Birchbox October 2014 Review - Fanfare

My favorite subscription box has arrived, and I can't wait to see what is inside. The month of October is my favorite so I have high expectations for this box in particular. Birchbox is a month subscription box full of samples and full size items that fit your beauty profile for only $10 a month. 

Every once in a while the inside box comes in a different color or pattern, but this month is back to it's normal light brown. Unfortunately, those colorful boxes seem to always have a special extra tucked inside, but who knows, this one could be just the same. 

This month's theme is Fanfare, which perfectly fits this month for me. I am such a huge fan of fall, new TV seasons, and all the things that come with October. I hope this box has some of Birchbox's favorites which will soon become my own.                                                                                                      

dr. brandt pores no more vacuum cleaner

$45 - 1 oz            

Dr. brant is such a great brand. I was so excited to see another one of his products in my Fanfare box. This really helps clean out my pores and practically makes them disappear. Plus, it smells great, which is a plus for a product that I use mostly around my nose. I am a big fan of this, and will continue to be for a while.  

ModelCo Party Proof Lipstick Trio in Kitten

$20.00 - Three 0.13 oz Lipsticks               

As one of the picks for this month's choose a sample, I decided to go with this lipstick hoping it would become my new obsession. My wish came true, because I love this product. The color just enhances my natural lips, but the matte finish puts a new spin on products I've tried before. Also, this leaves my lips soft and moisturized. I've already been looking into other colors that are available in this line. 

beautyblender + deluxe solid cleanser

$28.95 - 2 Sponges       

This product actually helped my foundation go on smoothly and more evenly creating a more natural made up face. Plus, it is so soft on my skin. This full sized item also came with a cleanser to clean the blender after use. I love receiving beauty tools along with my samples in my Birchboxes, so this was awesome to see. But, I don't like having to clean it after each use. I don't really have time for that. I will probably use for special occasions. 

Camille Beckman Glycerine Hand Therapy

$13.95 - 6 oz       

I was pleasantly surprised to enjoy this hand cream, because the sample's container felt dated. The smell is yummy and subtle and reminded me of lush products my mother used to own. This hand therapy cream is thicker than I thought and you only need to use a small amount. Plus, it left my hand silky smooth and hydrated. I am going to start using this product as my daily hand cream. 

SAGE + fasten Onward Eau de Parfum

$50.00 - 50 ml         

I've been searching for a citrusy fragrance to use as my staple, so I was really excited to see this in my box. While it does have citrus notes, the strength of this smell is with the apple. Because of this, it isn't my favorite perfume, but it did make me feel happier. I am still hoping for something a little lighter, but maybe after this sample is gone I'll want to buy the full size. 

This has got to be my favorite Birchbox ever. Not only does it contain different products of brand that I love, or new brands that I'm a new fan of, it was win after win for me. I will definitely do some shopping after these samples. I estimated this box to be worth $32.40 which is on the lower end for the worth of contents inside, but that just means the full size items will be nicer to my wallet. 

If you would like to try Birchbox for yourself. just click here. I have definitely discovered a ton of new products I love, and now you will too!

Ipsy September 2014 Review - Street Style

My  September Ipsy Glambag has arrived. I continue to receive Ipsy every month for $10 because I love the beauty samples, fully size beauty items, and the new makeup bag fitting the theme. It is also such a fun surprise to see what each month bag has in store for me.

The theme for the month of September is Street Style. this month is all about creating that urban look perfect for a night out in the city. I am not entirely thrilled about this theme, but I do live downtown and I'm always looking for ways to spruce up my look.

This month's makeup bag definitely fits the theme. It has a shiny metallic color with a border of studs. It could seriously be doubled as a clutch if you forgot a bag to go out in while visiting a city, but I will probably just use it for my makeup. This isn't really my style, but it is growing on me. 

Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask

$26.00 - 5.25 oz       

My hair is normally on the greasy side, so I try to use a light conditioner. On that not note, this item isn't really for me. I don't really care for the smell either. It smells like a spicy flower. I will probably save this for the next time I dye my hair, and the sample is big enough  to get a few uses. 

NYC Hot Singles Eye Shadow in Innocent & Crown Infinity Shadow/Crease Duet Brush

$4.50 - 1.5 g

At first glance, I really liked this color, but after applying, it is a little dark for everyday wear. Besides that, the color really stood out without having to apply a ton of layers. The single case is also very cute, and I can throw this in anywhere to give myself touchups during the day. I will use this as a base for nights out when I will be wearing darker makeup. 

$17.50


I am in love with this makeup brush. I love that Ipsy includes tools along with the products in some of the Glambags. This is a duel ended brush, so it can be the only brush you need when applying eye makeup. I like the round thicker end when applying a base, and the sharp edged end is perfect for hitting the crease. I'm impressed with this Crown brush and will be looking into purchasing some more. 

Pacifica Natural Waterproof Eye Pencil in Fringe

$11.00 - 0.1 oz             

I have about ten eyeliners and all of them are black, so I was excited to see a new color, and one that works well with my skin tone. This eyeliner goes on so smoothly and the brown color blends in perfectly, even with black mascara. I wore this to a casual wedding, and I felt dressy without going over the top. It is a great eyeliner for any snappy casual event. 

Hikari Lipstick in Cabernet

$13.00 - 3.8 g

This dark red lip color is definitely darker than what I'm used to, but it fits perfectly with the theme, and I'm always willing to try out new makeup colors. Lip colors when not mixed with a moisturizer normally dry out my lips, but this product made my lips feel silky smooth. I will still probably use a moisturizer before or after applying this, but I could really go without. Overall, I am mostly impressed with this product and will be throwing in my clutch for the next evening out on the town. 

This month of September's Ipsy Glambag had some hits and misses, but it was an overall success. I've found a few new products that I can no longer live without, and some others that will help me enhance my street style. The products usually fit in with each month's theme, which is another reason I'm a huge fan of Ipsy. I estimate this bags products to be worth an estimated $43.04, which is much more that the cost. I can't wait to see what next month has in store. 

If you would like to try out Ipsy Glambag for yourself, just click here. For only $10 a month you can test out new makeup products that just could become some of your staples.

Birchbox September 2014 Review - Fresh Paint

My September Birchbox arrived, and I can not wait to see what the theme of the month is. Also, last month's box wasn't that exciting for me, so I hope that Birchbox stepped it up for me for this month.

Usually, Birchbox's box is just plain brown, but this month it is super fun and colorful. I know that this is their anniversary month, and I hope that this month's products are that much more exciting. 

The theme for this month is Fresh Paint. With the season's changing and a new school year beginning, Fresh Paint is the perfect way to dive into new colors, products, and inspirations.  I'm excited to see what products in this box will help me mix up and change my beauty routine.  

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser Starter Kit

$24.50 - 3.3 fl oz + 2 muslin cloths        

Recently, Birchbox allows their members to chose one item from a list of new products to try each month. This is the third month that this option existed, and this is the first time that I actually chose one of them. I am super in love with this product. The face cleansing scrub and muslin cloth left my skin brighter and feeling fresh. Yet, it didn't leave my skin dry like most other cleansers. While I didn't opt to pick out one of my samples in the past because I'd rather be surprised, I'm glad I picked this product for my September box. I also like how it goes with the theme!

Smashbox Cosmetics Be Legendary Long-Wear Lip Lacquer in Coral

$24.00 - .20 fl oz              

This lip lacquer is great and the color is perfect for my skin tone. I did have to put a moisturizer on before applying this glossy lip color, but I have super dry lips. I didn't have to reapply this color that much, though, because it acted like a lip stain. I will definitely be wearing this until it is gone. It is the perfect color for fall.

Dear Clark, Resurrecting Wash and Rinse

$24.00 each - 8.5 oz           

This shampoo and conditioner left my hair feeling super clean, and while it wasn't anything too special, I did love how it made my hair feel soft and light. This shampoo and conditioner smelled like patchouli, which isn't my favorite smell, but I can deal with it. The samples were hard to use because the bottles are made from a hard plastic, and I won't be buying the full size because it costs too much for something that's not that special. 

Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum

$79.00 - 30 ml       

I'm not too thrilled about this sample. It is super small and I don't really see myself needing this product. It claims to remove dark spots and even skin tone, but this product wouldn't be enough to cover my entire face twice so I wouldn't really be able to notice any improvements. I'm saving this for the only part of my face that really has dark spots, which is under my eyes. I haven't noticed a difference yet, but I hope that I'll eventually be able to see a difference. 

I am completely in love with half of this box! I wish it could be a complete win, but there is always next month. I can definitely mix these products into my new fall routine. I estimate this box to be worth $30.98 which is way more than the $10 I spent. Birchbox has always been worth the value. 

If you would like to try Birchbox for yourself, just click here. For only $10 a month you can receive a both full of samples and full size beauty items curated just for you. 

Ispy August 2014 Review - Beauty Schooled

My Ipsy Glam Bag is here for August and I can't wait to see what the theme is for the month. Ipsy is a beauty subscription bag that comes with both samples and full size items in a makeup bag for $10 every month. 

This month's theme is Beauty Schooled. It is the middle of August and school goes back into swing in a couple of weeks, so these items are will help perfect this years new beauty routine. Unfortunately, I am all done with school, but hopefully these items will help me freshen up my look. 

At first glance, I am not completely into this bag or the items inside. I don't like the plastic, polkadot bag, and the none of the items inside look that exciting. I hope that once I sample each one of these they will have more to offer.

Absolute Lip Balm You're the Balm in Green Apple

$5.99 for 2 - 12 g          

I wasn't too excited to see this sample in my bag because I already own this product, but at least I will have a backup if my original one goes missing. This isn't a lip balm I would use to deeply replenish my chapped lips, but it is perfect for a nice glossy look when your lips are too chapped for lipstick. Plus, the green apple smell is so yummy and goes with the school theme. 

Dr. Brandt Pores No More Pore Refiner Primer

$45 - 1 fl oz               

This primer blends so well and really diminishes your pores. Unfortunately, it left my face shiny, and when I used a powder to tone it down it made my the toner ball up. I will definitely be using this where my pores stick out the most, but I won't use this on my entire face again. I will happily use this sample, but I won't be purchasing the full size item.

Coastal Scents Forever Blush in Fresh and Elegant

$7.95 - 10 g             

These blushes are cuter than I expected. I was super disappointed by the size and colors, but was complete surprised when I tried them out. I was not into the glittery pink blush, but it blends so well and definitely could sport this color with a girly outfit. The bronzy. peach color of the second blush is perfect for my skin tone and could double as a bronzer for my pale skin.

Lord & Berry Kajal Kohl Eye Pencil in Black Silk

$19.35 - 4 g         

I am always happy to receive eyeliner in my Ipsy Glam bag, because I never buy it for myself. This eyeliner didn't glide on like I like it to, so I have to warm it up before I applied. It did look nice on, and it lasted the entire night. This is another sample that I'm happy to have, but will not be buying the full size item.

Urban Decay Perversion Mascara 

$22.00 - 12 ml         

I have a hard time finding a mascara that I really like, and this one is one of the better that I've sampled. I like out it makes my lashes look longer and separated, but I wish it made them look even bigger. I will definitely use this as a base with another mascara to get the look I want.

At first sight, this Ipsy Glam bag was one of my least favorites, but after checking out the samples I liked it a lot more than I thought I would. None of these samples are must haves for me, but they will definitely add something different to my makeup collection. This month is now middle of the barrel. 

I estimate this month's Ipsy Glam bag to be worth $24.55, which is definitely more than the $10 I spent. If you would like to try Ipsy for yourself, just click here. 

Try The World Review - Tokyo Box + 30% off Coupon Code 1st Box.

One of my favorite subscription boxes has arrived. Try the World is a subscription box that arrives every two months filled with food and culture from the featured city. I love that I can take a mini vacation to a new place with each box.

This month's box takes us to Tokyo, Japan. I am thrilled that Tokyo is the city for this box, because my boyfriend just went there without me, and now I can finally share the experience with him. Also, I'm interested in getting his point of view of the items included.

With every Try the World box, you get a collection a cards. These have listed the content with descriptions, tips on culture, food, and drinks, both classics and modern playlists, and movies. These are great for whenever you might actually visit the city, or a better way to enjoy the contents of the box with a movie or some music. 

Japanese Bamboo Chopsticks

$2.99 - each            $5.98

I love these chopsticks, and I really love that they came in a set of two, because I love to share. These look so oriental and heavy duty. They also have little grips on the end for grabbing difficult food. This box was complete with a crash course on using chopsticks. I already use them frequently, so the help wasn't needed, but it's perfect for the average box subscriber. 

Daiyo Shiko Origami Paper

$3.00 - 6 sheets

What I love about the Tokyo box compared to the Paris box is the additional lifestyle items along with the food items. This origami paper is no exception. Even though it is only 6 sheets of paper, each has a different, beautiful pattern. I haven't used them yet, because I don't think my origami is up to par, but I definitely will once I'm practiced up on regular paper. 

Konpeito Sugar Candy

$1.98 - 3.06 oz

This candy instantly reminds me of Tokyo. It is so colorful and full of character. I love that this box included something for your sweet tooth, but it is pretty plain in flavor. I think this item is more fun to eat than something to savor, but I am happy to just that.

Takaokaya Nori

$2.29 - 0.75 oz

Nori are roasted seaweed sheets which are found everywhere in Tokyo. They can be used to wrap up sushi, coned for rice balls, or just eaten plane. They are also a great source of many so nutrients. I have yet to eat these, and I am not sure if it's because I can't get over the fact that it is seaweed, or because I can't seem to master the craft of making sushi, but I definitely plan on trying to soon. 

Kingado Senbei

$4.99 - 10 pieces         $2.50

These Japanese rice crackers are the perfect snack for any Tokyo native. They can be cooked in so many different ways but are usually brushed with soy sauce. These have such a great simple taste. I could definitely snack on these all day, or when I need something to hold me over. This is one item I might be replacing once I run out.

Aoi Tea Matcha in Blueberry

$15.90 - 8 oz             $3.18

Tea is definitely a staple of Tokyo and this tea is the gourmet of teas. I love green tea, but I'm not usually a fan of blueberry flavors. This tea is great regardless and I can't stop drinking it. I've been paring this with all the other food items from this box. 

Imuraya Yokan

$16.00 - 3.52 oz

Yokan is a thick jellied desert made from red bean paste, agar, and sugar. These chewy bars are not my favorite, but I can see myself getting used to this sweet snack. These vegan treats were introduced when red beans and wheat flour replaced gelatin in foods in order to save the animals. Also, these treats are made with only all natural ingredients.

S&B Ginger in Tube

$2.99 - 1.41 oz

Ginger is definitely an acquired taste, and I've definitely learned to love it. This ginger in a tube is perfect for adding to sauces, marinades, or stir-frys in large or smaller amounts. I am going to use it primarily for dipping my sushi. I couldn't see this Tokyo box without any ginger because it is such a huge staple of the country. 

Morinaga & Company Milk Caramel Candy

$2.49 - 12 pieces

These caramels are from a Japanese recipe that is over 110 years old. Even though these caramels are really delicious, I am not thrilled to see them in the Tokyo box. Caramels were included in the Paris box, and I don't really think about the milky treat as a Tokyo staple. I wish that this item were replaced with something that were a little more Tokyo.

Overall, I loved this Tokyo box. I loved the mix of both food and culture items. I also loved that it included food items that I can cook new recipes with. I can't wait to try and cook things that I've only thought I could eat in a restaurant. I estimate that this box cost $40.41 which is less than I paid. But it isn't much less than, and I think it is completely worth it because I get to try new products that I would have tried without my subscription. 

If you would like to receive Try the World yourself, just click here. Plus, you will get 30% off your first box. Each new member starts with the Paris box and receives every city's box along the way. For only $45 a month you could be experiencing a new city every two months.

Birchbox August 2014 Review - Lighten Up

My August Birchbox has arrived and, like always, I cannot wait to see what's inside. I have a few exciting events coming up, and I would love some new beauty items to freshen up my makeup bag. 

I see that new box went back to the old cardboard coloring. I love these classic boxes. I've been reusing them for wrapping gifts. I like them even more when they first arrive to my door and are filled with both samples and full size beauty items. 

The theme for the month of August is lighten up. Each description card has a funny suggestion about August. This month is all about having fun for the last summer month along with lightening up on makeup. I hope this box is full of items that will help me from piling on my face with products. 

LAQA & Co. Sheer Lip Lube Pencil in Menatour

$18.00 - 0.07 oz       

I love how many new lip colors I've worn since subscribing to Birchbox, and this lip color is no exception. I would never pick out a purple, but I absolutely love this color. Also, it goes on so smooth and doesn't dry out my lips. Plus, this color is following this month's theme by lightening up and making makeup fun. It has a nice, fresh minty smell to add to the mix. 

Neil George Shampoo & Conditioner 

$9.00 each - 3.38 oz      

This is not my favorite shampoo by far. I really don't care for the smell and the shampoo barely lathers at all. I had to use a larger gob than normal to cover my entire head, and it still left my head a little greasy. The conditioner did leave my hair soft, but again, the smell isn't my favorite. I'm a little bummed that the shampoo and conditioner took up two of my samples, but at least I know that I don't want the full size item.

                   

Benefit Total Moisture Facial Cream

$42.00 - 1.7 oz               

I use facial cream every day, so this sample is something that I will totally use. It is such a nice formula, but a little heavy for summer, especially if I am going to wear makeup on top. Also, this face cream doesn't have any SPF, so I'd have to add another layer anytime I plan on spending some time outside. I love this sample, but not for August. I'll save these for the dry winter months. 

Dr. Jart+ Dis-A-Pore Beauty Balm

$36.00 - 1.7 oz         

This BB beauty balm is tinted, which I didn't expect, but it was a great surprise. I love that I can wear this one product instead of having to apply both face lotion and foundation. Plus, this totally balances out my face. This product is the perfect way to lighten up. 

This wasn't my favorite Birchbox, but a few items definitely delivered. Most of the samples were a pretty good size, and I feel like Birchbox knows me better each month. That being said, I will definitely be staying with Birchbox, and I can't wait to see what next month has to offer. 

I estimate this box to be worth $36.70, which is much more than I payed. Birchbox always packs in more value than the cost. If you would like to try Birchbox for yourself, just click here.