Beauty Bits & Bobs

LADIES, take this as both a recommendation and a warning. Summer is here and you need a pedicure. I’ve come to the uncomfortable realisation that many Londoners aren’t keen on mani/pedis, and I can’t quite figure out why. Not only was this apparent because of the lack of nail salons and because of the outrageous prices being charged, but because of the gnarly hooves I have seen up close and personal on the tube. Now, I am not suggesting that you take out a loan in order to finance the upkeep of your toes, but I am politely requesting – for the sake of your fellow Londoners, tube riders and significant other – that at the beginning of sandal season you treat yourself to a little foot pampering. You are going to feel good about this, trust me. You might even want to go back.

There is a fabulous little salon on Albemarle Street that will treat your tootsies to the tender loving care they deserve (read: file, cut, shave and buff those hobbit-looking things into a presentable, possibly even pretty, state). This mecca of beauty is called Michaeljohn. It’s one of those posh-but-not-too-stuck-on-itself salons. Think white couches, attentive staff and flattering light. Ask for pedicurist extraordinaire Clara Camacho and you’ll leave feeling like a new woman; she is a perfectionist in the best sense of the word. I would suggest giving yourself an hour and a half for this appointment and scheduling cocktails with the girls afterwards. No need to thank me now, you can do it later with big, expensive presents (or gift certificates for my own manis and pedis with Clara).

Michaeljohn

25 Albemarle Street

London W1S 4HU

T: 020 7629 6969