Move over Sephora. NYC gals have a new beauty destination with the recent opening of bluemercury. This tightly edited, luxe beauty boutique was founded by Marla Malcolm Beck (above with hair master, Frederic Fekkai at the boutique's opening bash this past week) and currently boasts 28 stores nationwide. Visit the store on Broadway between 83rd and 84th Streets and shop for goodies from brands like Tocca, Serge Lutens, Trish McEvoy and bobbi brown. Store staff is friendly and generous with samples, plus there's even a full menu of spa services available in the relaxing back rooms.

You can also read Marla's beauty-related thoughts and insights at her bluenotes blog. For a bluemercury store/spa near you, click here or shop online at www.bluemercury.com.