The Empire Mall

Most make up is hard to access-stored behind intimidating salespeople, or locked up in cases.  Not at the beauty brand Sephora, which is now open in the Empire Mall! 

When you walk into any of the retail shops, you’re greeted by super friendly, enthusiastic staff, and encouraged to try out and sample new products. And what you don’t get are pushy salespeople.  “We do not work on commission, as many people would expect”, says color lead Shannon Barnes, “We’re here to help and offer expertise, not force a sale”.

Also helpful are the “Skincare iQ” computers set up to help customers find the right products for their skin. Sephora Skincare iQ is a revolutionary new technology that matches you with the perfect skincare products. Whether it’s wrinkles, dark spots, visible pores, or any other concern, Skincare iQ will find the top-performing products available at Sephora to address your needs.

Besides helping people become a better version of their selves, Sephora is constantly working to showcase the next big trend in the beauty industry. The company prides itself on working with leading color forecasting company, Pantone, who announced emerald as the color of the year for 2013 and teamed up with Sephora once again to release limited-edition makeup and accessories in the christened hue. Peacock is IN!

Not sure about bright greens and blues?  Give them a try! Working with a makeup artist is a daily luxury for the rich and famous, but at Sephora-it an option for all. 10 minute express make up instruction is always available. Services include: smoky eye, everyday eye, perfect lips, blush and bronze, essential eyeliner, faux lashes, treat and conceal, and flawless foundation. Also, 30-40 minute customized applications (prom, wedding, date night) are available with an intent to purchase a minimum of $50 in products. These make up applications are best with appointment.

Everyone can shop here. That’s the biggest perk about Sephora. There are no sizes (just product ounces!), no pushy salespeople, and most of all-no boundaries. Just freedom.  Freedom to try out each and every product before you buy. It’s no wonder both the employees and shoppers alike call this place, “heaven on earth”.

3 BEAUTY BLUNDERS ANSWERED

Start With the Basics

How much makeup should each woman own? While it definitely varies from person to person-for example a professional athlete will not wear as much make up as say, a local news anchorwoman-there are some basics that are good for daily wear.

1. A perfect match foundation, tinted moisturizer, or BB/CC cream (the newest cosmetics trend) is a necessity. Find your match by testing out a few different brands (a luxury at Sephora, and not available at most convenience or drug stores). Foundation can help even out skin tone and hide imperfections.
2. Bronzer and/or blush adds glow to an otherwise dull complexion. Choose to go subtle or bold, and use to accentuate cheekbones and add a natural “flush”.
3. Finally, mascara, like diamonds, is a girl’s best friend. The most tired of eyes can be transformed with the flick of the mascara wand.

Making Your Makeup Multi-task

Need to maintain your look without breaking the bank? Jennifer, manager at the Sioux Falls location, suggests grabbing products that will do double-or triple duty. For instance, when it comes to blush and lip color, you can actually tackle both with the same product. Also try Benefit Cosmetics “High Beam”-a liquid highlighter that creates a radiantly dewy complexion that can be used not only on the upper cheek bones to create a soft, natural afterglow, but also as a subtle and soft eye color.

I Took the Plunge-Now What?

Not sure how to apply that make up haul you just came home with?  Search for tips online (You Tube has a ton of “how-to” videos), consult your friends and family who have a bit more experience with cosmetics, and by all means, visit Sephora with any and all questions you have regarding your purchase.