Popsugar: June 2017 Must Have + September Spoiler & Fall Limited Edition Spoilers!

So I’m still recovering from Labor Day, which was aptly named since it was my day of manual labor.  It was like an episode of “This Old House” where I paint all the dirty white things, bright new white.  Not the most riveting of renovations, which is probably why I don’t have my own HGTV show yet.  But eventually, (as God is my witness), I will have some cool renovation posts for you.  In the meantime, it’s time for some fun with boxes.  Today I’ve got my June Popsugar review and a hell of a lot of spoilers for their September Must Have box and their Fall Limited Edition.

Let’s jump right in.

FALL LIMITED EDITION SPOILERS
Fashion:
Skincare:

Jewelry:
Limited Edition Fall
Description: “Ready to change up and revitalize your routine? This box is filled of over $450 worth of luxurious items that will have you feeling stylish and cozy all Fall long. Prepare to channel your inner street style star with cutting-edge products for every part of your life.”
Cost: $100.00
Quantities are limited, so don’t delay! Boxes will be shipped by Sept. 21.

This box is still available so if you’re loving all the spoilers, you can still nab one for yourself.  Unfortunately I’m on a tight budget so I’m just sticking to my monthly must have subscription.

SEPTEMBER MUST HAVE SPOILERS
Theme
Makeup
SEPTEMBER BOX
Based on the theme I’m thinking we’re going to see some cool weather accessories.  I’m super super psyched for the lipstick queen cheek stain.  I’m a huge fan of their products and it seems like something fun to try out.  I’m also happy to try out a new primer since it’s a fairly recent edition to my makeup bag and I’m still experimenting with different brands and types.

Now onto the main attraction…

JUNE MUST HAVE BOX


Billabong Aloha Forever Trucker Hat
(Suggested Retail: $17.95)
Description: “Keep your face out of the harmful rays while trying out the easy-to-wear trucker hat trend. This sporty cap will have you saying “Aloha” to even more oceanside activities.”
Verdict: Gift
I love hats, but I’m not a baseball hat type of girl.  I passed this along to a friend who I thought would enjoy it.

Captain Blankenship Mermaid Sea Salt Hair Spray
(Suggested Retail: $24.00)
Description: Effortlessly style your hair with a sea salt spray that will add waves so gorgeous even a mermaid would be jealous. The organic ingredients like aloe vera and sea kelp extract will nourish your locks naturally without feeling crunchy.”
Verdict:
LOVE!
I’ve received a small bottle of this in a long ago Birchbox and I adored it.  It’s my favorite sea salt spray and one of my favorite hair products ever.  Definitely the highlight of my box.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo: A Novel by Taylor Jenkins Reid
(Suggested Retail: $15.04)
Description: ”’ There’s nothing better than a juicy beach read. Taylor Jenkins Reid’s latest novel is full of intrigue, emotional twists, and Hollywood glamour, making it easy to get lost in while soaking up the rays.”
Verdict: Like
Sorry, for some reason I’m missing my pic of this one.  This book is going to fit one of my 2017 Popsugar Book Challenge categories (the “A book that takes place over a character’s life span slot”, for those interested), so I’m happy with the inclusion.

ALOHA Collection Mid-Size Ocean Coco Palms Pouch
(Suggested Retail: $36.00)
Description: Pack your waterside essentials in this splash-proof zip pouch. The print will encourage you to get on island time and will protect your snacks, sea salt spray, and hat. You can also use it to store your wetsuit, dirty gym clothes, or other essentials as you run around town.”
Verdict: Gift
I think this is a great addition for a summer box, but I just don’t go to the beach or the pool regularly so this will be wasted on me. I have a friend going on a lovely Caribbean trip, so I’ll pass this along to her.

NCLA So Rich — Mermaid Tears
(Suggested Retail: $18.00)
Description: “Keep your nails from getting dried out on sandy and chlorine-filled days with this azure-hued cuticle oil that smells like honeysuckle. The vitamin E extract blended with sunflower seed oil will bring tears of joy to your tips.”
Verdict: Love!
First let’s give some props to the NCLA marketing team, because who doesn’t want a treatment called “mermaid tears”.  Putting that aside, you know that I’m a polish hoarder, er collector, so this is right up my alley. NCLA is a great brand and a bit spendy for me at the moment, so I’m very happy to have this in my box.  It’s also nice that even subscribers who aren’t nail polish aficionados can use this cuticle oil treatment.

Belgian Boys ® Mini Cookie Stash
(Suggested Retail: .99)
Description: “While sporting your new trucker hat, channel your inner class clown by taking selfies with these adorable (and extremely delicious) mustache cookies. They’re a fun-filled and portable snack to take with you on your sunny-day adventures.”
Verdict: Okay
These cookies were tasty enough. No super awesome taste sensations or anything, but perfectly satisfactory.

Meri Meri Blue and White Party Straws
(Suggested Retail: 3.95)
Description: “Sip your Frappuccino® and other summery concoctions through festive straws that add the perfect final touch to any outdoor festivity. Cheers!”
Verdict: Hit!
I love getting party supplies.  When I finally finish painting my bar, I can use them for some cute drinks.

SPECIAL EXTRA

Starbucks® Frappuccino® Chilled Coffee Drink
(Suggested Retail: $7.99)
Description: Cool off and indulge in the sweet taste of a Frappuccino® chilled coffee drink, made with the quality Starbucks® coffee you already love. The delectable drink will be the perfect pairing with your day of fun in the sun. Also available in 13.7 oz. Flavor may vary.”
Verdict: Hit!
I’m not a Starbucks addict, but I really like the bottled Starbucks drinks as an occasionally treat. I actually tend to like them better than the real deal from the store. (I know, I know, I’m just crazy that way.)

OVERALL:
Verdict:
Hit!
Even though I ended up giving away a couple items in this box, I still think it was well put together.  It had a nice beachy summer feel, cohesive selections and items that should appeal to most subscribers.  I paid $42.70 for this box, and got a retail value of approximately $120.12. (The retail value is based on the current price of the hardcover novel.)  I pretty much got my money back with just the hair and nail products so I’ll call this one a win. I’m excited to see what starts popping up as we move toward the Fall.

I’ve got lots more box reviews coming up plus a huge KBeauty Haul.

If you want sneak previews of the box contents, be sure to follow me on Instagram!

What were your fave items from your summer boxes?

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 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 2017 Must Have + July Spoiler & $15 Off Coupon!

So as usual I’m playing catch up with my boxes.  Today I’ve got a Popsugar July spoiler and a fabulous coupon deal along with my May review. Let’s jump right in!

JULY SPOILER & COUPON

Save $15 off the July 2017 Box!
Use Code: July15
I’m loving the towel spoiler because it will go perfect in my master bath.  I’m interested to see what we get for the “camp” inspiration.

Now onto the main attraction…

MAY MUST HAVE BOX
Now unfortunately, my box was missing the first item..


Lipstick Queen Mornin’ Sunshine

(Suggested Retail: $25)
Description: “This magical lipstick transforms from yellow to a custom coral shade that’s different for every user.  It’ll keep you lips moisturized with vitamin E and will make you smile every time you see the vibrant color.”
Verdict: Miss then a Hit!
I looked high and low in my box, but alas there was no lipstick included.  I love the Lipstick Queen brand and own a few of their products, so I was super excited to try a custom coral shade for Summer.  When I contacted Popsugar about my missing lipstick, they quickly mailed out a new one and you can see it in the next shot.  I was a little disappointed that I didn’t have the product right away, but mistakes happen.

Samantha Faye Inspiration Cuff
(Suggested Retail: $60)
Description: Wear this POPSUGAR-exclusive cuff as a daily reminder that you are good! This stunning adjustable cuff has words to live by carved into it: “Be good. Do good. Feel good.” It’s the motivational mantra you’ll be inspired by. The bracelet can be stacked with your favorite jewelry or worn alone for a minimalistic style.”
Verdict:
Guess I’m just a “bad”girl
I adore quotes and I love jewelry with interesting or compelling phrases but for me this one is uninspired and super corny: “Be good. Do good Feel good.”  I don’t need a reminder that I’m good.  I prefer a reminder to kick ass and take names, or at the very least a “What would Buffy Do”.  Maybe it’s just me but I find the saying on this bracelet so silly I don’t even know who to gift this too.

TOCCA Voyage Montauk 3 oz Candle
(Suggested Retail: $20.00)
Description: ”’ This beautiful candle by Tocca is a classic. It helps clear away the stress from the day. Set the mood as you pamper yourself with some well-deserved downtime. The fresh scent of this candle will evoke memories of ocean air while making it easy to unwind.”
Verdict: Love!
TOCCA scents can sometimes be a bit strong for me, but this one smelled so summery and lovely.

Swing Design Essex Silver Plate Frame
(Suggested Retail: $13.00)
Description: Encase your favorite friend or family moment in this chic silver-plated picture frame. It holds a 4″x 6″ photo that can be placed on your bedside table or bookcase or instead given as a Mother’s Day gift to someone special to brighten up their day.”
Verdict: Grandma called and she wants her sub box back
I think I fell asleep from how boring this is.  A silver picture frame. How is this a “must have”?  It’s more like an “everyone has”.  Popsugar, you have to try harder.

Nicely Noted Exclusive Must Have Card Collection
(Suggested Retail: $17.50)
Description: “Go beyond a text or email and write handwritten notes to let your friends and family know they’re appreciated. The adorable brightly illustrated cards include a thank you, birthday, and hello stationery pack exclusively designed for the Must Have box.”
Verdict: And naptime continues
I love getting stationary, but I like it to be interesting and this set just doesn’t seem all that compelling.  It’s exclusive to this box but pretty much a snooze fest.  This is supposed to be new and trendy, how about something with a little more edge or at least a little more unusual?

Southern Culture Artisan Foods, Inc Strawberry Cream Muffin Mix
(Suggested Retail: $7.99)
Description: “Re-create the sweet memories of baking with your grandma with this all-natural muffin mix. This mix contains real strawberries, all-natural flour, and pure cane sugar to ensure your muffins are light and fluffy every time.”
Verdict: Hit!
I always love getting baking mixes and strawberries are fitting for the season.  I’ll probably use this to make some work breakfasts.

OVERALL:
(Note: Because the lipstick was missing when I received my box, it’s also missing from the full box photo)
Verdict: Some Bad Choices
This box was really split down the middle for me.  I loved the lipstick, the candle and the baking mix.  I found the cards and frame to be uninspired, and the bracelet to be silly.  Thankfully, I only paid $20.46 because of the six month discount I nabbed last year.  For that price tag, I’m fine with not loving everything in the box.  I’m back to full price boxes in June, so hopefully Popsugar will step it up.  While this box had an estimated retail value of $143.49, I can’t see many subscribers getting psyched to receive a small boring picture frame and some notecards.

I’ve got lots more box reviews coming up including a FREE box, so be sure to check back!

If you want sneak previews of the box contents, be sure to follow me on Instagram!

Do you expect new and trendy items in boxes or are you happy with getting some basic things?

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 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 2017 Must Have + June & Summer LE Spoilers!

So as usual I’m playing catch up with my boxes.  Today I’ve got a ton of Popsugar spoilers along with my April box review. Let’s jump right in.

SUMMER LE SPOILERS

Summer Limited Edition Box!
Description: “Wishing everyday was a beach day? This box will set you up for an endless Summer of looking chic with must haves for the beach, heat-proof goodies, and more that will continue to make you daydream about your favorite outings at the shore.”
Quantities are limited, so don’t delay! Boxes will be shipped by May 26 via FedEx SmartPost.
Cost: $100.00
The spoilers so far look like a fabulous summer box.  Right now, it looks like there are still some available for sale so if you like what you see, you may want to nab one.

JUNE MUST HAVE SPOILERS

I’m super psyched because that Dr. Blankenship’s sea salt spray is my favorite sea salt spray and one of my favorite hair products period.  The pouch looks adorable and I’m always up for a new book.  I’m excited to see what the last few items are.

APRIL MUST HAVE BOX

MakersKit Crystal Sand Art Terrarium Kit

(Suggested Retail: $32)
Description: “This all-in-one terrarium kit comes with a glass vase, preserved mosses, sand, and an amethyst crystal. Not only are crystals one of the biggest trends, but this is the season’s easiest DIY-project-turned-ultrachic-decoration as well.”
Verdict: LOVE!
I love home items and I had planned on making some terrariums for my new house, so this was perfect.  I also love that this wasn’t an item you typically expect to see in a sub box.  One of my favorite items I’ve ever gotten in any box.


The Cottage Greenhouse Carrot & Neroli Rich & Repair Body Wash

(Suggested Retail: $22)
Description: Rejuvenate with this vitamin-rich body wash that nourishes and restores your skin. Full of naturally hydrating ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa butter, and honey, it’s guaranteed to make you glow from head to toe.”
Verdict:
Love!
One of my favorite things to get in sub boxes are items that are luxury or nicer versions of everyday things like bodywash, shampoo and hand soap.  This body wash looks super luxe and I can’t wait to try it out.


MORNING CULTURE Dipped Bamboo Cutting Board

(Suggested Retail: $22.00)
Description: ”’Function meets form with this gorgeous and eco-friendly kitchen addition. Dipped in food-grade paint, this pretty bamboo cutting board doubles as a space-saving serving tray.”
Verdict: Hit!
I’m always up for new home items and this will be a perfect little appetizer tray.  I have a clear glass bowl that should fit in the round cut-out, so I can do a perfect little tray of pita and humus or veggies and dip.


Tonic Australia® Lavender Sachets

(Suggested Retail: $15.00)
Description: Wake up to a sweet scent of Spring, or in this case, the refreshing aroma of idyllic lavender fields. Place these pretty floral satchels filled with dried lavender under your pillow or in your closet for a daily dose of exceptional calm.”
Verdict: Love!
More house stuff!  As someone who just bought a house, this is perfect.  It will inspire me to organize my dresser drawers.


CocolabTM CocoflossTM

(Suggested Retail: $8.00)
Description: “Make flossing fun with this coconut-oil-infused dental floss that will keep your mouth clean and fresh. The soft microfiber filaments are designed to scrub your teeth and a hint of tropical fruit will turn your pearly whites into a lifelong treasure.”
Verdict: Hit!
I know it’s just dental floss, but as someone who has lots of fun gum issues (thanks genetics) I need to floss somewhat compulsively so I’m happy to try some fancier products.


Nourish Snacks Holy Habanero

(Suggested Retail: $1.99)
Description: “Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, these fire-roasted habanero-seasoned corn kernels are unbelievably delicious and savory. Can there be too much of a good thing? With these little kernels of deliciousness, we think not.”
Verdict: Not for me
I’m not so into peppery snacks so this one was amiss for me.


SPECIAL EXTRA

ProNamel® Strong & Bright Enamel, Extra Fresh Toothpaste
Description: “The secret to whiter, brighter teeth starts with strong enamel. This new toothpaste is fortified with minerals to help strengthen enamel and polish teeth. Plus, it freshens breath and fights cavities for a healthy mouth.”
Verdict: Hit!
Who doesn’t need extra toothpaste?  This might not be super fancy, but it will save me a couple bucks at the pharmarcy.

OVERALL:

Verdict:
Favorite box of the year
With the exception of the $1.99 snack, I loved everything in this box.  It was definitely home décor heavy and had a practical vibe, but it was perfect for me.  I adore practical luxe items and the unexpected terrarium kit was a wonderful addition.  I can’t wait to find a place for all these goodies in my new house.

I still had boxes left on the awesome deal I nabbed last year, so I only paid $20.46 while the estimated retail value (excluding the toothpaste) was $100.99.  For what I paid, I would have been satisfied with just the terrarium kit.   I think the quality and value of this box was well beyond the full $39.95 price tag.

I’ve got lots more box reviews coming up including a few new ones.

If you want sneak previews of the box contents, be sure to follow me on Instagram!

How do you feel about home items in your sub boxes.
Yay or Nay?

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 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

Save

Popsugar: March 2017 Must Have & the Summer LE Box!

So as we head toward Mother’s Day this weekend, I thought I’d feature one of my favorite subscriptions: Popsugar Must Have Box.  If you’ve been procrastinating on picking up a gift, a subscription box is your best friend.  You can check out my handy dandy new page of sub boxes listed by category and my easy reference page of coupon codes and special links for help with that last minute shopping.

First some news!
Popsugar just launched their Summer Limited Edition Box!
Summer Box
Summer Limited Edition Box!
Description: “Wishing everyday was a beach day? This box will set you up for an endless Summer of looking chic with must haves for the beach, heat-proof goodies, and more that will continue to make you daydream about your favorite outings at the shore.”
Quantities are limited, so don’t delay! Boxes will be shipped by May 26 via FedEx SmartPost.
Cost: $100.00
My budget is currently being spent trying to drag my house out of 1976, so I’ll be skipping.  Personally, I find it best to wait for at least a spoiler or two before committing to the Popsugar Limited Edition boxes.  If you know you like at least one or two of the items, it’s a lot easier to gamble a hundred books.

Now onto my box:
MARCH MUST HAVE BOX

Open 1Open 2

Album
Kate Spade New York New York Photo Album
(Suggested Retail: $20)
Description: “Start bringing past memories to life by printing and storing them in this Kate Spade photo album. The cute polka-dot design will liven up any coffee table, and you’ll love reminiscing over the content you create inside forever.”
Verdict: Gift
I adore Kate Spade (and no one start me on a rant about Coach buying them out) but I was disappointed with this.  I don’t think most people use these kind of albums much anymore.  They either go the digital route or have albums made.  It’s  a cute design though and I’m going to use this as part of a gift.

BagStephanie Johnson Camera Crossbody Bag
(Suggested Retail: $45)
Description: Protect all your favorite necessities in this adorable Stephanie Johnson crossbody bag. Whether you’re at the beach or the pool, the vinyl texture will help to keep everything inside dry, and the cool see-through finish is right on trend for 2017.”
Verdict:
Hit!
At first I thought this would be too young and I’d pass it along to a kid, but it’s actually made very well and fits my camera perfectly.  It’s definitely bright, but it works great as a camera bag and I think it would be fun for the beach and water parks.

HighlighterThrive Causemetics Brilliant Eye Brightener™ in Stella
(Suggested Retail: $24.00)
Description: ”’ Thrive Causemetics’ cruelty-free, vegan highlighter lets you put your best face forward by giving you a long-lasting, luminous finish. From a company that is all about female empowerment, this handy eye brightener gives every woman a boost of confidence while also being perfect for those on the go.”
Verdict: Like
I couldn’t find this product for sale on its own on the Thrive site so I linked to the set where it’s available.  I think an eye brightener sounds like a great product as we move into warmer weather.  Dewy, luminous makeup looks are perfect for Spring and Summer.

Lunch BoxSunnylife, LLC® Eco Lunch Box Watermelon
(Suggested Retail: $18.00)
Description: ”Just looking at this Sunnylife watermelon lunch box makes your mouth water. Carry your favorite snacks or lunch in this dishwasher-safe model, which is perfect for enjoying outside in the sun.”
Verdict: Love!
I try to bring my lunch to work every day so I am always on the hunt for durable and adorable food storage and lunch boxes.  This is so cute and fun, it will definitely be going into my weekly rotation.

MarshmallowSmashMallow TM Cinnamon Churro
(Suggested Retail: $4.00)
Description: “Two of our favorite sweets — churros and marshmallows — come together to make the ultimate SmashMallow. This light but decadent treat will catapult you into Spring with its carnival-like feel and guilt-free appeal.”
Verdict: Sad Panda
I love marshmallows and cinnamon is my favorite spice so I was super excited to see these.  The taste was not good and the texture was grainy.  I so wanted them to be delicious and they just weren’t.

SPECIAL EXTRA
Velvet Eyewear® $25 Gift Card
Description: “Inspired by history, passion, a love of color, and a bit of rock, Velvet Eyewear sunglasses are just what you need this season. With this $25 gift card, you’re on your way to owning a brand-new, sleek pair of sexy specs.”
Verdict: Not really an extra!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Giftcards that require you to spend more than the face value are not “special extras”.  They are just coupons.  Sunglasses on this site are beautiful and cost upwards of $195.  I’d have no problem if this was just included as a nice coupon offer, but calling it a “special extra” is a bunch of crap.  Sorry for the lack of a photo, since it wasn’t an actual item, I forgot!

OVERALL:
Popsugar March 2017Verdict:
Like!
Now, I heard a lot of people complaining about this box and I can definitely see where they are coming for.  First the box value is a little low for Popsugar coming out at an estimated $111.00.  While that’s still more than the $39.95 cost, it’s not as much as a typical box.  On top of that this doesn’t feel like a March box at all. It seems more like it has a bit of a travel theme and seems like it should be something you receive in July.

For me, I still had boxes left on a fab deal I nabbed last year so I only paid $20.46.  I adored the lunch box and grew to love the overly cheerful crossbody bag.   I’ll use the brightener and gift the album so excluding the marshmallows and gift card everything will get used.

I’ve got lots more box reviews coming up including new sub boxes, old favorites and even a free one.
If you want sneak previews of the box contents, be sure to follow me on Instagram!

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 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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