I have a bit of a funny relationship with John Lewis – even though it’s in the middle of Eldon Square, I don’t often pop in there for a browse like I frequently do in Fenwick. I think it’s because I think of John Lewis as a bit old fashioned and a bit expensive. I tend to look there for presents for other people, not for myself. So when they invited me down to check out their beauty hall recently, I couldn’t say no. I wanted to find out what I’d been missing out on!
Beauty Brands to Buy
The beauty hall at John Lewis has a tonne of high-end brands – Nars, Chanel, Lancôme, Dior – so it’s no surprise I thought they were out of my price range, they are! And sadly, a lot of them at John Lewis in Newcastle don’t seem to be cruelty free, although I’d need to do a bit more investigation into it to work out exactly what’s what.
What was great, however, was that the assistants at each stand knew exactly what they were talking about and were more than happy to help out with beauty tips, training you on their products and letting you know about the latest releases. Nars, in particular, did a great smokey eye on Sarah, which you’ll have to look at on her blog!
Hair Styling
Thanks to Plain Sarah Jayne for the pic!
It’s not just makeup you’ll find in the beauty hall, you can also head there to learn about the latest hair tech. I visited the GHD stand and got a great demo of their new contour wand. It’s 2017’s answer to a crimper that incorporates all of GHD’s quality and hair protection in one. At £95, it ain’t cheap and, despite the lovely demonstration, I don’t think I’ll be adding it to my collection.
One thing I do like the look of though is the nocturne dry and style set, which has a GHD hair dryer and a hair straightener in it. I quite fancy getting GHDs just to curl my hair, although it does feel a little bit self-indulgent!
I was also dying to try the Dyson Supersonic hairdryer, but didn’t have time to fit in a demonstration. Again, at £299.99, it’s not something I’ll be able to afford possibly ever!
The Beauty Retreat
The thing about John Lewis – and the thing that it boasts above Fenwick – is the Beauty Retreat. It’s a stylish, relaxed and calming area, despite being smack bang in the centre of a busy shop in a busy shopping centre. There are a whole range of treatments on offer, including ESPA and Decléor face and body treatments, Jessica nails, Blink brows and more. It’s honestly a wonder they fit it all in such a small spot.
I have been lucky enough to visit for an ESPA express facial and found it both relaxing and informative. My therapist asked me about my skin concerns and then picked a range of products based on which scents I preferred and what she could see of my skin. I learned that my skin is dehydrated and I’ve made changes to my skincare routine since. My next step is to go back and get another facial to see whether I’ve been able to make any improvements!
It was great to try out what John Lewis offers and I’ll definitely be going back to the Beauty Retreat and maybe even the GHD stand to learn about curling my hair. I’d also like to try the Liz Earle cleanse and polish seeing as it’s such a cult product.
Where’s your favourite place to shop for beauty?
♥ JH
Pin now, read later!
