Shoppers snake through Edinburgh's St James Quarter as first Scottish Sephora store opens

More than 1,000 people queued across multiple levels of Edinburgh's St James Quarter as beauty retailer Sephora opened its first Scottish store.

Beauty lovers turned out in their droves as the ribbon was cut on the ne shop on the second level of the St James Quarter in the city centre.

Queues snaked around the shopping centre an spilled onto multiple levels.

More than 1,000 people queued for the opening of Sephora at the St James Quarter in Edinburgh this morning. | Iconic Media

There was plenty to keep shoppers entertained however, with freebies, Sephora merchandise, music provided by DJ Lu and even a performance from the Red Hot Chilli Pipers and drag artist Sally Saint Scott.

Sarah Boyd, managing director of Sephora UK, was in attendance to cut the ribbon and welcome the first few shoppers through the door.

She said: "Scotland has been one of the most requested locations from our community, so opening our first Scottish store is an incredibly exciting milestone for Sephora UK.

“Edinburgh is a city with an amazing beauty community, incredible creativity and visitors from all over the world, making it the perfect place to continue our UK expansion.

The store launch saw performances from the Red Hot Chilli Piper and drag artist Sally Saint Scott, as well a music provided by DJ Lu. | Iconic Media

“We're looking forward to welcoming both local customers and visitors into the Sephora experience for the very first time.”

Love Edinburgh? Our daily newsletter brings you the latest news, Hearts and Hibs updates, lifestyle features and what’s on across the city, straight to your inbox

Anne Ledgerwood, Estate Director for St James Quarter, said: "The opening of Sephora’s first-ever Scottish store is a landmark moment for both the brand and St James Quarter.

“It’s exciting to see Sephora mark this significant milestone with a memorable launch event, from the ribbon-cutting ceremony to the performances taking place throughout the day.

“Welcoming such an internationally recognised beauty retailer to the Quarter further strengthens the destination’s appeal and gives visitors the opportunity to experience one of the world's most sought-after beauty brands right here in Scotland."