Chicago is a shopping destination and beauty boutiques are plentiful. 312 Shops features my favorite places to shop in the city and explores new territory as well. Consider this your guide to Chicago, by way of beauty. Check out my latest tour of Chicago’s newest beauty boutique, SPACE.NK.
Space NK chose wisely for its first ever Midwest boutique. Finally, the luxury beauty retailer opened up shop in Chicago at Bloomingdale’s. According to Space NK founder Nicky Kinnaird, Chicago was the right market. “We have an existing fan base here, judging from customers shopping on our website and asking us to open a store.” She’s clearly referencing me, right? And definitely Joyce of Bronzer Bunny, too. We may have led the online petition!
The brands… More than 40 luxurious brands are available and new products arrive every few weeks to keep inventory fresh. I was struck by the gorgeous display of Kevyn Aucoin, Hourglass and Lipstick Queen as well as serious shelf space dedicated to Oribe, Tata Harper, Rahua and Jin Soon.
The neighbors… Housed in a nook within the Bloomingdale’s cosmetics department, Chicago’s Space NK is in good company with Laura Mercier, La Prairie and Bobbi Brown nearby. When the reno is done, it’s going to be insane.
The perks… Without question, Space NK has the best gift-with-purchases. Seems as though everyone has resorted to one-time-use packets and fragrance cards, which makes their often inclusion of nearly full-size lipsticks, mini diptyque candles and other deluxe offerings refreshing.
These neutral eyeshadow duos by Kevyn Aucoin are calling me!
The experience… All about discovery. I always come across brands that are new on my radar, like Sai-Sei, and the sales team is more than willing to chat and answer questions (in a very non-pushy, friendly way).
Space NK will host its grand opening celebration when Bloomingdale’s wraps its beauty floor remodel. Save the date for Thursday, September 12 — word is one of Space NK’s famous GWPs will be up for grabs. And, while you’re at it, jot down Saturday, October 26, when Space NK founder Nicky Kinnaird will be making an appearance and offering one-on-one consultations.
Oooooooo!!! I’ve been jealous of our friends across the pond and in NY having a space nk. So excited to check it out!!
YAY! YOU WENT! Also, thanks for the mention! I wish i could go for the september opening, but I’ll be in California. Though when you get the scoop on the GWP I will be desperate to know! hehe. I am also wanting some Sai Sei goodies for my visit there! 🙂
Joyce recently posted…Products That Didn’t Work For Me, #3
I had no idea we had a SPaceNK here. Laurie, you’re awesome!
Alex recently posted…I’m now on Bloglovin’!
Alex, I know — it’s hiding in Bloomingdales! Thanks for stopping by, girl! xo