Blush Tan
Blush spritzes the sun-shy with a chemical-free DHA solution that's certified organic and derived from beets. And with more than 100 shades, you'll no doubt leave with a natural-looking glow. Can't make it to Wellesley? No problem—the team makes house calls. 562 Washington St., Wellesley, MA 02482, blushtan.com.
Rosebud American Kitchen & Bar
Rosebud’s renovation has been a boon for the area’s dining scene, which leans heavily on the sandwich/burrito/froyo trifecta. Just be sure to order chef John Delpha’s meltingly soft ribs early: They sell out. 381 Summer St., Somerville, MA 02144, rosebudkitchen.com.
Internal Matter
Whether you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up, a mellow night of live music, or a place to decompress after boxing at George Foreman III’s gym next door, this steampunk-chic café will shower you in carbs, caffeine, and good vibes. 35 Channel Center St., Boston, MA 02210, internalmatter.com.
Kristen Moshiek
Hairstyling vet Kristen Moshiek, formerly of Newbury Street's Beaucage, has ventured out on her own to focus on bridal 'dos. With a portfolio filled with wavy, romantic looks and sophisticated updos — not to mention a willingness to travel anywhere in New England — Moshiek's a sure bet for picture-perfect big-day hair.
Holly Cleaners
A white wool suit covered in tomato sauce didn't faze the wizards at Holly. Our regular Back Bay cleaner looked at the mess and said he was likely to discolor the fabric. Holly humbly offered no guarantees, but returned the suit exactly as it was, pre-lasagna. 1314 Centre St., Newton, MA .
Moxie
Whether you're looking for cobblestone-tough flats from See by Chloé or sexy date-night stilettos from B by Brian Atwood, you'll find them at Karen Fabbri's newly renovated Beacon Hill boutique. 51 Charles St., Boston, MA 2114, moxieboston.com.
Alan Bilzerian
Economic downturn bedamned. This boutique is still standing tall, thanks to a rocking inventory that keeps the well-heeled masses coming. Find handmade Chelsea boots by Albert Fasciani, a one-of-a-kind Imp of the Perverse jacket with handpainted lining, and surface-dyed charcoal jeans from Boris Bidjan Saberi. 34 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, alanbilzerian.com.
Brady Brumfield, Roffi Salon & Day Spa
After quizzing you to establish expectations, Brady Brumfield will deliver a natural look that can be comfortably worn straight out of the chair—not one that starts awkward and takes several days to grow into. His attention to detail, from wash to product recommendations, adds a level of service seldom seen in run-of-the-mill chop shops. 134 Newbury St., Boston, MA roffisalon.com.
Karen Golden Skin Care
While some beauty pros are notable for what they add to your look, Golden stands out for what she takes off: untamed hair, wherever it may lurk. With extreme precision and a good azulene wax, she restores beauty and order to brows, backs, and nether regions with minimal pain. Hair apparent? Not if she's on the case. 308 Harvard St., Brookline, MA 2446, brazillianwaxingboston.com.
Jason Burke
In Burke's hands, a round brush is a magic wand. With it, he could do evil (a pageant bouffant, perhaps?), but he inevitably chooses to do good: not too big, not too flat, just soft and smooth. As for staying power, our Burke-blown mane remained fresh-looking for four full days. Kent Newton Salon, 1315 Washington St., Boston, MA 2118, .
Zareh
You might not find any copies of Sun Tzu's The Art of War, but Zareh has an extensive selection of custom shirts and made-to-measure and custom shirts and made-to-measure and custom suits for the power brokers among us—that is if you're looking for classic American suits from Oxxford, Norman Hilton, Hickey-Freeman, and Southwick. 1 Liberty Square, Boston, MA .
Bobbi Brown
Fabulously flattering cosmetics for almost any skin tone, Bobbi Brown recognized what most lines didn't— that most complexions have yellow undertones, not pink. The line is comprised of subtle, simple to wear, and simple to apply makeup that makes you look natural, rested, and almost bare-faced. The Mall at Chesnut Hill, 199 Boylston St., Chestnut Hill, MA .
Alpha Omega
Hands down the best selection of watches in Boston. From inexpensive Swatches to twenty-thousand-dollar Vacherons, you're sure to find your new timepiece here. Look for new additions such as Piaget, Ebel, and Corum alongside old favorites like TAG Heuer, IWC, and Rolex. Harvard Square Galeria, 57 JFK St., Cambridge, MA .
Aldo Shoes
This Montreal-based store carries mostly moderately priced European imports. From pumps for women to rugged boots for men, there is something for every foot, but there's only one pair per size in most styles, so get there often. 180 Newbury St., Boston, MA .
Opticians 3
Whether your look is designer chic, fifties retro, or Elton John outre, this place can meet your specs. It's also one of only a few local sources for the popular Oliver Peoples line of antique-style frames. 755 Beacon Street, Newton Centre, MA .