I first caught word of NYC’s Rescue Beauty Lounge a few years back from a discerning, pamper- loving friend who swore it was the go- to place for a luxurious pedicure. What struck me first was it’s clever name- after all isn’t there a little part of all of us that desires to be ‘rescued’ from the rigors of this crazy world?
The Lounge and Ji’s top notch staff await your hard working “barking dogs’
Soon after- like kismet, I started seeing the name everywhere…. from the NY Times to Vogue magazine, Rescue Beauty Lounge quickly was becoming an editorial fav and it’s founder Ji Baek had become the ‘go-to girl’ for glamorous nails and beauty advice.
Rescue Beauty’s oh-so chic founder JI Baek
When I began writing a report on nail color trends last Spring- JI and her amazing line of polishes immediately came to mind. After a quick read over her bio on the company’s website (a refreshing down-to-Earth rendition of the facts behind her amazing can-do story), I knew right away that she would be the perfect person to talk to about color inspiration.
A quickly answered email later -I had all of Ji’s inspiring insight and more of the upcoming season. Which in return not only inspired me to search out other company’s behind the scenes inspirations but also opened up my eyes to another ‘hot trend’ in the world of nail care- the importance of safer products and safer salon visits.
In fact, it’s this ‘cleanliness’ issue that first lead Ji ( a self professed germ-o-phob ) on a colorful, life changing journey. After years of being what she calls a ’stiletto clad’ restaurant manager, Ms. Baek realized a need in Manhattan for a fun salon where hands and feet could be pampered in a not only ‘uber-clean’ environment but in an affordable one to boot.
Some of Rescue’s must have products- Citrus Vert anti-bacterial hand wash, a classic Nail Clipper with chain and two of their addictive colors Chinoise and Grunge (f.y.i there’s a wait list on this baby)
Since opening her first location in 1998 (she now has 2 new locations under her stylish nail ‘file’), she has gone on to create a polish line free of Touluene, Formaldehyde, or DBP, deliciously aromatic skin care products, mani tools and even a book instructing us all on her philosophical ways to becoming a better groomed being (I love her idea that manicures and pedicures can be a ‘great time to bond’ with family). Products and ideas that leave even the most independent amongst us succombing to the need of a little ‘rescue’!
JI’s recession friendly, do-it-yourself guide to perfect tips and toes
Last I had been in touch with Ji it was the super bright hues on the Spring 2008 Runways that were leading her polishes in some very colorful directions as well. Now as yet another beautiful season approaches I had to check back in with Ji and get a peak at her ‘must have list’ for Summer 09.
Rescue Beauty’s latest color collection Bling It is a collection of ‘grown up glitter’ inspired as being a fun and affordable way to bring this season’s embellished and glitzy trend in fashion to your fingertips!
Rescue Beauty’s new collection: Bling It ( featuring ‘Look Rich, Be Cheap’, Frugalista and Locavore) All 3 polishes have a shot of purple- the color Ji calls the ‘color of the season’
A quick and colorful chat with Ji:
What inspired your new colors this season?
Texture and shine, the three glitter nail polishes that I created were very challenging -in a sense it’s grown up glitter that has depth, different facets but surprisingly neutral.
I was inspired by all the sequins, crystal embellishment on the runway but the price tag of “Price up on request”in this economy did not sit well with me. Through these polishes you get to have shiny jewels on you fingers and toes.
What’s your best advice for keeping hands and feet pretty all summer long?
Mantra should be exfoliate and hydrate daily.
Is there a Rescue Beauty Lounge shade that you think is just super flattering to everyone’s complexion?
We mix colors in house- there is a skin tone test we do. We always tweak pigments so that they will look fabulous on any complexion. Nail polish is not a foundation or concealer, you should just have fun with the colors and not think too hard.
I can’t help but notice how stylish you always are!!! What’s on your ‘got to have it’ color list for your own wardrobe and nails this season?
I can’t seem to get enough of our glitters that I been sporting since it came out two months ago, it’s very addictive.
This summer is about really easy neutrals, long bold print sun dresses and of course my urban uniform -short, tank tops layered with shrunken cardigan.
I love Ji Baek’s red dress. Has anyone seen something similar in the shops. Can’t afford to pay designer prices though
She is fabulous, one of the best kind walking on earth. Must go place her spa.