Friday, May 31, 2013

Beauty Box 5 May Box Review + Why I was gone for soooo long

Well, bonjour!

I'm back to do some reviewing fun times ;) I was gone all of last week and before because I ended up having to go to that wedding I'd sworn I wouldn't attend. We spent a long weekend at a vineyard and I actually had a fantastic time. Totally unexpected but there it is. Also, I went out with some of my cousins (I have like a zillion) and got shit-faced for lack of a better word. Seriously, I'd never drunk that much in my life and won't again because the aftermath wasn't pretty. Plus, getting up at 8am to go get my hair/makeup done after turning in at about 5am was an exercise in stamina. I was deemed a pimp though because I got through it haha.

Now, on to what really matters, the boxes! I just got my May Beauty Box 5 box and, as it was my first, I was actually quite pleasantly surprised. My expectations for this box were a bit lower than normal because it isn't quite the most famous box out there. Plus, I feel like the market is becoming over-saturated with boxes and a lot of companies will be gone before long. Also, there are a lot of scams out there and I hate that.

Seriously ladies (and gents or laddies), make sure to google your asses off and make sure any company is legit before giving them your CC#.

I mean it! I try to only associate with the legit-est (loll it sounds cooler than legitimate) of the legit. It makes me feel a little bit better. Now, my box was a bit late but I still got it in may so that was cool. I have high hopes for the next one and I'll continue subbed for now. I'm giving all boxes a 2-3 month period for 'testing'. After that, I'll cancel or keep going if I love it.

Without flash; this is may's beauty box 5

With flash; may's beauty box 5

On to the item by item review: 

Ferro Cosmetics Mineral Eyeshadow in 'Champagne'

So.... these loose powder eye shadows are a freaking mess to use. I love the concept but the execution means a lot (I mean A LOT) of spillover and powder all over my face. The color I got (which isn't really shown in the pics) is a light champagne. According to the insert, these can also be used to highlight cheeks. I'm not super excited about this particular sample and I've never heard of 'Ferro Cosmetics' but I'll give it a go sometime. 7/10

Jean Pierre Tanning Towelettes

These are a NO GO. I hate tanning products and have super sensitive skin. I like my regular skin tone just fine so these are completely useless to me. They'll either be trashed or given away. They apparently retail 8.99 for 10 towelettes so it seems like a pretty thrifty way to tan if you're so inclined. 0/10

Model Co. Black Eyeliner

I've discovered Model Co. through various products sent to me in subscription boxes and I have to say that they've become one of my favorite brands. This is a simple enough black pencil eyeliner. The cool thing is that it has a sharpener included on the the pencil itself and it retails for $18.00 so that basically exceeds the value of the box in itself. Awesome. 9/10

Coolway Transform Styling Spray

When opening the box, I noticed a relatively large bottle and a spraying mechanism and pretty much went wtf? Well, coolway styling spray seems to help cut blowdrying time in half and claims to reduce heat styling damage. I actually sprayed it on and air dried and it made my hair softer despite the lack of styling. Plus, it smells really good. 9/10

La Fresh Deodorant Wipes

Deodorant wipes. It doesn't really seem like something you'd want in a beauty box, does it? I was pretty confused as to why these two individually packaged wipes were included. It seems like something straightforward and could be used in an emergency but just seems, I don't know, ewww-y. It just doesn't go with the glamour one wants to expect from these boxes. These aren't my favorite item but I can see why they're a product. I just don't want them in future boxes. 7/10


Overall

This box is quite a bit less 'big' than competitors like birchbox or even ipsy. I didn't love LOVE this box but it was better than expected. Plus, I did really love the model co eyeliner included and the hair styling spray. I'm going to give it another month and then make a solid decision. I'm not completely sold on the box but I'm definitely going to give it another chance to be fair.


Box
Frequency:
Monthly
Price:
$12.00
Perks:
There are one day specials where you can earn free items if you earn referrals. However, the time frame for earning the perks seems pretty limited. 
Recommend:
Cautiously, yes. I'm not over-wowed by what was offered in the may box but it isn't bad either. I'm going to give it another month. If you want to join, I'd recommend to do it month to month. That way, if you hate it, you can cancel immediately. 


Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Julep's June Selection Window is Open!

Soooo, the selection window actually opened yesterday but I was dealing with the beginnings of a mega cold (I'm soldiering through right now) and every time I even looked at my laptop screen, I felt like I was going to puke my guts out. Now, with a little (a LOT) of medication, I'm at least stable enough to tell my favorite peeps all about June's Julep goodies.

The theme this month is Nantucket Nostalgia. So I'm guessing that translates into east coast-y preppy j/crew'y stuff and maybe primary colors? stripes? boat shoes? (I love boat shoes btw. LOVE. THEM. and I don't care what Posh Spice says). Here is the concept preview:

There once was a man in Nantucket...

The big draw of Julep's June box is the introduction of their DD Cream. Yes, you read that right. DD cream. While I'm sure ZZ (top) cream will exist pretty soon, DD cream is here, it seems. Most of the profiles, barring only 'it girl', will get the DD cream in their June box. 'It girl' will only have 3 colors.

Typically, I'm an 'it girl' but this month, I decided to try a little switcheroo. See, I'm currently up to my ears in nail polish and was seriously considering skipping after last month's 1920's/Gatsby theme that made me upgrade to the full set. I decided to at least try to be prudent this month and skip but alas I couldn't do it. While I'm not interested in 'it girl' (too many similar colors and nail colors in total), this month 'modern beauty' is right up my alley. Why? because as you may know, 'modern beauty' is the no nail polish all product profile. For this month, they're offering the DD cream plus their new DD concealer (it seems to be creamy as well). Seeing as I'm always in the mood for new makeup, this selection is way better and I'm glad that profile was recently introduced. I'm guessing it makes it harder for some girls (ahem me) to try to skip a month. Here are my current selections:




As you can see, I didn't get any add-ons even though the offered foundation brush is tempting me so much (alas at $25, it would completely break my promise to myself to spend less on Julep this month. I also noticed and find it pretty cool that the DD cream comes in 4 shades: Light, Medium, Medium Dark, and Dark. No joke, I've seen BB creams that offer Fair, Light, and Light/Medium. While it's pretty easy for me to find a shade, it pisses me off to think that there are girls out there that can't.

I'm hoping to stay strong and not grab any add-ons but omg, Julep is like a drug. Plus, getting BB cream (or DD, whatever!) and concealer for $20 is pretty awesome.

Since I feel like crap due to the lovely summer cold I just caught, I'll go ahead and post the other profile selections:





Options, options. Again, if you want to try Julep and like makeup maybe this is the month. Ugh, looking at the other options makes me want to add on so much more stuff!!! I need to finish this post asap!!!

Box:
Frequency:
Monthly, selection window 20-24th of the month. 
Price
19.99
Perks:
Ability to skip months, ability to earn jules to get free add-ons and boxes.
Current Discount Codes:
FREEBOX (1st month free) 
BEAUTYBIO (fill out your beauty bio and you get a code for 50% off any nail color)
PENNY (1st box for a penny) 










Thursday, May 16, 2013

Ipsy May '13 Glam Bag

My ipsy glam bag has arrived! I'm definitely enjoying this month's selection way more than last month's and at $10, this month's haul is pretty awesome. May's theme is 'spring fling' and I think the products/colors are meant to reflect that. Also, last month I got an ugly ass flower print makeup bag because the April bags were said to not be up to safety standards and this month I got last month's promised bag (all white with hot pink trim/zipper) and May's zig-zaggy Missoni knockoff looking bag. All in all, this month features a respectable selection of items. Since this is only my second month with ipsy, I'm still a bit on the fence about how long I'll be subscribed but my may bag is doing a bang up job keeping me subscribed for another month.

A closer look at the ipsy may items . 
On to the item by item review:


Zoya Nail Color in 'Piaf'

Good things: full size, seemingly shimmery, named after french chanteuse Edith Piaf. Bad things: seems extremely shimmery, the color veers from golden yellow to ugly yellow depending on the light. The official description is "a full coverage, fresh forsythia yellow metallic. It was apparently originally created as a custom color for a designer, Zang Toi. I'll admit that I like this color a lot more than last month's nude and it seems perfect for spring. 9/10

Macadamia Natural Oil Healing Oil Treatment

I hadn't heard of this line before but it was coincidentally recommended to me by an ulta employee today. It's a 1fl oz deluxe sample bottle of 'therapeutic hair oil for all hair types'. I'm currently drowning in hair oils (figuratively! literally would be pretty damn horrible!) and have a bunch of full sizes and sample sizes that I alternate using on my ragged ends. Therefore, I wasn't super excited to see this sample but I'll give it a try. I am a hair product fiend and if there's anything I'll be willing to try, it'll be a hair oil. 8/10

Yaby cc008 in Buff

Ok, this one is a bit weird. It comes in a tiny pan inside a plastic thingy (best way to describe it apparently) and is supposed to be a concealer? an under-eye cover up? It doesn't say!!! Ok, upon further research it seems that it IS concealer. Awesome because I actually need one right now. I bough benefit's 'fake up' concealer in 01 and the shade is great but it is way too greasy for my recently super oily skin. I need something that'll cover up the issues but not leave my face feeling like it was doused in fry oil. Hopefully, this one will help. Solid sample. 9/10

Pacifica Tahitian Gardenia Perfume Roll On

Another pacifica product! I was introduced to pacifica with the inclusion of a lip tint in may's popsugar must have and now I must deal with this perfume roll on. I've never really been a roll-on girl. The only roll on I own is one of Eau de Chloé and that's because it was gifted to me. I'm super particular about my scents so this isn't really a welcome sample. Plus, in all honesty, the gardenia scent pretty much reeks of my grandma. It doesn't make me gag which is great but I'd never personally wear it and I might have trouble gifting it due to the whole smelling exactly like my grandma situation. Unless I'm already excited abou a specific perfume, a scent sample is completely caca to me. This sample is a bust. 2/10

Juice Beauty Lip Gloss in 'Pink'

Last but not least, I got a full size (aka AWESOME) 'juice beauty' lip gloss this month. The label just says pink but it looks a bit darker inside the container. However, a quick try-on shows that this is truly a light shimmery pink that feels nothing like typically gooey lip gloss. It feels smooth and it smells citrusy, almost like orange juice. Not a weird chemical orange smell but an honest to goodness organic orange smell. So, this item smells good, feels good, and the color actually looks great on my lips. This one is going directly into my daily use makeup bag. No joke. This item is definitely my favorite this month. A full size lip product that ticks off the good smell, good texture, and good shade boxes? Perfection. 11/10


A closer look at this month's haul. 

Overall

This (my second) box is a great improvement over last month's selection. I'll be trying on/using 4 out of the 5 samples and that's not a bad average. Plus, getting a full size nail polish and a full size lip gloss for $10.80 (they charge tax in CA) feels like a fantastic deal. 



Box
Price
$10 (plus tax in certain states) 
Frequency:
Monthly
Perks
Great website with a huge community, social participation earns you extra goodies in your 'glam bag' and they post teasers of their products every month. 
Recommend
Yep! I'm new to this sub and this is only my second month but right now I really do like it. I was reticent to sign up because I was already a faithful birchbox subscriber and the bitchy wars I saw on facebook about ipsy being better or worse made me worry about signing up and ultimately being disappointed. Nevertheless, I did and it was a good choice. This month's bag is pretty good and I'm glad that I got it. I say try it for a month if you're interested. I mean, you could waste ten bucks on one drink at a bar that'll be immediately digested, give you a crappy buzz and will subsequently be peed out urgently or you could spend $10 on a makeup bag filled with little surprises. The choice is yours! ;D 

POPSUGAR Must Have May '13 Box Review

Today I got an awesome surprise in the mail, my may Popsugar Must Have!!! I have to say I definitely love this month. It is a kazillion times better than April and I'm actually excited about reviewing it and using everything!

The nerves!! 
So, yep this month is definitely a winner. The May must have box is definitely summery and, weirdly enough, really well suited to my taste/needs. Even the chips (more on those later) were passable and I usually hate sweet potato anything. Now, on to the item by item review:




You can barely see the tote and hat at the top but they're there in all of their awesomness

Best box in a while. I'm in LOVE.


Kooringa Giselle Mid Brim Hat in Dark Grey

This hat is perfect. I have a huge head (literally, most women's hats don't fit and I get migraines from the ones I manage to stick on) and this hat FITS!!!!!! I'm being forced to attend a wedding on a vineyard on memorial day weekend and this hat is perfect, especially since I was googling around for a good sun hat because the sunburns I get are epic bright red, peeling, and itching fun. I didn't expect to like it as much as I do but it's not only because it's a hat with apparent UV ray protection but because it actually looks trendy and current. Not like something you'd get for free at a monster truck rally or radio station giveaway ;)  11/10 


The Modern Margarita Cocktail Mixers

Disclaimer: I'm not huge on drinking. To date, I've only been drunk a couple of times in my life! However, I do occasionally like a fruity cocktail because I'm the flirtini loving type (flirtinis for everyone!!!!) This set has 5 different flavors including mango, authentic margarita, blood orange (aka YUMMMMM), strawberry, and watermelon. I'm keeping this one for next week's vineyard weekend. A nice tasty cocktail is always welcome in a stressful family reunion that I'm looking forward to about as much as I'd look forward to a root canal. 10/10 


Questions I Ask When I Want to Talk about Myself

Mindy Kaling's book is awesome. Seriously. I remember taking no more than a couple of hours to get through the whole book because it was funny and somehow breezy in a way few books are and many try to be. Actually, I like her book better than her show which I feel is to tied up in rom-com tropes and isn't as funny as her book for some reason. We didn't get the actual book in the box but a large set of cards with anecdotes and related conversation starting questions on each card. Most of it seems lifted directly from the book but they're still fun to go through and I'm looking forward to messing around with a couple of the questions and freaking people out. It's not something I would probably buy by myself (I considered it a while ago but ended up deciding against it because it just seemed like something I didn't really need) but now that I have it, I'm willing to enjoy the shit out of it. 8/10 

The Original Beautyblender and BlenderCleanser

We got a legit beautyblender and cleanser! They sell these at sephora and they're pretty pricey when you think about the fact that you're playing about $30 for a sponge and some soap. Howeverrr, I'd been on the fence about this certain object and actually put it on my shopping list but hadn't gone for the whole hog. A perfect addition to my beauty items especially since I was in the market for something new to apply my foundation with. I know it sounds kiss-assy but popsugar's items this month were weirdly prescient for my current specific needs. It's totally freaking weird but wonderful. 11/10 

Pacifica Natural Color Quench Lip Tint in Guava Berry

Ok, so this just seems like a lip balm. Of which I have many (like seriously many, too many many) but of which I always welcome more. When I actually tested it, I was struck by the tint which was sheer but nicely pink and the smell which is complete drool-worthy (guava magic). I've actually never bought or tried anything from Pacifica and this was a great introduction since I'd eyed their products skeptically due to some weird idea that the brand is cheap or something along those lines. Apparently, these lip tints are 100% vegan which is pretty great. I'm not super over the moon for this item like I am for a couple of others but it's definitely a solid addition and one that I'll probably end up using a lot. 9/10 

Charm & Chain $30 Discount

This gift card/discount is interesting. $30 is a pretty respectable amount but the jewelry website charm and chain is not quite inexpensive, to say the least. Honestly, the $30 will barely make a dent in the price of a nice piece. However, if I end up crumbling before the power of cute earrings, I will definitely make use of this discount.  Weirdly enough, every gosh darn time I read charm & chain, my brain starts playing Justin Timerlake's 'Suit & Tie' and I'm not even a fan! Oh crazy brain, what will you think of next? Coming back to the important bits, I have to mention that the fact that the discount is valid until Dec. 31st, 2013 is pretty awesome too. I might just save it for my birthday in November. 8/10 

Way Better Snacks Sweet Potato Tortilla Chips

I'm not a fan of either tortilla chips or sweet potatoes but they weren't bad (not the best either because, I don't like sweet pootatoes {typo intentional} or tortilla chips, as in I HATE them). I actually enjoyed trying them and my mom loved them but they're not something I'd eat on a regular basis or really, ever again. I was pretty happy that we didn't get chocolate AGAIN and these were a nice discovery and something I'll be buying to make my mom happy so, all in all, a hit. 7/10 


This tote isn't actually listed on the insert but it is a nice addition. It's mostly white and has hot pink sides and the 'popsugar' logo spelled out in pink on the white part of the tote. It also has black straps which seems like a weird addition but it actually works for this tote. I can't say no to a good tote (much better than plastic shopping bags, people!) and this one is actually cute enough to be added to my tote rotation. I love it in comparison to the April garment bag which just seemed like a useless addition even though it is currently housing the formal dress I'm to wear and be pissed off in at the wedding I've previously mentioned in this post. Ugh, that thing is taking over my life and I'm just a nobody in the scheme of said wedding. Back to the tote! I like it and I'll use it which qualifies it as a worthy item (for me, I can see others not liking it as much because, well, we all have different tastes) and a nice addition to this month's box. 9/10 

A closer look at the smaller items


Overall

I'm in love with this month's box and I'm giving it a big ol' 10.  I am or will be using everything and that is THE most important signifier of a good box. While some months may be misses (the notorious April box!) , months like this one keep me hooked. Hopefully, this box is a sign of good things to come. Keep up the good work, popsugar! I love that it seems like you guys took your customer's input into account and are sending out a much improved box this month. There's nothing better than getting a box full of little surprises every month and nothing better than actually liking said surprises. I have to say I feel lucky this month. There is nary a box that has been so suited to my current needs. While it's coincidental and won't be the same for everyone, I feel like I scored with this month (as in got a good box, not scored with may because, well, you can't really score with a month though you could score with a girl named May, I guess, but I don't think there are many guys named May.... Ok, weird tangent over!)


Box:
Price:
$35 (plus tax in CA, so ~$38)
Frequency:
Monthly
Perks:
Full size items and discounts. Ability to earn free boxes. 
Recommend
Yep! This box is definitely one of, if not THE, main favorite for me. I love all of my boxes but I find myself really looking forward to this box every month. I say, if you're unsure, try a month to get a feel for it. There are some good discounts to be found at retailmenot that might save you $5 on your first box (I'm not posting the codes today because they change super frequently and expire pretty quickly). But, yes, this box is currently on full-on recommend. I'm loving it like McDonald's (or is it McDowell's? Lol, a reference anyone younger than 25 is unlikely to get). 

Monday, May 13, 2013

Birchbox May '13 Review

Today I got my May birchbox which was a pretty great surprise considering I used to get it super late in the month and, at that point, everyone and their momma knew about every variation of the box under the sun. While my west coast (does weird hand sign) residency status does make me fashionably late, hopefully this month I can post my review and maybe help some peeps figure out if they like May's box. Either way, I do this for the money and honeys (actually neither, as a beauty box blog isn't  really a money and dude magnet)! On to the review!


May Birchbox w/ flash

May Birchbox w/o flash. 



Above are the pics of what I assumed would be a quaint box that, to my surprise, is actually not too shabby. I can't deny I expected a couple of these to be foil packets and I'm glad to have been mistaken.


Amika 'Obliphica Nourishing Mask'

This sample is actually in a packet but it seems generously sized for at least one use. I'm a deep conditioning addict and I currently alternate between Redken, L'oreal, and Garnier Fructis for my deep conditioning needs. Due to the fact that I took the leap into ombré territory, I need all of the moisture I can get because blond ends can look really ragged really quick. I'm going to give this a chance for my next deep conditioning mask and it just might make it into my rotation. Maybe. 9/10


COOLA 'Classic Face SPF 30 Cucumber Moisturizer for Face'

This is one of the samples I was sure would be a foil packet. Fortunately it wasn't and I love the travel size that I will definitely be using because the weather has suddenly veered towards infernal here in socal. This SPF is touted as a 'mineral sunblock infused with organic antiaging (sic) ingredients' so that's a plus. The cucumber scent is a bit divisive because some people legitimately HATE it. I personally love cucumber but fake cucumber smell usually makes me want to gag. Fortunately, this specific sunblock doesn't smell that bad and is quite tolerable even with my olfactory sensitivities. 8/10


Isaac Mizrahi 'FABULOUS Isaac Mizrahi Eau de Parfum'

Perfume samples are ugh territory for me due to the aforementioned smell gag reflex sensitivity I suffer from. I was quite reticent to even sniff this 'fanciful blend of mandarin and jasmine laced with vanilla' and while it didn't make me gag, it definitely isn't for me. I ended up gifting said sample to my mom and I hope it smells different on her because this one was a major fail for me. 0/10

Marvis 'Classic Mint Toothpaste'

Birchbox, are you trying to tell me I have stank breath issues? Because I totes take offense! Except I don't haha. I've actually always wanted to try this toothpaste before jumping in and buying it. The sample is nicely sized and while it isn't an item anyone particularly expects in a beauty box, I'm totally happy with it. 10/10

Sumita 'Color Contrast Eyeliner'

I wasn't really excited about this sample because I wear eyeliner as frequently as popes wear it so I thought, complete bust. Howeverrrr, I swatched it on my hand and the texture and color was seriously something else. I think I might actually have to try to line my eyes just to wear this. At $11 for a full size, this isn't an expensive buy and I think Birchbox should've maybe thrown a full size in but overall, I'm actually impressed with the way this liner glided on. I'm not huge on eyeliner so don't take my word  above all else but I'm guessing it's a pretty good one. 9/10

Birchbox Finds Pilot Pen

There was a pen included. A pen. Not something I would really expect but I have to admit, it's pretty. My girliness got the best of me and a pink and white pen with pink ink is apparently a weakness. I kinda like pink and I think I have to admit it. I know, I know, gender constructs, etc. but I'm just saying I like the pen. Hopefully, that doesn't make me less of a feminist but yeah, I like it. Although, I have to admit it's kind of a weird ass thing to include but screw it, I'm always in need of more pens. 9/10


Overall

I'm pretty satisfied with my may box. I'm not too hard to please but as long as tanning products aren't included, I'm up for almost anything. That isn't to say I enjoyed getting yet another fragrance sample (low point of the box) but I really like everything else (even the pen!) Yep, birchbox will survive another month in my personal subscription hunger games. A solid performer with a surprising variety for ten bucks. I forgot to mention, the may box is actually my one year anniversary with them. I signed up last year for the 'Gossip Girl' box (oh god I miss that show, especially back when it was good) box and never looked back.


Box:
Price:
$10.00
Frequency:
Monthly
Perks
10 points for every box item reviewed. 100pts = $10. There isn't a maximum and you can spend your credit on anything. It is magical. 
Recommend
Yep. It's been a year and I had a couple of months where I had doubts but this box is a solid performer. It actually meets and sometimes exceeds expectations on a regular basis. Plus, it's only $10 total. 


Sunday, May 12, 2013

Living Proof Hair Products

A couple of weeks ago, I decided to email living proof to ask for samples for a comparison post I'm planning to do (comparing hair products aka fun!) and I was super surprised to actually get a response! Not only a response but a question about what particular items I wanted to try. I quickly responded with my hair issues and lo and behold, a couple of days later I got a small package in the mail filled with samples tailored to my specific hair issues! To say I was pleasantly surprised is a total understatement. It was awesome customer service and not only made me WANT to buy their products but made me NEED to.

My Living Proof sample surprise!!! 
I'm a pretty happy camper and I'm definitely adding these products to my hair regimen. I think bumble & bumble might have a pretty strong competitor for my cash, to be honest!

I'm big on hair so this surprise definitely put a smile on my face.

Seriously, surprise samples = happiest girl in the world.







May Box Updates: Julep, Popsugar, Birchbox, Ipsy, Beauty Box 5, Glossybox

Here are some brief updates re: this month's boxes, most of which I haven't actually received (either because they're still traveling towards me by slowpost or because they ship out mid-month or whatever):

Julep

I got my super awesome upgrade box last week and the review is posted but a couple of days later I got 'Etta', my add-on. On one hand, the color (described as an 'art deco peridot metallic') is beautiful but on the other, the formula (at least for my bottle) is weirdly bad. I kept trying to do a manicure and the polish was gloopy and slow to dry. After about 6 retouches/re-dos I just gave up and cleaned off my nails. Typically, Julep's formulas work for me but this bottle is not the best. I'm sad because the color is so incredibly beautiful! I'm going to try again tomorrow even if it takes me the entire bottle! Actually, my repeated attempts resulted in me using up half the bottle so using up the entire thing is a distinct possibility!

Popsugar

Besides the possibility of a fancy clutch (10 people are going to get them and I will inevitably be jealous/hate those people ;D), this month heralds a return to form for one of my favorite subs. Now, I actually haven't gotten my May Popsugar Must Have but spoilers abound and they are GOOOOD. I don't like to post spoilers myself so I won't here but if you can't help it, they're quite easy to find with a google search. All I'm saying is that if you like beauty products, margaritas, and Mindy Kaling, you'll be happy with this month's box. I know I am and I haven't even gotten it yet!! Definitely one to look forward to.


Birchbox

Living on the west coast is total suckitude for us devoted birchbox subscribers. We wait and wait and are almost always the last to get our boxes. This month I've been on a no spoiler bender but I broke and checked my box page to see what I'd gotten. I have to say I'm surprised by the items but there are 6 and one is apparently full sized! You can't beat that for $10.00! I have to say I consistently enjoy birchbox and the stuff they send me so my forthcoming review should be pretty lovey dovey ;)

Ipsy

I'm a pretty new Ipsy subscriber. I subbed last month and I have to say I wasn't really wowed but for $10, I felt that it was ok. However, the are rumblings that  this month's box is one of the best of this year. Hopefully that's true because, as a new subscriber, I need to be wowed to keep hanging on. So, bring it Ipsy!!!! I know you guys can do it!!!


Glossybox

This month is glossybox's birthday aka 1 year anniversary. They've been pretty tight lipped about what they're doing to commemorate the occasion and have been pushing their special editions pretty hard but I'm excited to see what's in store. April's box wasn't the most exciting but an event like the one year anniversary should bring out some good products. If not, glossybox would be missing out on a huge chance to hold on to subscribers that might've become jaded with the ups and downs of getting great stuff one month and completely lackluster crap the next and so on. I'm crossing my fingers for a good box though!

Beauty Box 5

Beauty Box 5 is yet another new box for me. I just subbed last month and after getting my confirmation email, I haven't heard a much from them. However, after some searching, I've found that there a quite a number of people excited about may's box. Since this will be my first box ever (!!!), I'm hoping it can live up to it's street cred. One spoiler I did note (from their tumblr) was that this month's boxes will apparently contain 'jean pierre cosmetics self tan wipes'. Womp womp. I hate self tanning stuff (I got Kate Somerville tanning wipes in my Beautybar Sample Society box and quickly gave them away) and this item is sure to either be given away, stashed away, or thrown away. I'm disappointed with that particular item but still have high hopes for the rest.


I'm overall pretty excited about this month! I didn't do a section on beauty army yet because I'm in line to pick my samples on the 13th so I'll update about that particular sub when I know what I'm getting. So many subs, so little cash! What's a girl to do???

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Julep May '13 Box Review

Today, I finally got my Julep upgrade box!!! I was getting a bit antsy in the pantsy because I usually get my Julep boxes incredibly quickly and this month I had to wait close to a week. However, the wait was totally worth it because omg I love it.

This is what I call a good surprise! 


This month, the box I got was shoebox sized and filled with many a goodie (see above).

Everything spread out like a trout. 

This month's little Julep surprise was a flowery hairpin set. So very, very cute.

Now on to the item by item review (it's gonna be a doozy!):

Eye/Lip Products

Julep Sugar Smooch Lip Scrub

I usually use the Fresh brand lip scrub but the packaging is perfection. Gold and deco, it is going on my makeup table, stat. It smells like honey and I don't even know how to describe it correctly so I'll just say that it smells edible to the point that I wish I could eat it right now! The packaging, the smell, the texture, I love it. 10/10

The sugar scrub and the box on the bottom. 

Julep Paris Jazz Lip Trio

The jazz lip trio has three mini lipsticks in a little box set that kind of looks like a cigarette case. The mini lipsticks are nestled in gold casing and pretty but really small. Since I have an extensive lip collection, I'm pretty sure they won't be finished any time soon but I don't know if they're worth the $29 something price tag they're retailing for. The Paris trio has 3 colors: Charleston, Sweet Lorraine, and Lady in Red. 'Charleston' is a cranberry lip sheer and is sheer enough to look natural but not invisible. 'Lady in Red' as the name might hint is a red lipstick, a 'matte crimson lip color' to be exact. I've started doing the red lip in the past year so this color is a great addition. 'Sweet Lorraine' is a 'bubblegum pink lip sheer' and is another great addition to my lip color collection. I love lip sheers and I love a strong red lip so this set works on all fronts. I'm also happy because apparently this set is sold in the Julep  online shop. Although I do wish the lipsticks themselves were larger (especially if I end up loving a particular color), this set is perfect for me. 10/10

From left to right: Charleston, Sweet Lorraine, Lady in Red. 

Julep New York Jazz Trio

The New York set packaging is identical to that of the Paris set with the exception of the name, of course. The difference lies the in the colors included. The three colors included in the New York set are : Tea for Two, Satin Doll, and Lady in Red. As you might note, there is one repeat from the Paris set and that is the crimson matte 'Lady in Red'. 'Tea for Two' is a 'nude shimmer lip sheer' which doesn't sound to exciting but looks better than it seems it would after reading that description. 'Satin Doll' (awesome name lol) is a 'poppy lip sheer' and I love it. Again, the lip trio is a hit for me. 10/10

New York Jazz Trio (left to right): Tea for Two, Satin Doll, Lady in Red
Julep American Beauty Volumizing Mascara

Last but not least in the makeup-y things included in this month's box is the American Beauty Volumizing Mascara in Jet Black. According to the official description, it includes lash growth enhancement ingredients and a microfiber applicator. I have way too many mascaras so this isn't amongst the most important items in the box. I'm going to keep it as backup and keep it brand new because I have to get through a lot of mascara in order to just make a teeny tiny dent in my mascara collection. 7/10

Nail Colors: 

There were 9 different nail colors included in the box and my add-on Etta wasn't included (I'm guessing it was/is being shipped separately) which would make this month's Julep nail polish haul tally a mighty 10 nail polishes. So, I'll probably be posting 'Etta' separately since this box review is already long enough!


Left to right: Zora, Clara, Zelda, Alice, Myrtle, Coco, Gabrielle, Millie, Paris. 

Zora

Zora is a 'frosted pink pearl' and a great neutral. I love that it isn't too sheer and that it actually shows its color on the nail. It isn't a groundbreaking color but it is a solid one and a good addition to my neutrals collection. 9/10

Clara

Clara is an 'opaque peach cream' and, personally,  a color that I'll probably be mixing with other colors (not actually mixing, mixing as in nail art or accent nails). I do like the peach color and its a very spring/summer type of color. 9/10

Zelda

Zelda is more my type of color! A strong metallic is something that I'm very much attracted to (that and glitter!) Zelda is officially described as a 'pink champagne metallic' and I'm in love. 10/10

Alice

Alice is touted as an 'antique lilac shimmer'. It kind of skews towards grey in certain lights and I really like that. I feel like Alice is a perfect name for the color because it just seems like an Alice color, doesn't it? 10/10

Myrtle

Now this name and color are like the opposite of Alice and the lilac (the name of my new book! jk). One doesn't really think Myrtle when thinking of a crimson red nail color. It's officially described as 'flapper red creme' and it is sooooo red! Seriously, this color just seems so adult and put together. Definitely a color to wear when you want to feel adult (like grown up, not porno adult, dirty minds!!) 10/10

Coco

The namesake of this color is, of course, Gabrielle (the next color's name too!) 'Coco' Chanel. Coco Chanel was a complete innovator of style in the 20's and she "inadvertently" pioneered the getting away from corsets though her comparatively androgynous designs of the period. Therefore, I am quite happy not only with the color but with the name. 'Coco' is described as an "oxblood creme" and seems quite similar to butter London's 'La Moss'. I love it. 10/10

Gabrielle

Coco Chanel's actual name was Gabrielle and Coco a nickname given later in life under dubious circumstances (bar singing is cited as a possibility in the most recent biography dedicated to her exploits and life) and Gabrielle is a perfect name in keeping with the whole 20's theme of this month's box. 'Gabrielle' is a "smoky mulberry creme" and is quite a deep color. It doesn't scream summer but it does look sophisticated enough for me to be convinced of its use. 10/10

Millie

Millie, yet another name evocative of this period, is described as a "vintage indigo creme" and looks thoroughly modern to me (puns!). It's a full coverage color and it has a deep blue color that I haven't seen around lately. I'm very excited to try this one. 10/10

Paris

Sparkles. That's all I can say. The bottle sparkles like crazy and nothing makes me happier than glittery sparkles! 'Paris' is described as a "multidimensional holographic glitter topcoat" and is sold out on Julep's shop. This one is going on my fingers ASAP! 11/10


Overall

I'm very VERY happy with this month's Julep Maven box. I kid you guys not, getting this was like a mini christmas because there are so many good colors and lip colors and a lip scrub! This month was completely un-skippable for me and it killed my wallet so hopefully next month's box is less of a confection of perfection because Julep is on point.


Box:
Price:
19.99, prices vary for add-ons and upgrades
Frequency:
Monthly/skippable
Perks:
You earn Jules on every box you buy, more on upgrades, on your anniversary with Julep, on your birthday month, and when you refer a friend which you can use to pay for boxes, add-ons, and upgrades. 
Recommend
Hell yes!!!!! Especially this month. There are many a promo code to be found out there and are is the most recent: 
FREEBOX - 1st month free
PENNY- 1st month for a penny


Sunday, May 5, 2013

Coco Rocha May FancyBox

I've been away for a while because I've been a tad sick and a sick Leslie is a cranky Leslie. Thus, my posts would be along the lines of "aghhhhh everything sucks!!!!!!" and that's not what this teeny blog is about. Sooo, let's get down to business.

I received the May edition of the Coco Rocha Fancybox (to be known as CR Fancybox for the rest of the post because yeahhh although now it seems like the initials are for Carine Roitfeld which I wish omg do I wish she would do a box) today! The amount of items, I have to say, on first sight look quite paltry. I wasn't incredibly excited when I opened the box but now that I've had a bit of time to mull things over, I'm satisfied.

4 items and that is IT. Am I happy? hmmm. 
Ok, so on to the item by item review where I'll whine about the fact that I didn't get a billion things ;)

TKO Tivoli Rubber Watch in Pink

Apparently the MSRP for this watch is $135 so it is considered the big ticket item in the box. It's bright pink and has rhinestones around the face. It is all rubber but the molded links are kind of cool because they make the watch look quite interesting. I didn't think I'd like it and was ready to sell it on ebay or something but I tried it on and lo and behold, I actually like it! I even wore it to go out for some drinks (or really drinking) tonight. I didn't expect to like it and I'd never purchase anything like this on my own so I'm actually glad to have gotten it. 9/10

All Purpose Greeting Card

This one I'm not so happy about. While it is pretty awesome, it was also included in the first and last regular fancy box that I purchased. It really doesn't scream fashion, fun, or value so I'm disappointed to see it thrown in to make up the amount of things. It reminds me of the popsugar must have April box debacle where there were too few items because the pushed in an apparent big ticket item that most people might not like or want (like perfume!!! Really popsugar?!?!). So, yes I was pissed to see this in the box even though it's pretty f-ing funny and I already have one (operative phrase: I ALREADY HAVE ONE FROM THE SAME COMPANY)  0/10

Heels Door Holder

This particular item is definitely interesting. It's a bright read rubbery doorstop in the shape of a pointed pump. While a doorstop doesn't really seem like an essential, the style is very in keeping with the assumed Coco Rocha aesthetic expected in the box. It is quite cute and I'm currently just using it as a tchotchke on my bookshelf. 9/10

Creature Cup in Octopus

This item is awesome. On the outside it just seems like a regular coffee cup but on the inside lurks an octopus!! You can't really seem him in the above picture but the pic below this shows the awesomeness of which I speak. I love it. I'm not even going to use it as a coffee cup, this octopus creation is staying on my bookshelf or desk where I can daily bask in its complete awesomeness. Seriously, this cup saved the box for me. I'm even thinking of placing some of my rings on the tentacles.... 10/10 !!!


Octopus Magic and the Bright red pump that looks disturbingly pink in this picture
Overall

I can't say I'm overwhelmed with joy with how great this particular edition is but it isn't near the worst of what we could've gotten. I'm not happy with the greeting card but the octopus cup makes up for it. I just think that maybe these boxes should try to stick to including smaller, less pricey items in larger numbers. I know that I probably would've been happier with 6 relatively cheaper things than this box that assumes that people will like the watch (I'm keeping mine but I expect there'll be an ebay glut of them soon. I'm solidly keeping the sub for another month but this wasn't my favorite box. Here's hoping June's box is better ;)


Box:
Price
39.99 + 7.95 shipping
Frequency:
Monthly. Boxes are sent/delivered around the 30th of every month. 
Perks
You can earn credits of $5, $10, etc when using your personal link to refer friends to the fancy website. 
Recommend
Yes! The CR Fancy Box is definitely the choice for the girlier girls amongst us and it isn't based on makeup/skincare only like other boxes tend to be. It's a lifestyle box and it seems to skew younger than popsugar whose items tend to work for the 18-40 demo while this box seems very much to top out at maybe early 30's (I'm in my 20s so I love it but I don't know if anyone in their 40s would). I say if you want to try a fancy box, then try this one!