Sunday, July 21, 2013

Birchbox July '13 Box Review


Ahhhh, birchbox, always on of my favorite subs and the gateway drug into the world of obsessive box hunting. Some months, you bring me such joys and others such sorrows and yet others, a mix. Why must you do this, beloved birchbox? Why can't you be like the June box and always make me happy? Why must I suffer in my love for you? Oh birchbox, you can be such a cold hearted bitch..

Ok, so there are some items on the ugh side of the spectrum this month but just the aesthetic of the packaging gets me so my bb love continues intact. Seriously, they've got a fucking voodoo curse on me because despite the couple of items I don't like,  I can't help but to look forward to next month. 


Hmmm....
Hmmmmm... Part 2
Ok, I love this. 
Had to add this pic so you can see 'Swiss Dot'



The Balm ® Instain ® Long Wearing Powder Staining Blush in Swiss Dot

The packaging is fantastic. It opens up like a magazine and you can see in my second posted pic that it has a 'cover' with a very 'chic' rendering of a model. I really like this sample if only for the way it looks. Luckily, I also really like the shade of the blush! 'Swiss Dot' isn't too light pink and it is shimmery enough to look so pretty on! I'm pretty much in love with this and the touted "long wear" is legit. I'm definitely buying a full size (which is incredible because I don't think I've ever purchased a blush). 11/10


Birchbox Bobby Pins (2) in Green Pattern 

If hair accessories are included, I'm a happy camper. The pattern is cute enough and these bobby pins are a bit larger than usual plus the have a badass grip. I'm serious! The grip on these bobby pins is incredible! They're large and in charge! Lol. I didn't think I'd care for these before actually getting my hands on them but their quality changed my mind and birchbox has me again because I'll definitely be purchasing a full size set too. 10/10 


Benta Berry  G-1 Moisturizing Face Creme

Again, I love the packaging. This creme has a very french unisex "súper cool!"(not cule!) style and I can't believe I'm so weak as to being completely drawn in by the packaging. Nevertheless, I am but I also like that fact that the creme claims to be both moisturizing and mattifying. In addition, it smells good, looks cool and comes from France (this checklist could also be applied to boys *wink wink*), what else do you need? 10/10 



Pür Minerals CC Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 40 

Now this is an item that I wasn't excited for at all. Why? I'm so tired of the bazillions of BB,CC,DD, and zzzzz creme samples I've gotten as not one of them has actually worked for my skin and they typically just make me shiny, greasy faced, and later on bring about horrible breakouts. Sooo, I think it can be rationally expected that this sample won't really be at the top of my wish list. I do have to give them props for size because the sample is pretty sizable and will last for more than a couple of uses but I'm pretty reticent to even give it a try thanks to my previous experiences. I don't know.... maybe I'll risk it when I'm feeling crazy but, for now, this sample is kind of useless to me. 5/10 


Kérastase Chroma Riche Rinse

I'm pretty sure I've gotten these foil packets before so that sucks and it sucks more because they're foil packets! I know that Kérastase is pretty pricey (I think their hair masques go for ~$61.00) but I hate foil packets because they just make me feel like there isn't possibly enough actual sample to let me see if any difference is made by the actual product! I do love getting hair product samples (because I'm near obsessive about my hair and have the dozens of hair products to prove it) but I think my main disappointment really is about the foil packets! Either way, I'll be trying these because I've always wanted to shell out some cash for a Kérastase product and I might as well see if it's actually worth it bur seriously Kérastase and birchbox, don't give me foil samples! It makes me sad :''( 8/10





Overall, I'm satisfied with this month's offering because I love 3 items, like 1 (the hair product) and only actively dislike 1 (CC creme) and that is quite a good ratio of love/hate. Birchbox gets a lot of crap for sometimes sending out smaller samples than other comparably priced boxes but birchbox also sends out high-end brands that other boxes don't and their website/store/CS are honed and sophisticated enough for them to not only be considered legit but actual leaders in their industry (with this level of unabashed ass kissing, I should be writing copy for them!). For that, I'll stick with them. Especially if they send me more good stuff than bad (even though it seems to be mainly a matter of luck with box numbers!). 


Box:
Frequency:
Monthly
Price:
$10.00
Perks:
Every $1 spent, equals 1 point, plus you get 10 pts for every item in your box that you review. 100pts= $10.00 with no accumulation limit (so you could have 600 pts aka a $60.00 credit/discount)
Recommend
Yes! Although I didn't love absolutely every item this month, the ones I did like are more than enough to keep me happy. I love the point system, the CS,  and especially the brands they send out, so I'm still a loyal birchbox fan but be careful because if they're your introduction to the world of subscription boxes, you might go down a long road of box obsession ;) 

As always, don't spend cash on anything you don't love! 



Saturday, July 20, 2013

Ipsy Glam Bag July '13 Review

July has definitely been a month of ups and downs with respect to subscription boxes. There have been ties I've completely LOVED (about 80% of July's Ipsy bag) and others I absolutely will never ever use and therefore kind of totally hate. However, as I'm never one to whine (lol), let's get on with the good stuff and review some makeup/beauty items.


Cute bag! The outside items were packaged next to the bag, not in it. 

This month's items= whooo!

BH Cosmetics California Collection sample mini-palette



Pop Beauty Pouty Pop Crayon in Coral Crush

Yes! Yes! Yes! I love lip products and I love full sized lip products even more! I was a bit miffed with ipsy when I saw that I didn't get the benefit benetint sample (I don't think many peeps did) but this is a worthy replacement. It's a good texture and the pinky coral is perfect for the summer. This is definitely one of my favorites, not only in this sub but across all my subs this month. 11/10 


COOLA Mineral Face SPF 20 Unscented Mineral Moisturizer

Ugh. While the pouty pop crayon is damn near perfectly suited to me, the COOLA sunscreen is yet ANOTHER sunscreen sample to add to my useless sample box. I know it's July, I know!! It's been really hot here in SoCal so I know! But I really don't like sunscreen samples, they seem like such a waste when I subscribe to these companies for beauty stuff and especially makeup, not freaking sunscreen! 5/10 


BH Cosmetics California Collection sample mini-palette in Hollywood, San Francisco, and Malibu

Again, I love this! As I mentioned in my sample society review, I've been looking for new eyeshadows and now I have even more! The cutest thing is that it's a mini palette with color and detail. Other similar samples might come in something like basic clear plastic but I love that they 'California Collection' aesthetic is clearly defined. Plus, the 3 colors (Hollywood, San Francisco, and Malibu) are fantastic looking shades. I especially love San Fran and Malibu and now I'm definitely looking into what else this brand offers. 11/10 

Sexy Hair Soy Renewal Beach Spray Conditioning & Texturizing Spray

I already know about this brand and I think I've seen this soy line around but hadn't had the time to actually buy anything to try out. Fortunately, ipsy helped me out in this aspect. I tried the spray out almost immediately after I got it and I love it. I have many a texturizing spray but this one has a conditioning factor and it shows. My hair got that wavy texture but was a lot softer than the almost crunchy texture I'm used to with the other sprays. This is another line that I'll definitely be buying more of thanks to ipsy. 10/10

Nailtini Straight Up Color Nail Lacquer in 'Mai Tai'

I was completely sure I'd hate this! I didn't want yet another nail polish and especially not one from a brand I don't know a goddamn thing about. Howeverrr, when I actually saw it, I completely changed my mind. See, the color is orangey and not neon aaand it reminds me of a nail color I wore for nearly a month straight while at the Uni of Edinburgh. So, the memories got the best of me and even gave me a bit of nostalgia for college (tears!). Completely unexpected but I love this. 10/10 


Extra Item:


Selena Gomez Nicole Nail Polish in 'Pretty In Plum'

I referred a couple of friends to ipsy and thanks to their referral program, I apparently earned an extra item. The items available were listed as a baublebar bracelet (which I would love), an urban decay moondust eyeshadow (I would love it even more) and a Selena Gomez branded Nicole by OPI nail polish (the only thing I REALLY REALLY didn't want) and what did I get? Thanks to my horrible luck, I just HAD to get the item I dreaded, the nail polish. I seriously would rather not have this polish but now I'm stuck with it. It's a shimmery plum color and not too bad but not original at all since I have about six (better) dupes. I know this was an extra 'gift' and I am grateful but I fucking hate it! Ugh/10




Overall, I loved this month's glam bag and was very surprised considering I used to be quite skeptical of ipsy because it seemed to have lower/mass market brands. Nevertheless, I decided to try it and I'm glad I did because it's quickly becoming one of my faves. My only issues were that I got yet another sunscreen sample and that tacky nail polish as an extra. Other than that, I loved everything and the bag itself was probably my favorite out of the ~4 bags I've gotten since subscribing. I love the pencil case-like cylindrical shape and the sheer hot pink plastic. It just looks much more modern than previous bags and I hope that the peeps at ipsy keep going in this direction with the bag designs and the brand variety. 


Box:
Frequency:
Monthly
Price
$10.00 (plus tax in CA, I pay $10.80)
Perks
Extra items for referrals, brand discounts for every brand offered each month, full size items included (not guaranteed every month). 
Recommend?
Yes! I love it right now. Seriously, right now, I have nothing more to say than yes because I really, really like this month's bag (with the exception of the fucking sunscreen!!!). Give it a try if you're interested, it's only $10 and you can cancel if you hate it; although you probably won't ;)

As I always say, don't spend cash on anything you don't love! 

BeautyBar Sample Society July '13 Box Review


The thing I like most about Sample Society is that they tend to go for the high-end stuff and sometimes, I mean the really expensive stuff. All of the full-sizes of the samples in July's box are in the $25-65 range which isn't too up there in relation to high-end stuff but isn't too shabby either. Plus, when they do send out a full size (relatively often), it'll typically be of something from a recognizable brand and I LOVE that because I'm still an incorrigible makeup snob (I am working on it). Now, let's get on to the good stuff!

I like it. A lot!

W/ flash. 




Red Flower Ocean Hair Wash Deluxe Sample

This cleansing shampoo is 1.7oz which is really a nice size for trying it for a week or so. According to the insert, it has peppermint "to stimulate the scalp" and silk amino acids to strengthen and smooth. I've been looking for a good cleansing hair wash so I'm actually really excited to try it. Plus, it smells really good! 10/10 
Full Size Retail Price: $28.00


Vincent Longo Eyeshadow Trio in 'Stella Untold

Now this item I'm super excited about. Why? It's a full size eyeshadow trio!!! I've been thinking about how I need new eyeshadows (I've been stuck using the same creme eyeshadows for a while) because of my current rut so this item is a freaking godsend. This trio consists of 3 coordinating creme powder shadows with each color having either a moon, stars, or sun imprint (omg so pretty). Apparently, the sun imprinted color is the base, the lash line color is the stars, and the accent/crease color is the moon. It's a great concept and the neutrals I got (peachy, light pink shimmer, and chocolate w/ gold shimmer) are perfect for day to day. I'm actually considering buying more of these because the texture is fantastic. 11/10
Full Size Retail Price: $30.00 


Dr. T's Supergoop! Advanced SPF 37 Eye Cream Sample

This sample is a freaking miniature. It's supposed to protect eyes from sun damage but I think more than 2 uses out of this sample are unlikely. Honestly, I'm not loving the proliferation of sunscreen products in the subs this month (I tend to stay out of the sun because I get hives/rashes and I already have sunscreen) and the ubiquitous supergoop (exclamation point is all theirs) is not something I'd be likely to shell out $45.00 for (even though I actually got a full size city serum in the summer FabFitFun VIP box). While I do have a weakness for eye creams because I'm deathly afraid of crow's feet, this sample leaves a lot to be desired (like a lot of sample because the tiny packaging has barely any actual sample cream inside).  6/10
Full Size Retail Price: $45.00


Lollia Wander Petite Treat Shea Butter Handcreme Sample 

First of all, the packaging is beautiful. It comes in a flower print little box and the hand creme itself is in the same print so major points for packaging. The sample itself is relatively small but it is good enough to find out if it works with my sensitive skin (yes, even my hands are sensitive!) As you might've noted, this creme comes infused with shea butter (another plus) and the floral scent is actually really nice. I don't typically get excited by hand cream samples but I actually do like this one. 9/10 
Full Size Retail Price: $25.00


Tres Pure Face Tonic

Face tonic…. wtf is face tonic? Apparently, it's a spray that helps smooth wrinkles, hydrate skin, and firms it as well. All good, especially since it apparently only has 3 ingredients (neroli being one of them). This sample, honestly, seems destined for an older consumer. I know my mom would (and will because I'm gifting it to her) love this because it seems like just the thing for maybe older, drier skin with less elasticity. So, for me, it's a bit of a bust but it's cool to get something I can give to my mom. Also, if you're into it, try it! It's supposed to make the skin look better overall but beware of the smell because it kind of reminds me of my grandma. 7/10 
Full Size Retail Price: $65.00



Overall, an even mix of samples and there are some really good brands included. Everything included this month is a new discovery for me and the Vincent Longo eyeshadow trio is, by far, my favorite because it is just what I needed (I don't mind you comin' here and wasting all my time, time…) Lol, I bet very few teenagers will get that musical reference ;) This box does seem oriented toward an older and more sophisticated consumer and while I'm not there yet, I love to get stuff that I can divide between my mother and myself. So, yes, July's box was a good one.

Box:
Frequency:
Monthly 
Price
$15.00 (plus tax in CA, I pay $16.20)
Perks:
Full size items, sometimes included, a free subscription to Allure magazine is also included as long as you subscribe. 
Recommend
Yes! As I said, it does seem oriented towards an older consumer (not like ancient but maybe mid-thirties plus?) but almost every month includes some really great samples and full sizes are included pretty often. Honestly, this is a good one and I'm staying with it for a while. So, if you're interested, try a month but be sure to cancel if you don't love it.


As always, don't spend your cash on something you don't love! 


Thursday, July 11, 2013

Popsugar Must Have July '13 Box Review

Well bonjour!

Last night I posted about the awesome popsugar August box announcement and told you guys that my July box was estimated to arrive on the 12th. Well, it arrived today!!!!!! A great surprise to find on my doorstep to be sure. Now, we can get down to business! 

Popsugar's July box is all about the summertime and again I have to accept that that will be the theme for most, if not all, sub boxes this month. As I've repeatedly mentioned, I really really don't love the summer theme and seriously wish we could skip ahead to fall and that feeling of starting anew (back to school forever!). Nevertheless, I must patiently accept that I will be stuck with this theme for the foreseeable future (I'm guessing August might be afflicted with the all encompassing "end of summer" theme) and I must be forced to make the best of it. 

Ok, time to turn off the emo and get to the good stuff: 

Excitement! 

A closer look at the July Popsugar Must Have Box

Another look without flash (you can see the rose gold tone of the necklace much better) 



Mighty Leaf Ginger Peach Iced tea plus Tovolo King Size Ice Cubes (red) 
Ice Cubes: $8.24
Tea: $6.25 per pouch (4 included so worth about ~$25.00)

Hmmmmm... I have to admit I'm not the biggest iced tea fan and so this item is half bust. Why? I've just never taken to the flavor. However, the ice cube tray is great and apparently retails for $8.24 (according to amazon). I love these sort of things and I even go to ikea just to find different shapes ! I'm quite "American" in the fact that I love most of my drinks with a LOT of ice. It drove me nuts in the UK because I just love icy drinks, ok??? Anyway, these are basic cubes but freaking enormous in size. Apparently they melt slower and keep drinks cold longer. They're in my freezer as I write because I love me a coke zero with some huge ice. As for the ginger peach tea….well…. I gifted it to my mother and maybe I'll have a taste when she makes a pitcher. 
Tea: 7/10
Ice cubes: 8/10



NCLA Nail Polish in 'As if!'
Retail $16.00

This nail color is part of the NCLA pastels collection. It is a lavender pastel purple creme and has the best name everrrr. Why? To most peeps under maybe 25, "Clueless" may not be an essential movie but it truly is a girly classic and one that I've watched many a time (dvd, cable, with friends, etc) The name and the color just go together well because the namesake film is saturated with bright colors and crazy ass outfits (the white Calvin Klein dress and any Alaïa have become the friggin' holy grail of Clueless fans) that just have to be seen. So, if you haven't seen the movie, hop to! I think I'll try a doing my nails with this color whilst watching the movie to make a night out of it or maybe I'll just do my nails because this color is perfect for the season. 
11/10



Hannahmax Dark Chocolate Chocolate Chip All Natural Crunchy Cookie Chips
Retail: $5.99 ea. 

These are the only item that disappeared almost as soon as the box was opened and contents inspected. I saw the word 'chocolate' on the packaging and that was enough to set off a snack frenzy (my brother participated too). They were actually pretty good for chip style cookies. At first, the pieces kind of look like the stuff you scrape off the bottom of the pan when you accidentally burn a batch of brownies but the taste was chocolatey enough to counteract the look. It would've been awesome if they'd included two packages because the one bag was gone so quick I didn't have time to really savor it. Since I was really hoping for a sweet of some kind (especially chocolate), the cookie chips were were a definite score. 
11/10




Baublebar Rose Double Curb Chain
Retail: $28.00 (sold out, wait list on baublebar)

Now we've come to what might be the most controversial item of the box. Some of the ladies of makeup talk were NOT happy with popsugar's inclusion of this necklace. Some posters deemed it hip hop-y and said it could make them look like rappers and such. There were even parodies of how the necklace came to be included in the box! Now, they can have their fun (and I love them forever even if they do hate this necklace) but I personally really think this statement necklace is on point. It's a double chain in rose gold and it isn't too long or too short. It will look perfect with more understated clothes and I actually plan on pairing it with a black/white button down shirt. It'll also, per popsugar's insert, look perfect with a nice simple tee (another look I have planned) or a dress. My style is not 'hip-hop' (such an old word lol) AT ALL but love this necklace. Also, knowing that a more delicate style is coming in August's box makes me giddy-happy with the new additions to my ever expanding necklace collection. 
11/10 

A bit of a better look at the controversial July necklace



Supergoop! SPF 30 Anti-Aging City Sunscreen Serum
Retail: $42.00 (1.7 oz) 

That's right, $42.00 sunscreen! However, the benefits, as claimed by supergoop! themselves, are numerous. This isn't just any sunscreen, it's an 'anti-aging UV damage repair complex". While I typically don't buy this sort of stuff (yes, I'm an irresponsible idiot sometimes), I am quite intrigued. Especially since the popsugar insert states that it can "…reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles." I'm in my 20's and I've recently noticed the beginnings of fine lines on my nasolabial folds (aka smile lines) and I'm freaking out. I've recently started using a variety of samples that target fine lines in hopes of finding something I really like so I can get a full size version. Now, I have a full size version that not only targets fine lines but acts as a sunscreen to prevent further damage. I wasn't very excited by the prospect when I first saw it but now, considering I actually need it, I'm very happy to have it. This is one of those items that possibly won't be loved by most ~20yr olds but even they should start preventative care! Otherwise, five years later, they'll find fine lines on their faces and have a good old "wtfff!!!!!!!" freakout. If this 'sunscreen serum' can prevent that, then it's definitely worth $42.00!
10/10




Overall, this box is a solid B+/A-. It isn't the very best box popsugar have sent but it is a solid effort and comes with a couple of very useful things. Plus, just the price of the sunscreen serum is more than the total of the box itself ($35.00) and even by casually adding the MSRP's together, you can see that the box is well worth the price. While I didn't love the tea or the ice cubes, I did really like/love the nail polish, the necklace, the cookie chips, and the sunscreen serum. I love the inclusion of girly things every month because that is exactly what I want from this box! 

Next month is the 1st anniversary box (with the $65.00 gorjana & griffin necklace as a special gift) and I am beyond excited! If only because I hope the box will be anniversary and not summer themed :D 


Box
Frequency:
Monthly
Price:
$35.00 (plus tax in CA, I pay $37.80 but you can get $5 off your first box with REFER5)
Perks:
Ability to earn free boxes.
Codes
Enter REFER5 for $5 off your first box.

Recommend

Definitely! As I said in my previous August announcement post, this sub is currently #1 for me. I usually love at least 80% of the things I get every month and use/have used almost every single one. If you're very interested, the time to sign up is definitely now because you'll get $5 off with the aforementioned code so you'll get the august anniversary box with the gorjana necklace for about $30.  As I said, this box is currently my jam but if you do try it and don't love it, don't hesitate to cancel because there's no sense in buying anything you don't love! 

Popsugar August 2013 Box Announcement

Yay!!! I actually have some really cool news about the August popsugar must have even though my July box is still in transit (estimated delivery date is the 12th so a review will appear relatively soon!).

It seems that Popsugar are celebrating their 1st anniversary with the August box and we are getting an extra little gift!! I can't believe that I've been with them for a whole year but as they're probably my #1 favorite sub (like the one I can't live without), I'm quite happy to know they're still going strong.

Now what is this mysterious gift?

A necklace!!
I know it doesn't seem like a huge deal but Gorjana & Griffin jewelry have become staples in my accessory wardrobe thanks to Popsugar. I love the idea and look of this necklace and a previous necklace sent out by ps (also gold!) might be the necklace I wear most often. What's crazy is that I usually go for edgier stuff but necklaces like the one above are great to build on. Also, I used to hate gold toned jewelry but in the last couple of seasons, I've seriously come around. It's pretty cool that popsugar is giving us a preview of one of the items and I'm super glad because I actually like it. I've been trying to stay spoiler free (I still don't know what's in the July box) but this spoiler is thankfully a good one. I'm looking forward to the august edition of this sub and if you haven't tried it out yet, this might be the time to do it. A cute necklace plus sure to be cute stuff (anniversaries tend to mean even better items) might be just the draw to finally get those on the fence on board. I've been there since the beginning and I'm pretty happy because most months have been awesome (except January's box, the less said the better ugh) and the next one promises to be so, if only for the necklace.


Box:
Frequency:
Monthly
Price:
$35 (plus tax in CA, I pay $37.80)
Perks:
Ability to earn free boxes! 
Recommend
Hell YES! I love this sub and the CS is very good about issues (a broken item, etc) and even comments (they actually asked me to elaborate my comments when I said one of the boxes was below par in comparison to their other better ones) and I legit think this box has currently taken the #1 spot in my heart (and unseated Julep). I hope they continue to send out great stuff because every month is like a bit of my birthday or christmas with all these subs. Especially if you avoid spoilers!! 

Overall, I think that (if you're really interested), August might be a great month to give it a try. If you get a month to month subscription, you should be able cancel before having to pay for another box if you don't love it (which you should because you should LOVE anything you buy for fun). 

After a whole year, I'm still in love ;) which is crazy considering my fickle nature! 

As always, don't spend your hard earned cash on anything you don't love!!!



Glossybox June '13 Box Review

Yep, you read right, this is the JUNE Glossybox box review. Why? Well, there was a huge disruption in sending the boxes after gb's association with Bondi Nails and Dallas Shaw (they were supposed to include a special edition 'Dallas Shaw' collection bottle in every box) went inexplicably tits up. I've read a couple of rumors but rumors and allegations aren't really the type of thing I want to discuss on here so we'll go ahead and skip to the actual box involved. Although I do have to say that it does suck to get a June box on the 10th of July!! Ok, ok back to the actual reviewing.

First impression? Cute box! 

Oooh the excitement builds
Hmmmm 

Hmmmmmm part 2 

Ok, so the contents don't look too shabby to start with and that makes me very happy. I spy a Tarte lip product and that makes the $21 price tag completely worth it.


C. Booth Honey Almond Nourishing Dry Oil Mist

Clearly, oils are a big trend and have been for the last year or so. I've gotten many a hair oil sample but very few body oils. I counted myself lucky because I really don't like them! I can't handle my skin feeling oily to the point that it drives me completely distracted! Therefore, this product is pretty much a no-go for me. The positive factors include the smell which is completely yummers and the size which is quite generous (travel size more than deluxe sample) and good enough for more than a couple of applications. Unfortunately, I don't think I'll even be trying this one out but for the body oil connoisseurs, this one might be a winner if only for the scent. 7/10


Spa Ritual Nail Lacquer in 'Kiss the Cook'

According to the quite new-agey Spa Ritual website, 'Kiss the Cook' is an 'earthy low note' type of color (the colors collections are divided by 'harmonies').  The 'earthy low notes' are deep maroons and brows. 'Kiss the Cook' is a full size creme finish deep reddish maroon. It isn't my typical style but it can definitely work for fall. Spa Ritual colors are apparently sold mainly at actual spas so that's kind of interesting. It's vegan and free of DBP, Formaldehyde, Resin and Toluene. I love the fact that the bottle has the little bunny label printed on it which means it is definitely not tested on animals (super important when you're an animal lover like me). Overall, it's an interesting replacement for the Bondi bottles (though those looked much more aesthetically pleasing) but the color isn't very summery. 8/10


Philip B. Light Weight Deep Conditioning Creme Rinse

Now this is a product I'm really interested in. I'm a complete hair product fiend (as anyone who has read any of my previous posts will quickly realize) and deep conditioning is my jam lolll The 2 fl oz size (the one included in the box) retails for $10.00. According to the bottle, this formula is paraben free (good) and includes african Shea butter (also good). I'm adding this one to my deep conditioning rotation immediately. Even the packaging is cute. 10/10


Oscar de la Renta Essential Luxuries Perfume Sample Set

This completely adorably navy blue satiny bag (with charms on the string handles) includes 6 samples of OdlR's scents. The scents included are: Granada ( touted as "romantic citrus floral accord with a radiant, feminine air inspired by the memory of the majestic Alhambra patios"), Mi Corazon ("...white floral bouquet... embodied in a lush, creamy accord of tuberose and ylang-ylang that mingle with peach for a warm tropical twist..."), Santo Domingo ("...smooth, smoky tabac fragrance ... Fresh, citrusy notes of mandarin and coriander embrace the rich warmth of tobacco, patchouli and spices..."), Coralina ("floral bouquet... blend of mimosa, violet and orris, softened with luxurious woody green notes..."), Sargasso ("crisp, green, invigorating accord is the essence of “sea spray”... Fresh citrus notes, watery cucumber..."), and Oriental Lace ("dark oriental... blend of the unique hoya carnosa flower with hints of honey and bitter almond surrounded by dark cacao and patchouli..."). So six scents that will take a while to all try out. A couple already stand out as potentials (Coralina and Granada) and I'm actually excited to try them out. The full sizes all retail at $150.00 per bottle so a scent decision is not to be lightly taken. I usually hate scent samples but I very much like this bagged selection. 11/10


Tarte Complexion Brightening Lipstick

This is very much the item I was most looking forward to! We were emailed a 'hint' that these would be included and that is why I semi-patiently waited for this box for a long while. QVC retails them at $29.00 but there are a LOT of ebay sales of the color (ugh I hate that kind of stuff, to be honest) and describes them as "...creamy lipsticks have a glossy, tinted core..." and "...complexion-enhancing pigments and emollient waxes..." that make lips look plump and youthful. The color is quite natural and the application is soft like a balm. Honestly, I love it. Love. 11/10



Overall, a respectable box but not the best ever (I think that honor still goes to the "man repeller" special edition earlier this year). Glossybox tends to send out great and sizable products but their shipping schedule is pretty much fuck-all and many have been disenchanted by this failing. I'm still on-board because I'm weak for the surprise products and the fact that every month has included at least 2 products that I've used on the regular. So, great products but horrible scheduling. It really is a bit of a gamble.


Box: 
Frequency:
Monthly
Price:
$21.00
Perks:
Ability to earn glossydots by doing product surveys. 1000 glossydots= 1 free box. 
Recommend? 
With a lot of reservations. If you do choose to get on the Glossybox roller coaster, you should expect for shipping to be kind of fucked up (even though this delay was caused by a specific event and other boxes have actually been delivered within their respective months) but the products tend to be a good mix of high-end samples with large sizes. I'm still a glossybox fan but you must (!) weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Also, you can always try a month and cancel later. There are a few codes out there pretty frequently for at least a 15% discount or a gift on your first box. 

WINK might get you a free eyeliner so feel free to try it ;) 


As always, don't spend your hard earned cash on something you don't love!! 


Julep Maven July '13 Box Review

Hello peeps!


I just got my Julep Maven  July box and that means review time! One thing I'm not very happy about is that my 4th of July themed add on is rendered useless by the fact that I got my julep box on the 6th! On the other hand, they've now streamlined the shipping system and instead of shipping the box and add ons separately, they're now altogether in one box! What a roller coaster ride of emotions! 

This month I had to go with the 'it girl' set because I avoided the 'beach tonic' oil like the plague! I have enough oils for my hair and I can't stand oily skin at all, especially when the weather is so unbearably hot! I decided to get two nail color add ons and I just had to (HAD TO!) get the sea spray ( even though I have 3 others). Fortunately, I love the spray but the colors are a mixed bag. I think I may be experiencing a bit of nail color fatigue even though I previously thought it impossible (sniff sniff) or maybe it's because this month's summery selection and theme (California coast which I happen to live at so the novelty has worn off, so to speak) aren't really my style. I can't wait for fall! Nevertheless, if August's theme is super summery as well, I might finally be able to skip the month! Which is something I've be unable to do in the entire year I've been subscribed!



A first look at July's box
Another look with the sea salt spray unpackaged

Now for the very exciting item by item review: 

First of all, here are pics of just the colors with flash and without. I've found that the pictures of the colors look kind of terrible when I leave them plastic wrapped so I had to take it off in order to show them more accurately. 

With flash: Tracy, Nadia, Angela, Fireworks, Something Blue

W/o flash and a bit blurry: Tracy, Nadia, Angela, Fireworks, Something Blue 

Nail Colors

Angela

Angela is a "deep sea blue molten" so it's a dark blue/green and a bit shimmery. I decided to use it as a pedi color but you really can't see how the color shines on the toes (it just looks like a dark blue) so I'm definitely doing a mani in this color next time. It's not a groundbreaking color but solid enough to stay in my collection. 7/10


Tracy

Tracy is actually the only color I was really excited about in the 'it girl' set. It's a sparkly ocean blue sea salt textured color and it is definitely my favorite color this month. I actually decided to do my current manicure with this color (used essie base coat and nails inc.'s new top coat) and it looks fantastically shimmery blue and I love it. However, the texture does it make it hard to work with and I recommend doing a base coat and just one coat of 'Tracy' because it could get too thick or gloppy with two coats and then be impossible to try. It actually took pretty long to dry with one coat and I still managed to squish up the topcoat on a couple of nails because of the texture. Nevertheless, the final product is beautiful enough that you know you've got to take your time but the end result is damn near magical ;) 11/10


Nadia

This color I wasn't too excited about and it basically came as a default because I kept the 'it girl' profile. It's a "sun kissed golden frost" but it doesn't really excite me because it just seems like nothing I haven't seen before and I feel like I have about 3 dupes that look almost exactly the same. I might trade or gift it but it isn't an ugly or bad color at all, it's just not something I personally like right now. 6/10


Fireworks

A glitter topcoat. Red, blue, and silver glitter in different sizes with a clear base. I got it too late to wear on the Fourth of July (though I was able to do a pretty good and festive mani with Ellen, Gunta, Bunny, Sienna, and America the Beautiful) so I think I might have to save this one until the next relevant holiday. I did swatch it and the texture isn't lumpy which is great. Overall, a cute purchase but if I'd known that I wouldn't get it in time, I would've skipped it. 8/10


Something Blue

Soooo I might have a couple of 'something blue' dupes (or 3/4) but the name and the fact that it kind of reminds me of a Tiffany box made me just have to have it. I like the color and I feel like it can transition into fall with the right outfit even though it is quite bright. The texture isnt streaky and the color is saturated enough that one coat has pretty good coverage. So, overall, I'm quite happy with the color, texture, and even the name. 10/10


Non-Nail Items:

Julep Green Tea Blotting Papers

These were a nice surprise included as a little bonus and they're very well suited to the season. Since I hate how hot it has been for the last couple of weeks (my makeup is freakishly melty and my skin is getting oilier than ever!!!!) and I'm running out of my old blotting papers, this is akin to a tiny miracle. According to the packaging, they're made with natural linen and green tea. I'm quite comfortable putting them on my face and wiping away the disgusting sweat and oil that typify this horrible weather!!! 10/10


Sea Salt Texture Spray

I've been into sea salt texturizing sprays for years now (way back when basically only Fekkai and Bumble+ Bumble had popular versions). Nowadays, almost everyone sells this type of spray in the summer and I've collected a mix of high and low-end brands that all tend to give different results. Plus I've discovered that adding a bit of this spray to your roots when hair is still damp really does help with volume (super important because my hair is super fine and either frizzes out or lies terribly flat without the help of various styling products). As a result, I couldn't help myself and got the spray as an add on. The size is respectable ( pretty much a full size bottle at 3.9 fl oz) and the scent is awesome. I'm glad I got this  because I just know I would've been obsessed with getting it otherwise. Also, even the packaging is cute what with its very ocean-y theme ;) 11/10 


Overall, I'm satisfied with this month's lot but I'm sincerely not as in love as other months. It might be due to the aforementioned fact that the theme just doesn't really 'grab' me (unlike the 20s theme that made me go all the way to the complete upgrade) and that I just don't favor summer colors. Hopefully, next month's theme is less summer-y and if not, I just might finally post an "I Skipped!!!" post. 

Box:
Frequency:
Monthly
Price:
$19.99 (add-on prices vary and are added on to the $19.99 base price) 
Perks
Ability to earn free boxes, ability to use earned jules to pay for add-ons, etc.
Recommend? 
Yep. While I'm not the biggest lover of summer themed boxes, Julep does regularly keep me a very happy customer. Their CS is fantastic (especially if you call in because emails may take a while to get a response) and their variety of offered items gets better every month. This used to be a nail polish only sub but now with the advent of the 'modern beauty' profile, you can get other types of beauty items every month. I'd say try a month (maybe wait until the 20th of this month so you know the August theme even though I think you'd get the intro box and would have to add on the themed box but those are assumptions so check with julep first) if you're really interested. You can always (and should!) cancel if you're not in love

As always, don't spend your hard earned cash on something you're not 100% in love with! 

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

FabFitFun VIP Summer 13 Box Review

Good news everyone!! (in best professor Farnsworth voice obviously) I'm back! I was a bit ill and doctor visits were involved aaaaand it took me a while to figure out I was sick so my posts had already been a bit erratic but NO MORE!!! I'm back, baby!!!

Today I received my second FabfitFun VIP box! The first one (spring, as it is a seasonal not monthly box) was a bit of a disappointment because of address mixups and a huge deal about getting overstock jewelmint jewelry (which is just disappointing in itself) so my expectations were quite low. However, I was freaking shocked when I opened the box and saw this:

Fabfitfun Summer Box
Just about everything is full sized and I was very surprised to see so many items included. To be honest, I'm damn excited to try most of them (except for the tanner because I just don't do tans) but I'm very happy after expecting a lot less. Again, I decided to avoid spoilers and just wait to be surprised and surprised I am. So, here's the item by item review (I'm super glad that fabfitfun stepped it up because popsugar can always do with some healthy competition even though I LOVE them lol):


Brace yourselves peeps because this review might be a long one due to the amount of items included:


Ivory + Mason Sunglasses

Soooo these are some interesting sunglasses. They're actually pretty cute and look very nineties plus I love the fact that they're grey (one of my favorite colors) but they very much run small so beware. According to my peeps at makeuptalk, the sunglasses are pretty easy to exchange for another style directly through Ivory + Mason (I read the fee was about $10) but I'm planning on keeping them. They came in a little black sunglass bag and with a light blue lens cleaning towel (a great perk because I lost the towel that came with my Dior shades whilst on holiday). Overall, I'm pretty happy about these but I very well know that one style won't suit everyone's tastes so the fact that they can be exchanged is pretty damn cool. 9/10



Catalina Su Lipgloss

First of all, the lip gloss is full sized! I adore lip products so this, to me, is fabulous. I've never heard of Catalina Su (seriously, this lip gloss is my introduction) so I decided to google the brand and they (well, she as Catalina Su is a makeup artist/blogger)  seem pretty small. The lip gloss retails for $14 which isn't very expensive but not too cheap either. The color seems similar to a Nars 'Orgasm' lipgloss dupe and since I love shimmery gold pinks for the summer, this lip product is another score. 10/10



Purlisse-Pur-Delicate Gentle Soy Milk Cleanser

According to the insert, this cleanser was named as one of Vogue's favorite products (nothing to sneeze at even though it really comes down to advertising cash). Since it has delicate and gentle in its name, I'm super down to try it out. My skin suffers from almost every darn problem that it can. The cleanser (it can apparently be used as makeup remover as well) is soap free, and has the following ingredients: soy milk, whole oats, and white tea. Plus it's full size! This is yet another score. I'm telling you guys, I'm soooo glad that fabfitfun improved their stuff because this box made me very happy in an otherwise so/so day. 10/10



Evian Brumisateur Facial Spray

This is something that I've always wanted to buy but have been basically discouraged from buying since it's a 'waste of money'. However, now it's mine!!!!! It is a freaking godsend right now because my skin is suffering thanks to the horrible summer weather (yep, I hate the heat) that is roasting me like a pig on a spit. This item is also full size (hell yes!) and is gonna become a handbag essential for the next couple of months (assuming it lasts that long). 11/10



Infinity Sun Glow on the Go

No box can be perfect and this is the item that I don't care for at all. This is a full sized can of sunless tanning aerosol spray. Since I've never tanned and don't plan to start anytime soon, this one is a bit of a loss for me. I'm guessing I'll either trade it, gift it, or sell it but for the tanning girls among us, this is a much better option than roasting in direct sunlight (it can and will cause wrinkles!) so go for this instead. 7/10



It Hair Care Surf Spray

I love surf spray but I may be suffering from having waaaay too many bottles of it (I currently have: bumble+bumble, not your mother's, and julep's new offering) On the other hand, there's no reason why I can have another bottle since they all have distinct smells and, for some reason, leave my hair different depending on the spray I use. This full size spray includes natural sea salt (omg a typo on the insert says it's natural SEAL salt or at least I hope it's a typo because I love seals!), marine sea kelp, and It Hair Care's exclusive 'Algae Triage Complex'. The 'fresh marine scent' is actually pretty fresh and smells good enough that I'll be able to actually stand it through a day of wear so yeah, I have to admit I love this too. 10/10


KIND Dark Chocolate Chili Almond Bar

I have to be honest, I've already gotten these as samples in other boxes (I think popsugar and birchbox) and I didn't really love them before so I have little interest in trying this one. I'll still end up gobbling it up as a snack when I can't find anything else but I'm not salivating at the prospect of eating one. There are some good things about these bars: they're protein rich, low sodium, and gluten free. Buuut, I'm not overly excited about them anyway. Such is life. 7/10


Orly Nail Polish in Sparkling Garbage

I'm not even kidding about the name!!! This glittery holo color is really named 'sparkling garbage'!!! I can't deny I was put off by that but after really looking at the color, I'm actually really excited to try it out! It looks like a greyish blue and first sight but it's really sparkly and movement gives it a rainbow spectrum of color that looks fucking magical! So, yes, the name is off putting but the color itself is weirdly cool. Plus I found it stashed in the crinkle paper below the other items so it was a really nice surprise! I seriously had just just done my nails when I opened the box so I haven't been able to try out the formula but based on the color, I might be in love. 11/10


Yes to Cucumbers Facial Towlettes (10 ct.) Travel Size

So this is one of the few small things included in the box. I've already purchased these face towlettes before (I'm actually currently using 'yes to grapefruit' facial towlettes right now) and I do like how they work. They don't leave the face feeling overly sticky or overly dry and they're hypoallergenic so they're no likely to make you break out. However, the smell isn't for everyone. Some people don't like the smell (it smells like soapy cucumber not natural cucumbers) but since they're so good for sensitive skin and I can bear the smell, I'm pretty happy to have a travel sized extra that'll be perfect for my next trip. 10/10


Another look at the fabfitfun summer box


Overall, I'm quite happy with this box and since it was such a step up from the inaugural box, I'll definitely be staying on board for the fall (aka my favorite season!!!!!!) box. I think that the amount and variety of items is just right for a girl like me. I know that tastes differ but I'm pretty happy to have almost every item included (with the exception of the tanner that just isn't my style) now in my arsenal so I'm overall pretty satisfied with the summer box. I'd say it's a solid A- and I'm very happy to see that fabfitfun took our concerns into account for this box. Also, I logged into my account and saw that the sign up quiz has been modified to include even more questions about size, coloring, style preferences, etc. which is heartening since I hear that future boxes will be even more tailored to our individual tastes (of course that doesn't mean that we'll automatically love what's included but I'm always excited to try new things) and that is another reason that I'm staying on board.


Box:
Frequency:
Seasonal (next box is Fall '13)
Price:
$49.99 per season (so every ~3 mos.) but you can get a $10 discount with code: 874390 at fabfitfun
Perks
Tailored boxes, ability to earn free boxes.
CODES

Enter Prom Code 874390 at FabfitFun to get the fall box for 39.99 ($10 discount) (code expires 8/11/13)

If I find any other codes, I'll paste/update here. 

Recommend
Currently, yes! I really like the summer box and am very much looking forward to the fall box. This sub is very new, this is their second box so I'm giving them a couple of seasons to get in the swing of things but I'm honestly pretty happy with this summer's offering. It exceeded my expectations and I hope that fall's box will do that too. If it doesn't, then we'll see ;) I'd suggest trying it out for maybe fall and going from there. The good thing is that you can cancel your sub online instead of having to call like some other subs force you to. So, give 'em a try if you're really interested! 

As always, don't buy anything you don't love!!!!!