The Area’s Secret Hair-And-Makeup Masters Go Public At This Brand-New Salon

You know that effortlessly cool girlfriend with the perfect beachy waves and the flawless cat-eye liner (the one you secretly wish could come over every morning and help you get ready)? Well, imagine a salon filled with just those types of gals, where the atmosphere is a femme take on man-cave, with a killer soundtrack on loop. And ta-da! Your fantasy is coming true.

Local besties-turned-business partners (and industry vets) Melanie Amoss and Lisa Rittiner just opened Smitten, Arlington's newest hair and beauty salon, with the aim of combining high-end beauty services with a distinctly mom-and-pop vibe.

With exposed brick interiors, crystal chandeliers, a color palette involving some hot pops of raspberry, and an endlessly looping indie playlist, the space really does feel like your girlfriend’s enviable room. And that dynamic duo you’re aching to chat all things beauty with? They’re at your get-gorgeous service. Want to learn how to apply false eyelashes? They got you. Itching to try ombre hair? Done. Craving something you can't articulate? Leave it to these ladies. We’re smitten with Smitten, to say the least, so we asked Amoss and Rittiner some of our burning questions about the salon, their fave winter hair trends, and the worst beauty faux pas they've seen. Read on to learn their pro secrets — they could potentially change your morning beauty routine forever!

Where: Smitten, 3000 Washington Boulevard, Arlington; 571-527-0200.