April Popsugar 2016 spoilers

Popsugar: April 2016 & Full CFDA Spoilers!

So it’s that time again to get caught up with some of regular subscriptions, so we’re heading back for my review on the April 2016 Popsugar box plus I’ve got the full spoilers for Popsugar’s uber expensive Limited Edition CFDA box.

Let’s get to it. Popsugar introduced some new packaging, but it’s really not too different than the ones we’ve received before.

Now to get actually get inside the box:

Chrissy Teigen’s Cravings: Recipes for All the Food You Want to Eat
(Suggested Retail: $17.99)
Description: “When cracking open this gorgeous book, prepare for big flavors and even bigger personality from supermodel and foodie Chrissy Teigen. These craveable concoctions include some of husband John Legend’s top picks. We dare you to declare your favorite.”
Verdict: Love!
I love cooking and I’ve pinned a bunch of recipes from Chrissy Teigen’s blog so this right up my alley. This cookbook has had a ton of buzz so it’s definitely on trend in the foodie category. Chrissy is a supermodel but these are not healthy recipes. (I think I became lactose intolerant just by reading how much cheese was in the mac & cheese), so consider this book geared more toward the occasional indulgence. I’m going to use this to fill my “book written by a celebrity” slot for my 2016 Popusgar Reading Challenge, so come back for a full review and my attempts at making a few recipes from this bad boy.

Canvas Home Tinware Salt & Pepper Shakers (Suggested Retail: $12.00)
Description: ”When we first laid eyes on these vintage-looking hand-glazed salt and pepper shakers from Canvas Home’s bestselling Tinware collection, we knew we had to have them. Like something from an antique fair, a combination of functionality and beauty makes these shakers a fabulous addition to any kitchen.”
Verdict: Like/Gift
I’m a sucker for vintage things, and while I like the look of these ceramic shakers, I wish they actually were enamel tin rather than just painted to seem that way. I already own salt and pepper shakers I love, but these are a nice size and I’ll either use them for when I’m hosting or give them as part of a gift.

Next by Nature Dark Chocoalte Covered Espresso Beans (Suggested Retail: $3.99)
Description: ”These dark chocolate espresso bites are a natural alternative to your favorite candy – free of gluten, corn syrup, and preservatives, they are a healthier way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Made with real espresso beans, try a handful of these instead of your usual cup of coffee!”
Verdict: Miss
I love espresso and dark chocolate, but I’m not a fan of eating espresso beans straight up. I imagine a lot of other subscribers feel the same way. Next by Nature has a ton of products including chocolate covered fruit which I think would have been a nicer option for the Spring and appealed to more customers.

FARMACY Sleep Tight Firming Night Balm (Suggested Retail: $48.00)
Description: “After applying this lightweight balm before bedtime, it transforms into a gentle oil gel to replenish your skin overnight. Firming, protective, and nourishing ingredients work to balance skin and prevent the appearance of wrinkles.”
Verdict: Love!
FARMACY is a brand that is popping up everywhere and was also featured in Popsugar’s April Mini Box. I find this product to be far more interesting than the lip balm included in the mini. I love night creams and the description of this turning into a gentle oil gel sounds really intriguing. I’ll be adding this into rotation with my current night mask.

NOON DESIGN SHOP “Lemons’ Flour Sack Tea Towel (Suggested Retail: $18.00)
Description: “Handmade in the US, this supersoft towel isn’t just cheery to look at – its cotton fabric gets better with every wash. Don’t be afraid to use this beauty around the kitchen; you can throw it in the washer and dryer anytime.”
Verdict: Love!
I know this will sound weird but I’m kind of obsessed with kitchen towels—tea towels in particular. I love stocking my kitchen with all kinds of funky designs and the cheerful print fit right in my drawer full of flowers, bunny and nautical prints.

Royal Apothic Field Poppy Conservatories Hand Creme (Suggested Retail: $24.00)
Description: “Royal Apothic’s rich formulas are inspired by recipes from an antique apotheraries manual – this hand crème’s sentimental note of fig, tea, jasmine, lily, moss and leaf will instantly transport you to a meadow of vibrant blooms.”
Verdict: Hit!
This hand cream is so pretty. I know I should use it as a gift since I have a giant product stockpile, but I think I want to hoard it for winter so I can throw it in my commuter bag and think of brighter days.

Special Extra

BLOOM THAT $20 Gift Card
Description: “BloomThat transformed the floral delivery market by creating a stress-free way to send gorgeous blooms to those you love. Use this $20 to treat yourself or a love done to one of its beautiful arrangements!”
Verdict: Miss
I don’t like extras that are strictly gift cards where you need to spend money in order to use them. I’m sure this was helpful to the subscribers wanting to send flowers on Mother’s Day but it just wasn’t for me.

OVERALL:

Verdict: Hit!
With my prepaid discount this box only cost me $24.91 and the estimated box value (excluding the special extra) was $123.98. I loved the big ticket items in this box and except for the espresso beans, I felt like it had a fresh spring theme that was very cohesive. Popsugar’s been doing a great job this year with the curation on their regular subscription. I’d love to see that attention translate over to their mini and LE boxes.

FULL CFDA BOX SPOILERS!

Popsugar released this full spoiler for their CFDA Box. I’m guessing it’s probably because sales didn’t go as planned since this box is still available for purchase at $225. If you like what you see, head on over to Popsugar and check out the Limited Edition boxes and order one for yourself.

SUBSCRIPTION THERAPY NEWS!
I’ve finally gotten off my rump and started an Instagram account. Writing posts takes lots of time, but if you’re anything like me, you want to see what’s in the box now. So I’ve started posting Instagram spoilers as soon as I get my boxes! So for the scoop before the scoop, follow me on Instagram at subscriptiontherapy. I’ve got full spoilers for my most recent boxes (including Rachel Zoe’s Summer Box of Style) plus some fun pics from my travels.

THE BACKSTORY
Popsugar is a women’s lifestyle subscription that delivers a monthly box of fun, full-size products hand-selected by Popsugar editors.

In addition to Popsugar’s monthly must have boxes, they have some seasonal special edition boxes that contain uber luxe items. The price tag on these boxes is higher, but the products you receive are high end.

Popsugar Mini Pricing:
(Features 2 Full Size Items)
Monthly – $18.95

Popsugar Must Have Pricing:
Monthly – $39.95
3 Months – $109.85
6 Months – $214.70
12 Months – $404.40

Coupon Codes: REFER5 = $5 off site wide
POPSUGAR10 = $10 off a 3 month subscription to Must Have

Popsugar: April Must Have Mini & LE CFDA Box Spoiler!

Popsugar recently launched a downsized version of their subscription box called The Must Have Mini. The box costs $18.95 and features two full sized items with no overlap for their regular sub, so you can opt to receive both if you want some extra Popsugar in your life.

Despite my ongoing issues with Popsugar customer service, I usually love the items I actually get so I decided to give this one a chance for a month or two (and of course it’s super exciting to review the inaugural box of any sub).

So let’s see what our very first Must Have Mini box has inside:

Greenmarket Purveying Co. White Melon Pantry Candle
(Retail 7 oz: $16.00)
Description: “Hand-poured in small batches by a US artisan chandler, this soy-blend candle has notes of fresh melon, sweet peach, zest citrus, and comforting vanilla.”
Verdict: Like
To start this candle smells amazing, like the best watermelon candy except not cloying at all. The only thing is, it’s well, a candle. I love candles don’t get me wrong but if you’re a sub box subscriber, you get tons of them. It just seems like a bit of a boring choice for one of two slots in the very first box of the subscription. It also came with a coupon for a discount on Greenmarket Purveying Co.’s site, which was a nice bonus.

FARMACY Lip Bloom in Lavender Mint
(Retail: $16.50)
Description: ”Farmacy’s unique variant of Echinacea works with natural seed oils to form a protective barrier that leads to softer, fuller lips – combine these natural benefits with the refreshing scent of your favorite herbs, and you’ve got the perfect lip balm.”
Verdict: Lovely but boring
Think of the very next thing that overflows from sub boxes right after candles? If you guessed lip balms, ding, ding, you are a winner! This has lovely packaging, and the scent seems nice, but it’s just a fancy lip balm. Not really much to write home about.

OVERALL:

Verdict: Phoned In
We’ll start with the positives. With tax I ended up paying $20.28 for this box and the retail value came out to $32.50, so it definitely delivered in that regard. This box had a spring feel and was seasonably appropriate. Each item was high quality and well suited for gift giving (particularly Mother’s Day). Unfortunately, the items were painfully dull. The only thing missing from making this the “crap you always get in sub boxes” was the inclusion of a mascara. And it’s probably only absent because Popsugar was limited to two full size pieces. With a box of only two items, at least one needs to be a rockstar and both of these were painfully ordinary sub-box fodder. They would be fine in a box filled with other things, but as a set they just don’t scream out “must have”. Also consider that this is the very first box of this subscription and it seems even less inspired. Popsugar really phoned this one in. I’m going to hold on to the sub for another month or two, just to see if it improves, but if I end up with a stack of mascara and lip gloss I’m bailing.

What do you think of Popsugar’s new lower cost offering? Would you have enjoyed this box for the price or found it as lackluster as I did?

POPSUGAR NEWS!
CFDA Box Launch & Spoiler!

Description: “For the second year in a row, we’re proud to launch our limited-edition Must Have box with the Council of Fashion Designers of America. This fashion collaboration has little luxuries perfect for a relaxing day by the pool or a weekend filled with sun and music. Fifty percent of POPSUGAR’s profits from each box will be donated to the CFDA, in support of the CFDA mission to strengthen American fashion in the global economy.”
Cost: $225.00
Spoiler: every box includes a classic split cover up from lemlem by supermodel Liya Kebede
Last year’s CFDA box was probably Popsugar’s most controversial box ever. There was all kinds of drama from changing prices to misrepresented items, so Popsugar actually broke down and offered returns. Head over to my 2015 review for all the dirty details. This year they’ve opted to release a spoiler and it certainly looks intriguing. Last year’s box was painfully devoid of actual fashion items, so it seems Popsugar learned their lesson. After last year, I’m not willing to risk so much money on a Popsugar LE box, but if you love the spoiler it may be worth the gamble to you.

THE BACKSTORY
Popsugar is a women’s lifestyle subscription that delivers a monthly box of fun, full-size products hand-selected by Popsugar editors.

Popsugar Mini Pricing:
(Features 2 Full Size Items)
Monthly – $18.95

Popsugar Must Have Pricing:
Monthly – $39.95
3 Months – $109.85
6 Months – $214.70
12 Months – $404.40

Coupon Codes: REFER5 = $5 off site wide
POPSUGAR10 = $10 off a 3 month subscription

Popsugar: February 2016 & an April Spoiler!

I’ve still got a few February boxes just waiting for a review. Since I just got my March Popsugar, I realized I’m overdue to talk about the February one.

Let’s dive in:

Tilo Heart Print Scarf (Suggested Retail: $125.00)
Description: “Beautifully organize your things with this Must Have exclusive storage bin – great for your hats, scarves, toys, books, or anything that needs a home. We love the gray spotted print, which can easily tie into any room décor.”
Verdict: Gift
This is a lovely scarf and super soft, but I have so many scarves and this one just didn’t call to me, and I’m actively trying to trim down my clothes hoarding, closet. I did think it would make a great Valentine’s day gift for my Mom, so I passed it along to her. It’s definitely pretty and perfectly suited for a February box, although I couldn’t imagine paying $125 for it.

Beautycounter Nourishing Cleansing Balm (Suggested Retail: $50.00)
Description: ”Unlike cleansers that leave you dry, this formula uses carefully sourced ingredients to remove makeup and impurities while also moisturizing skin. Prepare to feel pampered as you rinse it off with the soft muslin cloth included.”
Verdict: Love!
I’m obsessed with trying out unique cleansers so this is right up my alley. I also have never tried this brand before so I’m excited for something new. I really love it when we get fancy/unusual versions of everyday items. I think it’s a great way for us to add a little luxury or surprise to our everyday beauty routines.

JewelryStorm Endless Arrow Ring (Suggested Retail: $28.00)
Description: ”This dainty ring has just the right amount of bling to wear alone or stacked with other pieces. Because of its versatility, you can even try using it as a midi ring to mix things’ up!”
Verdict: Great Idea, Mediocre Execution
I love getting adjustable rings in boxes. They are versatile and fun. I actually own a similar ring to this one that is just a simple arrow with no rhinestones and I do wear it regularly. My problem with this piece is that to me, it just looks a little cheap. It’s like something you’d find in Claire’s. It’s really the rhinestones that make it look a bit young and inexpensive. I think if this had just been a simple gold plated arrow ring it would have been infinitely better. It’s still a nice way to incorporate Valentine’s day and I do think a lot of subscribers would probably like it. It also came with a coupon code.

Fringe Studio Hello Beautiful Square Tray (Suggested Retail: $14.00)
Description: “This kiln-fired glass tray is an elegant accessory for your desk or vanity – and the perfect daily reminder that you’re truly beautiful.”
Verdict: Hit!
This little tray is lovely and adorable for corralling rings on your dresser or paperclips on your desk. Mine is now sitting on top of my media console in the living room.

Victoria’s Secret Coconut Milk Hydrating Body Lotion (Suggested Retail: $22.00)
Description: “The exclusive hydrating formula of this soothing lotion will help moisturize your body, even during the chilliest months of the year. You’ll feel gorgeous from head to toe!”
Verdict: Like
I’m always happy to get lotion that smells like food. Coconut makes me think of summer so this will be a nice reminder that the end of winter is in sight.

Foodstirs Heart cookie Mix (Suggested Retail: $12.95)
Description: “Cofounded by Sarah Michelle Gellar, Foodstirs wants you to add a personal touch to your favorite bites. Because this festive cookie kit is free of artificial ingredients, GMOs and preservatives you can feel good about baking sweet treats with all the loves in your life!”
Verdict: Love!
First, Buffy the Vampire Slayer is my favorite show ever, so I am a huge fan of Sarah Michelle Gellar. Second, I’ve been wanting to try out a Foodstirs subscription since I first heard it was coming out, but thanks to my giant baking hoard and Weight Watcher’s hard stance against sugar I haven’t tried it yet. I’m so excited to try this kit and I had a great plan to make these for Valentine’s Day and blog about it all for you guys and then..I got the flu. Which is why I’m still working my way through 80,000 (approximately) February boxes. I do promise that eventually I will make these and take pictures and we’ll get to dish.

Special Extras

Victoria’s Secret Sport Socks
Description: “Complete with an extra cushioned sole and arch support, these sockes make it easy to take care of yourself in comfort…they’re made with fabric that keeps your feet cool and dry even while working out!”
Verdict: Hit!
These are surprisingly good quality socks. I never thought to go to Victoria Secret for my sport socks, but I these are great and I will definitely consider it.
This also came with:
Victoria’s Secret Reward Card
Description: “Victoria’s Secret is sharing a $20 gift just for you – it works just like a gift card when used within the valid dates, so treat yourself to something special!”
This cared is pictured with the lotion earlier up on this post. I don’t usually buy much from Victoria’s Secret but maybe I’ll use these for some new socks!

OVERALL:

Verdict: Hit!
With my prepaid discount this box only cost me $24.91 and the estimated box value (excluding the special extras) was $251.95. I do think the price of the scarf is inflated, but this is still a great value. Some of the items weren’t exactly to my taste, but I thought they fit the season really well and that the curation was thoughtful. I think a lot of subscribers would adore this box and it was a perfect fit for the Valentine’s Day holiday.

APRIL SPOILER!
So this was the spoiler released for April:

This cookbook has tons of buzz and positive reviews so it’s a great choice in a Popsugar box.
I’m going to use this on my Popsugar Reading Challenge for the “book written by a celebrity” slot and hopefully I’ll even try my hand at a few recipes for all.

THE BACKSTORY
Popsugar is a women’s lifestyle subscription that delivers a monthly box of fun, full-size products hand-selected by Popsugar editors.

Popsugar Pricing:
Monthly – $39.95
3 Months – $109.85
6 Months – $214.70
12 Months – $404.40

Coupon Codes: REFER5 = $5 off site wide
POPSUGAR10 = $10 off a 3 month subscription

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