Behind an Unmarked Door: Secret Salon Joy
Courting the Best Coif in Town
By LAURA CARLSON
Updated 2:05 PM EDT, Thu, Jul 2, 2009
It’s OK to admit when you need professional help.
Not like that.
But today’s got 94 percent humidity, and those sad locks of yours desperately need a trim. Your toes need a good shellacking of polish and your skin is somehow flaky AND sunburned. Seriously, what's going on here?
Thankfully, we have uncovered one of the best-kept beauty secrets in town.
On a busy section of U Street behind a nondescript, unmarked door is where you’ll find Corte Salon (1017-1019 U St. N.W.) The boutique-style salon and spa is a helmed by longtime stylist Carlos Perina, who has been coiffing the heads of savvy Georgetowners for years. When Perina decided to open his own salon, he renovated two condos and merged them into one divine and classically contemporary space.
Above the din of the traffic, you’ll find a tranquil, second-story sanctuary of dark floors, cream walls, plush chairs and Italian mirrors. An outrageously friendly staff welcomes visitors into a space that also includes an espresso bar and bright artwork by Perina.
The fiercely loyal clientele of politicos and social bees keep the salon buzzing, and celeb stylist Johnny Wright can also be found here, taming the tresses of Washingtonians when he’s not busy tending to First Lady Michelle Obama.
After a Corte hair facial and a quick trim, we ended up with lighter layers and glossy waves.
Those in desperate need of further pampering can head up to the next story, where a set of treatment rooms help drown those facial woes. Aside from the requisite waxing, you may also want to try a 75-minute RX Facial, designed to indulge that oxygen-deprived skin of yours. After all, sometimes you just need a professional.
First Published: Jul 1, 2009 1:30 PM EDT
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