Fashion

Birchbox Has A Real Storefront Now

by Tyler Atwood

If you're a fan of online beauty product subscription service, you're in luck: Birchbox has opened its premiere true storefront in New York City. Since its launch in 2010, the company has cornered the beauty industry's market for monthly product-sampling services, delivering a selection of luxe, themed cosmetic treats to its subscribers every 30 days for a fee of $10 per month. In addition to its subscription services, Birchbox recently added an e-tailer sector to their business, providing full-size versions of the samples they provide in case eager customers try something they love.

In order to further diversify its business, Birchbox decided to launch a real-live, brick-and-mortar store for those consumers who enjoy an in-person shopping experience. As opposed to luxe department stores and other classic beauty boutiques, Birchbox's new Soho locale has a more playful, experimental feel. The store intersperses different products based on category as opposed to brand, offers a Build Your Own Birchbox station based on what appears to be the Build-a-Bear model, and encourages customers to sample products with a dedicated "Try Bar" area.

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With 2,000 available products to choose from, video demos explaining products, and an in-store full-service beauty salon, it's safe to say you could easily lose yourself in the store for an hour…or five. So instead of browsing makeup in that department store where you feel as if you may be reprimanded for picking up a product, try Birchbox for a more hands-on experience and a chill vibe.

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Images: Getty Images