Author: Coco

POPSUGAR Must Have Subscription Box – May 2015 Review

Coco

Our May 2015 Must Have box was curated to help kick Summer off right with a box designed to keep you happy, healthy, and, of course, stylish. You’ll find beauty products fit for the beach and bright home goods that scream Summer. We hope you live it up!

The box is $40/month, but I typically get $5 off with coupon: MUSTHAVE5

Here’s what was included this month:

  • Kitsch – Tri’d & True Y-Shaped Necklace – Value $32
  • Middle Kingdom – Mini Plum Vase in Coral Red – Value $20
  • Batiste – Dry Shampoo Cherry – Travel Size Value $4
  • Sisters of Los Angeles – Surf Sand Love Beach Towel – Value $40
  • Sage & Row – Bare Shave Cream – Value $17
  • Hammond’s Candies McCraw’s Flat Taffy – Value $1

At over $110 value, this is great for Popsugar!

Out of everything, my favorite is the Beach Towel, which I have already used a few times since receiving it. I also have been using the Shave Cream, which has already been super useful!

Batch USA Tour of Texas Collection – Austin – April 2015

Coco

The Batch team has scoured Texas for the best local goods from six fine cities:

  • Austin (April)
  • San Antonio (May)
  • Ft. Worth (June)
  • El Paso (July)
  • Houston (August)
  • Dallas (September)

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BirchBox Man + Mad Men April 2015 Subscription Box

Coco

Celebrate the art of workplace style with classic scents, barware, and a host of dapper accessories.

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Quarterly Rosario Dawson #18903 Subscription Box

Coco

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Rachel Zoe’s Box of Style Summer Subscription Hero Item Spoiler

Coco

The Rachel Zoe team recently shared the Hero Item spoiler for the Summer box. It’s a beautifule white, leather bag:

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The hero item is the gorgeous Large Push Lock Bag from UK-based Cambridge Satchel Company. Valued at $150, this beauty doubles as a clutch—just remove the straps and go from the beach to an evening soiree in style.

In addition to this fab handbag, our summer Box of Style includes several other major fashion, beauty and lifestyle finds that ensure you’ll stay cool even as the temperature rises.

I am a little unsure about this bag – I’m not a huge fan of white or solid color purses, plus it is also a little plain. But I am intrigued by the brand and have seen many reviews touting their quality. Since I loved the Spring box, I will be continuing my subscription for now. I am excited to see what else is included!

The Summer box sold out fast but the Fall box is already avaliable for pre-order!

MyIdol Huanshi Chinese iPhone App

Coco

I happened across this new app on a BuzzFeed article and couldn’t resist sharing MY idol. Check me out:

CocoFeed

I also created a video using the app, with my idol dancing to “Sexy Back” – check it out on Instagram – it’s absolutely hilarious.

You can download the app for free if you have an iPhone by searching for “MyIdol” or “Huanshi”. The BuzzFeed article has some helpful tips on using the app since it can be a little difficult to navigate at first (it’s fully in Chinese!).

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POPSUGAR Must Have Subscription Box – April 2015 Review

Coco

What inspired the April Must Have Box? Spring, Simplicity, Markets, Outdoors.

I wasn’t going to sign-up for this month’s POPSUGAR Must Have, but ended up caving. Here’s what was included:

Overall, I was happy with the box because I am in love with the Dabney Lee Umbrella and I have been needing a new umbrella for a long time. I am shocked that it’s only a $20 value because it seems very well made.  The other items are not anything I will get much use out of but they are all very nice products.

The One Love Organics body serum is a high value skin care item and has a very strong and unique floral smell which I like but am not sure it is something I will use often.

I do like that the Produce candle is in a mason jar and can be reused after the candle has burned fully.

CocoFeed @popsugarmh

 

I also thought the Garden in a Bag is absolutely adorable!

CocoFeed: And we have sprouts

 

My least favorite product was probably the reusable bag simply because I do not have a use for that particular style. It is a cool idea though and I could see leaving it in my car for travel uses.

The box total worth is about $100 and at $35 (after coupon) it was a great value for me!

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Taylor’s Gift Organ Donation Foundation – OPI Taylor Blue Nail Polish

Coco

In March 2010, thirteen-year-old Taylor Storch’s life was tragically cut short by a skiing accident. With only a few minutes to consider their options, her grieving family made the life-changing decision to donate her organs.

I heard about Taylor’s story on the radio one morning and was touched by her parent’s words. I immediately checked out their website to learn more about their cause.

In April 2013, during National Donate Life Month, Taylor’s Gift Foundation created a clever way for organ donation to be an easy part of any conversation. With the help of OPI’s exclusive “Taylor Blue” nail lacquer, the “Paint it Forward” campaign was born, and quickly proved to be as effective as it was simple.

Supporters were encouraged to paint their nails Taylor Blue and share their photos through social media using #TaylorBlue. This simple show of support ended up exposing millions of people to the idea of becoming an organ donor.

Once the Taylor Blue nail polish was avaliable in their Online Store, I immediately purchased a bottle.

The color is absolutely beautiful and it is easily one of my favorite colors now. I received many compliments when wearing the polish and loved the opportunity to share a little about Taylor’s Gift and encouraging others to visit the website, as well.

I also made sure I was signed up as an Organ donor! If you are interested in becoming an Organ Donar, check out their website: http://taylorsgift.org/register/

Rachel Zoe’s Spring 2015 Box Of Style Review

Coco

Introducing Box Of Style. Over $300 worth of glamorous finds, curated by Rachel Zoe and delivered to you for only $100.

One of the most sought over boxes so far this year, Rachel Zoe’s Box of Style was sold out within a few hours of launching and I was one of the lucky ones to get one!

Honestly, when I first saw the full spoilers, I didn’t think I would be a fan, but after I had a chance to play with the items, I am so happy that I subscribed! Here’s what was in the box:

You can check out Rachel’s explanation for why she chose each item below:

 

 

When I first signed up for the box, I really didn’t like the bracelet which was the “hero” item of the box. I just liked that it was high value and I figured at the very least, it would be resellable. Boy was I wrong! I absolutely love it and I am sure I will be wearing it daily for a long time to come. It fits me perfectly and I ended up loving the style. I don’t usually wear gold jewelry, but I love it for this piece and I ended up pairing it alongside my Pandora bracelet:

CocoFeed: Loving this combo @thezoeproject

Since the bracelet was a huge hit for me, the other items ended up being bonus. I have always wanted to try out the tarte mascara, and I was pleased to get it as a full-size. I already love Zoya nail polish and I love the colors that Rachel Zoe picked. I tried out the tan color first and it is growing on me. I can’t wait to try out the other two! The sunglasses are really beautiful and well made. I honestly like them more than any other pair I own, so when spring cleaning comes aroung, they may be my only pair. Lastly, the styling tape is a nice touch but isn’t something I will use.

Overall, I LOVED this box. It was beautifully curated and worth the cost. I can’t wait to see what Rachel has in store for the Summer box!

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Treatsie March 2015 Standard Box (with Extra Sweets Coupon!) Review

Coco

Unlike some subscription boxes, Treatsie is not about providing lots of samples at a discount. Rather, we strive to help you discover high-quality sweets you love from the most talented chefs around the country.

I signed up for Treatsie since they have a coupon (EXTRASWEETS) right now that gives you “Double Sweets” when you purchase your first monthly box. I signed up for the Standard Box which is “up to $25 value in each box for just $15” plus $4.95 for shipping.

Our customer’s favorites from the last 3 months that are included in your first monthly box when you use the coupon code EXTRASWEETS when subscribing.

Here’s the example of the Standard Box they have on their website:

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I do not eat a lot of candy but I was interested to try some high quality artisan sweets. And with the coupon granting double sweets, I couldn’t resist!

Unfortunately, what I received really did not feel like “double”. Here’s what I got:

  • J&M Foods Triple Chocolate Cookies – $8 (2.5oz)
  • Quin Fruit Lollipops (4) – $7
  • Sticky Toffee Pudding Co. Millionaire Shortbread – $3.50 (2 oz bar)
  • Zingerman’s Candy “What The Fudge?” Bar – $6 (3 oz bar)
  • Lambrecht Gourmet Southern Pecan Toffee – About $6 (3oz)
  • Avenue Sweets Caramels (5 Various Flavors) – About $0.50 each
  • Seattle Chocolates Birthday Cake Batter Pieces (4) – About $0.40 each

The total value is about $35, which is pretty decent for the $20 price. But I still felt like the ‘double sweets’ deal was misleading since the standard box shows about 4 ‘large’ items, while my ‘double sweets’ standard box only had 5 ‘large’ items and a handful of chews.

Despite this, my boyfriend and I LOVED the selection in our Treatsie box ESPECIALLY the Millionaire Shortbread. The box was a great treat for us to enjoy and we were somehow able to make it last for the entire week by only having a small amount each night as dessert.

Overall, I think this is a fun and unique box. We do not buy sweets, as we both try to eat healthier, but this was definitely a nice escape.

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Walmart Beauty Box Spring 2015 Subscription Review Part 2

Coco

A defining line here. A splash of color there. Every woman has her own unique way of showing the beauty within her. At Walmart, you’ll discover the latest products and most trusted brands at our low prices. Every day.

For $5 each season, Walmart will send you a box full of samples and coupons for Walmart beauty products.

Somehow, I received two of these. The last one I received may have been the Fall Box, but I am not entirely sure as they arrived within two weeks of each other. I am thoroughly confused. Regardless, check out what samples I received below:

  • Dove go fresh Revitalize Body Wash with NutriumMoisture – Mandarin & Tiare Flower Scent (1.8oz)
  • Schwarzkopf essence ULTIME Omega Repair & Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner (1.7oz each)
  • Lady Gaga FAME perfume sample (0.04oz)
  • Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes (7 wipes)
  • Nivea In-Shower Body Lotion for Very Dry Skin (0.31oz)
  • Maybelline FIT me! Matte+Poreless Foundation in 115 Ivory (one use sample)

 

And the Coupons/Ads:

  • $2.00 off 1 Schwarzkopf Essence ULTIME Hair Care Product or Styliste ULTIME Styling Product
  • $3.00 off 1 Schwarzkopf Color ULTIME or Keratin Color Hair Coloring Product
  • $2.00 off any L’Oreal Paris Cosmetic Product Purchase
  • $2.00 off 1 CoverGirl + Olay Simple Ageless Foundation Product
  • $1.00 off any 1 Nivea In-Shower Body Lotion
  • $2.00 off 1 Fit Me or Maybelline New York Face Product

 

I wasn’t as impressed with this box as the last one because there weren’t any full-size items. I did, however, really like the Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes!

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POPSUGAR Must Have Special Edition Resort Box Review

Coco

Dreaming of your next destination? Get ready with all of our travel-inspired favorites inside the Special Edition Must Have Resort Box! Special Edition boxes are indulgent, one-time purchases that feature exclusive items and unique collaborations.

The 2015 Resort box included the following items:

popsugar-must-have-resort-2015

  • Stephanie Johnson – White Dot Train Case ($60)
  • Jane Iredale – Warm My Steppes Makeup Kit ($58)
  • Drunk Elephant – C-Firma Day Serum ($80)
  • Lele Sadoughi – Half-Moon Pendant ($110)
  • Jacobsen Salt Co. – Pure Sea Salt Cocktail Salt ($14)
  • Sloane Stationary – Passport Holder ($48)

 

That’s a $370 value!

Now that I’ve had a chance to look at each item and try them out, my favorite item in the Resort Box is the Stephanie Johnson Train Case.

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I have a few trips coming up so it will be super useful for me! It is really cute and seems to be well made. I absolutely love that it is lined (and in PINK!!), so it should be easy to clean up, especially since I will most likely be housing make-up in it which is notorious for spillage. This bag makes the whole box for me!!

I also really liked the Drunk Elephant Serum. It is nice getting a high priced skin care product, especially since I do not already use a serum on my skin. However, I HATE the way it smells. It is only bearable after masking the smell with lots of make-up. I will probably keep using it, but that was somewhat disappointing.

The rest of the box ended up being a slight miss for me. I was SO excited when I saw spoilers of the Lele Sadoughi Necklace, but in person it just wasn’t my style. It definitely looks nice and seems to be pretty good quality, but the length and and chunky style chain makes it look more like costume jewelry rather than expensive (especially if you consider the $110 price tag). I actually ended up liking the bag the necklace came in more than the actual necklace, haha!

The Sloane Stationary Passport Holder is very simple and would be useful if I actually had a passport. Maybe it will become useful if I end up going out of the country at some point.

The Jane Iredale Makeup Kit was a huge plus for a lot of people (it was the one item that PopSugar spoiled on their Facebook page), but I knew from the beginning I would not be keeping it. I do wear makeup, but this kit is not my taste at all. For one, I have not worn bronzer since I was in high school and I don’t plan on wearing it any time soon. If I can, I might sell or trade this one.

Finally, the Jacobsen Cocktail Salt was a huge letdown for me! I love margaritas, but we don’t usually make them at home and I doubt it will ever get used. Hopefully I can gift this one.

Overall, I was pretty excited about the Stephanie Johnson Train Case and I do not regret purchasing the Resort Box, but I do feel like most of these items were not a fit for me.

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