I’m rather frugal, but not immune to the occasional “Treat Yo’Self” moment. Everyone needs a little pick-me-up sometimes — whether it’s a fancy coffee, a meal in a restaurant, or a lipstick. I’m not alone in the latter — it’s so common that the term “lipstick index” refers to people buying a lipstick or other inexpensive cosmetic, particularly in times of economic downturn.
For me, it was easy to get a little bit of cheer in the form of a new lipstick, or a nicely scented lotion, or a new hair product. Where I live, Sephora is practically everywhere — not to mention just a click away at any time. Plus, as one of the Sephora Sales Associates once told me, you can basically return anything to Sephora at any time, for any reason, so there’s really no risk in trying something. Then there are the free samples! Who doesn’t love freebies? I was going to look — if not actually be — well-rested, put together, and glamorous. And to paraphrase Holly Golightly, nothing bad ever happens to me in a Sephora store.