I adore New York. There's something about the edgy coolness and effortlessly chic atmosphere that leaves me feeling like it's my second home, wanting to go back as soon as I touch down in an inevitably rainy London. Although it's known as a hub of eateries, shops and art, one of the lesser known sides of the iconic Manhattan skyline is the vast number of beauty stores hiding on practically every corner. Us Brits may get excited at the mere thought of a Sephora store, but in NYC there's so much more than that to tickle your fancy; if you want to discover alternative brands, secret boutiques and experiences to leave your inner beauty goddess satisfied, then it's worth venturing further afield than Times Square. Here are the five beauty stores you simply *have* to check out the next time you're in New York - and the reasons why they're so special.
BIRCHBOX (433 West Broadway, NY 10012)
If you love beauty, adore beauty boxes and must know about all the latest beauty trends, then you need to swing by Birchbox?s first stand-alone beauty store in New York?s Soho. Not only is this a pretty fab store regardless, you can build your own Birchbox for only $25.00, allowing you to discover all the fab brands you may not have had a chance to previously. The brand?s London pop up in Selfridges was a storming success, but unfortunately there are no plans right now to create a replica of this NYC hotspot in the UK - so make the most of this unique location.

CAP BEAUTY (238 West 10th St,...