An Update on Subscription Boxes

For a while, this blog was basically a repository to document subscription box excess.

In 2014, I subscribed to fashion boxes Golden Tote and Stitch Fix and beauty boxes Birchbox, GLOSSYBOX, ipsy, and Julep.

I haven’t purchased anything from Golden Tote since the spring, but I’ve been doing the capsule wardrobe thing and it hasn’t really fit. There have been a couple of one-off pieces, but if you’re not purchasing items as add-ons to a tote, they seem crazy expensive. Still, the nice thing about Golden Tote is you buy it when you want/need it. I haven’t been compelled to purchase anything of late, so no Golden Tote reviews. (Full disclosure: I am loving some of January’s current options and may bite the bullet.)

Stitch Fix and I haven’t been getting along of late. In fact, I stopped blogging my reviews because they were…meh. The last one I ended up sending everything back, and I rescheduled my fixes so I wouldn’t get anything until the end of this month. We’ll see what this one has to offer, especially as I’m starting to curate pieces for our big honeymoon trip in May.

GLOSSYBOX and Julep got cancelled late spring/early summer. For the cost, quality, and relevance, these were unnecessary subscriptions. In fact, the Julep formula destroyed my nails for a few months. I know a lot of people love Julep (the colors are gorgeous), but it seems positively ridiculous to shell out cash each month for a product that does the opposite of its intended purpose. And GLOSSYBOX involves more money than I want to pay for high-end brands I will never go out and purchase, though every other box since my cancellation has been fabulous. Still.

Birchbox is what it is. The company has dramatically increased its services to incorporate more choices throughout the process, including add-ons, special curated boxes, and sample selections. I love the rewards program and I use plenty of brands available through the site. ipsy is somewhat of a dark horse, giving me different brand options that I usually find at Sephora or Ulta. Plus I will always have a use for the bags in which my monthly samples come!

The other thing is…

Well, writing subscription box reviews were both boring (ooh! silver eyeliner!) and exhausting (let me queue up half a dozen posts!). I’m not looking to create a subscription box blog, and while I appreciate the traffic and the support, I’d rather dedicate my time and energy to books and writing. That’s not to say I’ll never blog about anything else – I just don’t want all my efforts to go to uploading crappy iPhone photos from our guest bathroom.

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Stitch Fix | November 2014

Stitch Fix is a subscription box clothing service for women. You can set up a recurring subscription or schedule the service as-needed. You are receive five items selected by a stylist. You can specify a lot of style preferences in your general style survey and give feedback with each order. You have three days to try on your items. Decide what you want, check out online, and send the remaining items back in the envelope included with your shipment. There is a $20 “styling fee” for each box. However, the $20 fee is deducted from your purchase. In addition, there is a 25% discount if you keep all five items.

This month, I didn’t send a note to my stylist with preferences – just to see what I would get! This would be my last autumn capsule wardrobe fix, so what did I end up getting?

Ishani Emerald Stone Charm Necklace, $38

Feedback for my stylist: I liked the idea of this necklace, but the length didn’t quite work on me. Since I have a few other green stone statement necklaces, I decided to pass on this one.

Verdict: Returned.

Esten Button-Up Sleeveless Blouse, $54

Feedback for my stylist: Another Stitch Fix favorite that just doesn’t work on my frame! This was way too baggy and made me look wide. Maybe a different color would have been more flattering for me.

Verdict: Returned.

Carson Houndstooth Print Blouse, $64

Feedback for my stylist: Love, love, love this top! It fits well and flatters my figure. Paired with the jeans, this is a perfect outfit for me!  I love the houndstooth print.

Verdict: Kept [Note: Reserved this one for the winter wardrobe, since the dark green is more in line with those colors).

Dean Ankle Zip Skinny Jean, $78

Feedback for my stylist:  I was prepared to return these jeans since I have a pair of jeggings from Stitch Fix that do the trick, but these were so nice and comfy. I loved the zipper details, too!

Verdict: Kept.

Jocelyn Geo Knit Drape Front Cardigan, $88

Feedback for my stylist:This was a little too heavy and the print really overwhelmed me. I would’ve liked it a lot more if the print had only been inside.

Verdict: Returned.

Overall

What a great fix! Everything was cute and I really enjoyed playing around with different looks in my closet. Houndstooth was a nice surprise for a top, and the fit/cut of both pieces I kept was really flattering. I hope I get more pieces like this for winter.

Disclosure: I am not sponsored by or compensated by Stitch Fix, but I do get a referral credit if you sign up using the links above.

Any other Stitch Fix fans out there? What pieces did you get this month?

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Stitch Fix | October 2014

Stitch Fix is a subscription box clothing service for women. You can set up a recurring subscription or schedule the service as-needed. You are receive five items selected by a stylist. You can specify a lot of style preferences in your general style survey and give feedback with each order. You have three days to try on your items. Decide what you want, check out online, and send the remaining items back in the envelope included with your shipment. There is a $20 “styling fee” for each box. However, the $20 fee is deducted from your purchase. In addition, there is a 25% discount if you keep all five items.

I’m changing up my monthly Stitch Fix post! Here’s the note I sent to my stylist:

Looking for layering pieces that fit into my fall wardrobe theme of “comfortable academic” (alternately described by coworkers as “feminine athletic” or “relaxed preppy”). I’d like items that are youthful but can transition from office wear to weekend relaxation. I’d love to get an accessory in this fix, preferably the Bennie Heathered Stripe Knit Infinity Scarf from Octavia. I also thought the Jimmy Ankle Length Skinny Jeans by Just Black would be a good addition. Color preferences for items are autumnal (mustard, rust, olive green, burgundy, camel) and standard black, white, and gray. Thank you!

What did I end up getting?

Tina Checkered Infinity Scarf, $34

Feedback for my stylist: Super cute and perfect for fall! It’s really cozy and fun.

Verdict: Kept.

Queensland Dolman Jersey Top, $48

Feedback for my stylist: The fit wasn’t quite right for me – tight in some places, loose in others, and really clingy material.

Verdict: Returned.

Nasima Lace Panel 3/4 Sleeve Blouse, $54

Feedback for my stylist: This seemed too vintage for the look I’m pulling together.

Verdict: Returned

Lisette Dot Print Blouse, $68

Feedback for my stylist: This had a really square shape and looked too big on me. I also have a lot of burgundy tops and this was too similar.

Verdict: Returned.

Jacob High Rise Skinny Jean, $78

Feedback for my stylist: I have a lot of black pants/leggings and I was really hoping for some standard blue denim.

Verdict: Returned.

Overall

Let’s deconstruct my request, shall we?

Looking for layering pieces that fit into my fall wardrobe theme of “comfortable academic” (alternately described by coworkers as “feminine athletic” or “relaxed preppy”). I’d like items that are youthful but can transition from office wear to weekend relaxation. All of the pieces were a good blend of casual and work-appropriate.

I’d love to get an accessory in this fix, preferably the Bennie Heathered Stripe Knit Infinity Scarf from Octavia. I also thought the Jimmy Ankle Length Skinny Jeans by Just Black would be a good addition. I didn’t get either of these items, but the scarf was a good alternative. The jeans, not so much.

Color preferences for items are autumnal (mustard, rust, olive green, burgundy, camel) and standard black, white, and gray. Yep, received.

Overall, an okay fix in terms of style and colors (with the exception of that lace number; yikes). If anything, the issue was how each piece fit.

Disclosure: I am not sponsored by or compensated by Stitch Fix, but I do get a referral credit if you sign up using the links above.

Any other Stitch Fix fans out there? What pieces did you get this month?

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Stitch Fix | September Fix

Stitch Fix is a subscription box clothing service for women. You can set up a recurring subscription or schedule the service as-needed. You are receive five items selected by a stylist. You can specify a lot of style preferences in your general style survey and give feedback with each order. You have three days to try on your items. Decide what you want, check out online, and send the remaining items back in the envelope included with your shipment. There is a $20 “styling fee” for each box. However, the $20 fee is deducted from your purchase. In addition, there is a 25% discount if you keep all five items.

I’m changing up my monthly Stitch Fix post! Here’s the note I sent to my stylist:

Looking to continue building my fall capsule wardrobe with autumnal colors – rust, olive green, burgundy, camel – and standard black, white, and gray. Describing my style as “comfortable academic,” it’s a mix of structure and loose forms, like leggings and collared shirts, flowy cardigans and fitted dresses. Looking for some longer shirts/tunics. Also looking for accessories to pair.

What did I end up getting?

Kressida Houndstooth Print Infinity Scarf, $28

Feedback for my stylist: A great asset to my accessories, I like houndstooth but often find it with heavy materials. This will be great for many outfits, and breaks up the chevron I have going.

Verdict: Kept.

Laina 3/4 Sleeve Striped Tie-Waist Dress, $74

Feedback for my stylist: I had to sleep on this one, but I have a sleeveless gray and white striped dress that’s too similar, and I would prefer a lower price point. Maybe a different pattern but similar fit in a future fix?

Verdict: Returned.

Jerome Crochet Trim Silk Blouse, $74

Feedback for my stylist: Color was great, as was the fit – but I disliked the neckline and the cap sleeves.

Verdict: Returned

Tivoli Asymmetrical Zip Up Draped Jacket, $88

Feedback for my stylist: Too heavy for Phoenix in the fall, this is a fun structured piece that didn’t work with my closet. I bet it’ll be huge in cooler climates this fall, though!

Verdict: Returned.

Lindley Front Pocket Banded Hem Top, $98

Feedback for my stylist: So this is the most expensive item but it’s also the most comfortable and on-point for my fall wardrobe. I almost bought a similar shirt; I’m so glad I didn’t! This is soft and I love the fit/style!

Verdict: Kept.

Overall

Let’s deconstruct my request, shall we?

Looking to continue building my fall capsule wardrobe with autumnal colors – rust, olive green, burgundy, camel – and standard black, white, and gray. The colors were perfect. I should have also mentioned mustard in my note, but totally forgot until I got the notification my fix had been shipped. Either way, no disappointments here.

Describing my style as “comfortable academic,” it’s a mix of structure and loose forms, like leggings and collared shirts, flowy cardigans and fitted dresses. I received a mix of forms and styles, and I was pleased to see the variety even though I only kept two items (almost three!).

Looking for some longer shirts/tunics. Also looking for accessories to pair. The burgundy shirt was on the longer side, as was the dress (um, understandably), but I didn’t get a tunic-style top. I’m okay with that, since the green shirt is pretty much the opposite of what I asked for and I love it. Oh, and infinity scarves are the best, so no complaints there.

I’m pleased with my fix. I’ve never been so specific in my fix request, and it was interesting to see how it changed the experience. I will definitely go this route in the future. Thanks, Stitch Fix!

Disclosure: I am not sponsored by or compensated by Stitch Fix, but I do get a referral credit if you sign up using the links above.

Any other Stitch Fix fans out there? What pieces did you get this month?

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Stitch Fix | In Review, 2013-2014

After subscribing to Stitch Fix for a year (plus), I decided to do a kind of “in review” post where I evaluate my kept items. You can read all my  posts here. 

I cleaned out my closet last month in an attempt to put together a capsule wardrobe for fall. I was somewhat surprised by how few Stitch Fix items I kept in my fall rotation, and I decided to review my purchasing habits over the past year. I thought it would help me make better decisions when buying clothes, and it would help me pinpoint specific styles I keep purchasing, wearing, and loving.

Here is my super scientific review process:

•  Calculated based on all fixes received to date, which is July 2013 – September 2014 (15 fixes total)
• Tallied based on items received (5/box), items kept, and item type
• A subjective analysis of which items I like more and/or serve as a fashion staple

And (drum roll!) here are my surprising results!

Received: 75 items

Kept: 33 items (44%)

Of those items I kept:

• 17 shirts
• 4 cardigans
• 4 dresses
• 3 scarves
• 2 pairs of pants/leggings
• 1 vest
• 1 skirt
• 1 necklace

I could’ve stopped there, but I decided to pick out my favorites and see what the numbers looked like:

• 7 shirts
• 3 cardigans
• 0 dresses
• 2 scarves
• 2 pairs of pants/leggings
• 1 vest
• 0 skirts
• 0 necklaces

So, 15 of those 33 items are clothes I’m still excited about. That’s 45% of what I kept, and 20% of what I received.

…yikes.

Honestly, I didn’t expect the numbers to be that bad. Some of it was based on circumstance – three dresses I loved months ago, but aren’t really “me” anymore. But still, that’s not a huge change. I recognized a lot of what I kept but no longer like as items I requested because other bloggers received them. My favorite items were mostly things the stylists picked for me. With my latest fix, I was very specific and didn’t focus as much on curating specific items. I will continue using Stitch Fix, but I’m going to continue modifying my strategy:

• Develop a seasonal capsule wardrobe, including a Pinterest board, with specific feedback about colors, styles, and what does/doesn’t work
• Do not pin specific items unless they meet the wardrobe requirements
• Give very detailed information about your wardrobe in the style profile, and outline specific details/needs in the note for each fix
• No impulse purchasing! Don’t make a decision about keeping an item for at least 24 hours
• “Shop your closet” by seeing what kinds of outfit options you already have or can expand upon

Anyone else done this kind of review of their subscription box habits? Leave a note in the comments!

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Stitch Fix | August Fix

Stitch Fix is a subscription box clothing service for women. You can set up a recurring subscription or schedule the service as-needed. You are receive five items selected by a stylist. You can specify a lot of style preferences in your general style survey and give feedback with each order. You have three days to try on your items. Decide what you want, check out online, and send the remaining items back in the envelope included with your shipment. There is a $20 “styling fee” for each box. However, the $20 fee is deducted from your purchase. In addition, there is a 25% discount if you keep all five items.

I’m changing up my monthly Stitch Fix post! Here’s the note I sent to my stylist:

I would love to get some “basics” – I’m in desperate need of a solid color A-line skirt – preferably black or dark gray, though I wouldn’t be opposed to color! I have a lot of royal blue and am not looking for anything in the royal blue range. I’m also interested in getting more leggings that I can pair with longer tunics/button-ups. Even though it’s so hot, I’m dreaming of layers!

Based on that criteria, here are the items I received:

PORTER BASIC LEGGING, $38

Feedback for my stylist: Love. Love. Love. What a difference a great staple makes! I can’t wait to wear these all autumn/winter. They fit like a glove and look great on me. Send me one in every freaking color!

Verdict: Kept.

TUCKER MIXED PAISLEY PRINT SPLIT-BACK TANK, $48

Feedback for my stylist: I wanted to love this; it would pair nicely with a ton of stuff in my closet.The print was a little loud, but the fit was off – too tight at my bust, and the tails at the back just didn’t work.

(Seriously. I am petite and my chest is proportional to my frame; if this is tight on me, some of y’all have to be busting at the seams with this tank.)

Verdict: Returned.

VENTURA CHEVRON PRINT KEYHOLE DETAIL TANK, $48

Feedback for my stylist: This tank blew me away. I was surprised at how amazing it looked. It was so flattering and slimming. I plan on attempting a capsule wardrobe this autumn; this will be in it!

Verdict: Kept.

KACI MULTI ABSTRACT PRINT SWING SKIRT, $58

Feedback for my stylist: I so wanted to like this, but the print wasn’t what I was looking for. I do think this will be HUGE with other bloggers. I just know I will never wear it. Le sigh.

(In my stylist’s note, she told me they didn’t have a lot of solid A-lines in stock. Unfortunate, but I think I would like this even less as a solid. I do think there are a bunch of bloggers who will love this skirt. I feel like I’m choosing not to be part of the in crowd, because this will be a great summer to fall transition piece, and I straight up didn’t choose it. Sad face.).

Verdict: Returned.

LANDERS LATTICE CROCHET DETAIL TANK, $78

Feedback for my stylist: This piece was so sheer and wrinkled so easily. With those factors and the price, I knew I wouldn’t be keeping this one.

Verdict: Returned.

OVERALL

Let’s deconstruct my request, shall we?

I would love to get some “basics” – I’m in desperate need of a solid color A-line skirt – preferably black or dark gray, though I wouldn’t be opposed to color! My note indicated the A-line solid skirts weren’t available, so I get that. It’s sad I couldn’t get my skirt fix, but I got an amazing pair of leggings and a stellar chevron tank. Chevron is my fashion kryptonite.

I have a lot of royal blue and am not looking for anything in the royal blue range. I feel like this piece was ignored – it didn’t matter, because there were other issues that affected those pieces. I wouldn’t have selected them regardless…but still!

I’m also interested in getting more leggings that I can pair with longer tunics/button-ups. Even though it’s so hot, I’m dreaming of layers! Met! I got a wonderful pair of leggings that will be critical to my autumn wardrobe.

I was pleased with my fix. Although there were some definite “no” pieces, I adored the ones I kept. I’m interested in getting more “basics” and less bold/statement clothes in the future, and I’m going to modify my profile so it reflects that. Overall, a fun fix. Thanks so much, Stitch Fix!

Disclosure: I am not sponsored by or compensated by Stitch Fix, but I do get a referral credit if you sign up using the links above.

Any other Stitch Fix fans out there? What pieces did you get this month?

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Stitch Fix | July Fix

Stitch Fix is a subscription box clothing service for women. You can set up a recurring subscription or schedule the service as-needed. You are receive five items selected by a stylist. You can specify a lot of style preferences in your general style survey and give feedback with each order. You have three days to try on your items. Decide what you want, check out online, and send the remaining items back in the envelope included with your shipment. There is a $20 “styling fee” for each box. However, the $20 fee is deducted from your purchase. In addition, there is a 25% discount if you keep all five items.

It’s been over a month since my last fix, and I’m really pumped to get this one. My routine preview (sign in to Stitch Fix, look at the item titles in my order, Google the names) left me with high hopes. Below, I’ve posted each item, its cost through Stitch Fix, the “preview impression,” and the “arrival” item impression.

JUNO SMALL FOLDED CLUTCH, $48

I am not into clutches. I have a couple standbys from my college days, but honestly. Stop trying to make clutches happ – oh my gosh, look at how cute it is!

I loved everything about this except the color! I have a couple of black clutches already, and several black purses. It would have been great to get a bolder color! Status: Returned.

PRIYA IKAT PRINT KNIT-BACK TANK, $54

I don’t know. The initial search makes me feel “meh,” but one post mentions it looks better in person…(1, 2)

I wasn’t sure about this shirt at first, but I really liked the colors and it fit well. It’s versatile to wear on Casual Friday and on days when I have meetings with deans and VPs. Status: Kept.

SHAUN V-NECK CHEVRON PRINT BLOUSE, $64

This blogger totally pulls it off and it looks adorable, but I think it would be a hot mess on me.

Surprise! It looks super cute. I can’t wait to pair this with my black jeggings from an earlier fix. It’s very comfortable and will work for the hot summer months here (which won’t end until, like, October). Status: Kept.

JOSHUA COLORED ANKLE JEAN, $64

So many bloggers have gotten this item I can’t even handle it. I’ve never searched for an item and seen so much color variety!

I have a pair of pants in the same color and almost the same fit. This would have been a keeper if I didn’t already have it! Status: Returned.

SUTTON MIXED CHEVRON PRINT DRESS, $68

If you like chevron dresses, Stitch Fix will take over your closet. We’ve reached a critical mass wherein the number of potential dresses exceeds my desire to comb through Google. So, it will be some kind of chevron dress…

Would’ve loved to see a little more fit around the waist. A belt could’ve solved that, but the bolder pattern at the bottom of the dress really messed with my proportions and made me look super wide. Status: Returned.

Overall, this was a good fix. Unfortunately, some of the colors were a little too familiar since I had those pieces (or close to it) already in my closet. However, the shirts I kept will be great pieces that work with my sense of style!

Disclosure: I am not sponsored by or compensated by Stitch Fix, but I do get a referral credit if you sign up using the links above.

Any other Stitch Fix fans out there? What pieces did you get this month?

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Stitch Fix | May Fix…Part II?!

Stitch Fix is a subscription box clothing service for women. You can set up a recurring subscription or schedule the service as-needed. You are receive five items selected by a stylist. You can specify a lot of style preferences in your general style survey and give feedback with each order. You have three days to try on your items. Decide what you want, check out online, and send the remaining items back in the envelope included with your shipment. There is a $20 “styling fee” for each box. However, the $20 fee is deducted from your purchase. In addition, there is a 25% discount if you keep all five items.

What?! Two May reviews?! No, I didn’t opt for the new frequency options – I just ended up with two Fixes because of how the four weeks fell between the two orders. I’m going to have to do a little rearranging with my June/July dates because of travel.

My routine preview (sign in to Stitch Fix, look at the item titles in my order, Google the names) left me plenty of excitement. I couldn’t wait for my box to arrive to see everything.

Below, I’ve posted each item, its cost through Stitch Fix, the “preview impression,” and the “arrival” item impression.

WYNN ARROW PRINT FRONT POCKET BLOUSE, $48

I found a few photos online (1, 2, 3). There seemed to be mixed feelings, but I found the color variation and sheer factor a plus. It’s already hit 100+ here in Phoenix, and a sheer blouse layered over a cami works for the hot temps and cool conference rooms in my office.

(Also – can we acknowledge how awesome the nail art is in this post? BRAVA, Capital Polish!)

This blouse looked boxy on me. I liked the colors, pattern, and fabric, but the cut and style just didn’t work for my frame. I knew it would sit in my closet and not get much wear. Verdict: Returned.

CORINNA STRIPED HEATHERED DOLMAN TOP, $48

I got a similar sweater this winter and loved it. Other bloggers’ posts led me to believe this would be a summer version (1, 2, 3). My only worry was with color – I have a couple of Target cardigans that might be a little too similar, depending on the shade in my fix.

Luckily, the color factor wasn’t an issue. As soon as I pulled it out of the box, I knew it wouldn’t be. I was worried this might be too heavy for summer, but I tried it on and fell in love with the fabric and shape. It really is very flattering and feels great! It may not get much use during “cooler” summer nights in Phoenix, but I will wear it traveling and during more temperate months.  Verdict: Kept, of course!

ALAN COWL NECK ASYMMETRICAL CARDIGAN, $58

I got an asymmetrical cardigan before and had trouble trying it on, so this would be interesting. This seemed to be more my style – a little edgy, but still casual and comfortable. It seems to be a much-coveted item for some bloggers and a misfit for others (1, 2, 3). I actually crossed my fingers it would fall in the former category for me…

This cardigan really hit that sporty note! It fit well, and it can be dressed up for errands or casual Friday. This will certainly get a lot of use from me! Verdict: Kept!

LUCILLE EYELET & EMBROIDERY DETAILED TANK, $58

I was unable to find any images of the specific item, so this would be a surprise.

I wanted to like this top, but it just hit me at the wrong spot on my torso and gave me that sack of potatoes look. But that neckline – so gorgeous.

Verdict: Returned.

JOHNNY SKINNY JEANS, $88

After foolishly returning my last pair of jeans, I was committed to giving these a chance. Initial photos suggest these are darker wash/rinse (1, 2, 3, 4).

Alas, these just didn’t work for me. They were a little tight in the waist/thigh, and for $88 I want a better fit.

This fix gave me a couple of great basics to incorporate into my closet. It wasn’t my best fix ever, but I liked the pieces I received. I guess when it comes down to it, if I get pieces that don’t work, I would rather it be because the fit/cut is a little off instead of the style.

Disclosure: I am not sponsored by or compensated by Stitch Fix, but I do get a referral credit if you sign up using the links above.

Any other Stitch Fix fans out there? What pieces did you get this month?

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Ipsy Review | May Bag

Ipsy sends out 4-5 higher end samples and a unique bag each month. Like Birchbox, Ipsy is a $10/month subscription box. Bonus-wise, you get 10 points for each product review and 250 points for each referral. You can use these to select bonus items for upcoming Glam Bags. The ones displaying right now appear to be full-size, higher end products; several are palettes/kits. I think this is an important distinction for someone used to Sephora’s free bonus items or the Birchbox bonus shop. Another key point: there’s not an online store where you can buy full-size products. Instead, you are redirected to product’s company website and given an Ipsy-specific coupon code to use when checking out.

My May bag featured the following:

• Hang Ten | Classic Sport SPF50
• Pacifica | Mineral Eyeshadow Duo
• Nailtini | Straight Up Color Nail Lacquer in Caviar Cocktail
• Pur~lisse | pur~moist hydra balance moisturizer
• Crown Brush | Pro Blending Fluff Brush

Hang Ten | Classic Sport SPF50
This was one of my “skip it” products. I usually toss sunblock in my samples drawer to grab for hiking trips or impromptu outdoor outings.

Pacifica | Mineral Eyeshadow Duo
These have a more subtle color pay-off than other eyeshadows I own. Since I own a lot of neutral/purple shades, that’s actually a good thing – these colors can be as subdued or as bold as needed.

Nailtini | Straight Up Color Nail Lacquer in Caviar Cocktail
This is a great sheer layering color…and perfect for any season. With all the light neutrals and vivids, I really wanted to try a dark manicure. I paired this over a dark matte suede polish by Julep and got a beautiful, copper shade. I didn’t clean up my nails, so you can see the lighter shade on my ring and pinky fingers.

Pur~lisse | pur~moist hydra balance moisturizer
Unfortunately this moisturizer was the normal/dry skin formula. I hesitated to try it with a lot of oiliness. Giveaway box-bound!

Crown Brush | Pro Blending Fluff Brush
The bristles were a little stiff for my taste, but I am always happy to have an extra eye makeup brush around.

Not the best bag I’ve received, but still pretty darn good. I do like being able to give feedback on each item, which is used to tailor the items in my future bags (as much as possible). In theory, this should mean that I won’t get as many sunscreen samples as I tend to get from other boxes…

Disclosure: I am not sponsored by or compensated by Ipsy, but I do get a referral credit if you click on the links above.

Any other Ipsy subscribers out there? What did you think of the May bag?

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Julep Review | May Box

Julep is my only nails/nail care beauty box subscription. The basic “Maven” box is $19.99/month to feed my manicure problem. Each month you can preview the different boxes and products options. While you have a beauty “style,” it’s very customizable so you can pick the colors/products you want. 

My May Maven box featured the following Classic with a Twist products:

• Maddy nail polish
• Ramona nail polish
• The infamous Plié wand

Maddy was a fairly close dupe for Queen Vic, I polish I adored but managed to break when moving. It’s a color I know I like and will end up wearing more in the fall, because I’m strange like that.

Ramona was somewhat disappointing. I loved the color in the online preview – just plain gorgeous lavender. My skin tone didn’t do the polish any favors. It looked…sickly. I figure I can use some of my more sheer polishes over it or finagle some nail art pattern to make it usable in my manicure collection.

The Plié wand was weird. I did not enjoy using it. I don’t have a ton of problems painting my nails, but I did with this. Also, I (for some reason) thought the wand was more rubbery and would form to my hand wherever I chose to bend it. I nearly broke the hard plastic in half – oops! I’m putting this tool on the shelf, so to speak.

I also opted to add on the following for a reduced cost:

• Kam nail polish
• Laree nail polish
• Freedom to Go top coat duo

I kicked myself for doing a great manicure with Kam and forgetting to take a picture before heading to the gym the next day. Turns out these polishes do not stand up to chlorine (from the pool), the steam room, and a shower. I saw online a few people describe this as “hospital green,” but I think it may depend on skin tone. It was a pretty gray/green for me.

Much like April’s bright pink Caitlin, Laree is my new go-to pedicure color. It’s just so happy! It’s a stellar cross of pink and orange, and it goes on smooth. I found myself reapplying whenever there was the slightest hint of wear. Normally I just let the polish chip away until I pick something else out.

Overall, a solid box that will add to my collection. Keep it up, Julep!

Any other Julep subscribers out there? What did you pick for your May box?

Disclosure: I am not sponsored by or compensated by Julep, but I do get a referral credit if you click on the links above.

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