Ever wondered what it’s like to shop with a beauty editor? Welcome to Counter Service, a new series in which we visit our favourite cosmetic businesses in person. We’re going to the curated settings and places that make in-person shopping so worthwhile—and you’re coming along. First, we visited Chanel’s Upper West Side location to swatch, sniff, and create a stunning look from scratch.
As someone whose profession focuses around internet shopping, I rarely check out in person. But when I’m looking for gifts, whether for holidays, birthdays, or just because, IRL shopping feels different. After all, the limited-edition gift packages, creative packaging, and cheerful décor are best experienced firsthand, not through a computer screen. And, as a beauty editor who enjoys luxury makeup, Chanel’s Fragrance & Beauty boutique on the Upper West Side of New York City is the place to be. The best part of buying in person is that I can be positive that the fragrance I choose for a loved one will fit their preferences. If I’m shopping for myself (as Donna and Tom from Parks and Recreation would say, indulge yourself!), I can splurge with confidence because I’ve perfectly shade-matched every product.
I’ve long been a Chanel devotee. Every time I reach for a product featuring the CC emblem, I feel like that girl. And, while I’d like to keep everything Chanel Beauty to myself, they also make fantastic Valentine’s Day gifts—curated skin-care sets, luxurious lip oils, and so on. And, while they are available online, the in-store experience is difficult to beat. Here is why.
The In-store Experience
On a cold Tuesday morning, I had the unique opportunity of shopping in Chanel’s Upper West Side boutique before public opening hours—in other words, a makeup lover’s dream—and I can confirm: The store smells great and exudes class. Even if you’re only looking for one item, you can’t leave without visiting the entire store and picking up some more delicacies. For example, I’m not a scent connoisseur, but Chanel’s massive wall displays are enough to make anyone do a double-take and undertake numerous sniff tests. (There’s a chance you’re joining me).
I didn’t require much help while shopping because I was already aware with Chanel’s goods. If you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of appointment options available—whether you want an in-depth beauty tutorial or a quick olfactory session to find your Chanel fragrance sweetheart. The personnel were so friendly that I considered arranging an appointment myself. But this time, I spent my time at the store shade-matching myself for foundation and swatching new eye shadow palettes to try out. After all, there was plenty of room to play with, as well as perfect lighting.
Why I adore it: When I noticed the holiday Les 9 Ombres palettes are still accessible, and I let out a big gasp. I advise that you get one for your bestie or sister before they are gone for good! I was initially captivated to The Space Traveller because the color palette is extremely dreamy and otherworldly. Cosmic chick winter, anyone? The iridescent lavender in the top row has been my go-to, especially since I wanted to change up my regular shimmering gold shadow. My fave gel liner happens to be purple/berry, so the two are a match made in makeup heaven!
Why I love it: I’m infamous for forgetting to reapply hand cream after washing, and my hands suffer as a result. (On the plus side, I’m a germ-aware person!) Chanel’s egg-shaped La Crème Main is so stylish and adorable that I find myself grabbing for it without thinking. The camellia-infused solution (think camellia ceramides, camellia oil, and camellia yeast) quickly softens my hands without leaving that greasy behind. Plus, what about the delicate flowery notes? Taking a scent during a hectic day centers me.
Why I like it: “I enjoy a versatile lip and cheek color for hectic mornings. No. 1 de Chanel Lip and Cheek Balm has a buttery, crimson camellia oil-infused texture that readily transfers to the pad of my (clean!) ring finger, allowing me to dab it on my cheeks and lips without the need for a brush if I’m very short on time. Even though it’s a tint, shades like Berry Boost deliver on pigmentation—and they’re also quite buildable if I want more punch.
I’ve tried a few Chanel foundations by now, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that they’re some of the most moisturizing, skin-like formulas available. Sublimage L’Essence de Teint is not an exception. Not only is BD21 a perfect match, but the vanilla-infused formula actually improves and brightens my skin (thanks to antioxidants and a hint of mica), rather than disguising it.
When it comes to eye makeup, I normally prefer golds and pinks, but there was no way I was going to pass on the limited-edition holiday hues. I quickly grabbed Les 4 Ombres in Nuit Astrale and went right into the smooth lavender shade, spreading it across the center of my lids for an ethereal burst. Can we appreciate the embossing on each eyeshadow? Lions, camellias, comets, wheat, and pearls—so beautiful. (While the exact palette I used is no longer available, the evergreen quads are still my go-to for basic everyday looks.)
