Popsugar Fall 2016 Limited Edition box

Popsugar: July 2016 + A September Spoiler & a Giveaway!

It’s Popsugar time and today I’ve got my review of their July Box, a Spoiler for September plus my Giveaway to win your very own July Orglamix Glam Box. Check out my Orlgamix Review to score yourself an awesome box of natural vegan beauty products.

First let’s start with a spoiler:
September 2016 Popsugar Must Have 2016 Spoiler

Jack and Lucy Bi-coastal Hat
This reminds me a lot of the hat Rachel Zoe sent out last year. I’ll have to compare the two when my September box arrives.

Now let’s get to the
June Must Have Box

Sachajuan Hair in the Sun
(Suggested Retail: $32)
Description: “Keep your hair color vibrant during long days in the sun with this UV-filter formula which owont’ wash out in the pool or ocean. It’ll protect your strands from damaging UV rays until you shampoo it off.”
Verdict: On the Fence
I think this is an intriguing idea and Sachajuan is a great brand, but for me I don’t feel like the sun damages my hair, I actually think it improves it a bit. It makes my red a bit brighter and more fiery (my skin, on the other hand, needs 18 layers of SPF 100). Maybe this is for color-treated hair? I’m not really sure.

House of Pom Emoji Cocktail Napkins
(Suggested Retail: $25.00)
Description: ”Our exclusive cocktail napkins, designed with House of Pom, capture trhe Summer experience in a language everyone can speak – emoji! Serving up icy-cold drinks has never bee so #instagrammable.”
Verdict: Gift
These aren’t my style but I do like the idea of an embroidered cocktail napkin. I’m going to gift these to a friend.

Michael Stars Porcelain Skinny Scarf in White
(Suggested Retail: $30.00)
Description: ”Say “goodbye” to the statement necklace and “hello” to your latest it-accessory: the skinny scarf. Dress it up or down by wrapping, knotting, or simply draping it atop your favorite Summer ensembles – or stepping up your headband game!”
Verdict: Okay
Am I just fashionably challenged, or is a skinny scarf pointless in the summer? A bigger scarf you can turn into a shawl if the air conditioning gets too high, but a skinny scarf is just going to make you hotter in the sun and not actually do anything to keep you warmer when the AC is turned up. I’m just going to reserve this for Fall.

Pintrill Pineapple Pin
(Suggested Retail: $12.00)
Description: “What better way to pin your skinny scarf into place that with a cute pin? Our editors are obsessed with pins and pineapples lately, and this adorable bauble is the perfect way to steal the trend for yourself!.”
Verdict: Umm…Did we go back to middle school?
So for some reason I can’t find my picture of the pin, but this is a tiny tiny pin – like dime sized. I actually love brooches and think they are highly under-utilized in modern fashion, but this is like a pin you get free for participating in a middle school spelling bee. I totally don’t get this.

Sunnylife Inflatable Swan Drink Holder
(Suggested Retail: $18.00)
Description: “We can’t all have a butler deliver chilled drinks by the pool, but we can have the next best thing: a swan. Float up to four beverages with this playful blow-up toy, so you never have to leave the water! No pool? No problem – the swan is just as much fun and functional on any table.”
Verdict: Not for a duckling
I don’t have a pool nor do I go to the pool or beach regularly. (Who am I kidding I don’t even have a dishwasher or an oven with a door that stays shut.) And what is the point of putting this on a table with drinks in it? Why do I want to make it that much harder to drink a beer? This is clearly suited for someone with a better life than mine. I guess I’m just a duckling in a world of swans. In any case, my friend has a pool and the giant inflatable “Mommy” Swan so she can have a matching baby swan to carry booze.

European Wax Center – Oh My Brow! Brow Highlighter in Pearl
(Suggested Retail: $19.00)
Description: “This highlighting illuminator is a jack-of-of-all-trades for your beauty bag—you can instantly life your brows by blending it along your brow bone, widen eyes by applying it on your inner corners, add glow to your cheekbones or add a romantic touch to your lips by dabbing above your cupid’s bow..”
Verdict: Like
I didn’t swatch this because I currently have a bunch of brow products in my box and I’d like to finish some before I open up a new one. Illuminators can be a subtle way to add a nice glow to your complexion. I haven’t tried this brand before so it will be fun to experiment with a new product.

Joe Chips Classic Sea Salt Retro Potato Chips
(Suggested retail value: $1.49)
Description: “Just like the truck in the logo, these kettle chips are an all-American classic. Get the old-school crunch you carve as you enjoy your lunch (or afternoon snack!) In style.”
Verdict: Like!
I tend to give snacks to my boyfriend so he can feel like he too participates in these boxes. I asked if these chips tasted “retro”. He said they didn’t, but were still good.

SPECIAL EXTRA

Trove Gift Card
“Treat yourself to Tove’s on-trend customizable jewelry with a special gift of $20 – there’s something for everyone in this chic collection!”
As usual, I don’t consider gift cards that require you to spend extra money to use as actual box items.

OVERALL:

Verdict: Not for me
This box cost me $42.75 and the only items that really suited me were the brow highlighter and the $1.49 bag of chips. This box felt a lot younger and less sophisticated than others I’ve received from Popsugar and the choices seemed oddly specific. Like how many people really have use for a beverage pool float? Sure, you can give it to someone else, but most folks actually want the items to use for themselves. And their suggestion of using it on a table is stupid unless you are a small child or in college. Supposedly the retail value on this was $137.49, but I’m just not seeing it. I’m hoping my Fall boxes (including the Limited Edition box) make up for this lackluster summer one.

Be sure to come back for more Popsugar reviews including the Fall Limited Edition box.

What did you think of this July box? Was I too hard on Popsugar?

SUBSCRIPTION THERAPY NEWS!
GIVEAWAY! – UPDATED
One lucky reader will win their very own July 2016 Orglamix Glam Box!
This contest is now closed. Thank you to everyone for participating!
I’ll announce the winner a soon as I’ve confirmed a mailing address!

THE RULES!
I like to keep things really simple over here at Subscription Therapy.
So the rules are straightforward:
1. You need to have a mailing address in the US (Sorry international peeps!)
2. Just leave a comment on the Orglamix Blog Post between today and midnight (EST) September 12^th.

To keep up with all my Reviews, Spoilers & Giveaways consider following Subscription Therapy on Twitter, Pinterest & Instagram.And if you’re as intrigued by Orglamix as I am, you can keep up with all their vegan beautifulness on Facebook and Twitter.
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

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Popsugar: June 2016 & Fall Limited Edition Spoiler!

Since Popsugar just released a spoiler for their Fall Limited Edition box, I figured I’d tag it on to a Must Have review. The Fall Limited Edition is currently on sale and priced at $100. It ships September9^th.

Fall Limited Edition Spoiler
Caeden Linea N°1 On-Ear Headphone Faceted Ceramic & Rose Gold

Popsugar is claiming this as a $149.99 value, but it’s priced at $85.05 on Amazon. Still, I love them so I decided to take the risk and order the box. Even at the $85.05 pricetag, it’s still a great value in a $100 box. Let’s just hope the rest of the items aren’t all perfume and caffeine water. Be sure to check back if you want the full review and spoilers.

June Must Have Box

Hat Attack Neutral Diamonds-Printed Sarong
(Suggested Retail: $58)
Description: “Lightweight and easy to pack in your weekend bag, this multifunctional sarong is the perfect beach accessory. Switch up how you tie it and you’ll never get bored with your cover-up!”
Verdict: Gift
This is pretty, and I like the idea of a coverup, but it’s a little bland for my taste. For summer I want vibrant, cheerful colors, so I’ll be gifting this to someone I think will enjoy it.

Sisters of Los Angeles “Cheers” Gold Bottle Opener
(Suggested Retail: $12.00)
Description: ”This golden bar accessory is the ideal companion for your favorite brew, perfect for displaying on a bar cart or cracking open a cold drink at a backyard bash. Cheers!”
Verdict: Like
This is a pretty and sleek little bottle opener. Over the years, I’ve tried to make myself a little bar set with cool looking tools so this will be nice to add to it. This would also be a cute hostess gift when paired with some bottled drinks. I couldn’t find this exact opener on their site, but I linked to a similar version.

Wild and Wolf Ridley’s Games Room “Who Am I?” Quiz
(Suggested Retail: $12.95)
Description: ”Team up with friends to guess the celebrity in this exciting, easy-to-play game that you can bring anywhere. It’s great for parties, too, because it’ll break the ice between even the shyest strangers! ”
Verdict: Okay
I ended up bringing this game to a friend’s house for hanging out and it was okay, but not super interesting. Just some basic trivia It’s a shame too because Wild and Wolf offers ther games that seem like more fun (like the “sing it back” game).

NCLA Born on the 4^th Nail Lacquer
(Suggested Retail: $16.00)
Description: “This patriotic (and cruelty-free!) red, white, and blue polish was exclusively developed with Popsugar, and we love how it can stand alone or be worn over another polish.”
Verdict: Hit!
By now you know how I feel about polish. NCLA is a great (and pricey) brand and who doesn’t want red, white and blue glitter polish for the July 4^th Holiday? This set was exclusive to Popsugar, which makes it even more special. If you missed out don’t worry NCLA has a ton of amazing polishes (including a mermaid inspired set), that are worth splurging over.

KNOCK KNOCK Are you Ready (For Your Cloose-Up?) Compact
(Suggested Retail: $10.00)
Description: “Don’t worry about sand messing up this cheeky compact mirror – it’s durable ineough to throw into your beach bag for on-the-go touch-ups.”
Verdict: Gift
This compact just isn’t my aesthetic. I know it’s durable because it’s plastic, but I have plenty of other durable compacts that are a little more stylish. I do think this would suit a teen girl and be a great thing for her to throw in her bookbag or gym bag.

Pacifica Underarm Deodorant Wipes
(Suggested Retail: $9.00)
Description: “Staying fresh on the go has never been easier than with these travel-ready underarm wipes, which neutralize odors for hours – all with an aluminum-free, vegan formula.”
Verdict: Hit!
I love when boxes include interesting or luxury versions of every-day toiletry products. I’ve never tried deodorant wipes before and they seem like they’d be perfect to keep in my gym bag or at work for freshening up.

Pressels Sriracha
(Suggested retail value: $1.29)
Description: “Because they’ve got less fat and sodium than other popular chip options, you can enjoy the scrumptious hint of spice in these addictive snacks without feeling guilty.”
Verdict: Like!
One of my boyfriend’s favorite snacks are pretzels so I passed these along to him. As Chief Snack Officer (CSO) he declared they were “good”. If you knew how picky he was you’d know that was quite a compliment.

OVERALL:

Verdict: Just Okay
This is the last box using my prepaid discount, so my total for this was $24.91, and the estimated retail came out to $119.24 At that price it’s a great deal, but overall the box was just a touch ho-hum for my taste. The sarong and trivia game were a bit bland, and the compact was definitely geared toward a younger subscriber. I did like some items, but they were the less expensive of the bunch. Not a terrible box by any stretch, but not all that interesting. I’m hoping to see some more fashion-forward items in the fall boxes.

Be sure to come back for more Popsugar reviews including the Fall Limited Edition box.
What did you think of the headphone spoiler for the LE Box?
Are you tempted to grab a box for yourself?
What items would you want to see Popsugar include in a $100 box?

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: May 2016 & Fall Limited Edition Presale!

Somehow in the madness that is my life, I completely forgot about my Popsugar Must Have subscription so I’m a few months behind and definitely overdue for a review. Since we’ve waited long enough, let’s dive into the May 2016 Popsugar box.

Bluma Project – Capri Bracelets – Set of 2
(Suggested Retail: $44.00)
Description: “These delicate bracelets are handcrafted by Guatemalan artisans. You’ll love the calming combination of blue and gold hues, and won’t want to take these off all season!”
Verdict: Miss
I really appreciate supporting artisans, but these bracelets just aren’t worth $44 and the tassels just make them look even more inexpensive. They aren’t hideous, but there’s not much to them. You could craft something really similar, without much effort and for just a couple dollars worth of supplies.

Kocostar Foot Therapy (Suggested Retail: $10.00)
Description: ”Whether you’re howing off your feet in sandals or during a barefoot yoga session, this wrap treatment will give you soft soles using natural, paraben-free botanical extracts.”
Verdict: Hit!
Foot masks are always awesome, but they are a great treat after you’ve been wearing flip flops all summer.

Spongellé Spongology Body Buffer (Suggested Retail: $20.00)
Description: ”Designed to cleanse, exfoliate, and massage, this body-wash-infused sponge lasts at least 20 washes – and because it’s made with organic extracts and sulfate- free ingredients, you can enjoy moisturizing in the shower worry-free. ”
Verdict: Like
We’ve seen the Spongelle brand in Popsugar boxes before and while a body buffer isn’t exciting, it’s definitely something I will use.

Gaiam Foldable Yoga Mat (Suggested Retail: $24.98)
Description: “Ultralightweight and compact, this foldable yoga mat is easy to transport in your favorite toe bag. Plus, its POPSUGAR-exclusive blue hue will help you reach your happy place before even beginning your yoga session.”
Verdict: Poor execution
Normally, I’m not too thrilled with workout items because they tend to be either water bottles (of which I have eleventybillion) or customized for routines/habits not everyone has. A super portable yoga mat seemed like a great idea since you could use it for all kinds of different exercises and stretching. I grabbed mine and took it to work to use in our tiny closet, er gym to use on my lunch hour. I don’t need a super thick mat, but dear lord this thing has no cushioning whatsoever. It’s really not much better than just being right on the floor. Great idea, but terrible execution.

Happy Spritz Breathe Deeply (Suggested Retail: $25.00)
Description: “Made with peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils, this spray helps naturally invigorate and soothe you. Mist it over your face or breathe deeply while spritzing it on your yoga mat after an intense workout session.”
Verdict: On the Fence
I don’t really use aromatherapy sprays, but this sounds interesting. Part of the fun of sub boxes is trying things outside my comfort zone, so I’ll give this a shot.

JimmyBar! Peanut Butter Clutter JimmyBar! Clean Snack Bar
(Suggested Retail: $2.49)
Description: “Perfect for a pre-workout energy boost, this gluten-free and dairy-free bar is made without artificial anything. Naturally sweet dates eliminate the need for added sugar, and peanut butter lends the saltiness you crave from a midday snack.”
Verdict: Okay
I swear every time someone uses “clean” to describe food, my eye starts twitching. It’s the same way that people decry “chemicals” in their food. (Because there are things not made of chemicals?) Repeat after me, there are no damn “dirty” foods. There is stuff you should eat only in moderation, or once a year on your birthday, but the food isn’t dirty. And “clean” foods are not some magic pill that will make you skinny and safe from all health related problems. Now, this bar tasted fine and it’s nice for folks that have gluten or dairy allergies. I just hate the “clean” labeling nonsense.

Special Extras

Hint Kick Lemon Cayenne Water
(Suggested retail value: $1.69)
Description: “Each all-natural Hint Kick is infused with 60mg of caffeine – the equivalent of a small cup of coffee, minus the coffee-breath. Lightly flavored with a hint of your favorite fruit flavors, this refreshing drink is your perfect pick-me-up.”
Verdict: @$#$#
You know what I’ve always said will make water more refreshing? Caffeine and cayenne. Seriously? I know this is a freebie, but come on. This is not something that needs to exist. This is the first time I contemplated just throwing out a product because I couldn’t think of someone who would even want to try it. (Eventually I just brought it to a BBQ to give away to whoever was brave enough).

Half Hitch Goods $10 Gift Card
Description: “Put this credit toward the purchase of a quality-crafted gift for yourself or someone you love.”
Verdict: Not really an extra
Sorry I didn’t take a picture of this one as I often don’t really think of gift cards that require you to spend money as real extras.

Revlon Volume + Length Magnified Mascara
(Suggested retail value: $8.99)
Description: “After using this megavolumizing mascara formula, get ready to experience rich, intense – lashes – if you’re looking to amp up your eyes this the perfect pick!”
Verdict: Hit!
Mascara is a product I use every single day, so I love trying out different brands.

OVERALL:

Verdict: Disappointing
With my prepaid discount this box only cost me $24.91 and the estimated box value (excluding the special extras) was $126.47. Unfortunately, I just didn’t really like most of the items in the box. I think my favorite product is probably the foot mask that only retails for $10. The ideas for this box were good, like stackable bohemian style bracelets and a foldable yoga mat, but the actual items just didn’t deliver. I’ve had some great boxes from Popsugar this year, so I guess it was time for a miss. I’ve got lots more Popsugar reviews coming so be sure to check back.

POPSUGAR NEWS!

Popsugar launched a pre-sale for their Fall 2016 Limited Edition box. The pre-sale is open to current subscribers. As with most Popsugar Limited Edition boxes it costs $100 and so far no spoilers. My birthday is in October, so I’m considering snagging one as a gift to myself, but I’m just not ready to commit until I have a better idea of what’s inside.

Am I totally out of touch with my hatred of the Hint Kick water, or would you love to try a caffeine infused lemon cayenne water?

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 to Must Have

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