I've already tried the Harrods beauty advent calendar 2025 – here's my review
It sounds ludicrously early, but every August, the big luxury department stores drop the first glimpses of their beauty advent calendars for the festive season ahead. This year, Liberty was the first to debut its Christmas countdown (in July, no less), with Harvey Nichols, Selfridges (explore my full list of 2025's best beauty advent calendars) and Harrods following shortly after.
Last year, the retailer's 25-day beauty haul came wrapped up in its signature green hue, but one year on, the brand has taken things down a notch with minimalist taupe packaging, complete with subtle gold accents. However, there are some similarities to 2024's advent calendar, with return appearances from fan-favourite brands including Augustinus Bader, 111 Skin, La Mer and more. Plus, if you like a bit of a shake-up, you'll be pleased to discover an extra seven products in 2025's line-up – all for the same £250 price point (Harrods.com).
Scroll on for all the juicy details, including my honest review of everything inside. Spoilers ahead.
How we tested
Receiving the Harrods calendar on 29 July (22 days before its market-wide dispatch on 20 August), I've had three weeks to explore the 32 products within, testing them as part of my day-to-day skincare, make-up, fragrance, haircare and body care routines. While unboxing and reviewing them, I noted the following factors:
Packaging – Some of the appeal of a luxury advent calendar is often the possibility that you could repurpose the packaging the following year, so I wanted it to look good and feel robust. I also weighed up the pros and cons of the brand's neutral colour choices versus a traditional Christmas theme.
Sizing – I considered whether or not the number of full-size and mini formulas was impressive for the retail price, and judged the sizing of each item relative to its use. For instance, is an 8ml SPF cream an asset or just clutter?
Brands – I considered the worth of the brands included and their quality. Ideally, I want a healthy mix of buzzy beauty and timeless brands. I wanted both practical, effective beauty as well as some extravagant, luxury products.
Performance – After using the products included, I recorded any that wowed me, and any that felt like fillers.
Distinctive qualities – Compared to other beauty advent calendars on the market, I took time to assess whether or not Harrods' offering stands out from the crowd or is much the same as competitors.
Lucy Smith has been writing about the best beauty advent calendars for several years, covering 2024's Sephora advent calendar and 2025's Charlotte Tilbury, Boots and Space NK calendars. Having worked in the industry for more than five years, she's seen many Christmas countdowns and knows the brands – like Mac and Rodial – that are frequently featured, plus the ones making a splash in new offerings for 2025. Given that she is constantly testing the latest and greatest brands (such as her tests of the new K18 heat protectors and Clinique nude honey lipsticks), Lucy is across all the trending products to expect in advent calendars this Christmas. Here's what she thought of Harrods' latest iteration.
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