Ever since I was in middle school, I have found inspiration, solace, and my latest beauty essential [1] in the aisles of Sephora. Shopping there has the ability to make me feel like all is right with the world — and I know I'm not alone in this feeling. I can barely walk down the streets of New York City without seeing those iconic striped bags, and there are countless memes [2] devoted to this makeup mecca. But if you're a devotee to the store, ask yourself: are you a true fan? Test your brand savvy! Read on to learn 15 fun facts about Sephora.
The Brand's Origins Are Très Chic
Sephora started in France in 1970.
Sephora's First American Store Was in New York City
It set up shop in Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood in 1998.
The Meaning of the Word "Sephora" Is Fascinating
According to Sephora representatives, the brand got its name by combining "sephos," the ancient Greek word for beauty, and the name Zipporah, the most beautiful wife of Moses.
Online Shopping Started in 1999
Shortly after Sephora debuted stateside, beauty addicts could buy their favorite products from Sephora.com.
Sephora Makeup Artists Will Get You Glam For Special Events
If you have a prom, a party, or even a wedding to attend, make an appointment at your local Sephora Beauty Studio. Just spend $50 on your favorite products (easy to do when buying makeup!) and have a seat in the pro's chair. You'll walk away looking gorgeous.
Sephora's Headquarters Are on the West Coast
Team Sephora is based out of beautiful San Francisco (just like Benefit Cosmetics [3]!).
There Are a Crazy Number of Brands Available There
Over 200 companies distribute their products at Sephora, and you'll find different brands available abroad. You might find new favorites when traveling!
Some of Your Favorite Brands Are Exclusively Available at Sephora
Don't look for items from companies like Bite Beauty, Ole Henriksen, Make Up For Ever, Kat Von D, and The Estée Edit anywhere else — they all call Sephora home!
Those Employee Uniforms Are Basically Haute Couture
Prabal Gurung designed the iconic black-and-red tunics in 2012.
You Can Shop at Sephora Around the World
You can find the store in 30 countries globally, including Australia, Brazil, and the United Arab Emirates.
There Is a Staggering Number of Stores Worldwide
As of January 2016, there were 1,626 stores — most of those being in the United States!
You Can Also Shop Sephora at JCPenney
These stores are smaller than standard Sephora locations and offer an edited selection of brands — otherwise, they're no different from the classic shop! There are 546 of these destinations.
Beauty Girls Love the Brand's Lip Color
The bestselling Sephora Collection product is its Cream Lip Stain [4] ($14). The liquid lipstick formula is available in 14 shades and is celebrated for its ultralongwear formula.
Shoppers Think This Product Is Actually Better Than Sex
Currently, the bestselling item at Sephora in the United States is Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara [5] ($23). Try it once and you'll be hooked, too. Luckily, you can also snap up a $12 travel-sized tube so you never have to be without it!
Sephora Offers a Subscription Box
Sephora Play! contains five deluxe samples of prestige products surrounding a specific theme, such as dewy skin. Even better, it's only $10 per month. Find out if it's available in your area [6].
Related:
- Facts All Urban Decay Junkies Should Know [7]
- 21 Interesting Things You Don't Know About Forever 21 [8]
- Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Bath and Body Works [9]