Julep's manis and pedis keep your nails in mint condition

All the recent girl talk about the "Sex and the City" movie has resulted in my own little obsession with shoe-shopping -- and the pedicures that naturally come with it. And while I can't afford a pair of Jimmy Choos, I can afford a pedicure, even if it's just to show off a new pair of flip-flops.

Luckily, Julep Nail Parlor recently opened a third salon downtown, right next to Betsy Johnson on Fifth Avenue. I like to think it's where Carrie, Miranda, Samantha and Charlotte would get their pedis if they lived in Seattle. Just like the original Julep location near University Village, the downtown nail parlor is chic, hip, sanitary and conscientious.

From the vibrant orange leather chairs that ease back to increase your level of relaxation to the custom-made nail stations that allow for optimal chatting, Julep is dialed in. All Parlor Manicures ($48) and Pedicures ($74) include bonuses like heated neck wraps, massage, exfoliation and a complimentary bottle of vernis (polish) to take home.

Parlor Manicures are guaranteed to last up to five days and Pedicures for up to three weeks, with complimentary vernis touch-up within that time if you get a chip. Julep uses its own line of vernis, each shade named for its celebrity counterpart (Gwyneth is a pale pink, while Angelina is a sultry almost-black).

Also unique to Julep is their completely natural product line, which features a cuticle oil ($8.25) and three creams: Nourish ($14.40) in a yummy lavender-vanilla scent, Quench ($12.50) in a sweet pomegranate and Refresh ($8.80) in an invigorating citrus-mint, all geared to moisturize your perfectly polished fingers and toes.

For the woman on the go, the downtown Julep also offers shorter Porch Treatments. Pop in on your lunch break for a quick 30-minute manicure ($28) or stop by for a pedicure ($48) before you catch the bus home.

Not just about nails, Julep also offers waxing services in a private treatment room (from $10) at the wax bar for lips and brows (from $8). Facials using products from the Parisian line Decleor round out the menu and range from the 25-minute Express facial ($48) to the rejuvenating 75-minute Anti-Aging facial ($135).

Copyright © The Seattle Times Company