“Growing up in Compton, Calif., in a gang-infested neighborhood, there weren’t many examples of femininity,” says Ebony Bolton, co-owner of Savvy Chic Nail Cottage in Lakewood, Calif.  “I would browse magazines hours on end looking for something different or create my own designs and styles that were dramatically different from my surroundings. I was always a girly-girl and needed a way to express myself.”

And express herself she did! Indisputably feminine, Savvy Chic exemplifies the shabby chic style, using distressed antique furniture, paintwork, and repurposed curtains and textiles to achieve an elegant overall effect reminiscent of Victorian decor. “The style has evolved to encompass the French country look as well, with cottage pieces and frilly textiles adding to the effect,” says Bolton, who extends the theme to her marketing materials and website as well.

Special touches in the decor include a tin ceiling, chandeliers, custom designed pillows, chair slipcovers, and hand-distressed furniture. The salon offers party packages in a private room with faux a fireplace. Complimentary tea, wine, and lemonade are served daily.

If your salon has an unusual theme, e-mail a brief description and photos to judy.lessin[at]bobit.com.

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