When dry-style salons started popping up in Chicago, frequent partygoers and time-pressed professionals took to the quick, affordable services like—well, like anyone wanting to look her best. Now, a new spot called Dorothy & Delora (100 E. Walton Street, 312-982-1080, dorothydelora.com) offers a prime pairing for those expertly blow-dried tresses: makeup application that’s done in under an hour, for around $55.
Classically trained makeup artists Susan Staley and Rebecca Males opened their pint-size studio in December, and they chose the Walton Street location strategically: Being in the Gold Coast, the artists are readily available to provide one-on-one services for clients rushing to high-end nightspots or galas at nearby hotels.
On a recent Friday, we made an appointment at the studio and gave the highbrow directive: “just regular going-out makeup, please.” (Other services include bridal and commercial makeup; the ladies also teach makeup lessons.) In the purple-and-gold confines of the makeup room, we kicked back in a director’s chair and chitchatted with the owners as Staley worked her beautifying magic. Staley has a nimble, gossamer-light touch even when applying tricky lashes, and the airbrush here looks like a natural, even application of foundation (not a heavy layer of makeup.) Plus, it really does last: we had our makeup done at 10 a.m., and it was still going strong for after-work drinks.
Dorothy & Delora is located at 100 East Walton Street, Phoenix Salon Suite 117. Services include traditional makeup application for $55, photo-ready makeup application for $75, and temporary lash application for $25. Airbrush foundation is $20 extra for any makeup service.