Younique 3D Fiber Lash Mascara

I want to start off by saying how amazing the Younique company is. They truly empower woman, and each presenter has their own story to tell about how this company has changed their life. They sell fairly affordable make-up to the everyday woman.

Younique 3D Fiber Lash Mascara/+

Younique's 3D Fiber Lash Mascara is a mascara duo, including a tube of loose fibers and a tube of transplanting gel. First, you need to apply a coat of your favorite mascara to your lashes. Next apply and layer of transplanting gel to your lashes. Then, you need to pack on the loose fibers. And lastly, you need to add another generous amount of transplanting gel.

I hated this product when I first tried it. I DID NOT follow the directions on how to apply it properly, which resulted in constant fibers in my eye. Worst feeling ever! However, I knew how much EVERYONE raved about this mascara so I knew I must have screwed it up somehow. After applying it correctly I was amazed by the difference in the length and volume of my lashes. I HATE false lashes and I have yet to try lash extensions, so this option was suitable for me.

I still use this mascara for holidays, parties, and other special occasions. It just takes too long to apply everyday. This mascara also dries out WAY faster then any other mascara I have ever tried. I always end up with a tube full of fibers and a dried out transplanting gel tube. (Especially with the new Fiber Lash Mascara + formulation.)

Warning: If you do not clumpy mascara, you may not love this product. However, you can run a clean mascara wand over your lashes to reseparate lashes after using. They fullness and length is still totally worth it.

Love or Dud: Love (especially for special occasions)

You're Welcome, 

Amber

Stitch Fix Review (December)

My favorite day of the whole month is Stitch Fix delivery day! It is like Christmas to me, month after month.  After my last Stitch Fix, I sent a very detailed message to my stylist to see if they actually read them. She definitely read my note, and wrote back letting me know about her picks.

For example: I wrote that I needed a dress for a Christmas Eve party, another pair of dark skinny jeans, something plaid for fall, a puffer vest, and anything that I could layer for the fall season.

So my stylist, Caitlin, wrote me this note: Happy Fix Day, Amber! Thank you so much for your requests, it was a pleasure styling your 2nd Fix. This jewel tone pink Aline dress by 41Hawthorn is just the pop of color you need for that Christmas Eve party. Style it with fun heels (animal print would be awesome), drop earrings, and throw a black blazer or cardigan over your shoulders if the night cools off. During the day you could dress it down for school with a cropped denim jacket and booties. You're going to love these dark wash skinny by Kut From The Kloth. They're soft, stretchy, and very versatile. I wasn't able to find a great puffer vest this time, but I'll keep my eyes peeled for next time. Enjoy trying everything on and please leave feedback about cuts, styles, and patterns when you check out so we can tailor each fix just for you. Stay stylish, Caitlin

Jelly Mixed Material Layered Pullover Sweater - $78

I loved this sweater! I love the look of layered pieces for fall, but unfortunately living in Florida truly layering is WAY TOO hot (and too bulky)! This sweater is so great because it only has the sleeves, collar, and bottom of a layered piece but it is actually just one layer, the sweater. Unfortunately, this sweater is too big on me. I thought that maybe it was just an oversized pullover sweater, but then I noticed the sleeves. The shoulders hang down really low. I would definitely buy this sweater if it were my size.

Verdict: Returned (Requested smaller size)


Kut From The Kloth, Dayna Skinny Jeans - $88

These jeans.....are so stretchy. I love them. But I am in limbo with them. I love how they fit my waist but they are almost 2 (maybe 3) inches too long. I am still on the fence since these are pretty expensive.

Verdict: Can not make up my mind...(returned eventually)

Alpine Plaid Wrap Scarf - $44

This is my favorite! This scarf is SO SOFT! And apparently I love plaid too. I am so excited to add this to my scarf collection. The only thing that would make it better is if it were an infinity scarf. But I guess I can wear it more ways as a regular scarf. 

Verdict: Kept Happily

Endicott Woven Dobby Back Knit Top - $58

So I definitely liked this shirt better on than I did right out of the box. I love the detailing on the back. The print is just a little much for me. The fabric was a little thick. I really do not like shirts that touch my stomach in any way, which I put in my profile for Stitch Fix. This shirt doesn't touch my stomach but since the fabric is so thick it just looks like it is too baggy. And for the price...I have to love it. 

Verdict: Returned

Oleta Dress - $68

I am still on the fence about this dress too. This has been a tough box. I am not very good at making decisions. Especially in 3 days!!! I love the color and fabric of this dress. However, I would probably never wear this dress without a cardigan or jacket because the cut of the sleeveless top seems a little off. After trying on every cardigan in my closet (and I have a TON), I realized that this is the only cardigan that I like with the dress. My cardigans are too long to pair with this beautiful dress. So with that said, I would have to buy more cardigans to go with this dress. Not sure if it is worth keeping yet. 

Verdict: Can not make up my mind...(returned eventually)

Overall, this Fix was a success! My goal was to buy at least one item from each Fix to spend my $20 styling fee. I will definitely be purchasing at least 1 item (maybe 3). 

You're Welcome,

Amber

Stitch Fix Review (November)

If you haven't heard of Stitch Fix, let me tell you ALL about it. I recently subscribed to the service because I thought it was a great idea and I was curious. (I can honestly tell you that I was very close to coming up with this years ago for men. But I was a fashion merchandising student in school at FSU and no one took me seriously. I didn't even take myself seriously.)

Here is how Stitch Fix works:
- You sign up and create a style profile, complete with sizes, styles, colors, fit, etc. It is very easy and user friendly.
- You create a pinterest board called "Stitch Fix Inspiration" and pin outfits and styles you like.
- And wait for a delivery!!!!
- A stylist will be assigned your profile, and will view your inspirations.
- Once a month your stylist will send you 5 pieces of clothing, with a letter explaining each choice.
- You will need to try on each piece and decide what you want to keep.
- If you want it, keep it! If you don't, put it in the prepaid bag and send it back within 3 days.
- Each month you pay a $20 styling fee, but if you end up buying an item from your box they deduct that amount from your purchase.
- If you want to buy everything in your box you get a 25% discount.

It's that easy! I thought there was going to be these hidden fees or costs that you have to pay but their aren't! Well, unless you count jacking up prices, but what retailer doesn't? And it is sent to you, you don't even need to leave your house! I would pay a little extra for that.

Here is what I got in my very first fix: Styled by Sierra

Octavia Hayley Bird Print Infinity Scarf - $28

I love infinity scarves! I would wear them year-round if I didn't live in Florida. However, this scarf in particular was not my favorite. I was not huge on the bird print, and the color was a weird mix between pink and purple, making it hard to pair with many things; at least for me...not worth it. 

Verdict: Returned Willingly

Papermoon Heather Lace Detail Blouse - $48

I really like this shirt. I went back and forth between keeping and returning it. I love loose and flowing shirts for work. I have to be comfortable! I like the lace detail on the front neckline and back. The only problem with this shirt, is that I already have 2 that are very similar AND they are all dark in color. 

Verdict: Returned but sad

Gilli Haven Dress - $64 

I love this dress! I love the flowy skirt. I could do without the polka dots but the dress is very flattering and comfortable. It is also long enough for school! Hooray! The stylist suggested pairing it with a cardigan like this one, or wearing a sweater over the top and using it as a skirt.

Verdict: Happily Kept

Margaret M Emer Jacquard Straight Leg Pant - $98 

41Hawthorn Cordoba Elbow Patch Blazer - $84 

I had SUCH high hopes for this blazer! I love the elbow patch look, and I love blazers. So I thought win-win. Wrong! I don't know if it was because of the dark drab grey color, the tweed texture, or that it was slightly big on me, but I felt like a GRANDPA in it! I've seen girls pull it off. Maybe if it were a lighter color?

Don't even get me started on the pants. I hated them. They were teal but from far away they just look like weird skinny jeans with no zippers or pockets. What threw me completely was the print. It reminded me of a couch print or a companies logo. They also had this weird bunching thing in the crotch when you walk. These are the kind of pants that you cannot wear underwear with because you will always see a pantyline. Can't do it. They were very comfortable though, I will give them that. 

Verdict: Both Returned Willingly

Now, my goal is to love/buy at least one piece from each fix. I can build up my wardrobe slowly and actually use the $20, I would be spending on a styling fee, if I don't buy something. So the box was a success! I have a new dress for work and play! The stylists tell you that with every fix you get and give meaningful feedback, the more your stylist gets to know you and your style. So if you do get a box you don't like, send it back tell them why you don't like it. They can do better next time. Give them a chance to get to know you. I have heard of people having to change stylists or requesting senior stylists after several boxes that are totally off of their style. 

Still, tonight I am cuddling up in my favorite outfit: My fiancé's shirt ;-)

You're Welcome,

Amber