Boutique
Three words to describe the stationery, journals and cards from this Division Street shop? Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous. If you’re a sucker for cards that are better than the gifts they came with, or any other sort of upscale paper goods, then hint to your hubby that he needs stop by Paper Doll for a quick browse before any birthday or other celebration.
2027 West Division
Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: 773-227-6950
Penelope’s: Boutique
It’s time to update your wardrobe, mom. Modern and edgy labels like Cheap Monday and Dolce Vita fill this store’s floors. You’ll flip for quirky and cool extras like bow necklaces, metal-drop earrings and reinvented wooden wedge sandals.
1913 West Division
Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: 773-395-2351
Amy’s Candy Bar
Got a major sweet tooth? You’re going to want to sink your teeth into everything at Amy’s Candy Bar, from the salt water taffy and custom cupcakes to the ice cream sundae malted milk balls and rum cordials. You can have Amy’s products shipped straight to your home, but it’d be a shame to miss the adorable old-fashioned vibe of the shop itself if you’re in town.
4704 North Damen Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
Phone: 773-942-6386
Stress Relief
Spa day is a time for soothing, but what about all the other days? How can you keep stress in check during your everyday life? Enter Secret Clinical Strength, which is uniquely formulated with odor-neutralizing capsules and proven to give you 4x* protection from stress sweat to keep you smelling fresh and feeling calm every day of the year.
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DALLAS: The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas Spa and Salon
Southern belles are treated like queens at the Ritz-Carlton, Dallas’s spa and salon, complete with eucalyptus steam rooms and dry cedar saunas. With a menu ranging from the Texas Eight-Hand Massage (eight!) to the luxe blueberries and bluebonnets facial, you can strip down, de-stress and detoxify for a one-day (or longer) retreat.
The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas Spa and Salon
2121 McKinney Ave.
Dallas, TX 75201
Phone: 214-922-0200
The Grand Spa International
This spa’s got it all: body treatments like scrubs and wraps, massages from scalp to foot and even customized facials pinpointed exactly to your skin’s problem areas. If you’re an on-the-go mom with just enough time to tackle the essentials, head to Grand Spa for a quick fix in relaxation.
5100 Belt Line Road, Suite 620
Dallas, TX 75254
Phone: 972-392-9393
Koffee Day Spa
Wanna kick your feet up for the day? At Koffee Day Spa, you really can—they have an array of feet treats that will help you take a load off. If that’s not enough, order one of their packages off the cute “Sexy and the City” menu, like the Charlotte “klassic,” complete with sushi body wrap and “aromakappuccino” 60-minute Swedish massage. It certainly sounds good enough to eat!
1118 S. Akard Street
Dallas TX 75215
Phone: 214-428-9696
Casa Linda Bakery
Casa Linda Bakery is a little less gourmet, a little more all-around yum—the kind of place your kids will love, and you’ll be nostalgic for the moment you leave. D Magazine named it the Best Place for Sweets in Dallas last year, probably because of the clown cookies, perfect sprinkle cupcakes and sticky buns that make your tummy smile and keep you comin’ on back. If that’s not enough, the rock-bottom prices sure do help.
10819 Garland Rd.
Dallas, TX 75218
Phone: 214-321-0551
Dolly Python: Boutique
A local must-shop, the cleverly-named Dolly Python lies just outside downtown Dallas and is a true vintage mix. You’ll find retro 50’s swimsuits, old vinyl records and distressed paintings for sale among other odds and ends and knick-knacks. The selection is so vast… and fun… and quirky, there’s bound to be a thing or two to make you say, “OMG!” and, “I need it.”
1914-1916 N. Haskell Ave
Dallas, TX 75204
Phone: 214-887-3434
The Gypsy Wagon: Boutique
A Texas girl’s gotta have her cowboy boots, and the beat-up, vintage flair of the options at The Gypsy Wagon will make the perfect addition to a spring wardrobe. And while you might head there for the boots, you’ll stay for the endless supply of unique home items and one-of-a-kind accessories. And hint, hint: Don’t forget to check the slashed prices of the sale goods for major discounts.
2928 North Henderson Avenue
Dallas, TX 75206
Phone: 214-370-8010
HOUSTON: Sensia Studio and Japanese Day Spa
Don’t be alarmed by the hustle that greets you at this Japanese salon, because the silent back spa room is where it’s at in terms of relaxation. Try the three-hour “Spa Teaser” package—massage, facial, mani and pedi—to refuel with the basics, or the decadent “Golden Ritual” as a pricier, head-to-toe Mother’s Day treat.
Sensia Studio and Japanese Day Spa
1711 Post Oak Blvd.
Houston, TX 77056
Phone: 713-627-0070
Estilo Salon & Spa
Mario and Vanessa Tort have incredible reach via word of mouth, so a host of followers came along when they opened their own place in Houston, called Estilo. Tap Mario to do your hair for a big event or to simply change things up, and leave your problem skin to Vanessa, who will work magic with a facial.
2521 Hazard Street
Houston, TX 77019
Phone: 713-807-7409
Zalla Massage: Spa
Zalla and Linda go out of their way to make sure you enjoy your massage experience at this cozy and quiet spa. Let them know what your problem areas are, and they’ll tailor their technique to suit your needs … right down to using eucalyptus oil to clear up any spring congestion. Be sure to book in advance, and look online online for coupons and discounts.
1973 West Gray St. #17
Houston, TX 77019
Phone: 281-974-2823
Sam and Lilli: Boutique
Did you know Forbes ranked Houston the #1 best shopping city in the US? It's due, at least in part, to pretty boutiques like Sam and Lilli (formerly 310 Rosemont) and their super-accommodating staff. The store boasts the latest and greatest in designer wear, and promises to stay open late or come in early if you have a specific need and ask in advance. Great, right?
2800 Kirby, Suite A-133
Houston, Texas 77098
Phone: 713-942-9520
Chloe Dao Boutique
Project Runway alum Chloe Dao is a Houston treasure with her fan-favorite boutique, formerly known as Lot 8. Name-dropped in pubs like Elle and Women’s Wear Daily, this shop is stocked with feminine frocks for date nights and colorful clothes to brighten up everyday wear. Pop in, sift through Dao’s designs and sample new looks from local designers that are about to hit it big.
6127 Kirby Drive
Houston, TX 77005
Phone: 713-807-1565
Fluff Bake Bar
You may have to do a little digging, because Fluff Bake Bar isn’t a stand-alone shop, but it’s well worth it. Top Chef: Just Desserts’ Rebecca Masson is known around Houston as the ultimate creator of sweet treats. Case in point: the Veruca Salt Cup|Cake (a slice of cake in a cup), which combines devil’s food cake with salted caramel buttercream icing, a pretzel crunch and “pearls.” Check the website for all the locations you can find Fluff, or order up to a dozen Cup|Cakes or cookies online.
See website for locations
Houston, TX
Phone: 832-374-8340
LOS ANGELES: The Spa at Four Seasons, Los Angeles
Wait for your Swedish massage, detoxifying moor-mud wrap or perfect pedi while enjoying hot tea, dark chocolate chips and dried pears. You really are pampered and waited on hand and foot at the Four Seasons spa. So, while it might be a splurge, it may just also keep you sane and stress-free until your next day off.
The Spa at Four Seasons, Los Angeles
300 S. Doheny Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Phone: 310-273-2222
El Leon Spa
Motherhood can cause a few tense muscles, we know. Need to limber up? Allure says you’ve got to try “The Rock Star” massage at El Leon, a traditional Thai healing center. After an hour of strategic stretching, a neck rub and a hand and foot bath, you’ll be set to face whatever’s thrown your way.
8217 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Phone: 323-782-9582
Ciel Spa at SLS Hotel
With Ciel's line of signature spa treatments (like coconut and vanilla scrub) and pretty pedis for $40, you'll absolutely leave feeling refreshed. You may want to check out the spa specials, like Brunch and Massage, which can be ordered on the weekend and includes an hour-long massage along with smoked salmon and egg dishes to delight your tastebuds.
465 S. La Cienega Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Phone: 310-246-5560
Satine: Boutique
This boutique is famous for its indie labels and quintessential LA vibe—so much so that it’s been given shouts in fashion-heavyweight books like Harper’s Bazaar and W magazine. If you’re looking for a piece that’s not just in style for the season, but ahead of the trends, then you have to shop the racks of this 3rd Street store.
8134 W. 3rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Phone: 323-655-2142
Buttons & Bows: Boutique
The LA vintage-clothing scene can be a tad pricey, but Buttons & Bows manages to keep it reasonable without losing an ounce of the throwback charm. You can find major labels like Marni and Marc Jacobs amidst the racks, as well as Italian and French names you should learn. And since everything at the consignment shop is hand-selected by the owners, you won’t have to pick through a pile of duds to find a few winners.
111 West 7th St., Suite R11
Los Angeles, CA 90014
Phone: 213-622-0648
Poketo: Boutique
Gorgeous accessories, like bright leather wallets and the sweetest stationary you’ve ever seen? That’s just a sample of what you can find at Poketo. This place screams, “buy a gift here,” and no matter what you choose, you’ll walk out with a treasure. Everything’s budget-friendly and cute to boot, so go on a mini-spree at the LA flagship.
820 E. 3rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013
Phone: 213-537-0751
MIAMI: The Standard Spa
Conde Nast Traveler ranked The Standard’s spa in its top 10 U.S. spa destinations, so mark this amazing retreat down on your must-stay bucket list. Relax on private patio or poolside between treatments like ginger grass and bamboo exfoliation or DIY mud body painting, then sleep any remaining stress away in your super-sleek room.
40 Island Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone: 305-673-1717
Pecan’s Day Spa
Allure magazine raves over Pecan's massages with all-natural ingredients. Try the spa’s cellulite-reduction treatment to get ready for swimsuit season, the power-peel microdermabrasion for skin softer than your one-year-old’s, or an aromatherapy massage to rejuvenate.
7800 SW 57th Ave., Suite 120
South Miami, FL 33143-5523
Phone: 305-284-8636
The Spa at Setai
The Setai Hotel’s spa specializes in a Balinese massage for the ultimate relaxation experience—after which you can enjoy the ocean view, pool and private beach. Definitely a nice way to spend a lazy day off.
2001 Collins Ave.
Miami, FL 33139
Phone: 305-520-6000
Fly Boutique
If you love a one-of-a-kind piece at a bargain price, or enjoy the thrill of chasing down an item you can’t find anywhere else, then Fly Boutique’s vintage-stocked shelves and racks are for you. You won’t have to dig too deep in those pockets for a designer dud from past seasons, and can easily spend the day getting lost in piles of pretty accessories. Sometimes, the shopping journey is as much fun as what you take away.
1634 Euclid Ave. (at Lincoln Road)
Miami Beach, Fl. 33139
305-604-8508
AND
7235 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, Fl. 33138
786-332-4156
The Webster: Boutique
If you loved Target’s The Webster collection for “The Shops,” which debuted to the masses for a short time just last year, you've got to hit up the original destination in Miami Beach. With exclusive designer finds and an array of other colorful and print-tastic pieces around every corner, you'll find gifts galore.
1220 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone: 305-673-5548
Books & Books: Bookstore
Hey, Bookworm: if you’ve never spent a Saturday night listening to live music in the courtyard or attended one of this shop’s 60 monthly author events, you’re really missing out. Come in for an event, and don’t forget to leave with a few indie selections or an art and design pick. Books & Books features a cutting-edge collection of titles and, as far as gifts go, a great read never goes out of style.
927 Lincoln Road
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone: 305-532-3222
NEW YORK CITY: Tracie Martyn Salon and Day Spa
Treat your complexion to something nice. Okay, “nice” is an understatement. Tracie Martyn’s facials are legendary among NYC-ers and her elite celebrity clientele. Having one may put you back a pretty penny, but you can’t really put a price on revived, youthful and glowing skin.
Tracie Martyn Salon and Day Spa
101 5th Ave., 11th Floor
New York, NY, 10003
Phone: 212-206-9333
Aire Ancient Baths: Spa
This TriBeCa bath house will suck you in with its lovely crystal-clear waters, lantern-lit pool rooms and ancient look. Guests filter between four hot and cold pools for spa treatments inspired by Rome, Greek, Arab and Ottoman bathing rituals. With all it has to offer—and at reasonable prices, too—it’s not hard to see why New York mag gave this day-spa kudos in its most recent “Best of” issue.
88 Franklin St., TriBeCa
New York, NY 10013
Phone: 347-601-6881
Euphoria Spa
From the m n’ m massage to the chocolate-covered cherry facial, the body and face treatments at this spa are just as delectable as their names. Try this on for size: sipping on a cocktail while enjoying the Pomegranate Body Bellini, which starts with a chardonnay and grape-seed oil scrub to smooth and finishes with a champagne body wrap to tone and detoxify. Yum, indeed.
18 Harrison St., 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10013
Phone: 212-925-5925
John Derian Company: Spa
Treasure hunt. That pretty much sums up John Derian in NYC. If you’re the kind of lady who likes to meander through stockpiled home decor, rustic goods and eclectic furniture, then is the shop for you. Take a day off and enjoy—you will need the whole day.
6 E. 2nd St.
New York, NY 10003
Phone: 212-677-3917
Antoinette: Boutique
If you love vintage but hate the hefty price tags, look no further than Antoinette in Brooklyn. The shop is stocked by the owner’s mother, who has a massive collection of designer duds from years of work within the fashion industry. With cute window displays and under-$100 finds, you’ll be drawn right in.
119 Grand St.
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-387-8664
Rag & Bone: Boutique
Out of all the designer spots in NYC, Rag & Bone, with well-made leather, classic blazers and heaps of fabulous knitwear tops our list. Although these items may carry a larger price tag than your average buy, it’s worth the occasional splurge. Your pick-up will never go out of style and carries the kind of quality that will last a lifetime.
West Village
104 Christopher St.
New York, NY 10014
Phone: 212-727-2990
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Soho
119 Mercer St.
New York, NY 10012
Phone: 212-219-2204
PHILADELPHIA: Rescue Rittenhouse Spa
This Philly spa wins raves from clients, who can’t get enough of the amazing massages and facials. The cozy vibe and friendly workers make for an enjoyable day getaway. Rescue particularly focuses on skin, which means they’re committed to improving look and luminosity whether you’re still fighting acne or trying to prevent wrinkles. Gotta love that.
255 S. 17th St., 2nd Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: 215-772-2766
3000 B.C. Spa
Philadelphia mag has noted 3000 B.C. for amazing massages, and Vogue named it a best all-around spa. Why? Because although their skincare may feel like an extravagance, it’s based on scientific approaches and tried-and-true Ancient Egyptian botanical oil techniques. If you have the chance to visit this spot in Philly, do it!
8439 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Phone: 215-247-6020
Juju Organics: Spa
The tranquil and quaint appeal of this spa will catch you from the get-go, and the steal-worthy prices will keep you coming back. If you’re eco-conscious, you’ll love the many organic and vegan products used. Definitely try out one of the salon’s facials for a gorgeous, dewy glow like your teenage daughter’s.
728 S. 4th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone: 215-922-3235
Shane Candies
Pennsylvania and sweets are practically synonymous, and this candy factory has had a “longer continuous run than any other in the city,” according to its website. Whether you want old-fashioned gummy bears or "caramarsh"— marshmallow and caramel layers dipped in chocolate—it’s all handmade and oh-so good.
110 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone: 215-922-1048
Pinot Boutique
If you’re a wine connoisseur—or just love a great glass of merlot—pop into Pinot Boutique to pick up a few adorable accessories. They also have many, many events and classes, like the monthly Women, Wine and Wellness Wednesday. Any way you slice it, at $15 or $20, it definitely makes a fun day out for the girls.
227 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone: 215-627-9463
Skirt: Boutique
Philly mag and its readers have named Skirt, with its uber-feminine stock of designers like DVF, Alice & Oliva and Tibi, their favorite women’s clothing boutique so many times we’ve lost count. More than a decade ago, owner Maureen Doron uprooted from New York City and brought her stylish sensibilities along to Philadelphia. Find them all at Skirt—no trip to the mall or out-of-state shopping excursion required.
931 Lancaster Ave.
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Phone: 610-520-0222
SAN FRANCISCO: International Orange: Spa
Allure included International Orange in its massive October 2012 "best of" issue, compelling San Francisco natives and visitors alike to try the spa's signature IO massage starting at $110. If you're looking for even more alone time, try the Indulgence Package, which for $399 includes an essential oil massage, deep-cleanse facial and five yoga sessions through May 12. Say it with us, "Ahhh…"
2044 Fillmore St., 2nd Floor
San Francisco, CA 94115
Phone: 415.992.8640
Nob Hill Spa
Steal time away at Nob Hill, which Conde Nast Traveler called one of best spa destinations across the country. It's nestled into the Huntington Hotel, with a breathtaking view of San Francisco Bay. Opt for a three-hour massage and facial package with poolside cuisine, or up your relaxation experience to a six-hour trip complete with body scrip, manicure and medispa treatment. It's a pricey indulgence, but hey: It's a gift!
1075 California St.
San Francisco, CA 94108
Phone: 415-474-5400
Marilyn Jaeger Skincare Studio: Spa
Moms are busy bees, so an $80 "Busy Prince or Princess" facial seems tailor-made for a woman-in-motion. All you need for a total skin transformation? A 45-minute block of time. Enzymes soften skin, a mask hydrates for a youthful glow and a massage will relax you as you finish your treatment.
Marilyn Jaeger Skincare Studio
3384 Sacramento St.
San Francisco, CA 94118
Phone: 415-441-1086
Acrimony: Boutique
The verdict on Acrimony? Worth the extra dough you'll have to drop. It has a unique mix of labels you'll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. Its vibe is urban chic without over-the-top doses of that of that pretentious, hipster feel— meaning, you'll fall in love. Owner Jenny has something of a cult following for her style, as well as a welcoming demeanor and full knowledge of what she's got in stock. What else can we say except that you have to visit?
333 Hayes St. / Franklin St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: 415-861-1025
Fiona's Sweetshoppe
You know it's love after you hear the story: Owner Fiona missed the confections from her UK home so much that she put her medical career on hold to open up a candy shop in San Francisco, bringing English and Scottish sweets across the pond. Coconut teacakes, licorice broomsticks, sherbet strawberries… you're gonna want it all.
214 Sutter St.
San Francisco, CA 94108
Phone: 415-399-9992
Gravel & Gold: Boutique
This tiny shop is truly one-of-a-kind San Francisco, loaded with antiques, vintage finds and local designers—heavy on taste, but not on price. From leather jackets to soft $25 blankets; from tons of jewelry to '70s-inspired bucket bags, you'll find plenty of gems that are, yes, pure gold.
3266 21st St.
San Francisco, CA 94110
Phone: 415-552-0112
WASHINGTON, D.C.: TuSuva Body and Skin Care: Spa
No matter your time or budget, spend just a little of both at this word-of-mouth favorite day spa, TuSuva, in D.C. Try the pricier 24-Karat Gold Facial or 90-minute Thai Massage if you're looking to live a little, or go a little smaller (you'll still be doing yourself a favor) with a $60 deep-cleansing facial or $50 signature massage to brighten complexions and outlooks.
2701 Ontario Road NW
Washington, D.C. 20009
Phone: 202-299-9005
Nusta Spa
Magazines like Washingtonian and InStyle have hailed Nusta Spa for its eco-friendly techniques. What's more? Prices run the gamut, from as little as $65 for a massage. Basically, no matter what you're looking for, it's just a 5,000-square foot sustainable beauty sanctuary.
1129 20th St. NW
Washington, D.C. 20036
Phone: 202-530-5700
Skintelligence: Spa
Unless you've been given some serious genetic gifts, chances are your complexion has plenty of problems. (Did acne really have to last into the 30s?) Allure mag has noted Skintelligence for its facials—and with the massive menu, you'll quickly see why. Whether you want a firming facial, acne facial, back facial or 4-layer facial, this skin spa has your fix.
421 Church St. NE, Suite A
Vienna, Va 22180
Phone: 703-255-7237
Lou Lou: Boutique
Like the little extras without having to pay extra? Then Lou Lou is the place for you, lady. Pendant necklaces, oversize sunglasses and rings for every finger were all made for the accessory-loving woman. With price tags in the $20 to $50 range you won't have to break the bank for a gift or self-indulgence.
1304 Wisconsin Ave. NW
Washington, D.C. 20007
Phone: 202-333-3574
Proper Topper: Boutique
Take one peek at Proper Topper's window display, and you'll be sold. Whether you're shopping for yourself or your kids—admit it, itty-bitty clothes are way cuter than motherly wardrobes—this boutique is more than just hats. You'll find Secret Garden-inspired dresses for girls, nautical garb for baby boys and flirty peplum tops for you.
1350 Connecticut Ave. NW
Washington, D.C. 20036
Phone: 202-842-3055
Hill's Kitchen
Hill's Kitchen offers a feast for your eyes in the way of colorful plates, pots and pans, or an array of stainless steel accessories. Not exactly a chef? No worries, you can become a kitchen aficionado with one of the many cooking classes held regularly for your education and enjoyment.
713 D St. SE
Washington, D.C. 20003
Phone: 202-543-1997