Fashion – Lisa Preziosi

MeUndies: September 2016

Today I’ve got an awesome subscription for you guys, an underwear subscription that claims to be the “world’s most comfortable underwear”. Seriously. The folks at MeUndies graciously sent me a box to review. Strangely enough, I’ve been hunting for the perfect underwear for awhile. My go to has been a seamless boyshort style from Target, but my terrible washing machine pretty much makes them disintegrate so it was time to try something new. Cue my MeUndies box.

About the Brand:
MeUndies wants you to build the “freshest, funnest, underwear drawer” with “new limited edition designs every month.” You can skip a month or cancel at any time. You can also just buy their products individually from their site, but you do get a discount by signing up for the subscription.

How the sub works:
This sub offers four styles for men or women. First you choose your cut:
Options for Women: Women’s Cheeky Brief, Women’s Bikini, Women’s Boyshort, Women’s Modal Thong
Options for Men: Men’s Boxer Brief, Men’s Trunk, Men’s Boxer, Men’s Brief

Next you choose your fabric and size:
Sizes for Women: XS – 2XL
Sizes for Men: S – 3XL
Fabric options are in three categories: Classic, Bold, and Adventurous.

Cost: Men’s pairs are $16 a month and Women’s pairs are $14.00

So my undies arrived in this cute little bag. I opted for the boyshort style in XL because I have a bit of extra junk in my trunk.

These styles appear to be the “adventurous” kind, which suits me just fine. These felt super soft and really well made. The real test was when I wore them. They were in fact very very comfortable and I felt the sizing was a little generous. I think I could have worn a large as well, so if you’re between sizes you may want to go down to the lower one.

The finishing on the edges of this underwear are much better quality than my usual kind and I think they’ll hold up better in the wash.

Verdict: Love!
I think MeUndies has me hooked. I’m definitely going to turn to them when I need to replenish my underwear drawer. While $14 a pair might seem a bit pricey, these are great quality and I think they’ll last longer than the ones that cost just a few dollars less. They also are amazingly soft and come in so many fun prints. This is also a wonderful gift idea – perfectly suited to the guy in your life who never seems to remember to buy underwear or just hates doing it. The MeUndies site also offers some lounge wear options although the current sizing seems more limited than their underwear offerings. I hope they do expand their sizing cause I’d gladly buy some tshirts in their super soft fabric.

BACKSTORY
MeUndies wants you to build the “freshest, funnest, underwear drawer” with “new limited edition designs every month.” Each month they’ll send you a new pair of underwear in your selected cut and size. You can also just buy their products individually from their site, but you do get a discount by signing up for the subscription.

COST: Women: $14.00
Men: $16.00

Shipping: Free Shipping
You can skip a month or cancel at any time

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Gentlemen & Co Noire Style Box: May 2016 & $5 off your First Box

Since Father’s Day is fast approaching, I figured for this lovely Monday, I’d focus on a Men’s subscription. The wonderful Gentlemen & Co Noire Style Box, a men’s fashion accessory subscription, graciously sent me a box to review.

A little about this sub:
The Gentlemen & Co. Noire Style Monthly Subscription costs $28 per month, with free US shipping and you can cancel at any time. (International subscriptions are available for $35 and do not include Esquire magazine.)

“Each monthly box will contain anywhere from 4 to 6 dapper accessories, such as pocket squares, lapel pins, tie bars and more… alongside the recent issue of Esquire Magazine. Each box will be completely coordinated by the members here at Gentlemen & Co. and easy to style, making it simple to dress to impress those around you. “

Something really special about this box is that 25% of recurring sales are also donated to a scholarship program set up to help students from low income families afford college. So not only does Gentlemen & Co help you “dress to impress”, they are helping make the world a little better, box by box.

In addition to the items I received, subscribers will also get an issue of Esquire magazine.

Unfortunately, this box didn’t include an insert with info on the items and because I’m a lady (at least some of the time) I’m just going to leave out a verdict on each piece and instead comment on the overall box as a gift option.

Very stylish box, nice graphic logo:

Tie Bar
This is a very classic tie bar that would match any tie or outfit. A very nice professional choice.

Cotton Pocket Square
A simple white pocket square is another very classic choice. It will go with everything.

Skinny Necktie
Skinny neckties seem to be in fashion and I actually think the fabrication of the tie makes it a bit unique. It seems like a wool blend and it gives a sort of casual chic vibe.

Lapel Pin
Not sure about this one. I don’t know too many guys who would wear it, but it’s definitely a fun piece and the red would be a nice pop of color against a dark jacket.

Beaded Bracelet
My boyfriend doesn’t wear jewelry but I’ve known quite a few guys that do, and I thought the colors of this bracelet were nicely understated and it had some lovely detail.

OVERALL

So let’s start with the value. For $28, you receive all of the above plus an Esquire magazine. The items all seemed well made and the colors would complement a wide variety of suits, so I think $28 is a more than fair price. The box itself has nice packaging for gift giving, and I feel like the guy who really enjoys dapper accessories would dig this box. These types of subs are a fun way to keep fashion fresh and fun for men who need to wear suits regularly. I personally love companies that give back, so knowing a portion of the sales go toward scholarships is a great bonus. My one small criticism is that I’d really want an insert with info on the items and perhaps some suggestions for styling. Hopefully future boxes will include that.

Have you ever purchased a box subscription for a man in your life? If so, what did they think?

BACKSTORY
“Each month, Gentleman & Co Noire Style Box will send a box containing, ”anywhere from 4 to 6 dapper accessories, such as pocket squares, lapel pins, tie bars and more… alongside the recent issue of Esquire Magazine. Each box will be completely coordinated by the members here at Gentlemen & Co. and easy to style, making it simple to dress to impress those around you. “

25% of Recurring Sales will be donated to a scholarship fund to assist low income students.

COST: $28 per month for US subscriptions
((International subscriptions are available at $35 but do not include Esquire magazine.)

Shipping: Free Shipping on all U.S. orders.
Cancel at Any Time
Free US Shipping

COUPON CODE: USE CODE WELCOME5 TO SAVE $5 OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH.

Peaches & Petals: December 2015 & 50% Off Coupon Code!

The awesome folks at Peaches & Petals, a beauty and style monthly subscription graciously sent me their December box to review plus a fabulous coupon code for you, my even more fabulous readers. Use PEACHTHERAPY for 50% off your first month’s box! (Only valid on monthly subscriptions and not gift subscriptions).

Now we start with their lovely logoed box (is logoed actually a word?) and a #TreatYoSelf theme.
Who doesn’t love a treat?

Inside we reveal:

Kimono Style Silk Peacock Robe
Description: “Your GUARANTEED spoiler for December! A beautiful silky kimono style robe. Loune around in this soft and smooth robe while you pamper yourself. One size fits most.”
Verdict: One size fits medium sized people. That’s it. Not all. Never all.
This is a pretty robe, but no way does this “fit most”. It won’t fit super tall girls, tiny girls, chubbier girls and so on. It’s a medium at best. Luckily I have someone on my Christmas list that I think would really like this and actually fit into it. For a sub box, I’d rather see items that are less size specific – there are just too many folks who wouldn’t be able to use this.

Lindt Milk Chocolate Truffle Bar
Description: “Fancy something sweet and delectable? Sink your teeth into this piece of heaven.”
Verdict: Mmm, chocolate
This was perfectly timed since I had no food in the house and because it was Christmas time chocolate was a perfectly acceptable lunch. This was delicious!

Booth Lavender Mineral Bath Soak
Description: “Tough day? Pull yourself together with a bath infused with this addictive additive. Restore yours senses with the calming lavender scent.”
Verdict: Like/Gift
This fits perfectly with the “treat yorself” theme. I like lavender but unfortunately I don’t get to take too many baths and have quite a stockpile of products so I’m going to pass this along to my Mom who could use as many “calming” influences as possible.

Emerald Necklace & Earring Jewelry Set
Description: “Dazzle your holiday parties with this pair! It’s green and it goes with the season!”
Verdict: Love!
I love the style of this necklace – it’s got a great Art Deco vibe and it’s not so showy that you can’t wear it with more casual outfits. The quality on this set is on par with what I’ve gotten from Modcloth or Charming Charlie and this is definitely my favorite item in the box.

Spa Bella Hot or Cold Rejuvenating Eye Mask
Description: “Say NO to dark circles and baggy eyes! The holidays are draining, but keep your look fresh and rejuvenated,’cause nobody has to know.”
Verdict: Hit/Gift!
I thought this was a perfect match for the robe so instead of keeping it for myself, I’ll be adding it to that for a Christmas gift.

OVERALL

Verdict: Like
I received this box for free for review purposes and its normal cost is $14.99. I think it had a great value for the cost. My only issue with it at all is that the peacock robe is quite size specific and would not fit a majority of the population. To Peaches & Petals credit, they released the kimono as a spoiler so folks who bought this box knew what they’d be getting. Last month’s felt a bit unfocused but this month the theme was super cohesive and I could see a lot of subscribers really loving this. If you’re looking for a low cost style box, definitely consider Peaches & Petals.

THE BACKSTORY
COUPON CODE: Use PEACHTHERAPY for 50% off your first month’s box. (Only valid on monthly subscriptions and not gift subscriptions).

“Peaches and Petals is a member based monthly subscription service that hand-curates each box with items that exemplify the woman who’s not afraid of adventure. She’s open-minded, free-spirited, and loves relentlessly. Each box is delivered monthly.”

“Each month’s box will vary with different items all to tickle your senses. We love hand-selecting items in beauty and fashion accessories. Items could be trendy accessories and jewelry like scarves, hats, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, watches, new beauty products like dry shampoos, eye makeup remover, shades of nail polish, eyeshadow and blush, pampering products like mud masks, skin restoring gels/creams, and who knows, we could be really adventurous the next month! Each box will contain 3-5 items and some months we may feel super excited and throw in an additional item!”

Cost: Each month costs $14.99 and there are options for gift subscriptions and prepaying 3, 6 or 12 month subs.

(Some box items are also available for individual purchase in the Peach Shop! Sign up for an account for access.)

Peaches & Petals: November 2015 & 50% Off Coupon Code!

Today I’ve got another new box for you. Peaches & Petals is a beauty and style monthly subscription and not only were they awesome enough to send me a box to review, they also gave me a fabulous coupon code for you, my amazing readers. Use PEACHTHERAPY for 50% off your first month’s box!

Now what is Peaches & Petals?
“Peaches and Petals is a member based monthly subscription service that hand-curates each box with items that exemplify the woman who’s not afraid of adventure. She’s open-minded, free-spirited, and loves relentlessly.”

Wow, it sounds like Peaches & Petals gives gifts for the heroine of romance novels. AWESOMESAUCE.

What do they include?
“Each month’s box will vary with different items all to tickle your senses. We love hand-selecting items in beauty and fashion accessories. Items could be trendy accessories and jewelry like scarves, hats, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, watches, new beauty products like dry shampoos, eye makeup remover, shades of nail polish, eyeshadow and blush, pampering products like mud masks, skin restoring gels/creams, and who knows, we could be really adventurous the next month! Each box will contain 3-5 items and some months we may feel super excited and throw in an additional item!”

Everything listed sounds fun, so I don’t know about you, but I’m excited to dive into this box.

How much?
Each month costs $14.99 and there are options for gift subscriptions and prepaying 3, 6 or 12 month subs.

Enough with the facts, let’s get to the fun!

An adorable box arrives that will most likely end up recycled to hold someone’s Christmas gift.

Inside we get a handy dandy info card and a spoiler for December. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate these details. Even when I’m not blogging about a box, I want to know something about the items selected. I haven’t seen too many subs include a spoiler for the next box so that’s a really great addition.

The Fringe Scarf
Description: “Your GUARANTEED spoiler for November! A beautiful fall scarf, perfect for any autumn occasion.
Verdict: Gift
This scarf is very soft and quite lovely. Thanks to my sub box addiction, I have an impressive stockpile of scarves in my closet, so this is going to make someone a lovely Christmas Gift.

Pantene Pro-V Shampoo & Conditioner Travel Set
Description: “The perfect hair pair on your next weekend getaway!.”
Verdict: Did Walmart have a sale?
A travel hair set is a great idea for the holiday season, but Pantene is available at just about every drugstore or chain store for like $2. A more interesting or unusual brand would have been a more appropriate choice.

Sweet Treat Dessert Candle
Description: “”Cute food with a double personality! Sure to make you smile!
Verdict: A trip to the dollar store?
A cupcake candle could be cute but this one is on the cheap side and the packaging is cracked. It could be a cute little stocking stuffer but I’m not feeling like this is a good item for a women’s beauty and style box.

Thank You Cards
Description: “Take a moment to say a few words of gratitude to the people in your life. This simple act, can bring a smile to a friend’s face that they’ll never forget.”
Verdict: Hit!
I keep a stockpile of greeting cards, and thank you cards tend to be the most useful. I like the vintage chalk graphic on these and I’ll definitely use them. I also like that they go with the “Thanksgiving” season.

Infinity Forever Bracelet
Description: “An understated beauty that falls effortlessly on your wrist.”
Verdict: Lovely design, cheap fabrication
I really like the infinity design on this, but I feel like with simple jewelry you really need high quality materials and it’s clear this is a cheap piece of jewelry. Perhaps excluding some of the other items and putting in a gold plated, silver plated or even a stainless steel piece might have been a better option.

Totally Adorable Tea Infusers
Description: “Warm cold mornings and nights with a cup of hot tea. This item will surely be your favorite tea pal.”
Verdict: Gift
I’m not much of a tea drinker so this will end up being gifted. I’m not sure how this item really fits into the aesthetic Peaches & Petals is going for, but it’s cute and practical.

OVERALL

Verdict: A bit of an identity crisis, but has potential

I received this box for free for review purposes and its normal cost is $14.99. I do think the scarf itself is worth that much, but unfortunately a lot of the other items seem to be really inexpensive and don’t necessarily go with the theme or the aesthetic this sub seems going for. If I were curating, I would include the scarf, the cards and find a bracelet that uses higher end materials and just include 3 items. Or perhaps as my third item, find a more luxurious travel hair and beauty set to include. As far as beauty and style subs go, this is one of the less expensive options so despite the uneven curation, you may want to give it a shot.

Next month’s spoiler is a kimono so if you like it and want to subscribe, use PEACHTHERAPY for 50% off your first month’s box.

THE BACKSTORY
“Peaches and Petals is a member based monthly subscription service that hand-curates each box with items that exemplify the woman who’s not afraid of adventure. She’s open-minded, free-spirited, and loves relentlessly. Each box is delivered monthly.”

Cost: Each month costs $14.99 and there are options for gift subscriptions and prepaying 3, 6 or 12 month subs.

(Some box items are also available for individual purchase in the Peach Shop! Sign up for an account for access.)

COUPON CODE: Use PEACHTHERAPY for 50% off your first month’s box

Popbasic: The Felicity Collection – February 2015

I lust after all the Popbasic microcollection releases and the folks there were so fabulous that they sent me the Felicity Collection just so that I could review it for you guys. The cost of this collection is $70 and it features a dress and two pieces of jewelry.
(To save $15 off your first collection, use my referral link.)

For folks that are unfamiliar with Popbasic, they introduce “micro-collections” of quality basic pieces that you purchase as a set. In December, I purchased the Jovial Collection, and while I loved the design of all the pieces, the fit on the jeans was a miss for me. I was very excited to see how a dress would compare.

Once again it came in a super cute box.

Also included is a dual sided card describing the pieces on one side, then offering styling options on the other.

Grey Forever Dress (RRP $60)
Description: “You loved our Forever Dress so much we decided to bring it back in grey marl. This version is just as soft and cosy, but with a little more space at the hips for an even more flattering fit. Pair it together with our Luna Cuff and Mixed Metals Necklace for a night out. Or with a parka and ankle boots for a coffee run. 94% rayon; 6% spandex. Length: 39.”
Verdict: Like
I don’t know what fabric this is, but it’s seriously amazing. It’s super soft and I would love to buy a bunch of tops made from it. Now when I first saw the dress I was worried that it would be too clingy and the sleeves might be too short (I have long limbs). But I was pleasantly surprised. This fabric is the type that doesn’t hide any issues but it’s not super clingy either. It has a lovely drape and the sleeves and hemline are a bit longer than I expected (which is a good thing!). I’d recommend wearing this with undergarments designed not to show pantylines. I’m a larger size and I was worried that this would show too much to be wearable for me, but it didn’t. My one issue was the color. I’m not a fan of this light of a grey because I feel with my super pale vampire skin it washes me out. If this had been in charcoal grey I would have fallen absolutely in love. Because of the pale color I’ll probably end up wearing this layered rather than on it’s own.

Mixed Metals Necklace (RRP $25)
Description: “Silver or gold? Why not both? We’ve created the loveliest mix of both. Pop it on with your Forever Dress for a night out or with a white tee for a casual look. Alloy; gold and silver plated.”
Verdict: Love!
This is a perfect layering necklace. It will work with pretty much any necklace you own. This items was thoughtfully designed so as to maximize your options and I know I will get a ton of use out of it especially layered with my short dainty necklaces.

Luna Cuff (RRP $20)
Description: “A super simple, yet pretty piece to pair with an assortment of bangles or on its own. The cuff is easily adjustable and can be worn on the wrist or on upper forearm. Alloy; gold plated.”
Verdict: Love!
I’m obsessed with all kinds of jewelry (and beauty) that references the moon. This cuff will look fabulous stacked with other pieces or on its own. As a person with tiny wrists, I love the scale and size of it. Some cuffs overwhelm me or move around too much and this is perfect. I’d love to grab it in silver too.

MY STYLING
One of the reasons I love Popbasic is that I tend to get obsessed with unique pieces and stuff that is romantic or edgy or maybe a touch complicated and then I get them home and I’m like “okay so what the hell do I wear this with?” Popbasic is perfect at supplying the items that make my more unique pieces really pop (hence, the name Popbasic I guess).

Using my own wardrobe, I’d style these pieces with a romantic pseudo-steampunk vibe.

I’d wear my boiled wool Anthropologie ruffle coat over the Gray dress that I’d pair with black leggings and my black Jeffrey Campbell Joe Lace Up boots.

For the Jewelry, I’d add the Kate Spade Saturday locket I snagged as a Birchbox freebie, for a pop of color. Then add some extra bracelets to the Luna cuff like this enameled heart bangle I just got from Scoutmob and my gold ID bracelet I’ve had since forever.

OVERALL

Hit!

The regular cost of this collection is $70, but I received this one for free in order to review it. If I had paid full price and received this set I would still be thrilled. The quality of the fabric and the design of the dress are fabulous. I love the versatility of the pieces and would be psyched to pick up more items in the awesome fabric of that dress.

NEW COLLECTION!
Popbasic has also released their Isla Collection! It features a cobalt skirt, a black tee and a cute necklace. I am sorely tempted to nab it, but we’ll have to see how my budget feels about the idea.

What did you think of the items in this collection? How would you have styled them?

THE BACKSTORY
Popbasic offers micro-collections of fashion forward, limited edition basic pieces at an affordable price.
For $15 off your first collection, please use my referral link.

Popbasic: The Jovial Collection – December 2014

So I’ve been quietly stalking Popbasic’s page and lusting after their cute tops and jewelry for some time before I decided to finally jump in and try one of their collections. (For $15 off your first collection, use my referral link.)

For folks unfamiliar with Popbasic, they introduce “micro-collections” of adorable basic pieces that are a one time purchase. When I saw their new Jovial Collection, I fell in love. I was a bit hesitant to jump in since I have a terrible time getting jeans to fit properly and I’d need their highest size (I’m a size 14/16). But I was swayed when Popsugar offered a refund if you didn’t like the jeans. I figured I had nothing to lose so I put in my order.

It arrived in a super cute box with a lovely handwritten note and some freebie hair ties. (We are already off to a great start).

Also included a lovely dual sided card describing the pieces on one side and then offering styling options on the other.

Garnet Long Sleeve Top (RRP $60)
Description: “Perfect for casual outings, our Garnet Long Sleeve Top is 100% cotton which means you can wear it during cooler nights in the Summer, or throw on a knit in Winter. 100% cotton.”
Verdict: Hit!
This is a high quality top and it’s perfect for layering in the winter time. I have a ton of navy pieces and nautical inspired pieces that this will pair great with. Surprisingly, the fabric had a really nice stretch to it which I imagine is so that it doesn’t lose its shape (like many cotton tops do over time). I was very impressed with the quality on this.

Great Stretch Skinny Jeans (RRP $80)
Description: “A magical combination of legging and jean, our Great Stretch Skinny Jeans look lovely with a cotton tee, or dressed up with a silk blouse and wedges for night time. Lizzie wears size x-small. 69% rayon 26% polyamide 5% elastane.”
Verdict: Miss for Size/Love for Design
There is good news and bad news. The good news is these jeans are well made and totally bad ass. The bad news is they run super small. I attempted to try these on (aka desperately tugging and praying to the patron saint of Weight Watchers) and I was a sad sad panda. While I have a range of sizes in my closet (from 12 – 16) I’d say that in most brands I’m fine with a 16 in jeans. I Often it will be loose, occasionally a little snug, but zipping up is never a problem. I’d be shocked if these jeans were a size 12 in the average brand (like the Gap). Thankfully I can return them, but I do wish Popbasic went up a few more sizes (particularly for pieces that run small). It’s actually much tougher for the higher sized folks to find awesome, classy basics than the size 2s and 4s. For the ladies who live on the cusp of regular sizes and plus sizes it’s a particular nightmar,e because you end up too small for plus sizes and too large for regular sizes.

Sugar Crystal Necklace (RRP $20)
Description: “A pretty addition to your treasure trove, wear our Sugar Crystal Necklace with a black shift for meetings, or with a party dress in the New Year. Crystal; silver plated alloy.”
Verdict: Love!
This is a great statement necklace that goes with everything. It’s lightweight but it doesn’t feel flimsy. Strangely, I owned no statement necklaces in silver tone so this was a welcome addition to my wardrobe. It came packed in a little velvet bag which was a nice touch.

OVERALL

Verdict:Hit!

The regular cost of this collection is $75 (including shipping), but I used a referral link and paid only $60. This collection is an amazing value at that cost. These pieces are versatile and can be paired with tons of things I already own. Everything was packaged so nicely and the freebie and note were lovely. Because my jeans needed to be returned, I contacted Popbasic and they refunded my card $45 immediately for the jeans (I mailed them back, but they didn’t even wait on receiving them). The customer service was super responsive and friendly. Even though I couldn’t wear the jeans I wouldn’t hesitate to order from Popbasic again and I’d recommend them to anyone looking for nice basics at a great price.

Have you ordered from any of the fashion subs or boxes? What did you think?

THE BACKSTORY
Popbasic offers micro-collections of fashion forward, limited edition basic pieces at an affordable price. You don’t subscribe, but just order individual collections.
For $15 off your first collection, use my referral link.

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