Jessica Turner A visit to Miss Fox is like treating yourself to a box of Godiva chocolates – irresistible, indulgent and, oh, so luxe. The milk bath? Arguably the most decadent pick is coconut and rose truffle, says Jessica Turner.
In step with Melbourne’s trendy laneway culture, the ultra-hip Miss Fox day spa inhabits the spacious three storey loft above the Scanlan and Theodore boutique: entry from Little Collins St via a narrow flight of stairs.
Like any deluxe box of chocolates, Miss Fox is a just as much a feast for the eyes. The entrance is moodily lit by an opulent chandelier, furnished with velvety lounges and sprinkled with an eclectic array of ornaments.
The curated collection of liquor bottles bring to mind a Victorian parlour, while the crystals, plants and cowhide rug give the space vibes a la mode. The clash of worlds sync like salt and caramel.
Victoria Fox, skincare specialist and marketing maven, opened the boudoir as the sister space for her Shrinc Clinic, a business specialising in body contouring.
“She saw the need for somewhere that you could have everything done in the one place,” explains Katie Waggott, Miss Fox spa manager.
“[Meaning] somewhere you could find good products that would be really helpful (the spa stocks Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup and Kevin Murphy haircare), have staff that were talented and intelligent, and be in beautiful surrounds where you get the absolute best that is available, without it being too over the top.”
Miss Fox fast became a favourite among celebrities like Zoe Foster Blake and Kate Waterhouse, as well as professionals working in the city.
“We also get lots of husbands and boyfriends, and sons come looking for gifts for the women in their lives too,” Katie says. “They’re usually a bit confused by this sort of stuff but say `I’ve heard this is the place to come’…”
With over two thirds of the Australian population residing in built-up urban centres, it’s no surprise that the Vegan Coconut Milk Ritual Bath is a popular choice on the planet-conscious treatment list.
“It’s perfect for someone who can appreciate the relaxation in something so simple as a bath,” says Katie. “When you get to your mid 30s, you realise you stopped having baths after you turned 12,” laughs Katie.
“Our tub is huge. It’s super luxurious. I say to people: `Trust me, have the bath, you’ll thank me’. And the minute the step in they say, This is pretty good!’.”
It’s the thoughtful attention to detail at Miss Fox that make simple pleasures, like having a bath, something really special.
The fluid black silk robe is lined in the same plush velvet as the slippers. The coconut milk is mouth-wateringly fragrant, and the rose petals floating in it make it fit for a queen.
Plunging in, the tub feels as deep as the ocean and it’s exactly the right temperature; lovely and hot. After a few minutes immersed, the skin feels moisturised, clearly enjoying the nourishing benefits of coconut milk.
Half an hour of pure hedonism flies by, then there’s a gentle knock at the door.
Towels are enormous and fluffy, plus there’s a dish of pure coconut oil to slather on.
Reality after the dreamy treatment could potentially bite but the experience is extended in the Miss Fox lounge, with a delectable pink macaron and a cup of herbal tea.
The blend is delicious yet indefinable. Orange blossom, perhaps? Black anise? A simple classic, no doubt, but infinitely too elusive to emulate at home …
