Birchbox/8

I subscribed back to Birchbox for the month because I really wanted to try Emily Schuman's box that she partnered with Birchbox to create. I've been following Emily's blog, Cupcakes and Cashmere, for a few years now, so I couldn't wait to see what was inside. 
amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo | Full-size, $21
What: Weightless spray that refreshes sans residue, in the brand's signature obliphica scent.
How: Shake can and hold 8-10 inches from head. Spritz roots, then massage into hair.
My Thoughts: I have been using the same dry shampoo for a few years now. This amika one though, may be changing that. This dry shampoo, albeit dispenses white, smells beautiful. Also, the bottle is just too cute! I will definitely be doing a full review on this one, so watch this space.

Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional | Full-size, $31
What: This sheer, oil-free balm minimizes pores, smooths skin, and works with all skin tones.
How: Apply a thin layer under makeup, or dap a pea-sized amount over makeup for touch-ups.
My Thoughts: I've been wanting to try this for some time now, but could never fork over the money for it because my pores are pretty tame - I just have a few on my nose. I'm so glad I received this in my box, so I can finally try it!

Laura Geller Beauty Color Drenched Lip Gloss | Full-size, $19
What: This richly pigmented gloss delivers mirror-bright shine and loads of moisture.
How: Glide wand over lips to apply. Layer over your lipstick for a custom color.
My Thoughts: Lip glosses always scare me at first - I'm more of a balm gal myself. But, I applied a small amount on my lips and then smoothed it with my ring finger. This application thinned the product out and created a nice wash of color.

Marcelle Clay Mask | Full-size, $15
What: Velvety treatment loaded with natural ingredients to instantly clarify and brighten skin.
How: Smooth onto clean skin, avoiding eye area. Wait 10 minutes, then gently rinse.
My Thoughts: This mask almost feels like a gel. I'm really looking forward to trying this as I have a love for any type of masks.

Naobay Oxygenating Cream Moisture | Full-size, $36
What: Made with avocado and olive oils, this 98% natural cream nourishes and hydrates skin.
How: Smooth generously onto clean face and neck morning and night.
My Thoughts: I love receiving products that are more natural and organic because of my sensitive skin. I can't wait to try this moisturizer.

Have you tried Birchbox?

Recent Purchases

I've had a few purchases since the beginning of April, so I thought I'd share a few things I've bought since then. Bear with me - they're all quite random. I left out a cardigan, a few v-necks, and denim shorts - I couldn't fit them in the photo, but you're not missing too much as they're pretty basic!
First, I bought a floral print kimono with fringe at the bottom from Brickyard Buffalo. It's a type of clothing that I wouldn't normally purchase, but I'm working on building a wardrobe slowly.
The blue tank top next to it is a piece I bought from Cotton On when we were in Florida for spring break. It is so soft and has a slit at the bottom of either side.
I bought the Nikes recently because I've been at the gym and working out quite frequently and my only other tennis shoes are solely for walking around the city, going to class, etc. because I wanted to keep them clean. I just love the color of these!
On a recent trip to TJMaxx, I picked up a shower gel and cream body scrub (from The Body Shop). They smell so good. I can't get over it!
When Gary and I were at the airport in Atlanta on our way to Florida, I just had to stop at the Benefit vending machine. I couldn't resist, so I bought PosieBalm and have used it almost every day since.
I also picked up three new Essie nail polishes (from left to right) Lilacism, Waltz, and Hi Maintenance. They are all lovely colors!
When I was home one weekend, I stopped by H&M and bought these little hair bands. They are super comfortable in my hair and can hold all of my hair up without creasing it!
And most recently, I bought Revlon Lash Potion Waterproof mascara. I've only been using it for a few days, but I honestly have no idea how I lived without this mascara in my life!

What have you purchased recently?

Ipsy/2

I continued my subscription for Ipsy last month. Here's what was inside (isn't the bag cute!?):
1. Urban Decay 24/1 Glide-on Lip Pencil which also came with two samples of lip glosses in the shades Failbait and Bittersweet
2. Jesse's Girl Pure Pigment Eye Dust in the shade of Brown Sugar
3. Nuxe Paris Reve de miel Face Cleansing and Make-Up Removing Gel
4. Balanced Guru Style Me Hair Oil (this smells amazing!)
5. Chella Tantalizing Taupe Eyebrow Color (my favorite product from this bag - I've been using it all month!)

Have you tried Ipsy?