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TLC VOXBOX from Influenster

I've been a member of Influenster for about 8 months now and just received my very first VoxBox, the TLC VoxBox, to review. It was chock full of really great products "for the Moms of Influenster Nation" to review. Here's the low-down on what I received. All product info below is per the information card I received in my VoxBox.

{Neosporin Neo To Go! -- $4.97 - $7.50}

Neosporin Neo To Go! is a convenient no touch, no sting spray that fits anywhere to give you the infection protection, plus pain relief, on the go. It is specifically designed for one-handed use and it's great for your purse, kitchen, desk, workshop, golf, gym, or travel bag. 

My thoughts: As a mom (and nurse), I always have antibiotic ointment/antiseptic spray stocked in my home. I frequently take it with me when we travel, too. Neosporin Neo To Go! is conveniently sized and virtually mess-free. It's very easy to use, too. So much so, that my daughter can apply it on her own. There's a slight sting upon application, but nothing too major.

Would I Buy It? Not sure, but probably. It wouldn't replace my traditional Neosporin, though. I'd buy it as a replacement to antiseptic spray.

{Breyer's Gelato Indulgences -- $4.49 - $5.99}

Breyers, the brand known for bringing families together to enjoy delicious frozen treats for more than 140 years, is expanding its portfolio with the introduction of the new Breyers Gelato Indulgences. Each of the four delicious varieties features a trio of textures - creamy gelato, luscious sauce and gourmet toppings - for the ultimate indulgence. 

My thoughts: We are huge ice cream fans in this house. I typically buy several varieties each time I'm at the store. Honestly, prior to receiving this sample, I would have just walked right past this in the freezer case. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to try it, though, because it is absolutely delicious! We chose the Vanilla Caramel variety and were blown away by it's creamy texture and rich flavor. Our favorite parts are the thick ribbons of caramel & the caramel curls.

Would I Buy It? YES!!

{Ivory Bar Soap - $3.99 for a 10-pack}

Ivory bar soap is 99.44% pure clean & simple and contains no dyes or heavy perfumes. Plus, with how gentle Ivory is on skin, it's no wonder it's recommended by 4 out of 5 moms!

My thoughts: It's been a long time since I've used bar soap. I always used Ivory as a kid, but switched over to body wash as an adult. I had forgotten how much I loved the smell of Ivory & how fun it is to watch it float. I have enjoyed using it to bathe with despite the fact that it's a little bit drying. The ultimate test will be whether or not it irritates my daughter's sensitive, eczema-prone skin. If it doesn't, I'll definitely be switching from pricey body wash over to Ivory. Stay tuned! 

Would I buy it? Probably. Definitely yes, if my daughter can use it without issue.

{AVON Anew Reversalist Express Wrinkle Smoother: $30}

Introducing Anew Reversalist Express Wrinkle Smoother. This translucent balm BLURS the look of WRINKLES on the forehead and around eyes INSTANTLY! Use your fingers to gently pat onto the skin. The cream-to-powder skin perfecter delivers a silky smooth virtually line-free look for skin that gets you noticed! 

My thoughts: I'm 33 years old and have recently become pretty aware of (read: obsessed with) my forehead wrinkles. I feel like they've just now started to become really noticeable and it's starting to bother me, so this product couldn't have come at a more perfect time. I'm generally very skeptical about products that make such great claims, but this one won me over after the first application. Just take a look for yourself:

This pictures were taken just a few minutes apart from each other. It really does work and it's easy to apply. I also really like the design of the product (although it was a little tricky to figure out at first).

Would I Buy It? I'm on the fence. I achieved great results that first day, but have only gotten minimal results since then and I'm not sure why. I wear the same makeup every day, have applied the product in the same manner, yet have only gotten a little bit of BLUR. If I can figure out how to achieve consistent results, then my answer is a definite YES. The price is a little steep for this bargain-loving Mama, but I can overlook that based on its effectiveness. 

Anyone tried this and have any tips on getting consistent results? Please share!

{Puffs To Go: $0.49/single pack}

Puffs To Go are perfect for use in the car, in your purse, on-the-go, wherever you go! Plus, Puffs are Dermatologist tested to be gentle.

My thoughts: Perfect size to take with us wherever we go. Puffs Plus Lotion are gentle on my daughter's nose, too. 

Would I buy it? Yes!

{Shell Fuel Rewards Network Card-- Free!}

The Fuel Rewards Network program at Shell is a free loyalty program that helps you save money on fuel. For a limited time, new members save 25 cents per gallon on their second fill up and 3 cents every time after!

My thoughts: I purchase fuel at Shell frequently. Until I was provided with this rewards card in my TLC VoxBox, I had never considered signing up for this loyalty program. Sign-up is simple and using your card at the pump couldn't be any easier. Simply swipe it before your payment method and your discount will be reflected at the pump. I filled up just yesterday and the price of gas was $3.39/gallon. After swiping my rewards card, the price dropped to $3.36. I love saving money!!

Would I recommend it? Absolutely YES! 

Overall thoughts on my TLC VoxBox: I really enjoyed sampling all of these items. I was able to get reacquainted with brands I've used before and was introduced to quite a few new ones. I'm very pleased and very grateful to Influenster for providing me with these complimentary products for testing purposes. All opinions are my own and not influenced in any way. 

Interested in receiving your very own VoxBox? Leave your email address in the comments below & I'll send you an invite!

Stitch Fix #3- May 2014

Good morning! Spring is in full-effect here in central Texas and the weather is glorious!

After stalking the Fed Ex guy for the majority of the morning yesterday, I finally received my third shipment from Stitch Fix and immediately tore into it. It seriously feels like Christmas morning when that little box shows up-- so fun!

First off, let me say how happy I am that Jenna is my stylist. Of course I don't know her in real life, but I'm pretty sure we'd hit it off if we ever met. She gets me, y'all, and clearly she's a great listener. 

This was the note from her that was included in my box:

"Hi Hilary...I am so glad you are having fun with Stitch Fix! I focused mainly on your request for an affordable price point and also incorporating all tops into this shipment. I found a few pieces that had tribal print. I just hope you like them. Oh, and, I found the Pomelo Indianan print tee that was also on your Pinterest! Let me know what you think. I would love to know! Talk soon...Jenna"

I just love it.

Now onto the clothing:

{Pomelo Downing Striped Knit Shirt: $44}

I've made it pretty widely known that I love the color orange, so seeing this vibrant pop of color in my box made me quite happy. While this is the type of casual top I'd normally choose for myself, this particular shirt was much too big & boxy on me. I also felt it was too expensive for a casual cotton top. I've bought similar style shirts at my local Marshall's for much, much less. It did have great length, though, which I really liked. I have a longer torso and prefer tops that extend past the waistband of my jeans-- this top met the mark in that regard, I just didn't love it as a whole.

Status: Returned

{Papermoon Zoa Tab-Sleeve Embroidered Blouse: $48}

High five, Jenna! This top is exactly my style. I loved it as soon as I put it on. It was slightly snug in the shoulders, but overall fit great. I loved the neckline and it was the perfect length, too! Pros for me: overall style, the beautiful design of the embroidery, and the weight of the fabric-- perfect for Spring & Summer! 

Check out the beautiful embroidery:

I thought FOR SURE that I'd keep this top, but after closer inspection, I decided that the fabric would likely drive me crazy since the shirt is hand-wash only and is not to be ironed.  As a busy mom, I need tops that I don't have to take a lot of care with when it comes to laundering them. The fabric (100% polyester) seemed pretty friable-- I found lots of strings and spots where the embroidery was already fraying. 

Status: Reluctantly sent back

{41Hawthorn Aspen Boat Neck Striped Cotton Tee- $48}

I love stripes and have quite a few pins on my Pinterest board with the nautical look, so I can see why Jenna chose this top for me. Unfortunately, though, I hated this one. The material was much too thick to be a summer possibility here in Texas and this top was way too big (41Hawthorn has proven consistently to run larger on me-- I am going to request that this brand no longer be sent).  I thought I'd love the nautical look (check out the anchor detail on the buttons!), but it's just not for me. This top doesn't strike me as casual at all. I couldn't send this one back fast enough. 

 Status: RETURNED

{Loveappella Karissa Chevron Print Henley Tank- $48}

Casual tank with a near perfect fit (just wasn't quite long enough for my taste). Wasn't crazy about the pattern, but I loved the button detail on the front. Too pricey for me for a tank top that I didn't love.

Status: Returned

 {Pomelo Indianan Ikat Print Mixed Material Tee- $44}

Hands down my favorite top in the box. I loved it when I pinned it to my Pinterest board, and it's even better in person. It's the perfect casual top, in my opinion, and I absolutely LOVE the tribal print. I've been asking for tribal print in my last two boxes and Stitch Fix finally came through this time! While this shirt is a smidge too big for me, I love the way it fits and the neckline. The fabric is like buttah--- so. freaking. soft! 

{The gorgeous back}

{Love the colors and the design!}

Status: KEPT!

Overall thoughts & TIPS I've learned: 

1. Link your Pinterest account to your style profile: It's clear to me that Jenna really uses this as a jumping off point for my fixes. I've received actual pieces that I've pinned as well as clothing in colors, designs, and styles similar to those found on my board. 

2. If the prices are too high, tell them so. After my first fix and left feedback saying that the prices were too high for this budget-conscious Mama. In my 2nd fix, I received much more affordable pieces, but I still felt they were too high. I'm a Kohl's, Target, and Marshall's shopper, so their prices are my point of reference. There's no way I'm paying $50/piece (unless I need a special occasion outfit), so I let them know that by setting a specific limit. I asked them to not send any items with a price tag higher than $48 and guess what? They've listened! 

3. If you don't want jewelry or bags, tell them that too! I don't wear any jewelry other than my wedding band and earrings, so I don't need statement pieces in my fixes. I'd much rather have all shirts and made sure to let them know that in the comments section. This is the second time I've received all tops. 

4. Learn what brands fit and what brands don't, then share that with your stylist: I've received 41Hawthorn brand in every Fix and even bumping down a size, that brand still runs big on me. I am going to ask specifically for them not to send this brand any longer (keep you posted on how it works out!).  From this Fix I've learned that Pomelo, Papermoon, and Loveappella run much truer to size. 

Do you use Stitch Fix? What affordable pieces have you received lately that you absolutely LOVE? Let me know!! Haven't tried the service yet? Here's my personal referral link you can use to get started. You don't have to use it, of course, but I'd be so grateful if you did. Best part is, once you sign up, you'll get your own referral link, too! 

Have a beautiful day, friends!

Stitch Fix #2

Morning, Friends!

After receiving my first Fix, I immediately scheduled my second box. I specifically requested more affordable tops this time around (<$48) and let them know that I'd like 5 tops (instead of accessories, outerwear, bottoms, etc.). I also made sure to add a few pins to my StitchFix Pinterest board, so the stylists would have a little to go on in terms of my style. 

My second box arrived yesterday (again, right on the date I requested) and I'm still hooked. Everything was so adorable and while the majority of the garments were ones that I'd typically pass up if I saw them in a store, I ended up loving them all. That's one of the things I love so much about this service-- they push you outside of your comfort zone ever so slightly and open your eyes to your style!

Here's what I received:

{Colibri Solid Tab Sleeve Blouse by 41Hawthorn - $48}

When I pulled this top of out the box, I literally gasped and said, "Wow, it's gorgeous." I love the lightweight material of this top and it's stunningly vibrant green color. I like the v-neck, too. Unfortunately, though, this top was much too big. It was very long (I could wear it as a dress) and the sleeve cuffs were much too big. 

Status: Returned

{Delmare Elephant Print Cut-Out Detail Blouse by Tulle - $48}

What a fun blouse! When I received notice that this box had shipped, I logged in to my StitchFix account & snuck a peek at what was being sent. (You can't seen any pictures of the garments, only the description.) I have to admit I was pretty 'meh' on the idea of receiving an elephant print top (so not me!), but I was so pleasantly surprised by this! It's an understated green color with little pops of pink & white. My favorite aspect of this top is that it doesn't look like elephants from far away. It's not until you get right up on the shirt, that you notice the elephants. 

See what I mean?

Overall, I liked the style of this blouse, but it was much too big for me. Also, I was not a fan of the cut-outs on the shoulder area nor the tie in the front. 

Status: Returned 

{Abrianna Longsleeve Knit Cardigan by 41Hawthorn - $48}

I was a little disappointed to learn that I would be receiving a cardigan in this fix (I had specifically requested no cardigans -- it's about to be very hot here in Texas). However, I ended up really liking this! The color is a beautiful soft orange color (my husband said it was pink, my daughter said it was  melon, lol) and it's buttery soft. I paired it with a solid black camisole & jeans and loved the way it draped. 

Despite its softness & near-perfection, it was a tad too long in the arms & too big in the sleeves. I also  couldn't quite justify purchasing it, since I don't think I'd get much wear out of it. 

Status: Returned

{Cleveland Printed Peasant Blouse by Sanctuary - $48}

This is a top, had I seen it in a store, that I would've walked right past without a second of hesitation. It's just not me. However, I thought this top was great! I liked the light orange & gray print and the sheerness of this blouse. The detail of the buttons was just lovely. 

I ended up sending this back because it was too big (especially the sleeve cuffs) and because of the elastic bottom hem. I know me and I know that this top would ride up frequently & I'd constantly be pulling it down. 

Status: Returned

{Corinna Striped Dolman Top by Pomelo - $48}

I was so torn on this one! The material is incredibly soft. I also love the boatneck, stripes, and overall length of the top, BUT I just couldn't get past the fit. It was too big and the dolman style just didn't look good on me. It dwarfed my frame under all of it's fabric and my sweet, usually very complimentary, yet honest husband didn't like this top at all. 

Status: Returned

Final thoughts: Even though everything in this box was too big & was returned, I was overall very pleased. StitchFix is so much fun and so, so convenient. I like how they mostly honored my requests (keeping Jenna as my stylist, sending me nothing but tops, & keeping the maximum price/piece at $48). I think they have nailed my personal style and I love that they push me outside of my comfort zone ever so slightly. I think the personal touches of a note from the stylist & the fact that they check out your Pinterest board when considering clothes for you is such a nice touch. I will definitely continue with StitchFix and I encourage you to give it a shot, too! 

Here's my personal referral link, if you're ready to dive in. You don't have to use it, of course, but I'd be so appreciative if you did. 

Have a great rest of the week!

Stitch Fix: What I Learned & Loved From My First Fix

Stitch Fix. Have you heard about it yet?

I have been seeing it on several of my favorite blogs and all over Instagram for some time now and while it seemed like a neat idea, I have to admit, I was very skeptical. It just seemed expensive & I assumed there was absolutely zero way my stylist would be able to choose clothing for me that would fit or that I'd actually like.

I don't have a lot of patience when it comes to shopping for clothes. There aren't many (if any) clothing stores in my small town, so having to drive 'into town' (Austin) to shop, just ups the annoyance factor for me. I also tend to frequent the same stores over & over (and over) again and I'm very budget-conscious. After going back and forth for at least a month or two, I decided to take the plunge.

So, what is Stitch Fix?

In case you're unfamiliar with this personal styling service, here goes:

You sign up for the service & fill out your Style Profile. This is your chance to tell the stylists all about YOU-- your style, your size, your body type, and most importantly (to me): your budget. After that, schedule your Fix & pay the $20 styling fee. You pay the $20 up front, but it's then applied to anything you decide to keep out of your shipment. Once your shipment arrives, you have 3 days to try everything on & decide what you'd like to keep. Didn't love something? Easy. Simply return the items you don't want in the pre-paid mailing bag. Then log in to your Stitch Fix account & pay only for the items you decide to keep. You will receive a 25% discount if you decide to keep all 5 items. Be sure to leave detailed feedback on everything!

So, without further adieu:

    Here's what I received in my first Fix!

{Under Skies Shawn Box Pleat Detail Blouse-- $48}

I absolutely love this blouse! The lightweight, sheer material is perfect for Spring/Summer and I really enjoy it's long, flowy style. I'm a flowy top & skinny jeans kinda gal, so this was a perfect match for me style-wise. Orange tones are my most favorite to wear & the deep coral color is just  gorgeous. The long pleat down the middle dressed it up a smidge, but it could also be worn super-casual with dark capris or white shorts. I really, really loved this top and had it been just a tad smaller, I would've kept it, no question. 

Status: Returned {regretfully}

{Just Black Adora Skinny Jean -- Light Green-- $88}

Holy price point! I've never spent $88 on jeans in my life. These jeans are a cute color, especially for Spring. They're also quite the departure from my dark rinse American Eagle skinnies that I wear at least 3 times/week. Kudos to my awesome stylist, Jenna, because she absolutely nailed the fit on these. They fit perfectly in the waist & bottom (which almost never happens because I have a small waist, yet ample tush) and I love the style. My main beef with these adorable jeans (aside from the price), is that they're entirely too long. I typically wear petite or short length jeans and these are more of an average or regular length. 

I even tried hiding all of that extra fabric by tucking the jeans into a pair of boots. ;)

Status: Returned 

41Hawthorn Yoshi Embroidery Detail Tank ($54)

This top is exactly what I was seeking when I asked for Spring & Summer clothes! This flowy polyester blouse is a stunning teal green with the perfect pops of coral & white embroidery.  I really loved the high-low aspect of this blouse. Definitely my style, but unfortunately this was one was also a tad too big. 

Status: Returned {unfortunately}

Tart Azaria Braid Detailed Tank ($54)

I really enjoyed the stretchy fabric of this tank & the whimsical braid detail of the neckline & straps. Perfect for Spring & Summer! Unfortunately, this was way too big on me. 

Status: Returned

Street Level Houston Small Quilted Crossbody Bag with Chain Strap ($48)

When I first opened up the box, I was slightly annoyed because I didn't want anything but clothing in my Fix. Turns out, I'm super happy they sent this because it's my favorite piece in the box! 

I just recently stopped carrying my gigantic Tory Burch Weekend Tote {gift from a friend, because I'd never, ever spend that much on a bag}, in favor of the sleeker, crossbody style, so this was perfect! I adore the vibrant teal color of this bag, the adjustable gold chain strap, the exquisite stitching, and the zippers. And the lining? Be still, my heart. 

* Cute side note regarding this bag: When my daughter laid eyes on it for the first time, she squealed with delight & promptly begged "I need this purse! I love it sooo much. We can trade or I'll pay you in money! I neeeeed this!"

Status: Kept

What I loved & learned:

* I loved how convenient & fun turned out to be! With Stitch Fix delivering beautiful garments directly to my door, I no longer have to travel into and all over Austin in search of something to wear. This saves fuel & my precious time-- score! And if I decide to make a return? Easy. All I have to do is drop it in my mailbox-- for free! Can't beat that. The fact that I can try all of the items on in the comfort of my own home is a real plus in my book, too.

* I love that Stitch Fix forced me out of my comfort zone. If you were to look into my closet, you'd see a ton of black, gray, & burnt orange (Hook 'Em!). Honestly, I only own about 10 shirts total and they're all pretty much the same. Stitch Fix sent gentle pops of color that I love, just never buy. 

* Stitch Fix listened to my wishes. I asked for Spring & Summer clothes and the color palette & style of clothing they sent was spot-on. They also incorporated a few ideas with a pop of color from my Pinterest board into my shipment. I love that! 

Just take a look: 1 & 2 are examples from my Pinterest board & 3 is what they sent:

* I was initially put off by the steeper-than-MY-normal prices of these items, but what I quickly learned is that paying a higher price for a quality item is okay. It will probably actually pay off in the long run! Typically, I'm a Target, Marshall's, & Kohl's girl and while the cost of clothing at these stores is quite affordable, often the quality is lacking. I can't tell you how many times I've found an item at a great price, yet it only lasts me several washes & wears. I then end up having to spend more cash to replace the item, when perhaps if had I spent a little more on a higher-quality piece to begin with, it would last me longer.

So, that's it! My first Stitch Fix experience & review. In short, I loved it and have already scheduled my second Fix. I specifically asked for 5 Spring/Summer tops at a lower price point (<$48). I also changed the sizes on my style profile up a little bit, so hopefully I'll achieve a better fit in tops. We'll see what arrives in a few weeks. 

If you'd like to experience Stitch Fix for yourself, you can sign up here. { <-- that little link there will take you to Stitch Fix via my personal referral code where I'll receive a small credit if you choose to schedule a fix. I'd be so appreciative if you did! }

Also, if you decide to try out Stitch Fix & love it, too, make sure to share your unique referral code with all of your friends and family. Anyone who signs up with your referral code earns YOU a $25 credit to apply to future purchases!

Questions? Just ask! I'll be happy to help.

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored in any way by Stitch Fix. I simply loved the service and wanted to share my thoughts on it with you. I paid for the Fix & the items I decided to keep from it myself. This post does contain my unique referral link. If you decide to use it, I will receive a $25 credit and love you long time. 

Happy Friday Eve, Friends!

Warm up with Green Mountain Fair Trade Coffee

I have to admit, I have heard the term 'Fair Trade' many times in the past, but I never really knew what it meant until becoming a part of BzzAgent's new campaign for Green Mountain Coffee. Turns out, Fair Trade coffee is a very good thing. Here's why:

According to ChooseFairTrade.com, "Fair trade certification gives farmers a fair price for their beans with a guaranteed minimum, which means they can invest in their crops, their communities, and their future.". This is so very important! Also, because of Fair Trade, Green Mountain Coffee gets to works closely with farmers, which in turn means better tasting coffee for all of us caffeinated coffee freaks. 

It's a win for everyone!

Kelly Clarkson recently visited the Fair Trade community of Agua Azul, Peru to learn more about Fair Trade. You can view her beautiful travel diary here. It is very inspiring.

As for my participation in this campaign, I was sent several samples of Green Mountain Coffee's Fair Trade Three Continent Blend. According to the website, this particular blend is made with beans sourced from "Sumatra, South America, and Ethiopia".  I immediately brewed a k-cup and put it in the fridge to cool to use for my morning iced coffee. I loved that this particular blend is a medium roast and is extra bold. This is the type of coffee I prefer to brew because it holds up so well to ice without becoming watered down. I have to say, the Three Continent Blend is fantastic and I even prefer it over the other k-cups I was using every day. It has a very bold taste without any bitterness and there's a subtle sweetness that I really enjoy. I prefer mine with a splash of half-half and a little bit of sweetener. It's my go-to beverage every single morning.

I encourage you to visit ChooseFairTrade.com and explore all of the varieties of FairTrade k-cups Green Mountain Coffee has to offer. I personally can't wait to try the Pumpkin Spice variety.