Los Angeles - November 11, 2004

Varnishing Point

Varnish Nail Salon

Nail salon has become one of those modern oxymorons. (You know, like United States.)

What’s salon-like about an angry paint job, bad radio, and a tattered two-year-old copy of People?

Varnish, a new haven for hands, feet, and peace of mind, puts “salon” back into the equation. Created by Jennifer Noonan, the mastermind behind hip maternity store Naissance (NOM), and her sister, Kim McIntyre, Varnish turns the whole sweatshop feel of those other spots right on its head.

For starters, it shuns the neon light, the fake plants, and the cheesy art in favor of clean, contemporary design. When you walk in, an attendant asks you what services you’d like — a standard mani/pedi, acrylics, a foot mask, or computerized Imaginails. Then you proceed to one of the technicians, who have all been trained by a celebrity manicurist and are noncommissioned, salaried, insured employees of the salon (bye-bye, anger!). All services are administred with Varnish’s toxin-free polishes and lotions. Current magazines and drinks are available while you dry on a sleek banquette.

All for just a little more than you paid before — but without the soft rock.

(We just wanted to use another oxymoron.)

Varnish, 8254 Melrose Avenue, between Crescent Heights and La Cienega Boulevards, L.A. (323-852-9822 or varnishnails.com).