Stitch Fix #1

This is a post about a personal styling/shopping service I discovered and decided to try out.

I should start off by admitting that I don't really consider myself an effective shopper when it comes to buying new clothes.  If I'm on the mission for something specific (jeans, dress, dress pants, shoes, etc) I do ok, but I'm not very good at just going into a store and trying on a bunch of things to figure out what looks good.  On a daily basis, I spend most of my time wearing scrubs but I try to dress up whenever I have the chance.  My latest personal style challenge to myself is to find some stylish, casual tops to wear with jeans that aren't t-shirts or sweat shirts.  This (in addition to not having tons of spare time) is why I was very curious to try Stitch Fix.

Here is how it works:
1.  Fill out a VERY extensive style and sizing profile on their website
2.  Sign up for when you would like to have your "fix" delivered.  The styling fee is $20 and includes all shipping.
3.  When your fix arrives, spend 3 days deciding which items you would like to keep by trying everything on at home. If you keep anything, the $20 styling fee is deducted from the items cost. The items you don't keep are sent back in a pre-paid USPS envelope.  If you decided to keep the whole box (5 items), you'll get the entire contents of the box for 25% off.
4.  Review all the items online.  By providing feedback about fit, styles, and colors, supposedly each future fix becomes even more tailored to your unique style.
5.  Sign up for your next fix!  Another option is to sign up to get a "fix" monthly.  I personally decided I would schedule periodically on my own in case I ended up keeping multiple items from a box and
didn't plan on purchasing new clothes for a while.

With each item they also send a styling card with ideas for how to combine each item with clothing already in your closet.  For my first fix, I didn't request anything specific but I did mention I didn't want to be sent any jewelry (I have RocksBox for that :-).

So without further ado...Here is my Stitch Fix #1!

The box included a note from my stylist "Jackie."  It will be interesting to see if Jackie will be my stylist for my next fix or if it's a rotating thing. 

My First item is a "Margot Asymmetrical Zipper Coat" by Pink Martini in black.  I loved the cut and style of this coat and it reminded me of something a futuristic Kate Middleton type would wear.  My only issues were the color (I already have black coats) and I also didn't love how the there was a little peek-a-boo in the belly-button area (a little hard to see in this photo).  If it was a different color I would have definitely considered keeping it, but I won't be keeping this one.  (Notice I had a photo bomber!  Haha ;-)

Next I tried the "Esten Button-Up Sleeveless Blouse" by Collective Concepts in navy.  I liked this blouse, but it was a little too big on me (especially in the armpit area).  If it was a little smaller it would have been a winner.  Maybe next time - this will also be sent back.

Yea!  Here is the winner of the whole box!  I loved the "Holden Printed Swing Dress" by Tart before I even tried it on.  I have other things in my closet by this brand and this dress compliments my style perfectly.  This dress will definitely get lots of use my wardrobe.  And it's also great I can apply the $20 styling fee to the cost.

The "Angelina Cross-Front Long Sleeve Top" by 41Hawthorn in green was my least favorite item of the set.  The color was nice and style was interesting, but it did nothing for me when I tried it on.  I think it would look better on someone a little bustier than me.  This will be going back.

My final item was the "Ivy Grid Print Tab-Sleeve Blouse" by 41Hawthorn.  I liked this top, but again it was too big for me.  If it had slightly more shape to it, it would have been a keeper.  This last item will also be going back.

Overall, I was very happy with stitch fix.  I didn't achieve my goal of finding some new casual tops in this set, but I did decide to give it another try towards the end of October.  While I only ended up keeping one amazing dress, the other pieces definitely had potential to also be great.  I hope that my feedback regarding my sizing issues will enable my next fix to contain even more fabulous additions to my closet.

Interested in also trying Stitch Fix?  Please use my link - for everyone I know who signs up, I'll receive a credit to purchase something in one my next fixes.  https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3184070

Bonjour Jolie September 2013

The next boxed adventure to arrive is Bonjour Jolie - aka period box ;-).  As usual it was nice to have some nice surprises to go along with my monthly supplies.

Bonjour Jolie is a time of the month box that sends you monthly supplies in the brand of your choosing along with special treats for $16/month (plus s/h).  The theme this month was "Go Vegan" and all of the included items fit for a vegan lifestyle.  While I myself am not vegan, I do already find it interesting to see what types of different products are out there.  

The Gift:

Personalized Silver Necklace (retail: $16)  I actually really like this!  It's very cute and casual and I love how it has the letter K just for me :-)

The Edibles:
Gourmellow - By Desidero Chocolates (retail: $3)  This is a vegan marshmallow that truly didn't taste any different from the real thing.  It was a perfect treat to brighten my afternoon.

SerendipiTea Tea Company (retail $3.50)  This is loose tea with a reusable cotton filter bag.  Interesting idea, but it seems like a lot of work to always be cleaning a filter bag.  I understand the point is not to have extra paper tea bags as waste, but I think I'd rather brew my loose tea in my teapot.  I'm willing to give a try though.

The Pampering:
PuurBody Full Size Vegan Lip Balm (retail $3.50)  I love lip balms.  Honestly I think is the only beauty product I use every day no matter what - several times a day in fact.  This lip balm smells amazing and was also had a great texture.

Just Pure Minerals Bronzer and Brush (retail $1.50)  Cute handy size, but loose powder in small containers like this are often challenging for me.  

Sunny Day Botanicals Organic Lotion (retail $2.00)  Always handy to have a small travel size of lotion.  

U Just Relax Bath Tea (retail $2.00). Apparently this can be reused for 2-4 baths and dried in between. I can't remember the last time I took a bath but perhaps this will inspire one. 

Protection:

A mix of feminine hygiene items I chose along with 2 travel packs of Advil and 2 feminine wipes (retail ~ $12).

This box had amazing value (~$41)!  I love how Bonjour Jolie makes stocking up on necessary items a little more enjoyable each month. :-)

September 2013 Barkbox

It's been an interesting couple of days as I managed to fulfill a dream of competing on a national gameshow (next goal - actually win money on national gameshow ;-).  The long hours have caused me to get a little behind on blog posts but I'm going to catch back up today with Elvis' latest Barkbox.  On a side topic, know that meals from Plated are still being enjoyed but they aren't going to get a post this week.

D had the honor of unboxing and it appears to be a pretty collection of items this month.  We ended up getting one item that was different from the info card, but I think Elvis will be ok with the substitution.  

The first item is a kangaroo toy from Aussie Naturals (retail: $7.99).  This a great toy that is a stuffing free toy that squeaks AND also has a rope on the inside.  What will be great about this is that there will be a new rope toy for Elvis to enjoy with the kangaroo part falls victim to "too much love."  This is another winning toy discovering thanks to Barkbox.

Next we have some pizza flavored organic dog treats by Wagathas (retail: $6.49).  We haven't opened these yet, but they definitely sound delicious.  

The item is VetraCare Pet's liquid bandage (retail: $8.95).  This spray both disinfects and protects cuts and scrapes.  Hopefully now that we have it, we won't have to use it, but this will be a good thing to have if Elvis ever has a day of rough housing at daycare.  

The final bag of treats was our replacement item - It's Purely Natural Chicken and Rice Biscotti with Sweet Potato chunks (retail $4.80).  I'm sure Elvis will love these.  He's had sweet potato treats in the past and they were a definite success.

Elvis definitely has more than enough treats for him to enjoy this month.  The overall value of the box is $28.28.  We have the 6 month subscription so this is a great value for the $18/per month.

Interesting in trying Barkbox?  Please use my link to sign up!  https://barkbox.com/r/ngwiVp3pQe

Rocksbox #5

I think the folks over at Rocksbox have definitely figured out what I like.  After a few "so-so" pieces mixed into my first few boxes, the past 2 boxes have been solid successes.  It was not easy for me to part with the green earrings and gold bar necklace in my previous set, but curiosity of got the better of me.  Again with a 1 week turn around time, here is what arrived in my box this time.  

"Petra Tri-Color Necklace in Teal/Mint/Aqua" by Loren Hope (Retail Price: $125, Member's Price: $100).  This necklace is similar to a pair of earrings I received a few months ago.  I don't wear a lot of "statement" necklaces so I look forward to incorporating this into my routine over the next couple weeks.

"Mirror Cluster Drop Earrings in 14kt Gold Plate" by Isharya (Retail $58.00, Member's Price: $46.40).  At first when I saw these earrings I noticed there was something unique about them.  Instead of being large transparent crystals, each "stone" is a little mirror.  The size is on the larger side, but they are different from other large clear crystal earrings I've worn in the past.  They nicely complimented the solid maroon dress I wore today.

"Paisley Wrap Ring" By Gorjana (Retail $50, Member's Price: $40).  This is my favorite rocksbox ring I've received so far.  It's not too large and I feel like I'll wear this almost daily through the duration I keep this set.

Has anyone else been enjoying Rocksbox?  I think it's becoming one of my favorite boxes.  For $19/month you get to "rent" 3 pieces of designer costume jewelry for up to 2 months.  You can switch out your set as many times as you want during each month (sort of like netflix).  The best part is that you can also purchase any items you absolutely fall in love with.  If you are interested in trying it out, please use my link to sign up.  http://curebit.com/x/SUy5uo

September 2013 Birchbox

Here come the September boxes!

First up: Birchbox

This September marks Birchbox's 3 year anniversary so the theme is "heritage."  For those of you who aren't familiar, Birchbox is a beauty sample box that sends 5-6 deluxe beauty samples monthly for $10/month.  There is also a men's version of the box for $20 a month, but I haven't convinced D that he wants to try it yet.

Here is the box and all the goodies inside.

My first item is "Dr. Lipp - Original Nipple Balm for Lips"  (Full size: $14.50, Sample Size: $2.90).  I did a double take when I saw the name of this product.  While it was originally designed for nursing mothers it's now marketed as a product to bring ultra hydration to dry lips.  Apparently boys like it too since GQ magazine named it one of the top three lip moisturizers.  The product is very thick and a little goes a long way.  I usually always put lip balm on before going to sleep and I definitely noticed my lips were nice and soft when I woke up today.  I think this might be my favorite item in the box.

Next is "Grand Central Beaty - SMART Skin Perfecting Polisher" (Full size: $38, Sample Size: $7.60).  This product definitely seems interesting.  Apparently it beads up after massaging it into skin as it it exfoliates, tones, smooths, and moisturizes.  Rinsing is optional and apparently the little beads can just be wiped away.  I haven't tried this yet, but this would be great for traveling when I don't want to bring my full skin care regimen along.

The third sample is "Ruffian - Nail Lacquer in Delirium" (Full size: $10, Sample Size: FULL SIZE!).  It's always fun to get a full sized item in a box.  I also LOVE this deep shade of purple.  It will be great for a mani/pedi to compliment a dark green dress I'm wearing to a wedding next week.

The "Serge Normant - Meta Luxe Hair Spray" (Full size: $25, Sample Size: $6.67) is probably my least favorite sample just because I never really use hairspray.  This smaller size will be great for traveling though if I have an event that requires my hair to be curled and therefore hair-esprayed. 

Last but not least is a sample of "Keratherapy - Deep Conditioning Masque" (Full size: $23, Sample Size: $0.38).  I've never done a hair masque, but I'm always excited for anything to make my hair softer/shinier. 

I really liked my box this month.  My least favorite samples are the hair products, but I'm happy not to see monthly perfume vials lately.  The overall value of the box is $27.55 which is definitely a good value.

What did other people get in their birchboxes this month?  Interested in signing up for Birchbox?  Please use my link!   http://birch.ly/13uUfhH

Plated Week of 9/2/13

It's been a quiet week of sample boxes as September gets started, but don't worry - there will be plenty to review in September (including some new reviews! :-)

This has been an amazing week as we celebrated some great friends at beautiful weddings the past two weekends.  And today is an exciting day as Sunday football returns in full force (Go Rams)!

We did enjoy a tasty week of Plated this week.  Cooking so much meat was a bit of a challenge at first after so many vegetarian meals, but we're getting the hang of it.  We'll be having Plated again this next week but will continue to mix in the vegetarian Blue Apron when the mood strikes us.

The week started off with Citrus-Soy Chicken Thighs with Soba Noodles.  The dish was pretty simple to make and the chicken was very flavorful.  The big success of this dish was D and myself finally figuring out how to use the broiler feature of our oven.  Yea!  Now we can broil things and not just bake them on high temperatures.
Score: 6/10

Our second dish was Grilled Steak Salad with Basil-Chive Vinaigrette and Tomato Strata.  We both really liked this dish.  The final portion sizes were definitely too large for 2 people.  It seems like for many of these plated  recipes the quantity of food produced is quite high.   It makes packing lunch for the next day very easy.  D and I both really loved the steak salad and the tomato strata, but honestly thought the steak salad could have stood alone.
Score: 7/10

I was on my own for the final meal this week of Herb-Roasted Chicken with Tomato-Zucchini Gratin.  Cooking when it's an evening by myself always requires a little extra motivation, but I was really glad I prepared this dish.  The chicken was very flavorful and the vegetables were a very light and perfect side dish.
Score: 6/10

Interested in giving plated a try?  Using this link will let both of us have 2 free plates with our orders.  https://www.plated.com/invites/c68767

Again, Go Rams!!!!

Bonjour Jolie August 2013

My final box for August was Bonjour Jolie (aka period box).  It's a good box this month but even more impressive is their level of customer service.  I sent them an email asking for some changes in my protection distribution and to have it shipped to me a little earlier in the month for September.  Within 30 minutes I had a response confirming all the changes I requested.  Nice.

Bonjour Jolie delivers items to make that time of the month a little more pleasant in addition to a personalized breakdown of 30 feminine hygiene items for $16 (plus s/h).  They carry all the major brands, so you can get exactly what you are used to.  The August box is "Honoring the Feminine" by featuring items from all women owned businesses.  

First up we have my package of protection.

The rest of the box was divided into the following categories: the gift, the edibles, the pampering.

The gift - "Silver and Stone Bracelet" (retail $14.00)

This bracelet is handmade and mported from Peru.  It's made of alpaca silver and local precious stones. I love the light peach color of the stones and detailing of the metal work.  This is definitely a fun bracelet for daily, casual wear.

The Edibles -

"Leccare Lollipops" (retail 2 pops - $3.00)

The two flavors in my box were Salted Watermelon and Peach Cobbler.  The cinnamon in the Peach Cobbler pop really gave it a little kick.  I love hard candies with unique flavors.

"Just Add Honey Tea" (5 bags - $3.50)

I also love fun flavored teas.  Teas are a way to trick me into drinking more water.

The Pampering - 

"Organic Herbal Hand Scrub" (retail $2.00)

A good hand scrub is always handy.  Especially when followed by - 

"Happy Hands Lotion" (retail $1)

Have to keep my hands nice and soft.  Especially after a scrub.

"Scardey cat Mineral Eye Shadow" (retail $1.50)

This color looks a little on the dark side for me, but it will be fun to try for a night out.

"Herbal Bath Salts" (retail $1)

I really should take more baths.  Maybe this will motivate one soon.

"Sensibles Sanitary Bags" (retail $1)

I get that these are biodegradable disposable bags, but I don't really see a use for these.  

"Advil"

These single dose packs are great to have in my purse or clutch.  

Overall a good box and great customer service the total value of the box was ~$28 including the price of the protection.  Although I've canceled some boxes lately, Bonjour Jolie is definitely one I will continue with.

Blue Apron Vegetarian Week of 8/26/13

As I mentioned earlier, we decided to return to Blue Apron Vegetarian for this week since we liked the menu items better than the offerings from Plated.  It was a very tasty week for us.

Our first meal was Palak Paneer with Naan and Kachumber Salad.  This is one of my favorite dishes to order when we go to an Indian restaurant so I was really excited to make it myself.  I never realized that whole pound of spinach went into making two servings of this dish!  The finished product was quite delicious - we even really enjoyed the salad which is usually very hit or miss for us.
Score: 6.5/10  (D - 6, K - 7)

The next night we made Trofie Pasta and Golden garlic and Heirloom Tomatoes.  Neither D nor I had had ever had this type of pasta before.  The texture seemed a little firmer than the pasta we usually have and we probably needed to cook it a little longer.  We definitely enjoyed the sauce and loved how flavorful it was and how simple it was to make.
Score: (6/10)

Our final meal of the week, Okonomiyaki, was prepared by D for lunch over the long weekend.   There was a lot of chopping involved, but overall I really enjoyed this dish.  It was very flavorful and not too heavy.  We decided to omit the Mizuna since for some reason it didn't keep well in our refrigerator.  D also took creative license and made one topping sauce instead of two which worked out very nicely.
Score: 6.5/10 (D-6, K-7)