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Sephora
Category: Beauty and Spas Cosmetics & Beauty Supply Shopping Cosmetics & Beauty Supply Cosmetics & Beauty Supply [Edit]
Pacific Centre701 W Georgia St
Vancouver, BC V7Y 1E4
Neighbourhood: Downtown
(778) 331-3942
- Hours:
Mon-Tue 10 am - 6 pm
Wed-Fri 10 am - 9 pm
Sat 9:30 am - 6 pm
Sun 11 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
38 reviews for Sephora
38 reviews in English
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Review from Laura D.
4/22/2012
Best. Shop. Ever.
Step into the world of beauty. Nails, makeup, hair and skincare, this shop really has everything.
The service is impeccable. Have a lovely beauty specialist give you advice on the best products for your needs.
I cannot wait till they open up in Australia. -
Review from J N.
Vancouver, BC
4/22/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Wow, guess it took me awhile to finally buy something here, as I was always so disappointed when comparing to the US.
The customer service was great all around. I tried some Fresh eye cream that burned my skin. Actually, everything that I tried on my eyes there--other than water--burned my skin. I was quite disappointed in this as I love the Fresh eye wash that also doubles as a make up remover. I'd highly recommend that.
But, that certainly wasn't the store's fault. All of the girls working here were great, in fact. What was disappointing was to see such long lines on a busy Saturday. But that's what you get when there is only one Sephora in the city, I guess.
Anyway, our check-out clerk was quite efficient, and my companion pointed out that in the three times that he'd been there (I have him well-trained now) he'd always had the same cashier.
Also, Fresh has now changed their packaging. My beautiful tube came sealed, then placed in a box, and then in another sleeve made from cardboard. How absolutely ridiculous. This is Vancouver, not Japan, and the owners of Fresh should be ashamed of themselves for this waste. But that was no fault of the store. My partner did point out how he wished he was in cosmetics as all products are essentially the same. But that's another story. :)
So, I spent almost $50 on one over-priced product plus a few samples to try and went merrily on my way. When I can't go South, I'll def. be returning to this one again. -
Review from Deanna S.
4/4/2012
I'm really disappointed in this Sephora. Normally, my experiences at these stores no matter where I go is really great. I typically don't wear makeup at all, because I prefer a natural look. But when I do, it's just mascara, blush, and lip gloss... and I pick it up here. Other than that, Sephora has been my go-to place for hair styling tools, and nail polish.
With that said, I went to Sephora this time after a lot of careful consideration. After watching a random make-up tutorial on YouTube, I was amazed at how much of a difference lip-liner made to enhance a girl's lips. Seriously, it was like she had collagen injections.
My lips are not thin but they aren't Angelina's either. I would never get lip injections, but I wouldn't mind having a bigger pout just for occasions where my photo may be taken. I was going to step outside of my comfort zone and try something new.
I really wanted Chanel lipstick and liner, but I decided to try Sephora first (it probably wouldn't be a good idea to get something really expensive if I'm just trying it out for the first time). I got to Sephora, and it wasn't too busy. I found a lipstick that I thought I liked and kept looking around to find a liner to match.
An Asian lady who worked there (who looked like she was in about her 40's), had stopped to ask me if I was finding everything okay. I asked her if the mini Sephora brand liner colors came in a bigger size... and she said no and just walked away. I was really disappointed because I was hoping she would stay and help me. I was hoping that she would pick a liner out for me. Actually, I was hoping that she could show me multiple liners and lipsticks that SHE thought might work for me. But she didn't.
I always try lip products out on my hands because I can't stand the thought of touching my mouth with an open product. For this reason alone, I would have REALLY benefitted from someone helping me. In case you didn't know... what looks pink on your hand could actually look like a metallic lilac color on your lips. I'm not kidding. This happened. I've never been fooled more by a color in my life.
So I had thought that I'd matched a lipstick and liner on my hand at this point, and then I started looking for a "light reflecting concealer" like the one I had seen in the YouTube video. I couldn't find any... but I did find this stuff by Benefit that was supposed to give a pearl-like sheen to your skin. I thought that this was close enough, and was excited to try it because it apparently gave you a glow when you put it on your cheeks. Again... trying all of this stuff out on my hand.
Then, I picked up some Stila cream-lip/cheek color (my regular) and some Benefit mascara (another regular).
The total came to $150 and I went home excitedly.
I got home and this is what happened:
-The lipstick did not work well with my skin tone or lip color or whatever. It was not a pretty peachy springtime pink that I was hoping it would be. It just looked weird. It actually looked like it had a purple-y tone to it.
-The liner did not match my lipstick OR my natural lips. The liner WAS kind of peachy which just looked weird with the non-peachy lipstick.
-The light reflecting pearl cream stuff that was supposed to give me a glow didn't work. It MIGHT work on someone who wears a matte powder foundation... but I do not wear foundation. My skin is natural and moist all the time. This pearly stuff did NOTHING for me because it just gives you the same kind of "glow" as the natural oils on your face.
I was disapointed and mad. Thankfully, they allow returns, so I was refunded the next day for $77 of the $150 I spent. The only things I kept were the mascara and blush... -
Review from Mellan S.
North Vancouver, BC
5/26/2012
In this palor also hurts after awhile from all the constant tugging and pulling on your head. When I was done though, my hair was beautiful and straight and silky. I was enthused.
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Review from Melody M.
3/26/2012
I love Sephora. I use to always go to LA just to stock up, but I'm so happy that we have a couple of stores in BC now. They have a huge range of trendy cosmetics, from Too Faced, Urban Decay, Stilla, and their own line. These are just some of the few, there are way too many to mention. They also carry fragrances and shampoos.
I like the downtown Sephora best. They have a friendly and very knowledgeable staff. You can book a $50 make-up appointment or just ask for advice. They are willing and generous with their samples. You can also get a points card and redeem the points for a free gift. I never leave this place empty handed. -
Review from Amy T.
3/1/2012
This Sephora locations has gotten a lot better in terms of customer service. They are happier and more helpful since they opened. Good job on managing this store. I frequently see people cleaning up and wiping things down as well.
Sephora is my favorite place to shop for cosmetics so I'm happy about being treated better and the staff keeping this store in good shape. -
Review from Dee B.
2/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
Dr. Dennis Gross AHA treatments, perfume rollerballs, Bliss Spa hand cream and Smith's strawberry lip balm bring me back to Sephora time and time again.
Sephora US carries Peter Thomas Roth SPF mineral makeup, so I make my way down to Bellevue when I need to stock up. Hurry up Canada! PTR SPF products are awesome.
I love the points system. I pretty much get a free gift every time I shop at Sephora. Oh and I love the random $15 off emails. Yippee for Sephora. Boo for my bank account. -
Review from Shoppa H.
Vancouver, BC
4/18/2012
LOVE this location! The staff are awesome and Masako is the most awesome. I just love playing with everything without getting yelled at. It's like a big playground. All stores should have a policy to allow customers to try before you buy. Can you imagine doing that at the stuffy Bay?
Sephora, what an awesome business concept! -
Review from Julia C.
Vancouver, BC
2/28/2012
I absolutely love Sephora!
I always find the employees at this location helpful with everything - whether my hands are full of product and they hand me a basket or I have a question about a particular product.
If I need a beauty product, this place is my go-to store! Even though I usually walk out with a $100 + bill. I also love the beauty insider program and the fact that they introduced the V.I.B. program on top of that! I love getting 10%-20% off offers via email because they know I shop there lots! -
Review from Kari C.
11/12/2011
Coming in here for me is like being a diabetic kid in a sweet shop. I like everything here, but can't have most of it.
I love bright colours, sparkles and pretty things, so the entire store is a giant tease, but I don't leave with a giant hole in my wallet, because of a strong paranoia about beauty product ingredients. Blessing in disguise.
If possible, I like for my cosmetics/body products to be 100% all-natural, or as close to it as possible, at the very least without dangerous sulfates, synthetics, parabens, phthalates, fragrances etc. I've been a Burt's Bee's and Watkin's Apothecary fan for a good while (both 90%+ natural ingredients), but when in the mood to get pretty stuff, Sephora carries Bare Escentuals, Josie Maran, Korres, LaVanilla, and Tarte which so far seem to be close to what natural-users can be all right with. My hair stylist knows a lot about this kind of stuff (as do many in the beauty/esthetics industry) and also says that Tarte is pretty good, ingredients-wise.
I've been to this location maybe 4 or 5 times. The associates are always busy, as the store is usually swarming, so it's hard to find someone who knows their stuff. They often say, "Oh, that's natural," and when I ask something like, "How natural is it?" They usually don't know.
The problem is that "natural" isn't a regulated/certified term, like "organic", so technically, unless a company writes on their products that it has no synthetic ingredients, or whatever-percentile of that lipstick is natural ingredients, it's a buzz word, so it's a good idea to do some research online, as I did/do, to find your comfort zone with their products and make sure you aren't getting green-washed.
Going to the sites of the companies and e-mailing to ask direct questions is a good way to go, as is looking up ingredients on cosmetic databases, or David Suzuki's list of toxic/harmful ingredients to avoid.
Most recent visit was on the 9th, and an associate approached to say hi when I was looking at LaVanilla. She was really knowledgeable about the store's natural products (and was noticeably made-up prettily, but not overly-so as most of the associates are) and what they didn't contain, which I appreciated. Someone with answers! Yes! Hopefully the company will hire more people like her, who, like myself, want to have a lot of info and look good, but without having to use stuff that sacrifices our values. That would be a great idea, as more and more people are becoming aware and concerned about what they put on themselves.
In any case, the assortment of tools/accessories is always fun to look at. I picked up a sturdy, rose gold-coloured Tweezerman eyelash curler, and it's doing pretty well. My boyfriend said it looked "so G, you gotta get it!" but was terrified when I used it. Apparently "G" is now slang for "medieval torture device that scares boys". Apparently, women are fearless without even knowing.
FYI, Sephora also has a great return/exchange policy, if you find that whatever you picked up isn't working out. I will continue to visit, as I continue to do homework.Listed in: Surefires, Red Hot Natural Mama
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Review from Annie W.
11/1/2011
My name is Annie, and I am a cosmetic product junkie.
If its new, I'll buy it.
If it claims to do practically anything at all, I'll buy it.
If the packaging is cute, I'll buy it.
If I like the smell, I'll buy it.
If someone says "Get it!", I'll buy it.
Until Sephora landed in Canada, my addiction was still manageable. Many brands weren't available in Vancouver, or were only stocked in snooty counter environments like Holt Renfrew which instantly killed any desire to shop.
Now it's out of control with the plethora of specialty & mainstream brands Sephora carries. I especially love the fact that they make an effort to stock natural/organic skincare lines for those of us that aren't into rubbing toxic chemicals on our faces.
Their loyalty program is superb, and if you hit V.I.B status (Very Important Beauty Insiders) you'll get access to private shopping events, special discounts, point perks, and lots of extra freebies.
I'd love to give Sephora 5-stars, but they still don't stock all the brands Sephora US carries, so until then 4* it is!Listed in: Yelp 30 Day Challenge 2011
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Review from Kalina M.
North Vancouver, BC
1/4/2012
Beauty Browsing!
I find Sephora has pretty good value. When you are a traveller to the US, it is a bit frustrating to see CDN pricing astronomically higher. I understand we are a smaller market and that things are just higher here but seriously - some stores take that as a leave to jack their prices through the roof!
Sephora is very reasonable. I fell in love with Bliss products some time ago from going to their fabulous spas during my travels. I was very excited to have Sephora open as I found that they are quite reasonablely priced!
Sephora's staff are very passionate and great to deal with.
I love: Bliss - Lemon Sage body products (Shower Gel, Body Butter, Scrub) -
Review from Betty L.
11/1/2011
I don't know how many times I walked into a Sephora store either by myself or with friends and came out empty handed because they offered so many brands and huge range of products so it was very overwhelming for me. The sales people were too busy so I didn't bother seeking advice. I knew I needed makeup products and learned a few makeup tricks. So I finally booked an half hour session with one of the salesperson/makeup artist.
The person who helped me out was patient, friendly and informative. She didn't try too hard to sell me every product I used. I was the one who decided to puchase all the products because most of my products at home expired. These products weren't cheap but I could feel the difference on my face. She answered my questions while a saleslady at a certain drugstore didn't offer any good choices.
I liked their rewards program because I could redeem certain products when I reached a certain level. The makeup artist really perked up my interest in makeup so I could see myself going back to try new techniques and purchase other stuff. -
Review from Andrea L.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 11/23/2011
I find you really have to scope out the right people.
Couple of the other times I have been here, I kept being re-directed to other people, and playing that waiting game for help. Drives me insane.
I also asked her on tips to do a light smokey eye that wont make it look like I've got a black blob above my eyelid. What does she do? Black blobbed me. *sigh*
I was going to hold off on going to this location because of the lack of staff and knowledge some of them have. However, I was turned back by the convenience of the location and another lovely staff member.
This time I was able to haul her away for myself for about 45 minutes? I know it sounds like a mental amount of time, but I had a list, I wanted to get as much as I could and get out. She was VERY helpful. I was lucky to steal her away for so long because it became quite busy after that. There were a few new products on my list that she gave me feedback about(being thick & cakey) prior to purchasing, which is great. Found a new plummy lipstick and somethings to feed my Marc Jacobs & Hello Kitty addiction.
The end result was a $500 haul. Now if Sephora could keep staffing their stores like this, this is how they can maximize each transaction.
:]1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/6/2011
I liked that the one time I was in there for a long time, I found everything that I was looking for… Read more »
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Review from Emily-Anne P.
Vancouver, BC
6/17/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Gone are the days where I only bought eye liner and mascara online or in the US....
Gone are the days of searching Sephora online for what I wanted and googling to see if anything in Vancouver carried anything remotely close to what I wanted.....
Gone are the days where I'd wander MAC aimlessly looking for a Sephora fix I just wasn't getting north of the boarder.
Yes. I am aware that Sephora has been here for a while now. But every once in a while, usually while traveling in other parts of the world I see a Sephora and think "oh it's my only chance." But alas, we do have one here.
I buy most of my beauty products that aren't the very basic staples or face cremes at Sephora. I recon I've just fallen victim to their trap... their shiny store... their friendly staff... there somewhat reasonable prices.
Whenever I need anything, eyeliner, lipstick, nail polish, glitsy glam with sparkles to fill a glitter fix... I go to Sephora. I usually strike up a conversation with one of the employees and get exactly what I'm looking for (mind you my wallet doesn't like it when i do that). They have so many amazing products, Bumble and Bumble, the Kat Von D tattoo concealer (which I have used, just to see what I looked like sans tattoos), TokiDoki, Hello Kitty, really I could go on. But I won't, I'll just tell you to go there. -
Review from Luisa D.
5/16/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I'm not really a big make-up girl but I still love this store. I've spent more money here on my teenaged daughter who could probably teach me a lot on how to apply make-up without looking like a whore, or worse, a tranny. Not that there's anything wrong with being a whore or a tranny, they're just not the looks I'm usually going for when I apply eyeshadow and lipstick. Seriously I just never mastered the art of make-up myself.
Regardless I could spend a lot of time in here checking out all the options for a highly polished, woman about town. As awkward and out of place as I might feel the staff are always very sweet if you ask questions.
One day I'll probably confess my lack of experience and I'll probably end up spending way too much money in here as they set me up with all the essentials for looking like my innner beauty queen. -
Review from Gina I.
5/13/2011
I love Sephora. They have so many products that you can't find at the regular department cosmetic counters and I love going in there just to smell a new perfume. I love how if you don't want to buy the big sizes, they have roll on sizes for a lot of their scents. Mama like.
What I love about Sephora the most is their customer service on the floor. They are all awesome. If one doesn't know something about a certain product, then they will find someone who does.
I was in there to find a really good shampoo for oily hair. I bought a small Bumble & Bumble to test out, and the girl also gave me 4 different shampoo samples! Really? That's going out of your way to help me and taking the time to do it, too. So now I can go back with my favourite of the 4 and purchase the big size. -
Review from Raymond O.
Vancouver, BC
No...I'm certainly not a beauty or make up junkie, but anyone like me who is married to one sure is aware of the madness and excitement this brings to most women out there. Not to mention the financial damage that goes with it! The newly opened Sephora at the Pacific Centre Mall is no different than the stores you've seen in the States. Rows and rows of brightly lit counters and displays, with hundreds of products and brands available. The alphabetized brands of men's fragrances - my usual spot while waiting - offered most, if not all, brands you can see across the border.
One will notice this location bigger than most stores, sizing at almost 7500 square feet with two entrances - one inside the lower level of the mall and the main entrance at the corner of Dunsmuir and Howe St. Best part for me here is sampling is encouraged, and a few teasers and samples are available at the counter once you pay up. On a weekend, the store was fully staffed. You could see they're prepared and able to cope with the opening weekend chaos. They are gracious and helpful when needed, though it may take a minute to look for an available one. I suspect it should be better once the initial hype has died down a bit. A welcome addition to Vancouver. -
Review from Kreag S.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 9/8/2009
Sephora should train all other retail company's on how to give exceptional client service..seriously..through my many years as a loyal client I have never once received poor service...ever..and that's a bold statement..
Now...the Vancouver location us busy...understament...REALLY busy..it's new to the city and therefor we are going crazy for it...and since it's busy it's only logically that at times it may be hard to get someone to assist you -HOWEVER -when you do they are extremely helpful, educated, and aware...and while sometimes you may not get one on one undivided attention..you will always have questions asked and be followed up with...
The thing I love the most is that they don't bug you at Sephora..you can feel free to browse at your leisure and not be stalked by pesky associates..and when you do need help they are always there with a vast wealth of knowledge...
Sephora only carries PETA approved brands and are big believers in options..and so they now have a large selection of natural/organic lines for makeup and skin care!
Must buy exclusive brands or hard to find brands : Tarte,Hourglass, Kat Von D, Bliss, Fresh, Philosopy, Caudalie, Ole Henrickson, Dr. Brandt..just to name a few :) ALSO, Sephora brand which is amazing and super affordable!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/17/2009
Happiest place on Earth next to Disney Land....maybe a tad happier....go early in the morning..it's… Read more »
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Review from Evilyn T.
6/5/2010 1 Check-in Here
I have been avoiding Sephora since it moved to the neighbourhood. I knew that Sephora was only going to be a bad influence on my life choices, and many of them would involve losing large amounts of pocket change. Yesterday I decided I was going to approach Sephora and let Sephora know that I was not going to be a victim of its high-end beauty products and overpriced illusions of eternal youth. I had never been into a Sephora store before that moment in time, and now the floodgates have been opened and I am living my life as a sacrificial virgin who succumbed to the myth of $85 dips and creams that promise to get me laid.
What I am trying to say is that I was completely overwhelmed by how many products there actually are out there that women are willing to spend money on to be beautiful. Holy *bleeping* shit! One of the sales reps was kind enough to help me with my ongoing battle to cover the (un-Prada-like) bags under my eyes, and gave me a sample of a product she swears by, as well as a sample of a moisturizer for my skin which is supposed to defy gravity and do all those things they say on TV to justify the $90 pricetag. I feel like I should take a before and after picture of my face so I can ask for my money-back guarantee when I don't see any results.
Sephora had me by the jugular with excitement, because I LOVE glam-y makeup and glitter and cute things with skulls (hello TokiDoki) and I did end up buying something, but I still live in fear of what this place could potentially do to my life savings. The customer service I received was great, free samples, recommendations, friendly staff, and I even got a free gift because I signed up for their points card and my birthday has just passed, the only reason I am not giving this place 5 stars is because as I have stated so many times already= waaaaaaaaaay overpriced.Listed in: Tips from the Halloween Queen
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Review from christine c.
Victoria, BC
12/10/2009
The stars I'm doling out for Sephora are majorly based on the product lines they carry. I LOVE Sephora.
Sadly though my experiences at this location have been disappointing.
Coming from Victoria I arm myself with a specific shopping list before I enter the doors of Sephora. Tactically I presumed this would be most efficient so that my time wouldn't be swallowed into the vortex that is Sephora.
My first trip was just a few weeks after they first opened their doors. When they had zero of the 8 or so items I wanted I chalked it up to the fact that they were brand spanking new and had probably already been pillaged by local Vancouverites. When the sales ladies failed to offer any other options for similar products I cited inexperience.
On visit number two my list was extended to about 15 desired items. I whipped out my blackberry and showed the first girl I saw what I wanted. This is where I uncovered my first problem. Several items on my list are not carried at the store. She advised me to go ahead and order them online.
For the rest of the items I headed to their respective departments. In the Bare Escentuals area I nabbed a girl and told her I wanted the mineral powder, but I just needed her to double check the colour on my skin. Instead she wanted to try to push me into a dvd start up kit for god knows how much money that included a bunch of stuff I didn't need. I politely refocused her and proceeded to choose a shade. I had her assist me with a few other items, but I found she was more interested in selling me products I didn't need or want.
Another strange thing is there was this fellow who worked there hanging out in different departments. Anytime I asked him for assistance he had no clue, even if it was a simple stock check. I have no idea what his job description was supposed to be, but if he was a greeter maybe he should stick by the entrance.
I guess my hopes that I can buy my products in store from humans have been thwarted. I'll continue to make my purchases on http://Sephora.com every couple months. And when I am in Vancouver I'll still shop here, because I'd have fun even if zombies were chasing me around the store let alone lame salespeople.
My conclusion based on other people's stellar reviews of the service is that perhaps it does exist. Maybe they just smelled my MAC... -
Review from Kimli W.
8/27/2010 12 Check-ins Here
I tend to do most of my research online, so my visits to Sephora are usually a quick in and out. The few times I've needed advice though, they really came through - the staff was knowledgeable, samples came fast and furious, and I enjoyed learning about products that would make me awesome.
If you want to speak with someone, avoid going during lunch hour or immediately after work. Go when us crazy business people are working, and you'll get much better service that way. -
Review from Noa G.
Vancouver, BC
8/16/2009
I don't wear makeup - i don't even know how to apply it. But once in a while I find myself craving a lip gloss or moisturizer fix. Having moved from Toronto to Vancouver, I wondered where the local Sephora was the first time I had one of these beauty attacks. I was sorry to find out the beauty mega-shop hadn't found its way to the West Coast of Canada yet.
Fast-forward a few years and the city on the coast finally has its own makeup mecca. Sephora is located inside Pacific Centre, just inside one of the entrances to the mall. And, true to form, it's packed with products for primping and preening.
I won't write about the mountains of makeup you can browse through, test and purchase at Sephora (everyone already knows about that). However, one thing I do like a lot about the store are the Beauty Express Service counters, where you can have a seat and get complimentary makeup application as well as a tutorial. Options include a smoky eye, pouty lips or some high-def skin primer and powder.Listed in: Give Good Gift!, Mall Musts
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Review from Catherine W.
New Westminster, BC
Updated - 5/11/2010 3 Check-ins Here
I have always been a little disappointed with the service at this store and today started out the same. I wasn't approached as I walked in, even though there was a sales rep there and as I walked toward another, she ducked behind a pillar to talk to a friend so needless to say I wasn't too impressed to start. I saw one sales rep doing inventory so I approached her, explained my need and she had someone come help me. Funny enough it was the rep that ducked behind the pillar. Lucky enough I wasn't going to be a crazy, demanding shopper and was able to find what I needed in under 5 min.
Where the 4 stars come in is with Sylvia at the cash register. She was very helpful while I exchanged a couple of items. One of which was the nail drying drops that never seemed to work for me. Sylvia was able to offer an idea (putting my hands in cold water) to help the drying process. She was also very friendly and we had a good time in the couple of minutes she served me. Yah Sylvia, you and Ann save this location in my eyes!Listed in: 4* (just a little something…, Retail Therapy, Beauty is in the eye of…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/26/2010
I LOVE LOVE LOVE Sephora. Hell I am a VIB member and achieved that in about a month lol. I love… Read more »
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Review from Emma L.
6/17/2010
Magical makeup wonderland!
I came here desperately in need of new foundation and concealer. I don't know anything about makeup, so I wandered around looking at pretty coloured things until one of the staff took pity on me and asked if I needed help. I did! She asked me a couple questions to help determine what kind of products I needed, how thick coverage I needed, etc., and then showed me a couple options. She then did my makeup with the one she recommended most and hot damn, did it look good. I bought the foundation and concealer, and appreciated that she wasn't pushy about the face primer or powder or anything else. Plus: because I got my face done, I got free hair elastics when I went to the check out!
Definitely going to go back when I need more makeup and beauty products. -
Review from Sachi M.
Updated - 7/7/2010 11 Check-ins Here
This time, I asked for customer service, and was very impressed.
I had some lip concerns and asked for natural suggestions. The lady I asked wasn't a skin care expert, so she got one for me. Impressed(1): They're specialized!
The skin care lady recommended two, and said she could make me samples. Impressed(2): Samples! I'm sure not everybody will be happy with this, though: She wiped off the top of the stick-type floor samples with a tissue, then took a clean disposable spatula and put some into a little looney-sized plastic container with a snap lid. So, no, it's not a sterile, fresh, sample. But if the manufacturer doesn't give them sealed samples, I think this is the best a retail outlet could do.
Then, I found out the skin care lady was Japanese, so I got to ask her a question that has been bothering me for years about the difference in after-face-washing ritual of Japanese people and North American people. Impressed(3): Finally, someone who knew both sides and could answer my question!
Impressed(4): The nail polish section had a scotch tape dispenser, so I could try the colours on my nail on the tape, and I don't have to deal with remover. I don't know if I've seen that in a store before.
Not Impressed: One of the lip care items she recommended was out of stock, and apparently, the store doesn't know when they'll get them in again. They just have to wait until the headquarters sends them a package, and see what's inside. What kind of a system is that? Weird.Listed in: farewell, Downtown
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/12/2010
I'm no glam girl, but I do like browsing. I've been looking for different liquid liners (because… Read more »
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Review from Vanessa D.
Vancouver, BC
5/30/2010
I have been to so many Sephoras in the States, and have been ordering online for years and yeasr. The Pacific Centre store is one of the best I have been to.
The sales reps are knowledgeable and helpful when needed, but not pushy. They are ready to assist and super friendly (not at all so in many of the stores in America). They aren't at all grudging about handing out samples without a purchase. When I explained my situation about just moving here, shipping and American Sephora and the brands they carry, they were very understanding and helpful with new product recommendations and samples.
It is slightly weird for me, that Sephora in Canada carries different brands (no DDF, wtf?!) than American stores, but I will get over it. Great service, good Sephora selection and to-be-expected prices. Convenient location doesn't hurt either. -
Review from Mandy R.
4/29/2011
Amazing selection (of course), but I have never had good service here. Maybe it's because it's always busy, maybe I ask the wrong questions, or maybe I just give off an air of cluelessness about makeup (I am clueless, that's why I want help). I always ask if they know if products are tested on animals, and I've yet to find a staff member that actually knew, so they all walk away to "look into that" and never return. I wish I could binge-shop here like my friends do and go home with hundreds of dollars of lovely products in brightly coloured packages guaranteed to make me prettier and happier but I just can't justify the prices when I have no idea what I'm doing when it comes to makeup. I find the Bay's and Holt Renfrew's makeup team a lot more helpful if you want high end products.
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Review from Hipstamatic Foodie B.
Vancouver, BC
5/31/2011
Sephora in general, I love. This location I do not. It's pretty small compared to others, thus lacking the selection that other locations offer. The staff can only provide vague answers for when stock will arrive, not to mention its not fully stocked. In addition, displays are not clean...ever and the staff really do not know that much about the products they are selling.
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Review from Megan J.
Vancouver, BC
1/14/2011
I don't know a lot about makeup, but I know that I wasn't getting what I needed at the drugstore. I've tried my hand at the department store kiosks, but you have to check out one brand at a time and the salespeople tend to be pushy and intimidating. Enter Sephora!
The associates are knowledgeable and low-pressure; they're quick to offer assistance, but also quick to leave you alone if you so desire. Be warned that there is a noticeable difference in the level of service if you visit during weekday lunch hours or peak shopping hours, but I won't penalize them for that - it's just that the store is packed to the gills and there are only so many staff members they can fit in there at once (I counted 16 today).
I really appreciate that I can compare brands in one store, and the staff are approachable enough for someone like me who is easily intimidated by such a large selection of cosmetics. I also tend to do research ahead of time on their website and come in with a general idea of what I need, which saves time. The website is packed with customer reviews and helps me make a more informed decision. It's also comforting to know that I can try things without worrying about wasting money - the 100% satisfaction guarantee eliminates the risk.
The customer service is a breath of fresh air. When I lamented my lack of eligibility for the full-size, 500-point sample item, the cashier let me go 200 points into debt because I really wanted to sample those particular products - a full-size blush and half-size mascara from Benefit, which is probably worth at least $50. With such service and selection, it won't take me too long to get out of the red... one dollar = one point. And props to the colour tech (forgot her name, but she had a dark bob with bangs) who helped me find the perfect concealer and mineral powder today. I look fresh as a daisy! -
Review from Alexandria M.
Vancouver, BC
12/30/2009
I'm a Makeup Snob. I admit it. So when Sephora opened I was overjoyed.
They stock boutique cosmetics lines not available in drugstores, like Kat Von D, Guerlain, NARS, and my beloved Make Up For Ever. At the back of the store you'll find skincare lines like Philosophy and Korres. The staff are trained makeup artists, and usually generous with samples. Each makeup aisle has a tester station at its end, so you can play with any product you like. Just use the disposable applicators provided, not your fingers!
They also carry a lovely selection of quality brushes, sponges, eyebrow stencils, and packets of those glorious little oil-absorbent papers that you pat on your face during the day so you don't have to keep adding powder. (A warning: if you buy brushes, wash them before you use them. I often see customers idly running their hands through them. Riff raff!)
Their Beauty Insider points program lets you accrue points for samples, discounts, and even a birthday gift. Just track your points carefully... on three occasions my points somehow didn't get saved on my card, and I didn't notice until it was too late.
Overall Sephora is a great experience, and it's a (sadly rare) treat to talk with no-pressure salespeople who are knowledgeable about both the products they sell and the industry. -
Review from jane d.
Vancouver, BC
3/30/2011
I went to sephora yesterday after reading great reviews about the store. I was much happier there opposed to MAC. It's great you can try every line of cosmetics and have no annoying sales people bothering you. I asked one of the girls working there to help me do a smokey eye. She did an amaing job and showed me how to do it. She also was not pushy to sell anything and was very helpful. She seems like one of the girls who knows how to do make-up very well there. Her name is Kae and I would totally recommend her if you need a make up tuitorial!! Yay I also found the best cover up in the world!! It is dior and is in a spray bottle..it's literally feels weightless and makes my skin perfect. Oh so much better than the Mac foundation I have used for years. This is such a great store!!!
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Review from Rhody T.
Toronto, ON
12/27/2009
Why are all of the bottles shaped like penises?
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Review from Natalie M.
Vancouver, BC
6/12/2011
I had to make two trips, both of which were a waste of time. The first time I went, I went to find a foundation that would match my skin tone since everyone raves about Sephora. The salespeople were nice, and helped me find what she thought was the proper shade for me. Nope. Not even close. Went outside and it was totally off. I went back to exchange it for a different color, and the woman that helped me told me I was wrong and that the shade was right!! She then continued to put on shades that were way off, yet telling me they were right. Totally disappointed. Wont be trusting their staff ever again...
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Review from Marlena M.
Vancouver, BC
12/29/2009
Love the samples, love the brands, love the perfectly clean and well stocked applicators and removers on every endcap. Well thought through and well designed for the amount of volume in this very busy store. The only thing to be critiqued at all is that the make-up artists are not actually make-up artists. Some seem to be busier than others and may have a bit more skill, but on the whole they are more retail trained that artist trained. Well worth a visit !
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Review from Chris H.
Vancouver, BC
1/29/2010
This is the worse Sephora I've been to. The staff is helpful to an extent and the products are always so gross and dirty. I tried using the lotion and could not get anything out because it's stuffed with dried up lotion, but for some reason the lotions in NY and in California's Sephora comes out better (if it's because they just opened a new one, then PC's Sephora should do the same). The only thing they service is putting on make up and not keeping their products sterile and a lot of their products are misplaced! Sephora is different because the buyer can test out the products themselves, but disappointingly their products are not well taken care of compared to other Sephoras. The two stars are for the products, but this store is just horrible. I would rather buy products during a trip across the border.
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Review from Katherine C.
North Vancouver, BC
8/31/2010
Ayayayi. Let me make this perfectly clear - I know everything about make-up. I have a vanity stocked with so many cosmetics that I am almost embarassed to invite friends over for fear of them commenting on my extreme self-indulgence.
In particular, I am a fan of high-end cosmetics, pretty much any brand I covet is sold in Sephora.
I grew up reading about Sephora many moons ago in YM magazine (do you guys remember that?) and ever since I have been itching to visit.
Luckily for myself, I lived in Toronto last year and Sephora was everything I could dream about and more. Free samples (If you ask of course), helpful staff, and expertly merchandized items made this my favourite stopover on my way home from work. When I moved back to Vancouver and heard they were opening one up in Pacific Centre I was beyond excited.
Unfortunately my experience in this Sephora has been nothing but disappointing. I am rarely offered help in the store, 9 times out of 10 I have to go hunting for an SA and am almost welcome with a healthy dollop of snotty attitude.
I went in there about a month ago and actually got yelled at when I said "Excuse me..". I was responded to with a very stressy 'JUST A MINUTE, WE'RE REALLY BUSY!!!". Well, excuuusssseee me.
Outside of the negative nancy SA's, the store is poorly stocked and the testers look like they are growing fur. Many a time I will have to ask for a tester because they are A) empty or B) missing. Once again bringing me to the point where I will have to have a super fun interaction with a grumpy SA.
I do love the products sold there but the store is filled with so much gloom that I stay away, I tend to go to Shopper's where I can get points (score!), The Bay where I am treated humanly (thanks, guys), or Holt's where I can at least get that nice pink bag which screams "I'm wealthy!" (although I'm not).
Sephora has a points system where you collect a point per dollar spent to get a sample. A sample which I can get for free if I just ask the SA anyways so this is totally not worth my while. However, Sephora's shining moment for me comes in due to their return policy. ANYTHING can be returned there, even if used! I have bought so many god-awful bright pink lipsticks...and returned so many god-awful bright pink lipsticks. And for that, my wallet thanks me.
Overall, I do love Sephora on the whole, just not the attitude and dirty testers that come with the one in Pacific Centre. Stick to shopping online if you can, it's worth your while!Listed in: Born to Shop
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Review from VanCity Lady C.
Vancouver, BC
11/25/2010
I go here a few times a week on my break at lunch and every single time i go, the staff is amazing! They are so helpful and even without you asking, they always offer their services. This place has the best return policy too! When I returned a product that I decided I didnt really want anymore even though I had used it, the lady at the cashier gladly refunded me my money and as I was trying to explain why I didn't want it anymore, she pretty much said "it doesn't matter why you're returning it, as long as the customer is happy." So yea, 5 stars to this Sephora! Great experiences every time I go!
