What’s the Big Deal? What is the hype with Glossier?

I’ve been familiar with Glossier for a while now, but never hopped on the bandwagon until last year. Assuming the price range would be like any other popular makeup brand (expensive with a short life cycle), Glossier defied my expectations. First off, it’s more than just makeup. It’s also skincare, bodycare, fragrance, and other casual beauty products. Made for ‘people on the go’ who also appear to have their whole life ahead of them, Glossier combines the goodness of skin refreshments with a dewey, effortless finish. 

Many are familiar with their most popular product, the Balm Dotcom. A universal skin salve for moisturizing lips or any spot in need of a ‘glow’--- this pocket-sized goodie is as cute outside as the product inside. A range of combinations, from original to rose to wild fig, there are many starting points to experiment with the product, with many using it as a cheek or blush enhancer to add some color to one’s complexion. 

You might be familiar with the brand’s expansion to Sephora stores, or maybe you’ve seen it for the first time! Either way, if you are a makeup/skincare enthusiast, Glossier is definitely worth a try.

The Opening

On Friday, March 24th, Glossier opened its Boston storefront on 120 Newbury Street. With a line of enthusiasts around the block, this event was very exciting for all who attended! Beginning with a treat, the store provided coffee and pastries from Tatte and Levain Bakery for visitors. Glossier employees, many with their cute pink jumpsuit uniforms (I want one), were providing free samples of their lotion to the visitors in line (the lotion is worth it). 

I got the absolute privilege to meet the wonderful CEO Kyle Leahy, who happens to be a family member of my friend from BC. She was so delightful and a pleasure to talk to—it was so cool !! (BTW—her favorite product is Glossier You Perfume and the Superdew :) ) According to Leahy, all Glossier stores have a set theme based on the city of residence. Glossier DC features a ‘Jet-Age’ with airplane window decor to praise the city’s history in the Air and Space Museum. Glossier Boston includes a nod to Isabella Stuart Gardener Museum with many green elements, like the crewnecks that were available.

The Experience

Walking around the store I was in awe. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a store this BEAUTIFUL. The decorations, the placements, the picturesque walls, the aesthetic—it was absolutely fabulous. If you’re not the one shopping, you’re definitely the one taking a mirror pic in the “You Look Good” mirror. 

Even though it was super busy as expected, the service was so professional. The Glossier employees would be on the floor taking everyone’s orders on an IPad, and once finished an attendant would call out your name from the back. The products you see on the floor are just testers and samples to experiment with what products work best for you, and your actual order comes from inventory in the back. 

As a part of the opening, the store also brought in a set of embroiderers to monogram the Glossier sweatshirts being sold, for free. It was such a thoughtful and pretty addition to the overall perfection of this opening. I got my initials in pink thread as a little souvenir from my day, amongst other Glossier favorites like Lash Stick and Cloud Paint.

Overall, it was such a fun experience no matter how familiar you are with Glossier. I strongly believe they have a product for everyone, no matter what you might use for skincare or makeup. Start small with a Balm Dotcom, or see what else is available at the new Newbury Street storefront!