| Top :: Go Sox!, Minuteman, Scarlet Letter, Rose Wharf, Newberry Street |
Despite growing up just outside of Boston, I have always been a Bostonian. I was born in the city and even went to college and graduate school here. I know. I know. Can I be more Boston?! For the record, I have traveled outside of the city, the state and even the country on numerous occasion. I promise.
I guess you could say I have a love affair with Boston. I mean I even own a t-shirt proudly proclaiming: The Best Girls Are From Boston. And nothing could be further from the truth — we’re loyal, loving, temperamental and tenacious. Boston girls are other things too (insert laughter). The Hub is home to many things — the Boston Red Sox, Boston Ballet and Boston Common. But I bet you haven’t met the city’s minty mate, Boston Mints.
Joanne Ilacqua, owner of Adamo Day Spa, is the brains behind the luscious lipgloss line. Ilacqua has been an estitician for more than two decades. She opened her Cohasset spa with dreams of one day starting a cosmetics line. After building a beauty business, establishing a respected clientele and gathering a feel for the cosmetics market, Ilacqua launched Boston Mints in 2011.
“Word of mouth has really carried it (Boston Mints),” Ilacqua said. “It’s a perfect item for boutiques.” In addition to selling the glosses at Adamo, Ilacqua has partnered with several local retailers such as Flock in the South End and Salon Capri locations. Infused with vitamins C and E, the formula not only gives lips intense moisture, but also adds peppermint to the pout. Just ask Mr. Chat — he hasn’t been able to keep his whiskers away.
As a south shore native (and Bostonian), Ilacqua was inspired by Boston history and culture when naming all 12 iconic shades; although she did add her own creative twist to names such as Newberry Street, T Party and Rose Wharf. As for her favorite color, Ilacqua is a fan of Minuteman because of its shimmer, shine and neutral tone against her olive skin.
Personally, I’m in love with the soft intensity of Go Sox! and Bean Towne. Both shades pack a punch of color yet are subtle enough for day wear. Rose Wharf is pretty too and pairs perfectly with a dramatic eye. So pucker up with a little Plum Island Sand or P-Town Pink and start blowing Boston Mint kisses in the wind. And be on the lookout for a new color that’s perfect for summer on Nantucket.
{bottom photos courtesy of Boston Mints}
