The beauty industry, frequently viewed as both an indulgence and a necessity, demonstrated resilient momentum this past quarter, even amid whispers of a potential slowdown. Retailers such as Sephora and Macy’s noted an ongoing eagerness among consumers to explore the beauty realm, focusing particularly on skincare, makeup, and fragrances. With Valentine’s Day serving as the perfect backdrop for a shopping spree, themed gift sets and signature scents found particular favor among shoppers, leading to substantial sales spikes. Unique trends bubbled up this quarter, notably the rise of sleep-centric skincare products and gourmand fragrances, which combine sweet and savory notes. High-end products like Guerlain’s collectible Rouge G lipsticks, starting at $80, and La Mer’s luxury Night Recovery Concentrate, priced at $650, captured significant attention and set the tone for aspirational shopping.
Bergdorf Goodman reported a continued passion for fragrances, particularly brands such as Creed and Byredo, while luxurious nighttime skincare products also gained traction. Angela Welcome, a merchandise manager there, highlighted a growing consumer interest in skincare designed to work overnight. The store’s bestsellers showcase a blend of high-end luxury: La Mer’s Night Recovery Concentrate and Rejuvenating Night Cream priced at $650 and $450 respectively, beside RéVive’s innovative overnight masks and other premium staples. Additionally, the allure of Guerlain’s transformative Rouge G lipsticks, with customizable cases to fit the moment, reflects a unique blend of luxury and personalization that is capturing the customers’ imaginations.
At Macy’s, the beauty momentum was unmistakable, booming across all categories from makeup and skincare to fragrances. With Valentine’s Day festivities breathing new life into their fragrance sales, gourmets scents characterized by sweet, lingering notes took center stage. Vice president of cosmetics Nicolette Bosco relayed that lip liners were experiencing a resurgence, indicating shifting preferences among makeup enthusiasts. Key standout products included glamorous bronzers and blushes from high-end brands, alongside successful launches from rising names such as Sulwhasoo and Gucci Beauty. The uptick in night-time skincare treatments, like Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair, signals an evolving fixation on restorative evening routines among consumers.
Saks marked a similar pattern with an emphasis on fragrances, nighttime skincare, and the unique Guerlain Rouge G lipstick. Senior vice president Kate Oldham noted the ongoing strength of fragrance sales, particularly from brands like Parfums de Marly and Ex Nihilo, with customers especially intrigued by new scent launches and exclusive collaborations. The luxury retailer’s combination of unique product offerings and limited editions positioned it as a destination for those seeking signature scent experiences, while brands like La Mer maintained their clout in skincare and makeup with high-profile collections poised for the season.
Valentine’s Day also lit up sales at Neiman Marcus, where enchanting fragrances took the spotlight. Vice president Tatiana Birkelund introduced exciting new scents, capturing the enchantment of love and relationships through captivating aromatic experiences. Products like Bond No. 9’s Lafayette Street fragrance stood out, merging warmth with exotic notes to cater to those looking to make bold, romantic statements. The interplay between innovative launches and classic staples keeps consumers engaged, showcasing that fragrances continue to evoke emotional connections while reinforcing personal identity.
Sephora echoed the booming trends across both men’s and women’s fragrances, noting that men’s scents are gaining traction, outpacing women’s this year. Wrapped in warm gourmand aromas, consumers flocked to bestselling fragrances like Kayali’s Yum Bougie Marshmallow and Valentino’s Born In Roma, blending sweetness with sophistication. The makeup landscape remained vibrant as well, with standout products from brands like Huda Beauty and Makeup by Mario claiming spots in customers’ hearts and their cosmetic bags. New arrivals from K-beauty—such as Sofie Pavitt and Biodance—also saw favorable reception, enriching Sephora’s already expansive offerings as consumers continue to embrace diversified beauty rituals.
Finally, Walmart revealed that even amid economic uncertainties, beauty remains a priority. Beauty vice president Vinima Shekhar noted the growth in skincare health and fragrance, while emphasizing the rising demand for at-home nail care as customers seek affordable self-expression alternatives. This trend, reflective of a broader cultural shift towards at-home beauty care, indicates a fresh wave of DIY beauty rituals, allowing individuals to embrace creativity without hefty salon bills. Meanwhile, local Brooklyn perfumery Stéle articulated the dual consumer hunger for both comforting and bold fragrances, showcasing the contrasting tastes that shape the modern fragrance landscape. The first quarter’s activities indicate that, despite looming concerns, beauty remains vibrant, dynamic, and adaptable—a testament to its enduring place in our daily lives.