Experience Californian Luxury on the Upper East Side with Violet Grey's Latest Venture

The Genesis of a Metropolitan Beauty Destination

The visionary behind Violet Grey, Cassandra Grey, shares that New York City has always held a special place in her heart, akin to a cherished companion. Her inspiration for this prestigious beauty enterprise first took root in the bustling metropolis, drawing from iconic New York establishments like Zitomer, Barneys, and Bergdorf, alongside the serene beauty of Central Park and the allure of celebrated fashion magazines. Her journey began with little more than a dream and a mood board, pitching her concept from The Carlyle, a hotel that holds deep personal significance.

A Strategic and Serene Location in Manhattan

More than a year ago, an ideal spot emerged directly opposite The Carlyle’s outdoor cafe, on 78th Street and Madison, embodying the perfect brand synergy. Despite initial financial hurdles, Grey and her investor, Sherif Guirgis, secured the location after reacquiring the company in 2024. The New York boutique welcomes visitors through a tranquil garden entrance, reminiscent of its Melrose Place predecessor. Designed in collaboration with Bill Sofield, the space elegantly marries Dorothy Draper’s Art Deco influence with John Elgin Woolf’s Hollywood Regency, creating an ambiance that feels both classic and inviting. Adorned with a Paul Poiret sofa, antique books, and vintage Polaroids, the store transports guests into a realm of timeless glamour.

A Curated Selection of Contemporary and Classic Beauty Essentials

The New York location of Violet Grey distinguishes itself through its meticulously curated collection of beauty brands, presented within sophisticated armoires and displays. The discerning eye of Cassandra Grey is evident in every product chosen, catering to those who seek expertly vetted cosmetics. The store hints at future exclusive New York collaborations, promising exciting new additions. Here's a glimpse into the diverse range of beauty items available for discovery:

Unveiling the Latest Innovations in Beauty

During a recent visit, the newest cosmetic offerings caught immediate attention. This was an opportunity to explore Madame Grey, Cassandra Grey's own fragrance line, including a luxurious, limited-edition extrait de parfum and a complementary hair mist. Further exploration revealed Fara Homidi's cream bronzer, Lilis's exfoliating peel, and Habelo's deeply nourishing hand cream, all offering unique experiences.

The Ultimate Destination for Radiant Skin

For those dedicated to skin revitalization, Violet Grey's selection is a treasure trove. The collection seamlessly blends established brands with emerging names, ensuring there's always something novel for even the most knowledgeable skincare enthusiast. Highlights include Augustinus Bader’s Elixir, formulated to refine skin texture and diminish fine lines, and Angela Caglia's gold-plated cryotherapy wands designed to reduce facial inflammation. Exciting personal discoveries included NakedBeauty MD’s gold-infused sheet masks and Poiret’s firming cream, both poised to become new skincare staples.

Indulge in Luxurious Body Care

After a refreshing Lilis body peel, the next step was to lavish the skin with moisture. Mutha's body butter, celebrated for its rich, natural ingredients like shea, cocoa, and mango butter, proved to be an ideal choice, offering intense hydration with just a small amount. This was perfectly complemented by Costa Brazil's firming body oil, leaving the skin with an undeniable glow.

Essential Makeup Products for Every Look

The makeup section of the store was a true highlight, resembling a Victoria Beckham Beauty haven with a comprehensive array of products. Visitors can explore the Eye Wardrobe palette, experience the shimmering Lid Lustre pots, and experiment with the vibrant Satin Kajal liner. Westman Atelier's extensive range also impressed, particularly its newly launched lip liners. The beauty exploration concluded with a touch of Ami Colé’s nourishing lip oil, completing a perfect in-store beauty journey.

An Aromatic Journey Through Fine Fragrances

For fragrance enthusiasts, Violet Grey offers an intriguing selection of unique scents. The store proudly features Vyrao, Yasmin Sewell's perfume brand, known for bestsellers like Georgette, a sophisticated rose fragrance. Guests can also explore new aromas from Perfumehead and Reservation Parfums. A personal favorite, Liis's Choux Choux, a delightful and sweet scent inspired by the pastry, provides a memorable finish to the aromatic experience.

Rejuvenate with a Personalized Facial Treatment

To elevate the New York experience, Cassandra Grey collaborated with London-based aesthetician Melanie Grant, offering her exclusive red-carpet facials in an upstairs space. Grant, who caters to celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Dua Lipa, provides customized treatments that transform the complexion. A pre-opening session included a sublime massage and red-light therapy, enhanced by Chanel’s Sublimage products, leaving the skin deeply hydrated and revitalized. Emerging from the treatment, one feels a renewed sense of self, stepping back into the city with enhanced radiance.