LUXE BOX BY LOOSE BUTTON . SPRING 2015 EDITION

The beauty unboxing continues with the arrival of the Spring Luxe Box by Loose Button, which landed on my doorstep a mere day after my Birchbox – see a complete review here. I've long considered Luxe Box the queen of Canadian beauty boxes, a worthy title given their ability to curate a unique and exciting seasonal box, alongside their dedication to their customers. Every season (i.e. once every 3 months) each Luxe Box Member receives 7-8 beauty and lifestyle products, with complimentary shipping. If you're interested you can choose to spend $26/season, with the option to cancel anytime you want, or go for a membership plan for a whole year at a discounted price. 

I've been anticipating the arrival of my Spring Luxe Box from the very moment I laid hands on the Winter Luxe Box, and it certainly did not disappoint. For skincare there is the Misha Geum Sul 24K Gold Collagen Caviar Cotton Sheet Mask and Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. I was sold on this Korean sheet mask once I realized it contained 24K Gold, however that's not all, it also features collagen to firm skin, as well as omega-3 fatty acids to moisturize and nourish. Here's hoping that I don't fall in love with this mask as I have no idea where I would repurchase it in the future. The Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant also works to increase collagen production providing a firming action, however it does so much more. This toner-like treatment contains 2% salicylic acid, which exfoliates and resurfaces the skin leading to a healthier, glowing complexion with an even appearance and feel.

Makeup-wise this box features four stunning products: the Buxom Show Some Skin Weightless Foundation, Eyeko Brow Gel, Crabtree & Evelyn Nail Lacquer in Petal Pink, and a Loose Button brush. The Buxom Show Some Skin Weightless Foundation comes as a smaller sample, however it features 4 shades to help you determine your perfect shade. I can definitely see myself wearing this foundation all summer long given it's beautiful lightweight coverage and built in moisture. I'll also be reaching for the Eyeko Brow Gel quite frequently, because you can never have too many brow gels, right? This one is perfect for creating a natural, tamed look on days when I don't feel like filling my brows in, but it can also be used to help shape and define on days when my brow game is strong. The Crabtree & Evelyn Nail Lacquer in Petal Pink, and Loose Button Brush are kind of those 'I could always use another' type of products that consume your vanity, yet always come in handy at most unexpected times. I have a feeling that the beautyblender-inspired side of this brush is going to become my contouring saviour this year. Finally, for haircare there is the Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk, a healthier option for dry-shampoo with a focus on plant extracts. I've been trying to avoid dry-shampoos lately because of their use of butane and propane to propel the product out, however we all have those lazy days where washing our hair is out of the question, and at least this option features a more health conscious approach. Now onto another three months of anticipating my next Luxe Box.

Did you purchase a Spring Luxe Box?

AMY     XO

[*]The beauty box featured in this post has been sent to THE PRETT¥ VAIN for purpose of review. All views expressed reflect my own opinion on the product/service. For additional information please see the Disclaimer.

BIRCHBOX CANADA . MARCH 2015 EDITION

They says that all good things must come to an end, but who would have thought that the end of my unfortunate relationship with Birchbox would end in something so wonderful? I'm speaking of the beautyblender and sample sized blendercleanser solid that came with each March box of course, the perfect way to end this subscription. If you're familiar with Birchbox you'll know that it costs $14.95/month for 4/5 deluxe-sized samples, which was a steal this month considering the contents.

We'll start with the beautyblender, a product that I've owned and loved in the past until it vanished from my belongings during the move to Toronto. This is a great addition to the March box given the popularity of contouring this year as it offers an ease to blending cream products once damp. The beautyblender also came with the blendercleanser solid, which I hadn't previously purchased thinking I had no need for it – a thought that will never cross my mind again given it's intoxicating scent. And further to my surprise these weren't the only lovely products in the box  – is it possible that Birchbox listened to our cries!?! I also received the ModelCo Party Proof Lipsticks in Peony, a striking hot pink with a semi-matte finish. I haven't worn a hot pink lip in quite some time, but this shade is deep enough to make me reconsider. Plus I love the long lasting stain it leaves,  with no need to reapply throughout the day. 

The final three samples are quite literally that.. samples, albeit wonderful. The Harvey Prince Imperial Gardenia Perfume is a stunning classic – the floral scent is reminiscent of my grandmother and features a single blossom, the gardenia. I'll definitely be purchasing the full size, especially given the black and gold packaging. Next up is the Embryolise Lait-Crème Concentré, a cult moisturizer that I've always wanted to test. I instantly noticed an increase in the hydration of my skin, as well as a more even texture – plus it doubles as a makeup remover. The final product is the Number 4 Hydrating Shampoo, which contains vitamin B5 to condition, and silicone to add gloss. Plus this shampoo contains liquid complexes created with a blend of natural ingredients, which help to protect, purify, strengthen and revitalize the hair. Overall the March Birchbox made saying goodbye to this beauty subscription service a tad bit difficult, but I'm hopeful that this box was simply a fluke and next month's will once again be filled with tiny samples from brands unknown.

Did you receive the March Birchbox?

AM¥     XO

GLOSS¥BOX . MARCH 2015 EDITION

I thought that I had lost all hope for beauty boxes.. and then the March Glossybox arrived at my door. Back in the day I absolutely loved Glossybox, but the service was unfortunately pulled from Canada until this past November when it was reintroduced by Glossybox US. Since being reintroduced, Glossybox has taken Canada by storm and is arguably the best beauty box on the market. For $21/month + $5/shipping (USD) you get 5 surprise luxury beauty products packaged in a glossy pink gift box. Sign up here to get your own Glossybox!!  

This month each Glossybox will feature a hair product meant to create shiny, healthy locks that will dazzle for Spring. There are five possible hair products that could end up in your box, which can be seen here. I can't deny that I was hoping for the Ouidad 12-Minute Deep Treatment, but I ended up with the Ouidad Color Sense Color Preserving Shampoo & Conditioner – a great product nonetheless. This hair cleansing duo smells absolutely amazing, is sulfate free, and is so moisturizing that I accidentally mistook the conditioner for a mask at first. But it wasn't the only highly moisturizing product featured in my March Glossybox! I also got my hands on the OROGOLD 24K Multi-Vitamin Day Moisturizer, an ultra-nourishing moisturizer loaded with vitamins. If I had the $178 this moisturizer costs you can bet it would already be in my skincare regime – seriously the ultimate hydrator!! 

Onto the colour cosmetics, which are arguably more exciting. The first product I reached for was the So Susan Concealer Quad, consisting of four concealer shades formulated with Marula Oil. The four shades allow you to customize the colour in order to create a shade that seamlessly matches your complexion. Plus, the fact that it's travel-sized means that I can contour on the go. Next up is the bellápierre Cheek & Lip Stain in Pink – a product that I could honestly care less about. The shade is subtle, pretty and blends with ease... but there is just something about cream cheek products that screams 'I'm a HUGE hassle.' So for now I'll stick with powder blushes. The final product, Model Co's More Brows in Medium/Dark, is nearly identical to Benefit's Gimme Brow, an absolute favourite of mine. The two not only share a similar product name, but also feature a small brush with a tinted gel formula to easily tame and fill brows. The main difference? More Brows is $10 cheaper (and slightly more difficult to track down). 

Overall I was thrilled with the contents of my March Glossybox, and will definitely be turning to this subscription service in the future to fill my beauty sampling needs. It turns out that you truly do get what you pay for when it comes to beauty boxes. 

Have you re-subscribed to Glossybox?

AM¥      XO

[*]The item in this post has been sent to THE PRETT¥ VAIN for purpose of review. All views expressed reflect my own opinion on the product. For additional information please see the Disclaimer.

BIRCHBOX CANADA . FEBRUAR¥ EDITION

The arrival of Birchbox to Canada was meant to be exciting and fun, yet here I am three months into the service with little desire for beauty boxes in general. I've been slowly giving the axe to these subscription services since September after realizing how much money I was shamelessly throwing away. Despite collecting a lot of samples through these programs, the majority of the products simply didn't interest me, and therefore wound up in the bin of cosmetics I keep for friends. And now I may have to end my relationship with Birchbox, which is ironic given that the February Edition is inspired by our 'buddies, pals, partners-in-crime, and BFFs.' Well Birchbox, despite your pretty packaging this month we may no longer friends. #sorrynotsorry

THE PRODUCTS

Tocca | Eau de Parfum in Florence – Full Size 1.7oz ($82)
When it comes to perfume I typically gravitate towards sensual, slightly masculine scents, steering clear of anything that evokes the slightest feeling of elegance. And somehow, given my luck, Florence happens to embody elegance at it's finest. 'Notes of bergamot, gardenia, and jasmine create a floral scent with an old world charm', which suits my roommate seamlessly, yet smells foreign and ill-convincing on me. 

derma e | Anti-Wrinkle Vitamin A Glycolic Scrub  – Full Size 4oz ($13.50)

I am always on the look out for the next scrub, mask or peel that is going to help lessen the appearance of hyperpigmentation found around my lips, and ultimately reveal a more radiant complexion. However, given the abundance of prestige and natural skincare options I currently have in my vanity, and the fact that this scrub is best suited for normal/oily skin, I'll be passing on this sample. I don't think that my dry skin would approve, especially given the weather. 

Number 4 | Clarifying Shampoo – Full Size 8.5oz ($36)
I've always been a fan of clarifying shampoos, especially come Sunday – they remove build up, amp up volume, and leave your hair feeling squeaky clean. The Number 4 Clarifying Shampoo contains: 'black currant and soy to restore vibrancy; acai berry and vitamin C to deliver youth-boosting antioxidants; oolong tea and Irish moss to defend against environmental damage; and lemongrass and oatmeal to gently cleanse and purify.' Plus the full-sized version is held within a stunning minimalistic bottle, and features a blissful scent of white freesia, golden amber, and warm musk. Needless to say I'm ready for my Sunday shower. 

Whish | Three Whishes Body Butter in Pomegranate – Full Size 150mL ($26.75)
If it wasn't for a long second glance I would have sworn that this body butter hailed from Be Delectable from Cake Beauty – the aesthetic and fonts used by both companies are astonishingly similar! Luckily the formula held within couldn't be more different. The Three Whishes Body Butter is one that truly surprised me with it's non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula, However, given the high price point, and a scent you'd expect from a Walmart body wash, it probably isn't a product I'll be reaching for. 

Cynthia Rowley Beauty | Creamy Lip Stain in  Heartthrob – Full Size 0.17oz ($23)

The Cynthia Rowley Creamy Lip Stain was the only product within this month's Birchbox that elicited some level excitement when I saw it. Cynthia Rowley packaging always leaves me smitten, and this tester did not disappoint. And although I anticipate losing this trial-sized lip stain in my bag all too frequently, I know that it won't be long before I hit pan and order the full size. The shade Heartthrob is the perfect bright red for my skin tone. The orange undertones help to warm my complexion, and the stain imparts serious pigment and lasting power, while remaining comfortable and creamy on the lips. A product worth checking out!

At the end of the day I commend Birchbox for portraying February as a month to celebrate all those we love, not simply a significant other – us single ladies need love too. But no matter how much love was poured into the making of the box itself or curating the products found inside, it simply wasn't worth the $15. Next month I plan to save my $15 and invest in another shade of the Cynthia Rowley Beauty Creamy Lip Stain, which ironically I suppose is what these boxes are for?    

Do you still subscribe to a beauty box? Do you think I should end things with Birchbox?

AM¥     XO

LOOSE BUTTON . SPRING LUXE BOX MEMBERSHIP

The Loose Button team, who curate Toronto's favourite beauty box, Luxe Box, have been hard at work and have put together some amazing options for the Spring boxes. The brands featured include Buxom, Vita Liberata, Too Faced, and Soap & Glory, just to name a few. I would absolutely hate to miss out on this box, which is why I am sharing this with you today :).

Luxe Box is the leading beauty membership service in Canada. Every season (i.e. once every 3 months) every Luxe Box Member receives 7-8 beauty and lifestyle products, with complimentary shipping. You can choose to spend $26/season, with the option to cancel anytime you want, or choose a membership plan if you want to spend the whole year with Luxe Box. 

I am so excited for this box to arrive, but cannot decide whether to stick with the original box or trade up for one of the Limited Edition Luxe Box that appear from time to time.

Will you get a Luxe Box this season?

AM¥     XO

[*] This blog post was sponsored by Loose Button. All views expressed reflect my own opinion on the product. For additional information please see the Disclaimer.

BIRCHBOX CANADA . DECEMBER EDIT

When I first got word that Birchbox had answered all of our prayers by shipping to Canada I nearly fell off my chair. Birchbox first began in 2010 and turned the beauty industry on it's head. It was the beginning of a new era – and the trend took off with beauty subscription services popping up everywhere. Yet still I longed for 'the real McCoy'. This box marks the first month of Birchboxes arriving in Canada, and I cannot wait for what is to follow. 

'Get a monthly shipment of beauty products customized for you for just $10 a month, plus $4.95 shipping and handling! You can earn back half the value of your box by reviewing all five of your samples. 50 Birchbox Points equals $5 to spend on your full-size favorites in the Birchbox Shop!' To subscribe click here!

I love when a beauty box has you covered from 'head to toe' – this festive offering includes a facial exfoliator, body cream, leave-in conditioner, cheek/lip tint and an eyeliner. I've used the Vasanti BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator in the past and absolutely loved it – the micro-crystals buff away dead skin, while papaya enzymes, aloe vera, coconut and panthenol help to reveal a brighter, more hydrated, complexion. Plus it smells amazing. The Harvey Prince Hello Body Cream and Beauty Protector Protect & Detangle Leave-In Conditioner on the other hand are products that I've never even heard of. The body cream features a subtle citrus scent that my mother will love... me, not so much. The leave-in conditioner is much more appealing – it promises to instantly detangle, provide thermal & UV protection, seal cuticle, smooth hair, lock in colour and add shine. The scent is pretty dreamy as well. The final two products are the most exciting and the most visually appealing; the Benefit Lolli Tint and Cynthia Rowley Eyeliner in Black. I've been dreaming of a pink barbie lip, which is now totally possible thanks to Lolli Tint, and every girl could always use another black liner.

It seems as though the majority of boxes were a variation of this one, so hopefully Birchbox mixes it up a bit more come January. If your box was different then mine be sure to leave a link in the comments below.

Will you be signing up for Birchbox?

AM¥     XO

LUXE BOX BY LOOSE BUTTON . WINTER EDIT

A lovely surprise arrived in the mail the other day – it was the Winter Luxe Box by Loose Button. I've been off the beauty box game as of late, but the recent arrivals of Birchbox and Glossybox to Canada have reignited my initial excitement. 

Luxe Box by Loose Button was the very first beauty box I subscribed to when I began blogging years ago, and has been the only subscription service I've maintained. If you haven't been introduced yet, Luxe Box is a quarterly beauty subscription service, which offers 7-8 deluxe sized samples with a minimum worth of $70 for as low as $24. They also ofter a variety of seasonally curated boxes – this Winter there was the Zoomer Edition, Chalet Chic, and The Enchantress. But since I love the thrill of the surprise I always choose the regular box.

I absolutely love skincare products, and this edition was chalked full of skin-saving beauties. The first, and personally most exciting, is the Biotherm Aquasource Cocoon Ultra Comfort Balm-In-Gel. I've absolutely loved each and every Biotherm Aquasource product I've ever tried so I have high hopes for this one – they deliver an absurd amount of hydration for something so lightweight. The other facial product in this box was the Suki Transformative Purifying Masque – a potent salicylic acid mask meant to even out skin tone or to be used as a 'spot' treatment overnight – just in time as I can feel a blemish forming above my lip, urgh. The final skincare product, Paula's Choice Clinical KP Treatment Cloths, are meant to eliminate those annoying red bumps that form on arms and legs when skin is too dry – they'll definitely come in handy with this weather. The remaining goodies include: the E.Vulcano Hair Wash & Creme, a Loose Button Eyelash Curler, So Susan Flutter Mascara, and a mini Nicole by OPI Polish in Mer-Made For Eachother. I used the Flutter Mascara this morning and loved the thin formula and blacker than black pigmentation, and the Nicole polish shade feels hand-picked just for me – totally embodies my persona.

Overall I was so delighted with this edition of the Luxe Box by Loose Button. They are such a great company and always deliver amazing curated boxes. If you haven't tried this subscription yet I highly recommend you get on board for the Spring edition.

AM¥     XO