Target Beauty Box Review

About six weeks ago, I was surprised to find out that target (which is also known as the store I go to most often) is apparently starting a beauty box program. According to the insert included in the inaugural box, this is going to be a monthly thing. It seems that there were sporadic free beauty bags from tar-jay available some time ago but these are a thing of the past. As of now, the first box was $5 (including shipping) and has long since sold out. Honestly, I jumped on that train so fast. For $5, I didn't expect much and there was no actual ship date so I didn't expect to get it anytime soon. However, there it was on my doorstep. Now, I'm going to review all of it's target-y glory. It is worth mentioning, that while they have mentioned that this might/will be a monthly deal in the future, they haven't given a specific date or price for an actual subscription. For now, all I know is what was printed in the insert that came with the box.

A welcome surprise. 

This is the monthly program announcement as well as a coupon that was kind of useless since I never had time to use it before the expiration date. ETA: It seems that the coupon was extended to 7/13 due to widespread angry posts of target's facebook page lol

Finally, here are the contents of said box. All this for $5.00? Hell yeassssss. 

On to the item by item review:


La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Foil Packet Sample

According to the insert this product was previously only available through a dermatologist and is a 'breakthrough' acne treatment. Since I've been having some issues on that front, this sample is welcome. However, I don't think it's quite enough to really make a difference. However, my plan is to give it a try once or twice and then look at my skin's reaction and go from there. 9/10


Fekkai Glossing Cream

I've already used this and I love it. I ran out a while ago and completely forgot to get some more because I'm always trying out the newest stuff but I was super excited to see this in the box. Seriously, freaking elated especially since we've been getting some horrible humid weather and my hair is not reacting favorably, to say the least. This cream is going on my ends asap. Plus the size of the sample is definitely deluxe or even travel sized. No foil packets for this one. 11/10


Gillette Venus and Olay Razor Pack

So, I actually tend to use this brand quite often. Right now, I think I'm using the same brand but not the exact same razor. I saw this one at the store and mentally added it to my shopping list for the next week and weirdly enough, I got this the next day. This item is full sized so that's a plus but the "sugarberry" razor is pink as hell and that might be a deterrent for some. I got it for next to nothing so I'll be using this baby as soon as I need it. 10/10


L'Oreal Magic Skin Beautifier BB Cream in 'Fair' foil packet

Touted as a magic all-in-one bb cream, this mass market sample is pretty small and doesn't have enough actual BB creme to try more than once (or once if you're lucky) so I'm not loving it. Also, it is something I could purchase full sized for something like $10 so it isn't something I really care to sample in the first place. Nevertheless, I'll try it out. 5/10


Sally Hansen Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips

I've gotten different brand samples of nail polish strips and I do actually like them. I tend to do one hand perfectly and the other is total shite when I use normal nail polish. Why? Because my dominant hand does an awesome job of painting my nails while my other hand sucks! The strips came in 'cosmic' (black base with large opal/gold glitter) and honestly, I love them but not for summer. I'm going to save these for the fall and rock them in October (I love love LOVE halloween as y'all will see) when dark nails don't feel so out of place. Overall though, I'm happy with this item because I never would've tried these otherwise. I'm a horrible snob about mass market stuff and tend to bypass Sally Hansen but after trying these strips, I might be buying some more. 10/10




Overall, I'm pretty happy with what I got for the price I paid. I didn't expect much for $5.00 and really, I expected less. I'm very lucky to have liked almost every item included and I'm definitely onboard for a monthly sub if it happens. Especially if it's $5/month! There hasn't been a cheaper sub out there that I know of besides birchbox (at $10/month) and I know that tar-jay has the power to be even cheaper because they're absolutely freaking huge (not that that's really a good thing). I do like me some healthy competition and more options out there plus I LOVE legit options (none of that only through fb bs or a shitty website full of grammatical/spelling errors that looks like it was made with windows '95) so I'm into the idea of this box for now. Hopefully, they'll announce a date/price for the possible monthly program and if/when they do, I'll be sure to post it asap in case anyone reading this is interested in joining in.

Box:

Target Beauty Box

Frequency:

One-off/monthly program tba (?)

Price:

$5.00

Perks:

N/A

Recommend? 

For $5, I'd say give it a whirl. I could just as easily spend $5 on a coffee at Starbucks so I'm down to get samples for that price. As of now, they're all sold out so we have to wait for the next box/announcement to see what the future holds.  

Whimseybox June '13 Review

Good news everyone!!!

Guess what I got in the mail today? Well, judging from the title of this post, you already know but I'm still excited so here goes:

my June Whimseybox !!!!!!!!


So without further ado, here is the review (preview: this month's project is cray cray at first sight but I'm totes doing it):


First of all, this box was really heavy when I got it and that made me wonder what was inside. I never everrrr thought it was cement mix. But yep, cement mix is involved. As are apparently live plants and more washi tape (!!!!!!)

OOOOHH EXCITEMENT!!!

Even more excitement!!!!!!! 

Omg Omg Omg!!!!!

Wut? 

Those captions truly capture my train of thought whilst opening the box. To be honest, I went wtf a couple of times before actually looking at the instructions and what I was supposed to make which is:

Yep, a cement planter or candle holder, a tealight is included. 

This month's Whimseybox theme is 'Cement All The Things' so, yes, cement plays a big part in it. The box includes the following:

1 (big ass) Bag of cement mix (to be mixed with water so easy peasy)

3 Rolls of Washi Tape in: pink geo pattern, teal geo pattern, black/grey geo pattern (aka score!!!)

3 Plants? They seem to be live plants and I'm not huge on botany so I'm confoooosed to say the least.

1 Tea Light (for the candle holder option)

1 2-Sided pattern page for the cement molding (Pattern One- Icosahedron and Pattern Two- Octahedron) and possible geometry related nightmares ;)

1 Nice postcard/instruction insert

1 Stick-On Label for the craft box.

And it all comes packed in a craft box and tied up with a ribbon (blue this month).


So, how hard does this month's project seem?

Not very. Honestly, the only work you have to put in is mixing the cement. After that's set you basically stick something in the hole (whooo! double entendre!) and decorate the holder with washi tape. It isn't the most exciting project that I've seen but I'm actually interested in doing it because I've never worked with cement before.

Plus, this self-contained project with straightforward instructions is what I'm all about. Whimseybox does a good job of sending unexpected projects and I'm liking that. If all we got was yarn and glue, I'd be out right quick. However, I like the fact that they're exposing me to new mediums that I would never think to try by myself. Actually, I love that. I came back to whimseybox for the crafty fun and the washi tape (omg I'm in loooooove with washi tape) and now I think I might be in love! Plus the shipping was super fast aka a wonder in the time of fedex slowpost and UPS 'why make it easy to get something when we could send it to 18 regional hubs before getting to you' sub box deliveries. What else can I say? Not much besides saying that crafts are awesome and not for grandmas or whatever the stereotype used to be!

Box:

Whimseybox

Frequency:

Monthly

Price:

$15/month but $10 for 1st month here

Perks: 

Ability to earn free boxes! 

Recommend? 

As of now, yes! I'm on a crafting binge and I'm currently in love with this box. However, please remember that you should only sub if you actually love crafting or really want to try a project or two to get started. Another pro worth mentioning is that this sub is accesible for beginners and has uncomplicated projects so if you're new to the crafting craze, you can definitely start here. 

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

Ipsy June '13 Glam Bag Review

Lots of updates for my peeps today as I finally got my June Ipsy glam bag and my inaugural Target Beauty Box so I many a sample for you guys to peruse! First, I'll start with my ipsy because there is drama (!) up ahead in the review so let's do this!


I finally (FINALLY) got my Ipsy June Glam Bag today and was freaking elated because I knew it included a starlooks lip pencil (I was lucky enough to get one for free a few months ago thanks to a contest on makeuptalk) so I know what great quality these pencils have. Alas, my happiness was short lived. Why? Because my pencil was broken!!!! Broken!!! Like my heart after I discovered said breakage. Not only that but the shade was horrifying. A purplish brown nude color made for (now I'm just guessing here) the stylish zombie! I used a shard of the pencil to swatch it on my hand and it looked even worse! I quickly emailed ipsy and hope to get a swift response but the pencil will still be included in the review. Although, I think I've pretty much elaborated my travails with said pencil of sadness.

These are the other items included and all full size which is great. 

A better pic w/ no flash. You might note the NYX blush which looks way lighter than it actually is. 

NYX Blush in 'PB 22 Pecan'

So, I'm not a huge NYX fan because it seems pretty downmarket in comparison to the stuff I usually use (yes, I'm a bit of a makeup snob and yes, I know it sucks) but I was actually excited to try something from NYX because I've decided to chill and give everything a chance. Unfortunately, the color I got (pecan) is a bit too brown for me to work with. I like a pink blush because it resembles the natural blush I have. I've tried darker blushes but they just look like really horrible stains of my cheeks. Therefore, this blush is going into the 'to gift/trade/trash' bag. 5/10


Starlooks Lip Pencil in 'Bare'

It is a terrible color but the color payoff and the texture is magnificent! I wholeheartedly recommend Starlooks because their lip pencils are magnificent. They're non-drying and almost buttery when applied. I also have 'tipsy' (a very bright coral color) and I love that one. Unfortunately (or fortunately due to the shade), this bag's pencil was broken. Well, I guess I'll just have to use the discount to buy a shade I like from starlooks ;) 8/10


Chella Ivory Lace Highlighter

Now this item, I like! It is apparently meant for highlighting around eyes but can also be used to cover up any spots or dark areas. The texture is soft and glides on the skin. Chella is another brand I've actually never heard of before but this is a great introduction. This pencil is going directly into my daily use make-up bag. Love it. 10/10


Cailyn Gel Eyeliner in 'Iron'

As I've said before, I'm not huge on eyeliner. I usually leave it for special occasions and typically do a super light eye for my daily makeup. Why? Well, it isn't a dearth of eyeliners (I have so many and keep getting the goddamn things every month!) but I'm not the best at applying the eyeliner and I always tend to muss it up because I always end up rubbing my eyes. So I tend to keep away from eyeliners for the aforementioned reasons. However, I'm interested in this eyeliner because it is applied with a brush and it is a gel liner. The best part? It's not basic black! It's 'Iron' a dark metallic which will look great for day or night looks depending on blending. This one is a score too. 9/10


J.Cat Sparkling Cream Palette in 'Volta'

It's weird because it looks like an eye palette and comes with eyeshadow sponge applicators but it isn't! It's apparently not meant to be used near the eyes at all! This cream glitter set is actually meant for the body. Many people might not like it as body glitter is usually associated with younger girls and ....well.... strippers buuuut I like it. I'm sorry, I do! I have an extreme weakness for sparkly things and this glitter comes in 5 sparkly shades of glittery, sparkly awesomeness. This set, called 'Volta', has gold glitter, what seems like a blue/teal glitter, bronze/iron-y glitter, black/silver glitter, and metallic blue glitter. I love all of the shades and I'm just trying to figure out how I can wear them without looking like a complete wanker. I'm guessing I'll have to try them on at night because going to the supermarket with a face full of glitter like a Kesha (I refuse to spell it with a dollar sign) wannabe might (just might) look out of place ;) 10/10


Overall, I really do like this month's Ipsy Glam Bag. I was already in love with the products when I saw the sneak peeks online but I was very disappointed with the shades I got for the blush and the lipliner. Brown blush and purple-brown lipliner makes me think they mixed up my bag with one for a chola from 1994 (no disrespect to any cholas today, do your thang, ladies!). Not my style. Due to the shade problems and the broken pencil, I can't rate this month's bag as a total score but I really did like it. Plus the leopard bag with neon zipper accents actually looks cute and trendy even though I fucking hate leopard anything. I'll give this month a B. If everything was right (better colors and no broken pencil), I would've most definitely been an A.

Box:

Ipsy Glam Bag

Frequency:

Monthly (billed on the 1st, ships around mid-month)

Price:

$10.00 (plus tax in CA, I pay $10.80)

Perks: 

Website lets you create looks, compete in contests, and earn extras through social network participation. 

Recommend? 

Yep. I might've not gotten the luck of the draw this month with the lip pencil and blush but I really did like everything else. Plus, I haven't gotten any bag that I'd rate a total disappointment since I subscribed. I told myself I'd sub a couple of months and then make a decision and so far, it's a keeper. Especially since everything this month was full-sized. 

As always, if you're really interested, give it a try but never spend your money on something you don't love! 

Whimseybox!

Last year, I decided to subscribe to whimseybox but after a bunch of mixups and moving (all my fault), I ended up forgetting all about it. Until now, that is!!!

I was recently reminded of the awesomeness of whimseybox and I just HAD to re-subscribe.

What is whimseybox, you say??

Well, it isn't a beauty box, for starters. It's a craft box! Now, to some of you that might not be your style but to a girl who loved going to Michael's craft store at 10 years old and actually took the classes offered there in the summer, well.... yeah. I mean, I'm still obsessed with Halloween and Sept.- December is my JAM in regards to crafting. I hadn't done much crafting lately but when it was brought to my attention that my account was in limbo, I made sure to re-activate asap.

Now, for some more specific deets:

What kind of stuff does whimseybox send and how frequently?

They send a box monthly that has all of the items (and instructions) for you to create a curated craft project. Some previous examples include a make your own calendar, tools for making a seriously fashionable bracelet, tools for making the most beautiful presents for Christmas and more. Seriously, I can't believe I missed out on any of these. I'm so obsessed with this right now.

More importantly, how much does it cost?

It costs $15.00 per month  ($10 for the 1st month, read on!) or I assume you could buy like a 6 month subscription prepaid. For details on that, check whimseybox. I just checked and apparently you can get $5.00 off of your first month (so you'd pay $10.00) if you go to whimseybox now :)

Is it fun?

Hell yeah! Not only can you do they projects they send but you end up having a huge collection of crafting tools and other stuff that can help you for any project you might want to do. Plus, the projects aren't super advanced so you don't have to be an expert to do them. If you did, I'd be screwed because while I love crafts (and yes I have had a Martha Stewart magazine subscription for years), I'm a bit of a dilettante. I mess around with all areas of crafting but I'm not an expert in any area.

Why are you telling me this? Are you getting paid for it?

Because I'm actually excited about this sub and no, I'm not being paid or compensated in any way for this post. I thought my peeps might want to know about whimseybox (if you don't already) and know how super excited I am to be back in the craft game (loll) .

This is the coolest ever. I got mine right quick.

When I saw this, I straight up emailed to beg for the washi tape and got a super cool response quickly AND I got 3 rolls of washi tape plus some stickers and badges in the mail like 3 days later.

Witness the awesomeness:

They're inside a birchbox box because I love the background but the items are all whimseybox.

They look even prettier without flash! 

So, if you're a craft dork like moi this might be a great sub and if you're not, well then there are many beauty subs out there that I love reviewing so maybe skip this post. Now, in all seriousness, this is a pretty cool sub for crafters (just interested, beginner, expertos) but don't buy it if you don't love the idea of crafting. There's nothing suckier than having boxes of stuff you don't use pile up. So, as I've repeatedly said, don't buy something you don't love!! If you're very interested in this box, then try a month and then decide.


If you are a crafty girl, then get to it! I'm going to look for different projects for inspiration and maybe get lost in the black hole of pinterest (don't even think about the fact that no one in the world can make things as perfect as what is pictured)  while I'm at it!

Also, yes I will be posting a review of whimseybox's next box and so forth so you can marvel at the craftacular awesomeness monthly.

BeautyBar Sample Society June '13 Box Review

Beauty Bar's Sample Society is a sub that I relatively recently went back to. I had left in December after deciding that the samples were skewing too old but went back because I missed it for some reason. It was a good idea because the samples have been pretty great lately. This month's box shipped out a little late (on the 3rd of June, I believe) but I got it by UPS pretty quickly (I love that it gets sent by UPS because it makes it easier to track). Another great incentive is that you get $15 off of any $50 purchase when you buy anything (anything!) from that month's featured brands. I've taken advantage of that incentive pretty often and I love it because at least you feel like you're offsetting the cost of the monthly sub ;) 

A first look at June's Sample Society

On to the item by item review: 

Stila Cosmetics Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Fair 

This is one of the few stila items that I haven't had the opportunity to try. I've slowly amassed what can only be described as a huge collection of stila lip glazes that keeps getting larger every time I see those 3 glaze sets for $12 at sephora and ulta.  Tinted moisturizer isn't really my thing because I have oily skin and because I'm pretty set for BB, CC, DD and ππ cremes (joke! lol) with all of the samples I've gotten but I'll still give this one a chance. Plus, it's pretty tiny so I'm not worried about too much being left over if I don't end up liking it. 8/10 

Stila Cosmetics Lip Glaze in Apricot

Another glaze!! I have about a zillion but who can say no to one more? I love it plus the color is exactly what I was looking for in a gloss. I love that light pink almost natural color and the shimmer is never a detractor in my book. Yes, I love lip gloss and I know that stila doesn't disappoint so this one is a major score. 10/10 

Illume Desert Tulip Tin Candle

Illume candles are not quite the most economic option in candles. They tend to cost a bit more than your average candle (I buy Jo Malone candles so who am I to say what's expensive, right?) but they also tend to smell wonderful. This tiny candle was a great surprise because it really wasn't something that I expected to get in a beauty sample subscription. The Desert Tulip candle "...fuses notes of red tulip, lily, raspberry, and musk for a most-serene (most excellent, dudes!!! yep, I just had to) experience." I'm typically a musk hater but the notes of it work for the candle and it smells just good enough to place in your bedroom or in a living room to give it a relaxing vibe. A great little addition to this month's box. 10/10 

Murad Age Reform AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

I'm already a Murad brand fan. Their wrinkle/line products are freaking magic. Plus, their acne cleanser is great and doesn't dry out my super sensitive as much as other cleansers do. This cleanser is actually geared towards brightening dullness, enhancing clarity, and improving tone. All things I like to do. I have a pretty full cleanser roster right now (just using one would kill my skin so I alternate between stronger ones and lighter ones depending on the day and how my skin feels) but I just know I'll be adding this one to the rotation pretty soon. I'm already a fan so this is just another sample that'll get me to buy a murad product and as long as it gives me results, that's ok with me. 10/10 

Philosophy Hope in a Jar 

Yet another moisturizer!!! Philosophy is a good brand but I tend to have negative reactions to their products. I purchased their yummy smelling body washes and experienced hives and itching so I tend to stay far away from their stuff to just try to avoid a repeat of my past allergic reaction. Plus, I already use a super light moisturizer made for oilier skin so I really have no use for this sample. However, as always, my mom does (she has drier skin now that she's older) and this sample was gifted to her about as soon as I saw what it was. 7/10 

A closer and clearer look at June's sample society goodies 

Overall, I'm very happy with this month's box. I already enjoy Stila, Murad, and Illume products so it isn't really an introduction to any brands but it does show me what the brands I already like have to offer and honestly, how could I not be happy when I got another lip glaze??

Box:

Beautybar Sample Society

Frequency:

Monthly (boxes are typically shipped out between the 1st-3rd)

Price: 

$15.00 (plus tax in CA, I pay 16.20)

Perks: 

$15 discount on any $50 purchase that includes any item from the brands featured in that month's box. 

Recommend? 

Yes. However, I do think that this sub is geard towards a more mature subscriber so it probably wouldn't be too exciting for younger girls. There are a lot of skin care and perfume samples involved in this sub and I know that some people hate that so you really have to decide for yourself. As I've said, try it out if you're interested but never spend money on something you don't love! 

Popsugar Must Have Box June '13 Review

I've had a busy couple of days but I just had to make time to post my review for this month's popsugar must have because (thank you, universe!) it's a pretty great package. I was afraid that after a couple of good months, we might go the way of the now infamous April box. Fortunately, this wasn't the case and I can say that I'm very happy with the improvements made by popsugar not only in the items included but the timeframe that it has taken to ship out/receive my boxes. The last couple of months, I've gotten them well before the 15th of the month.

Ahhhhhh the anticipation!!! 

A first look at the awesomeness within

Another look after I properly ransacked the box! 

Now on to the item by item review:


Gorjana & Griffin Zuma Scarf

I don't think I was expecting a scarf and if I was, I didn't think I'd personally like it as much as I do! First of all, in regards to 'worth', it doesn't come from a 'discount' brand and Gorjana & Griffin have some very cute (albeit a tiny bit expensive) pieces. This particular scarf is a 'nautical' style with navy blue/white stripes accompanied by a neon pink edge. Being as it is summertime here in southern California, I immediately fell in love. I have a weakness for stripes and the neon accent gives it a bit of a more modern edge (plus the fabric is super lightweight). The best part is that it is HUGE. Seriously, I've already tied it up as a blouse and a sarong and I am no skinny minnie. I can't lie, I love the damn scarf, I really do. Plus, there was a card with a $25.00 discount on any purchase from Gorjana & Griffin included. Not too shabby ;) 11/10


Juice Beauty Stem Cell Repair Moisturizer + (2) CC Cream Sample

Another of the bigger surprises was a full size Juice Beauty stem cell repair moisturizer. I've been getting samples from this brand relatively often lately from other subs and even Ulta but I really didn't expect to get a full on jar of this stuff. Plus, the CC cream samples are great especially because they were sent in two shades (natural and warm) which don't really cover the spectrum of skin tones but at least give more girls the chance to actually try it, right? Back to the moisturizer; it apparently "...utilizes its own blend of fruit stem cells infused with vitamin C and grape seed.... and [is] proven to reduce fine lines and fight signs of aging..." Plus, the top is very innovative. After twisting off the cover there is a kind of push down button you push to have the cream come out through a small opening next to the button and it makes it really easy to not get your fingers dirty or waste too much cream like when you dip your fingers in.  There was also an insert offering free shipping + 20% off with a special code. I thought this was a great addition to the box and my mother did too which is why she basically begged me for it! I, being an awesome daughter, gave it to her with pleasure (and a little snottiness because she always wants the best stuff!!) but I love her so that's that. 10/10


Hard Candy Fitness DVD- Addicted to Sweat 4

Ahhhhh, fitness dvd's. You have a special love/hate place in my heart. I own a couple (yoga, pilates and the like) and I enjoy them but I also hate them!!!! Why? because the girls in them always seem perfect and make me feel like a walrus in comparison! Plus, I always fall off the regular exercise wagon due to some reason so basically I'm the worst. This specific workout DVD is apparently associated in some way with Madonna and her workouts which isn't the best selling point for me (not a huge Madonna fan, in fact, the opposite) but the fact that it only requires a chair makes me intrigued. Alas, the title made me laugh and when I read it out loud, I was told that it sounded like the title of a porno! Which only made me laugh more, to be honest. Since the workout is touted as 'intense but fun' and is apparently geared towards butt, thighs, hips and abs, I know I'll end up breaking down and trying it out. I have yet another wedding to attend in september (attended the bridal shower last weekend) and I have to get working on those thighs (according to my mom anyway). Seriously, love/hate. 9/10


Revenge Wears Prada: The Devil Returns by Lauren Weisberger

To start with, I have to cop to the fact that I love the movie ("The Devil Wears Prada") and I love most of what Anne Hathaway wears in said movie (before she got all serious actressy and a bit too thin) but I hated the book. How did this happen? Well, I tried reading the book but it was complete suck. It was shallow, the copy I had was full of the most basic spelling/grammar errors, and I wasn't going through the best time when I attempted to read the book. If anything, I was predisposed to hating almost anything (and usually did). Popsugar calls this a 'beach read' which is code for non-consequential fluff and sometimes that's exactly what we need. I love books. I have one of those memberships at barnes & noble (and I USE it) and cried when I heard that Borders bookstore was closing (rest in peace, sweet bookstore). My local borders was transformed into a TJ Maxx (or TK Maxx for my brit peeps) and I worried about civilization. Why would we need discount clothing stores more than a place to buy history, stories about everything and anything, to read about lives and lifetimes of so many people and so many accomplishments? So, yeah, I love books but not every book. I'm going to give the Prada sequel a chance because if it weren't for popsugar including it in this month's box, I wouldn't have looked at it twice. Hopefully, it doesn't read as awfully as the first book did and I feel like I'm in the mind space to  enjoy fluffy chick lit so I might end up loving it. We'll see. 8/10


Project 7 Quench the Thirsty (tm) Wintergreen Mints

So this was an interesting find in this month's box. It is basically a vial of wintergreen mints. Not the most covetable of items but I immediately threw it in my purse for any bad breath moments so it does serve a noble purpose. However, it turns out that it actually does serve a noble purpose (not only the prevention of my breath getting stank) because these mints "... benefit a project to bring clean drinking water to communities around the world." That is nothing to sneeze at. I'll have to do a bit of research to see how much change they've actually effected and how their funds are distributed to get a full picture of how generous they really are (I've become cynical after seeing how many famous charities/funds typically use most money for well paying themselves instead of actually helping people) but this does seem like a cool effort. 9/10


Indiana Fit Popcorn in Dijon and Onion

Popcorn is never a bad thing to find in a box. Especially when the bag is full sized. Howeverrr, dijon and onion aren't really my favorite flavors (I'd place them at the opposite of favorite) and even giving tasting these the old college try made remember those old college pukes after drinking a bit too much. I will sincerely admit that I hated the damn things. Fortunately, my family quite willingly took them off my hands and not soon enough because the taste lingered for a bit and I wanted to scrape my tongue with anything to get the taste out. On the positive side, every cup is worth about 40 calories or fewer so if you're on a diet, these might be a great snack but try another flavor unless you love mustard/onion, I implore you! Barf/10

One last look! 

Overall, this box was pretty great. It included a cute scarf, a book, a great moisturizer, a workout dvd, and some snacks. I loved most of it (not the popcorn!) and I love getting surprise books (even if I'm not sure about how much I'll like them). I feel like popsugar did a good job at bringing the variety this month and I'm a happy subber. How do I know? Because I'm looking forward to next month already!

Box:

Popsugar Must Have

Frequency:

Monthly

Price:

$35.00 (+ tax in CA) 

Perks: 

You can earn free months with referrals.

Recommend? 

Yes! These last couple of months have been solidly good and I love getting a box full of surprise stuff every month. As I've said, if you're really interested, give it a month or two but don't spend your money on anything you don't love! 

Birchbox June '13 Review

OMGGGGGG!!!!!!!

Yes, I just started my post sounding like a 14 year old one direction fan but alas that is how happy I am about this month's box. No joke, it is my favorite and I've been quite lucky in the last few months and have not had one box that I truly disliked. This month was a freaking homerun/touchdown/goal in terms of what I personally like and how happy I was to get the samples I did. I know everyone doesn't have the same tastes as me so it may not be that exciting to you dear reader of this blog (you're out there, right?! right?!??) but I'm a happy panda. Birchbox's June box is all about wanderlust and the presence of the hashtag #bbwanderlust is ubiquitous. We know that there are over 30 varieties of boxes sent out by birchbox every month so theres always that little bit of doubt about getting the 'punishment box' (a term coined by the ladies of makeuptalk) but I feel like I won the birchbox lottery this month and got the box that I would've wanted.

This month, I decided to forgo spoilers for all of the subs. Yes, I decided to know nothing beforehand because I didn't want to start the mental argument of why this/that sucks or why I couldn't wait to get something, etc, etc. So, all of this month's boxes are actual surprises! It's like christmas!! (not my birthday because I tend to supervise every gift purchase and/or give specific lists/hints as to what I want).

Yes, that IS a full size lip pencil you see there!!! 

On to the item by item review:

Birchbox + Color Club  Wanderlust Collection Nail Color in 'Reign in Spain'

The wanderlust collection is made up of four colors named for 4 cities in which Birchbox has offices: London, Paris, Barcelona, and New York (I'm lucky enough to have visited a couple of these cities and I'm obsessed with finishing the list). The color I received was 'Reign in Spain' (the rain in Spain falls mainly on the plains?), is described as a "fiery coral... {that} evokes summer days under the mediterranean sun". Being as I've had the pleasure of burning my cheeks off in the mediterranean sun (it gets hot as a mofo, no joke), I like the idea and I love the color. Looking at the other selections, it's one of my faves. Of course, now I'm kind of obsessed with getting the whole set (four minis for $8.00!). 11/10


Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk

Anyone who has read my previous reviews could potentially notice that I love dry shampoos. I got obsessed with batiste brand dry shampoos when I studied in the UK and I haven't looked back ever since. I have fine hair and dry shampoos really do help add volume so they're now a permanent staple in my arsenal. This Klorane sample is one of the brands that I'd been hoping to try soon. Basically: me + dry shampoo = happy hair. No more to say. Wait, one more thing, it smells good ;) 10/10


Mirenesse Glossy Kiss Lipstick in 'Perfect Kiss'

This is the item that made me the most excited! Why? Because I'd recently been trawling (as opposed to trolling, lol) the bb shop looking for some good lip colors. I was undecided but put mirenesse's glossy kiss in 'perfect kiss' on my shortlist. Lo and behold, it was included in my box! Considering it retails for 26.55, I am very VERY happy to have it. Perfect Kiss is described as a 'soft coral with subtle shimmer' and it is exactly the color I was looking for to wear in the summer. I can't deny it, I love it and the texture is great too. 12/10



suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser

This sample is in a tiny little mini jar but it smells heavenly. It has a sugary rough texture (with accompanying scent) that makes it a great contender for my face wash rotation). I have very sensitive skin so I might take a bit to try it (I have to be very careful about what to put on my face) but try it, I will. It smells good, exfoliates and foams and I love the texture. Nothing wrong with this sample. 10/10



100% Pure Nourishing Body Cream Packets (2)

These are the least exciting items in the bunch. They're two small body cream packets. One is 'vanilla bean' and the other 'coconut'. They don't seem like they'd cover a lot of area but I'll probably try them on my legs after shaving. I have to admit that these are sort of a letdown after all the other great stuff but they're not too bad so I won't complain. 8/10


Overall, I love this box. Love it!! Plus, at the bottom of the box, there is a four postcard set with cute renderings of the aforementioned cities (London, Paris, New York, and Barcelona) that I felt put the best finishing touch on the box and made it something that I would very much covet if I didn't have it. This box is definitely an A+ for me :)

Box:

Birchbox

Price:

$10.00 (includes shipping) 

Frequency:

Monthly

Perks:

Earn 10 pts with reviewing items that are included in box. 100 pts= $10 discount. There is no limit to the points so you could theoretically have a $100 discount. 

Recommend? 

Yes! This month was a major score but every month has something I like. You can't pick what you'll get and sometimes they do send stuff that makes me go wtffffff but it's part of the fun of discovery and for $10.00 it isn't too expensive for a little bit of fun. 

As always, don't spend money on things you don't love! 

So, if you don't adore birchbox as much as I do, you know what to do. However, if you prepay for, say, a yearlong membership, I don't know what kind of  refund is possible (for specific info, I'd say contact CS). 

Glossybox May Box Review

Ok, so I actually got this box a couple of days ago but, as I mentioned in my previous post, I had a REALLY BUSY week that completely got in the way of my blogging efforts. But, alas, I have returned to my true calling of loving sub boxes! ;)

May's glossybox was a bit on the late side to be honest and that might be due to the fact that it was shipped on the 20-something of May. It actually got it relatively quickly and was very excited considering they do send pretty cool stuff but I was not the happiest camper when I saw the contents of the box I received.

A lot of stuff, to be sure but it's all for older women!! 

See, I got a box that is awesome. For a woman of maybe 40 or with more sophisticated tastes than I. I have to admit I wasn't super happy when I saw my samples but what can I do? Fortunately, next month's 'American Beauty' box seems to be a lot better with the promised Oscar de la Renta perfumes and the tarte lip treatment. So, on to the item by item review:


Epionce Intense Anti-Aging + Repair Serum

As I'm in my 20's, I do appreciate an eye cream or wrinkle fighter here and there but this product, I think, is more suited to my mom than me. I'm not excited about using it and it'll probably be gifted to my mom because she'll enjoy it more. It does promise beautiful and radiant skin, so we'll see. 6/10

être belle Collagen & Aloe Vera Hydro Mask

Another freaking face product!!! I have oily skin so I don't really need extra hydration in the mask sense. This mask touts moisturizing and restructuring benefits (what like another face? weird. ;P) and, again, will be gifted to my mom. Me sad :( 6/10

European Wax Center 'Slow it Body Wash' and 'Slow it Body Lotion' foil sample packets

These apparently help slow the growth of body hair and make it more fine and less noticeable between waxes and also prevent in-growns. I'll actually be trying these out since I do like this sort of stuff but I'm not over the moon about it. I almost forgot to add that the box also includes a coupon for a first time free wax. I think I'll take advantage of it and do my eyebrows. I'd noticed the location near me because it's new and now I have the perfect excuse to check it out. 8/10

Nicka K New York Absolute! Perfume Stick in 5th Avenue

An interesting concept and the packaging is pretty but unfortunately, this specific scent is the scent of deodorant. Deodorant!!! Not my favorite. Ugh/10

Sebastian Professional Volupt Spray

This sample I love! I love anything that promises to give me volume! I gave thin hair and it very much falls flat without some sort of product so I'm all about volume building sprays like this one. Plus, it smells good and not too weird (unlike that ungodly stink of the perfume stick). I'll be using this sample up in no time. Also, there's a coupon included in the box for a free Shaper or Shaper Plus spray with any Sebastian brand $15 purchase at Ulta. As a platinum member at Ulta, I'm quite excited. Though platinum membership isn't quite as awesome as sephora's VIB program, to be honest, but that's an entirely different post. 10/10

Xtreme Lashes Eyeliner Pencil and Sharpener

I've gotten a lot of eyeliner pencils lately so I wasn't quite excited when I saw it but it touts a gel liner finish, I was intrigued. After swatching it, I saw that it does have quite a gel like finish and I like it! Plus it's full size as is the sharpener. I haven't ever heard of this brand before but I do like the pencil (a surprise in itself since I usually gift the eyeliner samples I get) and so, this specific item goes in the plus column. 9/10

A closer look at the included coupons

Overall, I'm ok with the box (I like a couple of things and hate a couple of others) and I'm very much looking forward to next month thanks to glossybox's sneak peeks. I don't regret this month's box but I'm not very happy with it either. I'd give it a C overall.

Box:

Glossybox

Price:

$21.00

Frequency:

Monthly

Perks: 

Earn 'glossydots' every month by filling out surveys for the included items. 1000 points = free box. Also, you can earn points for referrals. 

Recommend? 

This month, I'd say eh but next month (or really, this month's) box looks awesome. I'd say sub now for that box and then cancel if you don't love it. 

Remember, don't spend money on anything you don't LOVE!

Julep Maven June Modern Beauty Review

Well, helloooo!

I had a hell of a weekend and last couple of days and as a result, my blogging efforts suffered a bit. HOWEVER, I'm here now and I'm here to (FINALLY!) review this month's Julep Maven box. I actually got it on the 1st so I've had time to try out the included products and I can essentially say how much I like them or don't. Said box only included two items this month so my review should be brief (well, relatively).

Yep, I had to screencap my own pic thanks to iphoto messing up EVERYTHING!

Julep DD Creme in 'Light'

So, the dynamic do-all creme (hence the DD) is supposed to basically make your face perfect, if you believe their breathless claims of perfection. However, if your skin veers towards oily, then proceed with caution. However, you only have to use the tiniest drop so that's cool. Unfortunately, it does suffer  from the orangey syndrome that other BB cremes suffer from and it gave me a faux tan thanks to my skin being a bit lighter than what this creme considers light (warning: I'm not super fair) and it isn't for the 'naturally dewy' among us. It will, however, be great for the dry/normal skinned ladies. 8/10

Julep DD Concealer in 'Light'

The companion concealer is tiny! So tiny I thought it was sample sized! However, I then realized that you need the tiniest drop to cover a pretty large area. Like OCC lip tar tiny drops. It suffers from the same orangey issue as the DD creme but it does cover basic imperfections and even helps with large pores. I'm actually very satisfied with the DD concealer. Plus, the add-on brush was a godsend because it is freaking perfection for the application of both the concealer and the DD creme. 9/10

Yes, they're tiny!!! 

Overall, I'm quite happy with this month's box but I do advise anyone with oily skin to be careful with the DD creme. I've decided to only use it on days where I don't want a lot of makeup or if my skin is feeling dry. I forgot to add that there were also 3 saltwater taffy's included as a surprise. Flavors: strawberry, chocolate, and lime. I didn't actually get to taste any because they were raided upon arrival but it was a cute addition.

Box:

Julep Maven

Frequency:

Monthly

Price:

19.99

Perks:

Ability to: skip any month, send box to friends, earn 'jules' that you can use for free add-ons and boxes. 

Recommend?

Definitely. This is one of my favorite subs! As I always say, if you're really interested, try it out a month and then if you don't LOVE it, then cancel. 

Never spend money on something you don't love!

Promo Codes:

FREEBOX (1st box free)

Julep Maven June Add-on Review + Whooo 100th Post!!!

This is a weird instance of the add-on getting here before the main box. This month's Julep add-on arrived today though there wasn't any sign of it's big brother (or sister?) the main June box. Either way, I decided to review the add-on asap. Hopefully, I get the main box in the next couple of days. Oh, and yes I said add-ons. In my previous post, I'd insisted that I'd be prudent and not get any add-ons. However, my weakness won over on the 24th when I logged in and added what is about to be reviewed. I'm a terrible person, I know.

Muti-use brush showing both ends, Nail Color in 'Bunny'

The 2 in 1 brush is two pieces, the concealer brush goes into the foundation brush to form one brush. 

Julep Double Duty Makeup Brush

I couldn't help but add this 2 in 1 brush. I've been looking for a good foundation brush and I'm considering buying Urband Decay's 'Good Karma' brush since I'm using Naked Foundation (aka perfection! finally a color that actually works on me!) Before this brush, I was using a busted old target brand brush that does a great job of leaving awful foundation streaks all over my face when I use it. The brush is synthetic so (hopefully) no animal products here and the brushes have a super soft feel which is fantastic. I'm going to do a full face of makeup using these to really try them out. I can't believe I'm actually excited about a brush! 10/10

Add-on price: $19.99 or 2000 Jules
Current Retail: $28.00
Julep Maven Price: $22.40

Julep Nail Color in 'Bunny'

This month, with the theme being 'nantucket nostalgia', all of the nail colors are named for pretty WASP-y sounding names/nicknames. The type of names I guess are typical in, say, the hamptons or for any public school educated posh brit. So, 'bunny' is described as a "crisp white linen with fine gold shimmer". You can't really see the gold shimmer in the pictures and it takes a little bit of close observation but it is there. This color (which is part of the 'it girl' profile) was the only one that I was remotely interested in this month and so I had to get it. It was only available as an add-on so it wasn't included in any of the other profiles. The consistency of the formula is in keeping with Julep's other polishes and two coats makes it pretty opaque (well not opaque but not see through). I like it and I'm wearing it as an accent color on my ring fingernail only. It's very summery and even though it's not my type (I'm still all about rocking out even in my 20s) at all, it's fun to wear. Maybe I'll add black to make it more 'me'. Overall, I really like it and I'm glad I recanted my ban on add-ons and went for it. 10/10

Add-on price: $4.99 or 750 Jules.
Current retail: $14.00
Julep Maven price: $11.20

Overall:

Since these are only the add-ons for my June box, I don't think I can have an overall impression yet. However, I'm totally in love with the items that I picked out to add. Also, as you can see in the price breakdown, I saved a couple of bucks on each item by getting it though my subscription. I'm quite happy with both the brush and the nail color plus actually excited to use them!

Box:

Julep Maven

Frequency:

Monthly

Price:

19.99 for monthly box, different prices for add-ons, typically starting at about 3.99, the upgrade (everything offered that month) is usually $35.00 extra.

Perks: 

Earn jules for referrals, upgrades, birthday (200 jules), and yearly anniversary. Jules can be used on nail colors, add-ons, and at 2000 jules, the monthly box. Ability to skip months (no charge) or send box to a friend as a gift. 

Recommend? 

Yes! I love my julep maven box and I wholeheartedly recommend it. Plus, the CS is pretty nice and responsive (especially over the phone; email takes a couple of days). I feel that it's a good fit for me and the 'modern beauty' profile makes it easy for me to still get things even when I don't want any nail polish that month (like this one). I'd say, if you're interested, give it a try and then decide from there. I'm sure other nail polish addicts like me will be enthralled! 

Promo codes: 

FREEBOX (1st month free) 

Codes change pretty often so they might not work but you can check retailmenot.com to check if any new ones are up.