George Re-Launch Draws D.C.'s Stylish; Four Seasons Salon Unveils New Digs/Owners

GEORGETOWN -- Herman Melville's Moby-Dick might begin with the line "Call me Ishmael", but the great American novel's lead character takes a backseat to other Ismail in Washington's highest fashion circles.

Indeed, as one of the forever in-demand stylists of "power salon" George at the Four Seasons, Ismail Tekin is practically a deity among the city's most stylish.

And now, Ismail, along with fellow stylist Omer Cevirme, have recently been announced as the new owners of the luxe Georgetown hair and beauty establishment. The venue's longtime namesake, George Ozturk, will still continue working with clients there, but has stepped away from managing day-to-day operations.

Such a new ownership structure, along with the well appointed salon's freshly redesigned interior and work stations, were the reason for a crowded celebration held outside the Four Seasons yesterday afternoon.

While some of their more recognizable clients, such as House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (an Omer regular), Charlize Theron, Maria Shriver (Ismail provides frequent blowouts), and Sandra Bullock, decided to stay home, plenty of George's other devotees were quick to fill the void and raise a celebratory glass to toast the occasion. Indeed, the brick courtyard just outside of the salon at the Four Seasons was brimming on Sunday with a virtual who's who list of the city's leading philanthropists, business owners (male and female), models, political insiders, and media mavens.

Lying in wait to greet them with a warm smile and kiss on the cheek was George's famed team of stylists and staffers. From celebrity makeup artist Carl Ray (clients include First Lady Michelle Obama, Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Paul McCartney, and Natalie Portman) to longtime salon manager Rick Raines, the salon's entire "family" stood at the ready to celebrate.

And while no white whales were harpooned, plenty of bottles of champagne were summarily drained.