Limited Edition – Lisa Preziosi

Birchbox: July 2016 Review & New LE Box

So today is the end of an era, where I’m reviewing my very last Birchbox. Now, I may decide to one day give it another try, but for now I just found that the value wasn’t there for me. That doesn’t mean I won’t try out their Limited Edition boxes, so don’t be surprised if you see Birchbox pop back up here again. Speaking of which, Birchbox introduced a new Limited Edition box:
Limited Edition: Cheers to You!

Cost: $50.00
Description: “Birthday? Engagement? Got the job, aced that exam, or conquered a 5K? Whatever the “woohoo!” moment, this box is filled with products and keepsakes to help you—or someone special—celebrate. Think: a gem-inspired palette, a soothing gel mask, a gold-accented tray, and much more. Planning on gifting the box to a rockstar in your life? There’s a matching, festive card (ready to be filled in by you).”
This box looks like it’s got some great items (I’m loving the little tray) but for me it’s a bit pricey. (I expect a higher end brand than Pixi for a $50 box). I’m opting out of this one, but hoping that we see some other great Fall inspired LE box.

Now let’ see what my last Birchbox included:

I think I’ll miss the cute boxes most of all!

Balance Me Radiance Face Mask (Full Size $34.00)
Description: “Suitable for all skin types, the clay-based formula cleanses, exfoliates, and brightens skin.”
Verdict: Like
I enjoy trying out different types of masks and this is a new brand for me.

Benefit They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara (Full Size: $24.00)
Description: “Formula with all-day wear for lashes so long and thick, you may be accused of fakery.”
Verdict: Like
This was the sample I chose from the mascaras that were up for grabs. This is one of my favorite mascaras (right after It Cosmetic’s “Hello Lashes”), so I figured I’d just stock up.

Cartier Baiser Volé Lys Rose Eau de Toilette Spray (1.7 oz: $90.00)
Description: ”This sweet, subtle scent comes from a captivating cocktail of crystallized pink lily petals and hints of raspberry.”
Verdict: Who wants to pay $90 for a headache? Any takers?
So we get to one of the most compelling reasons I canceled this box. The damn perfume samples. I cannot use 99% of perfume samples and yet I can’t opt out of them. They are also free everywhere – magazines, makeup counters. They should not be included as one of the main items in the box. An extra item? Sure, why not. But as one of 5 samples. Nope. This year, I chose the curated box twice. That leaves 5 remaining boxes with unknown samples, out of which 3 included fragrance. I chose the option for the “least” amount of perfumes in my box and I still got them over half the time. Unless Birchbox changes the perfume situation, I doubt I will re-subscribe.

Clinique City Block™ Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel (5 oz: $20.00)
Description: ”A detoxifying cleansing gel with charcoal to zap pores of dirt, oil and makeup.”
Verdict: Hit!
I’m not particularly into Clinique skincare but I’m intrigued by a Charcoal Cleansing gel so this one will be fun to try out.

LOC Ultra-Gloss Lip Pencil in Punch Line
(Full Size: $12.00)
Description: “From the Birchbox brand: A hydrating, lasting, and glossy lip pencial in a sheer watermelon pink that flatters everyone.”
Verdict: Like
First, after getting some super small samples in past boxes, I’m really liking this full size. This felt nice going on and the color is a nice cheerful hue. I like the sheer consistency which makes it a lot more wearable than more opaque lip products.

OVERALL

Verdict: Like
This box came while Birchbox’s old review policy was in place so I paid $10.70 for this box and received $5.00 in Birchbox points with my reviews. If it weren’t for the perfume sample, I would have given this one a “hit”. I will use all the items in the box, and the size of the samples was definitely an improvement over previous boxes. I’m interested to see if Birchbox works on improving their sample curation now that they’ve lost a significant number of subscribers.

How do you feel about perfume samples in your beauty box?
Do you love them? Hate them?
Think they should only be bonus items?
Dish!

THE BACKSTORY
Birchbox subscriptions cost $10 per month or $110 per year (Women’s Sub)
$20 per month or $195 per year (Men’s Sub)

Points System:
Whenever you buy something at Birchbox they give you Birchbox points. $1.00 = 1 Birchbox Point.
You can redeem reward points for money toward your Birchbox purchases.
You can also earn points by referring/subscribing friends.

Birchbox Limited Edition: Beauty in Bloom

I had a bunch of Birchbox points I was saving up, so when a coupon code popped up and Birchbox’s Limited Edition Beauty in Bloom box was available, I decided to treat myself.

This box costs $64 and is described as follows:
“Fresh-cut flowers are typically reserved for special occasions, but we’re firm believers that every day should feel special and important. Consider this box the beauty equivalent of a blooming bouquet. The thoughtful collection is filled with luxe treats and indulgences—like a refreshing rose mist, a cult-classic lavender hand cream, a prettily packaged perfume, and a chic vanity tray—to make even the most humdrum days feel a little bit fancier. The best part? These beauties are 100 percent wilt-proof.”

The packing on this one was lovely and perfectly suited for gift giving.
A beautiful box with floral detailing:

Darphi Intral Toner – Travel Size (Full Size $54.00)
Description: “Ultragentle, complexion-soothing formula that leave skin calm, refreshed, and nourished.”
Verdict: Hit!
I love soothing toners as a follow up to an oil cleanser. The combo is perfect for getting my skin clean but still moisturized. Because of the size I think I might reserve this one for travel.

Davines Oil – Absolute Beautifying Potion – Sample Size (Full Size: $42.00)
Description: “This lightweight, antioxidant-rich serum tames frizz, boosts shine and prevents breakage.”
Verdict: Like
I really love the Davines brand so even though I’m practically swimming in hair oil, I’m still happy to try this out. This is a sample size, but it’s still pretty generous.

Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist – Sample Size (Full Size: $35.00)
Description: ” Loaded with flower extracts, this rose-scented mist balances pH levels and refreshes skin.”
Verdict: Hit!
I’ve used Jurlique before and really liked it. I’ve also just started getting into using Rosewater as a toner. I think this will be a nice refreshing spray to perk up skin during summer travel.

Laura Geller New York Baked Color True Blush – Full Size (Retail: $28.00)
Description: ”Perfect for an instant complexion perk-up, this baked blush gives a natural glow.”
Verdict: On the Fence
I believe the shade I received was “Maui” and it’s a bit more glittery than I prefer in my blushes. I recently got a different blush from Laura Geller in my regular Birchbox and absolutely love it. I’m going to put this one aside for a bit and see if I’ll use it more as we head into the summer.

Lollia by Margot Elena Shea Butter Handcreme – Travel Size (4 oz Size: $25.00)
Description: “A cult classic, this lush, hydrating hand cream has note of lavender, Indian amber and Tahitian vanilla.”
Verdict: Love
I love Margot Elena products, although the scents can be a bit hit or miss for me. The packaging on this is gorgeous and the size will be perfect to keep in my work bag. Lavender is a scent that works for me, so this one is definitely a win.

Mally Beauty Eye-Amplifying Shadow Liner in Deep Taupe – Full Size
(Retail: $20.00)
Description: “This creamy, versatile eye pencil glides on smoothly, blends easily and lasts all day long.”
Verdict: Love, Love, Love
This works amazingly well as an eyeshadow. It’s a fabulous neutral shade that will look great with every skintone. It gives that candlelit glow look to the lids and works well on its own or paired with other shades. It swipes on easily and I like it so much that I’ll probably end grabbing it in the “stone” shade as well.

NEST Fragrances Grapefruit Votive Candle (Retail: $16.00)
Description: “This citrus-scented candle blends watery green nuances, lily of the valley and coriander blossom.”
Verdict: Hit!
Nest makes amazing candles and citrus oriented fragrances are my absolute favorite. This will be nice to light in the bathroom during a spa day.

NEST Fragrances Indigo Eau de Parfum – Travel Size (8mL: $25.00)
Description: “Infused with Moroccan tea and wild fig, this captivating scent easily transitions from work to play.”
Verdict: Love!
Surprisingly, this was one of the products I was most excited about. I had caught a whiff of this at Sephora and really liked it. Perfumes that don’t give me headaches are like unicorns so this was a great find for me. The scent isn’t too heavy, but has depth to it. It’s not super floral or overly fruity and leans on the sophisticated side. I have no idea by what miracle I can wear this, but I’m happy to have a new scent to use.

Smith & Cult The Shining Lip Lacquer in High Speed Sonnet – Full Size
(Retail: $22.00)
Description: “Get an extremely smooth finish (and a plumper look) with this moisturizing lip gloss.”
Verdict: Love!
This was another product that really pushed me to grab this box. I’m infatuated with Smith & Cult polishes and have been wanting to try one of their lip products for quite some time. The color is saturated, fun and perfect for summer. Plus it has absolutely gorgeous packaging.

stila HUGE™ extreme lash mascara – Travel Size (Full Size: $23.00)
Description: “One coat of this jet-black mascara gives you a major boost of volume, curl, and length.”
Verdict: Gift
I’ve tried this mascara before and it’s not my favorite so I’m going to use it as part of a gift.

Umbra Prisma Tray (Retail: $15.00)
Description: “This modern, chic tray features a linen lining to help jewelry (and other odds and ends) stay organized.”
Verdict: Like
This is a funky little tray, but I’m not quite sure what I’m going to do with it yet. It seems suited to top a dresser or desk, but currently all those places are occupied. It may need to wait until I finally move somewhere with a bit more space. It would make a perfect little dish to keep by the entryway and leave your keys in.

OVERALL

Verdict: Love!
I used my Birchbox points so I nabbed this for free, but I think it’s a great value for $64. Except for the mascara, I really liked all the products included. The curation was spot on for a Spring floral theme and had a nice balance of skincare, makeup, hair and home products. I also thought it was great that with the mascara, blush, lip lacquer and eyeshadow stick, this one box could give you a full makeup look. The packaging felt luxe and special, making this a really great gift option for the woman in your life who loves beauty products.

Have you ever tried been tempted by one of the Birchbox Limited Edition boxes?

SUBSCRIPTION THERAPY NEWS!
We’ve still got a great giveaway for a free Orglamix May box. Enter between now and June 13^th! Check here for all the details.

THE BACKSTORY
Birchbox subscriptions cost $10 per month or $110 per year (Women’s Sub)
$20 per month or $195 per year (Men’s Sub)

Birchbox: January 2016 & a new Limited Edition Box!

So the first Birchbox of the year came in this adorable fill in the blank style box.

Inside were a bunch of stickers you could use to customize it. Since I want a year full of all.the.things I opted not to choose one.

amika Nourishing Mask (Full Size $28)
Description: “Paraben-free treatment that conditions and repairs with superfruit sea buckthorn berry.”
Verdict: Miss
I’ve liked amika products in the past so I expected this would be great but it left my hair pretty dry. If you’re looking for an amazing hair mask, the best I’ve ever tried is by Sabon, it’s only a dollar more than the amika and so much better.

Cane + Austin 2%/5% Acne Retexture Pads (Full Size: $60.00)
Description: “These treatment pads contain 5% glycolic acid to fight the effects of aging, plus 2% salicylic acid to help clear acne.”
Verdict: Why?
I don’t understand why I received this. Outside of an occasional pimple around that time of the month, I don’t have any acne issues and I indicated that on my profile. And even if I did have an acne situation, would *one* “retexture” pad really give me an idea of this product’s effectiveness? This was a big miss.

Eyeko Fat Liquid Liner (Retail Value: $16.00)
Description: ”This eyeliner delivers the same smudgeproof, rich color in a thicker, bolder line than the original skinny liner.”
Verdict: Like
This was my sample choice and I regularly wear winged liner and am always on the hunt for awesome liquid liners that won’t smudge on my oily, hooded lids. This one is certainly a very saturated black, but I think I’m going to need to get used to the thickness of it. It isn’t quite smudgeproof on me, but it does a decent job. I still however, prefer my Kat Von D Tattoo liner in ink black.

Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk (Retail Value: $20.00)
Description: ”Award-winning fan fave that absorbs grease and puts the bounce back into second-day hair.”
Verdict: Like
I’ve received this product before and I really like it. It does exactly what it says it will and I highly recommend it. I’m putting this one aside for my next trip.

Whish Three Whishes Body Butter (Full Size: $24.00)
Description: “Lucsious, anti0xidant-rich formula that firms, softens and soothes.”
Verdict: I “wish” they’d stop it with this brand already
Forgive my pun, but am I the only one sick of getting Whish products? I don’t really care for them and I’ve gotten them over and over again. Birchbox, if I haven’t bought full sizes by now, I’m not going to do it so just send me something new to try.

OVERALL

Verdict: Okay
I paid $10.70 for this box and after reviewing the products received $5.00 in Birchbox points. Thankfully the sample I chose (the eyeliner) is more than worth the cost of this box and the Klorane is just a nice extra. I am really disappointed in some of the other choices and I’m just not quite feeling like Birchbox is really looking at my profile or the items I like and purchase.

How have your Birchboxes been measuring up?

BIRCHBOX NEWS!

Birchbox released a new Limited Edition box called
Limited Edition: Why Not…Stay In
It’s priced at $45 and features some great items for a home spa day including masks, nail polish and even cozy socks. I am sorely tempted to grab one for myself, so we’ll see if my heart or my budget win out.

THE BACKSTORY
Birchbox subscriptions cost $10 per month or $110 per year (Women’s Sub)
$20 per month or $195 per year (Men’s Sub)

Birchbox: December 2015 & a new Limited Edition Box Spoiler!

For the last Birchbox of 2015, the theme was “All Wrapped Up” and I opted once again to splurge on a Birchbox plus item, cue the giant box with lots of wrapped goodies inside.

BIRCHBOX PLUS

Umbra® Toto Storage Box (Retail Cost: $30.00)
Description: “Just because you’ve decided to take a grown-up approach to storage doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your vibrant, contemporary style. Enter this cute, convenient catchall by Umbra. Featuring a slide-out tray, it easily organizes odds and ends in any room (from Q-tips to lipstick, earrings, or art supplies).”
I’m a sucker for the color mint and organizing so I snatched this one up right away. Unfortunately it’s a bit smaller than I had anticipated – it’s more like desk organizer size rather than say, toolbox size. I think I’m going to use it to organize some crafting items. I paid $26.75 for this so I got a bit of a discount. Plus the mint shade is not available on the Birchbox site anymore, but you can still get it in Eggplant.

FREEBIE!

BAGGU® Big BAGGU (Retail Cost: $12.00)
Description: “There are certain shopping events—back-to-school, holiday gift binges, Whole Foods trips for your inevitably epic housewarming—that demand serious attention. For those times, we turn to this trusty BAGGU Big Tote, which is not only incredibly durable and eco-friendly, but ultrachic too.”
I don’t know why but I got this awesome Freebie with my order. (I think there was some promotion going on that apparently I was totally unaware of). I actually own two Baggu items in this print, but I just have so many reusable totes like this so I ended up adding to someone’s Christmas gift.

Another pretty box & a coupon:

Coastal Scents® styleEYES Palette in socialEYES (Full Size $12)
Description: “A bold, beautiful eye shadow palette in alluring smoky tones.”
Verdict: Love!
I chose this item so it’s no surprise that I love it, but I didn’t anticipate how pretty and pigmented these colors would be. The whole palette only costs $12 so if you’re in the market for one and like these shades you may want to give it a shot.

COOLA® Classic SPF 30 Cucumber Moisturizer for Face (Full Size: $32.00)
Description: “Hydrator that blocks UV rays, protects against future signs of aging, and has a fresh cucumber scent.”
Verdict: Not for gingers
I wish there was an option to request no products with anything below SPF 45. Seriously it’s just useless for me. I’d need to reapply this thing every 5 minutes. I’ll pass this along to a friend who could use it.

JUARA Coconut Illipe Hand & Nail Balm (Retail Value: $20.00)
Description: ”This fast-absorbing, long-lasting moisturizing balm hydrates, firms and plumps hands and improves nails and cuticles.”
Verdict: Miss
I’ve received Juara products in Birchboxes before and I just don’t care for the brand. I’m also a bit particular about the hand and nail products I like, so this one is a miss.

Oscar De La Renta Signature Eau de Toilette (Retail Value: $26.00)
Description: ”Inspired by scents from lush gardens in the Dominican Republic, this perfume is feminine and floral, with woodsy notes.”
Verdict: and to Grandma’s House we go.
STOP WITH THE PERFUME. Seriously. Please do us all a favor and let us just opt out of perfumes entirely. I chose the least possible amount of perfumes and still I get these fuckers like every month. This is another heavy old lady floral. How about you try some fresher cleaner scents? Or even a fruit one? Why do they all have to smell like your Grandma’s canasta game?

theBalm® cosmetics Frat Boy® Blush/Shadow (Full Size: $21.00)
Description: “This talc-free, finely ground blush and shadow formula gives skin a fresh radiance that makes you look, and feel, young.”
Verdict: Like
theBalm is a fun brand and this blush has a very natural look on me. I keep hoping I’ll get one of their cream blushes to try out but so far no luck. Besides the eyeshadow this is the only other item I actually like in this box.

OVERALL

Verdict: Cue Sad Trombone
Outside of the sample I picked for myself, I can only really use one item. And not only do I keep getting perfumes, they continue to smell awful. I paid $10.70 for this box and after reviewing the products received $5.00 in Birchbox points. Because the eyeshadow and blush are so small, I don’t really think I got my money’s worth this month. I’m hoping 2016 will bring more makeup samples, less perfumes and some Korean skincare.

What do you hope to see in your 2016 Birchboxes?

BIRCHBOX NEWS!
A new limited Edition, box called Strong Start box is soon to be released!
Here’s a spoiler:

If you’re interested just keep checking back to the Birchbox LE Box page to see when it drops.

THE BACKSTORY
Birchbox subscriptions cost $10 per month or $110 per year (Women’s Sub)
$20 per month or $195 per year (Men’s Sub)

Birchbox Limited Edition Modern Mermaid Box: Summer 2014

Here’s another little secret about me. If you slap the name mermaid on a product, I’ll probably buy it. So when Birchbox introduced their Limited Edition “Modern Mermaid Box” I jumped right on it and ordered it at the beginning of June. I was going on a work trip to Baltimore and was excited to get the travel sized items. After a few weeks I realized I hadn’t received my box yet (although I got another item from the same order). I contacted Birchbox and it turns out there was a mixup and my box should have been sent but wasn’t. They apologized, gave me 100 points on my account and rushed the box to me. Unfortunately they couldn’t guarantee it would come in time for my trip. Luckily it arrived right before I had to leave, so it all worked out. Birchbox’s customer service was very nice and quite helpful so if you run into any problems with an order, be sure to give them a call.

Now enough about the shipping saga, let’s get into the box.

First the packaging is even cuter than the regular Birchboxes. I am totally recycling these for my OCD organization projects.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Lash Genius Waterproof Topcoat
(Full Size Retail: $21.00)
Description: “This waterproof topcoat makes any mascara water resistant…The clear lightweight gel eradicates flakes, drying, and clumping, while the high-tech formula adds a glossy finish to lashes.”
Verdict: Love!
This waterproof topcoat does exactly what it says it will. I have the worst time with mascara and eyeliner smudging on me—even waterproof brands. This one turned my regular old mascaras into fabulous waterproof products. I will be buying this in a full-size when it runs out. If you have a tough time finding waterproof mascaras that work for you, I can’t recommend this enough.

Atelier Cologne Cédrat Enivrant Cologne Absolue
(30 mL Retail: $65.00)
Description: “his fragrance celebrates citrus in all its forms, from the sour sweetness of lime to the sharp, rindy smell of Calabrian bergamot. If your favorite things in life come with a dash of citrus—like the twist of lime in a gin and tonic—this scent will strike a chord..”
Verdict: Like
I am in love with the Orange Sanguine cologne from this brand, but it’s a little out of my budget. (Although I’m probably going to break down and buy the travel size spray from Sephora). This scent isn’t sweet despite the citrus. It’s kind of got a bracing lime scent with a touch of something almost musky. It reminds me a lot of a cocktail and I think the gin and tonic comparison they use as a descriptor is apropos. I like this scent but don’t love it. It definitely feels summery and is very different than most perfumes and doesn’t give me a headache, so I’m happy to have it in my collection. I do wish that Birchbox would sell the Atelier colognes in individual travel spray sizes, since the full size bottles are a bit on the pricey side.

Captain Blankenship Mermaid Mane Sea Salt Spray
(Full Size Retail 4 oz: $24.00)
Description: “This all-natural mist gives you sexy beach hair—minus the sand in your swimsuit. Use it year-round for the perfect combination of body, natural movement, and a touch of grit, plus a lovely beachy rose scent.”
Verdict: Love!
If this is my year of hair product exploration, this is my summer of sea salt sprays. I loved this spray and thought it did a great job of making my wavy hair more defined. The scent was light, airy and not intrusive. When I work my way through my sea salt spray collection, I think this is the brand I’ll be repurchasing.

COOLA Liplux SPF 30 Original Formula
(Retail: $12.00)
Description: “…SPF 30 balm…comes in a travel-friendly tube and provides broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Made with 70 percent organic ingredients, the food-grade (read: practically edible) formula is enriched with vitamins and antioxidants to moisturize lips and combat fine lines.”
Verdict: Like
While I have lip balms and products with SPF none are this high. I’m happy to have this for days when I’ll be out in the sun for a while.

Vasanti Kajal Extreme Eye Pencil in Electric Navy
(Retail: $22.00)
Description: “This kohl pencil glides on easily, adding instant drama to your look, while the waterproof formula stays put for up to eight hours. Plus, each pencil has a handy built-in smudger and sharpener, so you can create well-defined or sultry looks.”
Verdict: Hit!
I’m in love with blue liners this season and am building up quite a collection. I was so enamored with this color I featured it in my July Blog Hop Post. It goes on smoothly and lasts for quite some time before smudging. The shade is just a bit different than the usual navy.

Stephanie Johnson Mermaid Round Snap Mirror
(Retail: $22.00)
Description: “With this mermaid-inspired iridescent compact, we landlubbers can capture a bit of that shimmering allure. This colorful compact has a slim silhouette, and its mirror is large enough to show your entire face. The case snaps shut to keep the mirror scuff-free.”
Verdict: Hit!
Did I need another compact mirror? No. But is this super adorable? Yes. It definitely screams out summer and mermaid and I just love it. I’ll definitely be tucking it in my bag this summer.

RUFFIAN The Endless Summer Collection
(Retail: $26.50)
Description: “With hues like glistening sand, glimmering water, and a shimmering sunset, all the best parts of summer (and, thankfully, none of the hair-wilting humidity) make an appearance in Ruffian’s new polish collection, available exclusively through Birchbox. The collection includes three beach-inspired shades: Blue Lagoon, a metallic blue; Endless Love, a metallic pink; and Sahara, a metallic nude.”
Verdict: Like!
We know that I need more polish like a fish needs a bicycle, but I actually haven’t tried the Ruffian brand before so it was nice to get this sampler. My favorite of the three, turned out to be Sahara. I think it will be a great base for fun topcoats like Julep’s Max or Tania. The formula went on smoothly and was pretty opaque with one coat, although I’d probably use two when doing my manicure.

OVERALL
Verdict: Love!

Everything in this box was something I loved or liked. The travel sizes were quite generous and will last me for some time. I paid $44.00 and feel like I got a great value. This box is still available and I highly recommend picking it up. I love the balance of practical products (like the lip balm and mascara topcoat) with the more whimsical fun items (like the compact and the eyeliner). If you’ve got Birchbox points saved up, this is a great pick.

What did you think of this Limited Edition box? Are you also a sucker for Mermaid/Ocean inspired beauty products?

THE BACKSTORY

Birchbox subscriptions cost $10 per month or $110 per year.

Your options: Women’s Box or Men’s Box

Points System:
Whenever you buy something at Birchbox they give you Birchbox points. $1.00 = 1 Birchbox Point.
Each 100 Birchbox reward points can be redeemed for $10.00.
You can also earn points by reviewing the samples they send you (10 points per sample) and referring/subscribing friends. If your review all the items you receive in your box each month, you’ll receive 50 Birchbox rewards points!
If you purchase a full size of one of the sample items they sent you in that same month, you receive free shipping on them and often extra points.

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