Stitch Fix Review December 2014

Gosh it's been a long time since I posted!    I had back surgery this summer and suspended my fixes while I recovered.

But... I got some cute stuff this month!


1.   19 cooper Button-up Long Sleeve Blouse $68

$69 for a plain navy sheer button up.  I'm doing stitch fix to get unique pieces that I cannot buy locally.    This is going back.   Plus , it hits to high on my hips and the sheerness shows the ugly back brace that I am wearing post-surgery.

2.   Daniel Rain Kacia Geo-Print Mixed Material Top - $64

Cute print, and it is Navy and Black and Brown!   It will match anything.    The back is solid black jersey knit, and the armholes are so flattering.   I kept this one.

3.  Renee C Shayna Tile Print Blouse. - $54

I LOVE love this top.   It is very blousy at the top, but the navy band at the bottom is snug around the hips.    I wonder if it is supposd to fit like this, or if my post-baby hips are the wrong shape?

4.  Pixley Mini Tulip Print Blouse - $68

I LOVE this top!!!!    But, I already have a navy blouse with heart print from another fix.   I wish this blouse was red or hunter green or plum!   I ended up keeping it anyway.   My heart print blouse is getting worn out.

5. Collective Concepts Graphic Print Blouse - $64

I LOVE this too!   But I have a hard time paying so much for a shell that I'll layer a sweater over the top.

So there ya go.  My newest fix :)

New post soon

I need to update with my May Stitch fix finds!   It's the box where I keep everything!   Seriously guy, every item was so perfect for me.   I love my stylist!!

I promise to get around to uploading the photos and doing the blog post soon.   We've been to Disney world twice in the past month, and so I need to catch my breath, and do a ton of laundry first!!!

Stay tuned!

Favorite Things - Mothers Day and Birthday Edition

Hint, hint honey... I wouldn't mind seeing one or two of these items on Mothers Day, or even my birthday!

With Mother's Day coming up soon (and my birthday the week after), I thought it might be nice to share some of the things I'm loving and/or longing for lately.   So, in no particular order, here are a few of my favorite things:

Basin Orange Vanilla Shea Scrub (shop here)

I tried this body scrub out last time we were at Downtown Disney.  It made my hands feel so soft, but not greasy at all.  The fresh citrus smell is so refreshing!   (Honey, if you're reading... We get a discount with our Disney Annual Pass)

Earrings to match my name charm necklace (shop here)

Paul gave me a name charm necklace from Suzanne Myers Jewelry when Harper was born (link here).  It is my all-time favorite necklace! Suzanne creates awesome sterling silver jewelry.  Ordering from her is very special - she takes the time to get to know you while creating your special piece.   Even celebrities like Martina McBride, LeAnn Rimes, Sharon Stone, and Faith Hill order from her!  I think a pair of the Willow earrings will go nicely with my name charm necklace.

And here is a pic of my name charm necklace:

A coin purse to match my purse (shop here)

The smartest purchase I ever made was my LV Totally PM.   I've been carrying it for three years, and haven't had any desire to buy a new purse.  I have a large Sarah wallet, but I would love a small coin purse that slides in the side pocket of my purse and offers easy access to coins and my ID for when I'm paying tolls or don't feel like carrying my larger wallet.

Custom chalboard family name print  (shop here)

I've been looking for the perfect print for our recently remodeled bedroom.   I've been looking on etsy for something that I like, and found this one.   I think it would look great personalized with our initial and name on it.

So... there you have it.  

Some of my favorite things, and some things I really want.  (And honey, if you're reading... these range in price from $15 to $250.  So there's plenty for you to choose from.)


Happy Mother's Day, Everyone!


Edited to add:  The companies mentioned in this post did not reimburse me for reviews, nor do they even know I love their products so much.

Ipsy Glam Bag Review April 2014

I got my third Glam Bag in the mail today!   I really enjoyed the items I received this month - Ipsy has made it so easy for this SAHM to enjoy wearing makeup!

Before I go any further, I want to share my referral link:  CLICK HERE to try Glam Bag for yourself! (Hint: Sharing Glam Bag on your facebook page allows you to skip the wait list.)

What is an Ipsy Glam Bag, you ask?

Michelle Phan started out doing Youtube video tutorials.  She was constantly asked the question: "What are the right products for me?"  I totally understand that question, since I've asked it myself.  Choosing the best items for your needs can be a challenge! That was why Michelle created ipsy. Michelle and her team of stylists have selected products they love, for you to try.

Each month, subscribers will receive a beautiful Glam Bag with deluxe samples and full-sized beauty products. Members can watch and play along with the stylists with the same products that they are using. All for only $10 a month.

When you sign up, you take a beauty quiz, asking all about your skin tone, beauty preferences, favorite brands, skill level, etc.  I love this service, because I never buy new beauty products.  I've used the same tube of mascara since I quit work and started staying home.  I never wear makeup, because it's not fun for me.  All of that has changed since signing up for Glam Bags!

I can't tell you how excited I am about primping a little, especially since I've got some nice new clothes from Stitch Fix (link) to wear too!

Ipsy is also very involved with social media:

1. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date.
2. Explore beauty Looks on ipsy.com and enter monthly "Look Challenges" to win prizes.
3. Subscribe to the monthly Glam Bag... it's just $10/month and packed with beauty products.
4. Reveal exclusive offers from leading brands in your personalized Glam Room.
5. Tell your friends about ipsy by using your unique ipsyPoints referral link.

 

The Review

I received an email the second week of April, letting me know that my bag shipped.  They provided me with a DHL tracking number, which was transferred for delivery by my local post office.   My Glam Bag was delivered three days after receiving my tracking info.  This is the stock photo of the April glam bag.  I knew that I would probably get different products than pictured, since each glam bag is customized for your needs, skin tone, product preferences, etc.

 

 

First Item: Navy record print cosmetic bag

I gave this bag away to a teenager in our church.   I am not a fan of 'rockstar' type stuff.  And this edgy design isn't really my style.  I much prefer preppy looking things.  But even though I don't care for the decorations, it was a nice bag!

Second Item:  Urban Decay - 24/7 Velvet Glide-On Eye Pencil Travel Size

I've never tried Urban Decay products, which is one reason I love IPSY.  It exposes me to new brands without breaking my piggy band.  This eyeliner goes on so smooth!  It looks great, and I really like using a makup sponge to blend it a little before I apply eyeshadow.

The product can be purchased here, and it costs $20 for a full-size pencil (I received a trial size). Since this item was in my Glam Bag, I get a free gift if I order $35 worth of products from urbandecay.com.

Third item: Coastal Scents - Medium Shadow Brush

 

The Coastal Scents Shadow Brush is a medium sized brush made out of natural fibers that is wide in shape and condensed to allow an even distribution of eyeshadow on the lid. This professional cosmetic brush can be used for shading the crease and highlighting the brow bone with complete precision.

You can buy this brush here, and it's $2.49 plush shipping.  Ipsy glam bag recipients also get 25% off their oder at coastalscents.com!

 

 Fourth Item: dr. brandt® - microdermabrasion

The dr. brandt® microdermabrasion gently sweeps away dead skin cells and softens skin texture, which enables better absorption of skincare products and helps diminish the appearance of fine lines, acne marks, and skin discolorations. A great at home alternative to professional clinical treatments. Safe to use for all skin types.

You can buy your own here.   Retail value for this is $78!!!  Even with my 20% promo code, this is out of my price range.  Although... let me tell you, this stuff is awesome.

 

Fifth Item: Elizabeth Mott - pop! goes the shadow in champagne

 

The Elizabeth Mott pop! goes the eyeshadow is the ultimate eyeshadow that's long lasting, easy to apply, and effortlessly blends. Buildable colors will take you from subtle highlights to dramatic smokey eyes. With pop! goes the shadow, eye shadow creasing is a thing of the past.

This product can be purchased here.  Retail value for this is  $12.99, and I got 50% off my order this month.

 

Sixth Item: Starlooks - Luscious Longwear Lip Pencil

 

Starlooks' Luscious, Longwear, Matte Lip Liner formula contains a Kiss-Off Resistant polymer that, when worn alone or in combination with a matte lipstick, offers an incredible 8 hour wear - with little no need for touch-up or re-application. Comes in one, brilliant shade of nude for all skin tones! 

This product can be purchased here.  Retail value for this is  $14, and I got 20% off if I decide to order it.

My Thoughts

This was an awesome experience.   For just $10, I got at least $35 worth of product, including three full-size items (eyeshadow, lip liner, shadow brush).  Plus I easily got double that amount in coupons and online discounts.

Is this worth my time and money? YES!   Will I continue to use this service?  YES, and I have no reservations about continuing this service indefinitely.

Safety Tattoos for Traveling With Little Ones

We go to Disney World at least once a month.  Sometimes we stay for a couple of days, and other times we just do day trips.   After becoming separated from our 3 year old in a crowded restaurant, we decided to find a way to make traveling safer.  (Yes, I know I could put my child on a leash, but that's not really a good solution for us right now.)


So, I found Lost & Found Temporary Tattoos on Amazon (LINK HERE).

I ordered the girl pack.  It came with everything pictured, plus a permanent marker for adding your phone number(s)  to the tattooo after it dries.

My daughter liked the fact that she could choose a butterfly, heart, or unicorn tattoo.

After using the cleansing towelettes that were provided, we applied a butterfly tattoo using water and a damp washcloth.  Singing 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" is the perfect timer - by the time your little one finishes the song, it will be time to remove the backing from the tattoo.

TIP - Make sure the tattoo is completely dry before writing your contact info on it.  Otherwise, your pen will tear the tattoo.  I used a photo editing program to remove the last 4 digits of my cellphone number, so I don't get random calls from internet people :)

The tattoos lasted for the entire 3 day trip, I just had to be careful to not put sunscreen on them.   I also took the permanent pen with me and freshened up our cellphone numbers each day.

I had SO MANY people stop me and ask where I got the tattoos for both my girls.  They certainly made me feel a little better about taking my kids into the crowds, since they aren't old enough to tell someone our phone number.

***I was not reimbursed in any way for this review.  The company does not even know that I am writing this.  I am just sharing an awesome product with anyone who might be planning a Disney trip with little ones. 

Ipsy Glam Bag Review March 2014

I got my second Glam Bag in the mail today!   I am a slacker and waited a couple weeks to post my review, but let me tell you.... that does not mean I'm not excited about what I received!!!   This month's bag was AWESOME!

Before I go any further, I want to share my referral link:  CLICK HERE to try Glam Bag for yourself! (Hint: Sharing Glam Bag on your facebook page allows you to skip the wait list.)

What is an Ipsy Glam Bag, you ask?

Michelle Phan started out doing Youtube video tutorials.  She was constantly asked the question: "What are the right products for me?"  I totally understand that question, since I've asked it myself.  Choosing the best items for your needs can be a challenge! That was why Michelle created ipsy. Michelle and her team of stylists have selected products they love, for you to try.

Each month, subscribers will receive a beautiful Glam Bag with deluxe samples and full-sized beauty products. Members can watch and play along with the stylists with the same products that they are using. All for only $10 a month.

When you sign up, you take a beauty quiz, asking all about your skin tone, beauty preferences, favorite brands, skill level, etc.  I love this service, because I never buy new beauty products.  I've used the same tube of mascara since I quit work and started staying home.  I never wear makeup, because it's not fun for me.  All of that has changed since signing up for Glam Bags!

I can't tell you how excited I am about primping a little, especially since I've got some nice new clothes from Stitch Fix (link) to wear too!

Ipsy is also very involved with social media:

1. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date.
2. Explore beauty Looks on ipsy.com and enter monthly "Look Challenges" to win prizes.
3. Subscribe to the monthly Glam Bag... it's just $10/month and packed with beauty products.
4. Reveal exclusive offers from leading brands in your personalized Glam Room.
5. Tell your friends about ipsy by using your unique ipsyPoints referral link.

 

The Review

I received an email the second week of March, letting me know that my bag shipped.  They provided me with a DHL tracking number, which was transferred for delivery by my local post office.   My Glam Bag was delivered two days after receiving my tracking info.  This is the stock photo of the March glam bag.  I knew that I would probably get different products than pictured, since each glam bag is customized for your needs, skin tone, product preferences, etc.

 

 

First Item: White abstract print cosmetic bag

I have to say, I am most impressed with these little cosmetic bags.   I can't get over how nice they are, especially at this price point.  The bag is a little smaller, but just by a teensy bit.  I have this bag already in my little cross-body purse that I carry to Disney.  (It's holding all my extra trading pins... but that's a post for another day)

Second Item:  Marvelous Moxie Lipstick in Get Ready - by Bare Minerals

I've never tried Bare Minerals products, and so was interested to see how this compares to other lipsticks I use.  The color is really nice with my skin tone, but it feels a little dry on my lips.  I prefer a smooth lip gloss, or tinted lip balm.

The product can be purchased here, and it costs $18 for a full-size tube (I received a trial size). Since this item was in my Glam Bag, I get free shipping when I order, plus a trial size mascara for free.

Third item: OPI Roughles Nail Enamel in "On What Grounds"

 

Once again this month, the first item I used from my Glam Bag was the nail polish.  While last month's color was very subtle, this month I got a bright, saturated, Tiffany Blue color. Plus, it's speckled with little textured bits, revealing a neat pebbled finish when dry.  I've had the same polish on for a week now, and it's held up remarkable well.

You can buy this polish here, and it's $9-$10 per bottle.  I was kind of bummed that I didn't receive any kind of discount on another bottle, since I would love to buy this in petal pink or lavendar.  I can't complain too much though, since I received a full-size bottle in my Glam Bag.

 

 Fourth Item: Bora Bora Eyeshadow Quad by Be a Bombshell

This was another full-size item in my bag.   I can't say too much about it, though.   These colors are not for me, and so I gave it to a friend who needed a little pick-me-up.  She really likes it though!  It's very long wearing, as it contains highly pigmented long lasting formula for all day wear.

You can buy your own here.   Retail value for this is $16.  Be a Bombshell is offering Ipsy customers 40% off their purchase, plus a fuschia lip crayon with every order.

 

Fifth Item: Pixi Beauty Flawless Beauty Primer

 

I've never tried a primer, but OH MY GOODNESS this stuff is amazing!! The Pixi Beauty Flawless Beauty Primer is loaded with skin loving ingredients.  FOrmula contains powerful ant-aging and skin fortifying benefits, and is suitable for all skin types.

This product can be purchased here.  Retail value for this is  $22 for full-size or $9 for a travel size (which is what I received).  And Pixi Beauty is giving Glam Bag recipients 25% off your order.

 

My Thoughts

This was an awesome experience.   For just $10, I got at least $35 worth of product, including two full-size items (eyeshadow, nail polish).  Plus I easily got double that amount in coupons and online discounts.

Is this worth my time and money? YES!   Will I continue to use this service?  YES, and I have no reservations about continuing this service indefinitely.

Stitch Fix #3 - March 2014

My third Stitch Fix has arrived!!   If you're not familiar with Stitch Fix, check out this post here to see what it's all about.  My stylist this time was Michelle, again!!! I requested that she do my March fix, since she did such a good job with my February box.

Check out the link for my first Stitch Fix here, and my second Stitch Fix here.

What is Stitch Fix?

Stitch Fix is a personal styling service. You tell them all about your style, size, and budget preferences, and your personal stylist sends you a box of clothing and accessories to try on at home. Each Fix is unique and hand-picked just for you.  You keep what you like, and return the other items for free!

My main reasons for using Stitch Fix:

1. I am a SAHM.  I cannot take a 3 year old and 1 year old shopping, while maintaining my sanity.
2. I live really far from shopping options.  I live 40 miles from Target and Kohl's.  I live 115 miles from Gap, Anthropologie, H&M, Dillards, etc. I can't just run out and find cute, good quality, unique clothing, unless I make a day trip of it.  And there's no way I could do it if both my girls are with me.  It would not be fun at all! 
3. When I factor in gas costs for a shopping trip, it's worth it to pay slightly higher prices through Stitch Fix.  Even if I could pay a few dollars less by shopping sale racks at the mall, the travel expenses and headaches to get to the mall aren't worth the savings.  Plus, Stitch Fix makes me go outside my comfort zone, and I need that!

I Did Not Cheat This Time!  (I actually forgot that I had a box on the way)

I actually meant to skip my box for this month, and wasn't even in town when it was delivered.  I was visiting my mom out of state, and my hubby called to let me know I had a box to look through when I returned.

Boy, was I totally IMPRESSED with what I received!!!  I had tons of color and lots of fun details.  I received a shirt that I pinned three separate times on my Pinterest fashion board.  I have to apologize for the photos this time.  I didn't have time to try everything for photos before my returns were due back to Stitch Fix.  Plus, we are in the middle of moving and renovating my husband's office space, which means my hair has been in a pony tail and I've been paint splattered for a solid week.

Before I move on to the review, I want to share my referral link.  I'm not compensated by Stitch Fix for this review.  BUT... if you use my link to sign up, I'll get a small credit to use towards my next 'fix.'  I would be really grateful for a referral credit!
https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3242453

The Review

So, here's a pic of the box I got in the mail.

And once again, my items were so nicely presented.

There was a note from my stylist, and cards that showed me how to style the items in my fix.  LOVE LOVE LOVE it all!!! Eeek!!!

 

 

First Item:  Yohan Distressed Cropped Skinny Jean by Kut From the Kloth- $98

I got white skinny jeans this time!  They're kind of cropped, hitting right above my ankles.  I guess I should have mentioned in my style profile that I don't wear distressed jeans.  And I definitely don't pay $98 for pants that have holes in the thighs.  They are cute and fit like a glove!  But I returned them.

The distressing started below the knee and ran all the way up to my thighs.  Not a fan of this style. 

Item:  Kut From the Kloth white distressed skinnies
Status:  Sent Back

 

 

Second Item: Mindy Ikat Print Key-Hole Sleeveless Blouse by Ezra - $48

This is the cheapest item in my box, and I really love the trendy coral and mint colors!  Plus I've really wanted to try something ikat print.  I was disappointed that this shirt was too roomy.  It was too big all over, and just hung off of me, kind of like that feather print blouse from my first fix, that I loved so much.  If it hadn't been quite so droopy all over, I would have kept it.

I loved the summery keyhole in the front! 

Item:  Ezra Ikat tank
Status:  Sent back

 

 

Third Item:  Miranda Embroidery Detailed Tank by 41Hawthorn.

I think I received an incorrect item again.  My invoice says this tank should be by 41Hawthorn, but the tank I received was by the brand Pomelo.  Regardless.... I love the color of this tank... cobalt blue.  And the embroidery detail and scalloped hem is so pretty.  The fabric is also very nice... a cotton gauze that will breathe well in the summertime.  Unfortunately, this shirt also must run a little on the large size.  There was way too much extra fabric at the hips, and the underarm area was too droopy, I guess because I have a small chest.

The entire hem is scalloped and embroidered.

There is a keyhole in the back, with a cute hemstitched detail.

Item:  41 Hawthorn (or maybe Pomelo) Miranda Tank
Status: Sent back

 

 

 

Fourth Item:  Priya Tribal Printed Knit-back Tank by Pomelo- $54

This is the tank that I pinned 3-4 times on my Pinterest board this past month.  It's tribal, it's mint green, and it's mixed fabrics.  I love it.  It fit everywhere except under the arms/in the bust.  It was too big.  So I had to send it back :(

 

Item:  Tribal tank by Pomelo
Status: Sent back

Fifth Item:  Adelyn Abstract Print Drawstring Waist Dress by Kensie- $68

I love the soft material of this dress.  And the mesh inset details.  And that the skirt is double layered and so very comfortable.  I wore it today, actually, with black leggings, ballet flats, and a denim jacket.  So very comfy!

See the mesh insets at the shoulders and V-neck?

Item:  Kensie abstract print dress.
Status:  KEPT!!

 

 

The Verdict

So, if I had kept all five items, I would have received a 25% off discount, plus the $20 credit from my styling fee, plus $5 leftover from a referral credit.  Which means I could have gotten five items for $221.50.  Now, this is significantly more than my first fix, which would have been $132 for all five items.  BUT - the items I received this month were perfect for me, and within the limits I set in my style profile.  I ended up keeping  just the one dress, and only paying $23 out of pocket.  Not too bad!!!

 Was my Stitch Fix experience fun, convenient, and delightful?  Sure!   Was it the right size and the right style?  Totally!  My stylist did a great job!  I probably would have kept every shirt, plus the dress, had they all fit.

I sent a quick email to hello@stitchfix.... I asked for them to let Melissa know how very pleased I was with her picks.  I have a sneaking suspicion that the next box might be the one where I keep it all!