Summer is near. The sun is out and so are the toes. One wiggle of her bare toes, and Polly Guyton knew it was time to seek a pedicure. Polly wanted “toe-rrific” nails; the kind that would compliment any sandal in her summer wardrobe. With the help of The Columbia Star fashion team, Polly experienced not only “toe–rrific” toes, but also the ultimate pampering of her slightly frazzled feet.

Most exclusive pedicurists book up months in advance. Ron Michaelis came to our makeover rescue! Michaelis, master barber and owner of the Image Makers Salon located on Farrow Road, introduced Polly to Haydee Grossman, a pedicurist who has been with Image Makers Salon for many years. When Haydee greeted us with her gracious smile, we knew immediately Polly’s feet were in good hands.

Sandals courtesy of La Bag Lady Polly relaxed in the foot–bathing chair, softening and soaking her feet in bubbling water, diluted with an herbal moisturizing liquid from OPI’s Raw Earth collection. Haydee tenderly massaged each foot. “I find it so easy to unwind,” said Polly. “The massage is helping my blood circulation, taking away the aching feet feeling. This is heavenly!”

Haydee clipped the toenail straight across, taking care not to hurt the natural shape of the nails. She used an emery board to round and smooth the edges. “I never cut into the corners or under the nail fold. Digging can cause fungal infections,” said Haydee.

Then, an eliminator liquid that Polly described as “refreshing” was applied. Instead of buffing the heels with a pumice stone, Haydee used a scrubber, working it in circles. After drying the feet, the pedicurist applied a moisturizing cream. “The moisturizer is a must for women who are going through menopause, have diabetes, or are undergoing chemotherapy,” Haydee said. “The older we get, our body, even our feet, get robbed of moisture. Drink plenty of liquids and eat vegetables.”

Polly chose the most popular OPI Spring Collection Color, I’m Not Really A Waitress. A clear base coat was applied first, and a fast–drying top coat sealed the color. Haydee advises to remove old polish once a month.

When asked about popular trends in nail color and care, Haydee said nail fashion trends come and go with Hollywood. She predicts what color will be happening next in nails, is whatever color shows up at the Grammys, the Oscars or other televised celebrity events.

“I am seeing a pedicure as a service that is turning from a luxury to a necessity,” the experienced pedicurist said. “In California, men are lining up for pedicures. Nail care is more of a health ritual for people now.”

Polly’s feet are ready to impress spring and welcome in the summer season. A cool summer look isn’t complete without the right pair of sandals. And this season, La Bag Lady’s selection is tremendous – from mules to stilettos to thongs.

Polly smiled as she slipped her new feet into her favorite sandals.