Golden Tote Review - April 2015

Introduction - What is Golden Tote?

Golden Tote is a fashion subscription box founded by designers Sarah Becker and Sarah Sweeney.  Both Sarahs are also the owners of the Puella clothing line, and their items can be found at Anthropologie.  Golden Tote offers a variety of different designer/boutique clothing items.

To learn more click here.

Golden Tote Review - February 2015 

This month my mom and I were able to order a two $149.  My tote was a slam dunk. Mom's was both hit and miss with some sizing issues.

Regarding the tote purchasing experience, the new website had some unexpected issues that resulted in tote day being changed.  When tote day was relaunched the processing speed of the server resulted in duplicates being put in our tote and check-out issues. Luckily, the new car feature allowed us to save our items and remove duplicates.  For the first time, I was able to purchase both of our totes in one order (AMAZING!).  However, it did take me a half hour to get that purchase in -- at least we got our first picks for items. This was due to the new timer feature which lets you know how much time the items in your cart are saved. Each time you add something to your cart, the timer resets. 

Picked items

$149 Tote: My picks

Easy Sundress
Paired with Embroidered Jean Jacket from April Golden Tote 2014

Floral Crochet Blouse
Paired with Just Black Distressed Boyfriend Jeans

Both of these beautiful items are perfectly dainty and girly.  I get lots of compliments on both of these items. The Easy Sundress was also perfect to wear for mother's day. It's a very comfy shift dress. The floral crochet blouse is very pretty, but also requires a tank since it's see through. I've also just worn a bralette underneath. 

$149 Tote: Mom's pick

Springsteen Shirt
Paired with Distressed Boyfriend Jeans in White

Chevron Print Maxi Dress

Mom loves the Springteen Shirt. It's very soft and the medium fits us both. Length wise - I think its perfect, but some people have mentioned that it runs short if you have a longer torso. Now, the Maxi dress, its so pretty, but also heavy.  My mom is too short to wear this dress, but she was hopeful that it would fit. I will also say that the top is roomy - even on me and I'm a curvy size Medium.

Add ons:

Distressed Boyfriend Jeans in white

We both have these Distressed Jeans in dark wash, light wash, and now white. We sized down two sizes so they fit us fitted. We obviously hate these jeans :P

Surprise Items

My Tote: I genuinely loved all four picked items. I especially liked the two blouses I received - very springy and office appropriate.  I only had sizing issues with the Hem & Thread dress. Although it is size medium, it runs small.  I can squeeze in and out of it, but I am curvy and prefer things slightly oversized.  I'll be FSOT this item. 

Embroidered green blouse
Paired with Distressed Boyfriend Jeans in White

Blue blouse with Lace embellishment
Paired with Distressed Boyfriend Jeans in White

Puella Maxi dress

Hem and Thread crochet dress

Mom's Tote:  Mom loves the black tunic and maxi skirt. The blue tunic/top and white top however weren't her style. In particular the blue tunic was too large for her. Those two will be put FSOT.

Black tunic with embroidery
Paired with geometric patterned leggings

Blue tunic
Paired with Distressed Boyfriend Jeans in White

White Lacey blouse
Coral and grey stripped Maxi Skirt

Verdict

Our stylist for this session was AR.

My tote: Was a perfect Match and my style. And 3/4 items fit perfectly.

Mom's tote: Mom liked 2/4 items. Being petite it is difficult for her to find maxi dresses that fit. We were surprised that the tunic/top choices were so oversized. We hope that in the future GT includes a style profile option for petites.

April Tote Design

If you want to see pictures of Golden Tote items, be sure to follow my instagram account: alexmariahboxes

My Referral Code

If you liked this blog post and are thinking about taking a look at Golden Tote, please use my referral code. There's no obligation to purchase and sign up is free! [Note: I receive $10 in referral credit if you sign up and make a purchase using my referral code in the same browsing session.]

Golden Tote: http://www.goldentote.com/index.php?route=common/referral&referral=e2bc5413cfd9f65f

New & Upcoming Subscription Box - Prospurly

Introducing Prospurly

What is Prospurly?

Prospurly is a new subscription box that provides organic and artisan-crafted goods.  They provide a variety of good food, relaxing essentials, and games/gifts to share with friends.  This subscription box is all about getting back ot the simple things in life, bringing people together, and providing high quality, eco-friendly, goods.  This box would also make a great gift for someone who loves a personalized touch.

"Prospurly started as a simple idea: a positive reminder every month can really change the way you think and the quality of your life.  Spiritual, personal, and communal success can sometimes be just an positive attitude away from reality."

How does it work?

1. Choose your subscription (currently there is only a monthly subscription or gift option)
2. Prospurly hand selects each and every product for each month's box
3. Boxes are shipped on the 25th of every month and arrive in 2-3 days.

How much does it cost?

Prospurly is a monthly (re-occurring) subscription box costing $49.95.  If you sign up and don't wish to receive a box every month, be sure to use the "Skip next month" feature each month you wish to skip.

Please note, if you do order, I've noticed an issue with their website where it doesn't properly notify you that you've ordered. It takes you to a "Blue Host" site and says it has a 404 issue. If you get to this page, know that your order has gone through and you will receive a confirmation email. I didn't do this and unfortunately ordered 2 subscriptions.  However, I've emailed their customer service and hope to hear back soon and fix this issue :) it'll be a good test of their customer service and responsiveness.

Update: Heard back from their customer service contatct (Holly) and had a wonderful experience. They cancalled one of the duplicate boxes and refunded :) awesome customer service -- I'm already liking this box!

Discount

Right now you can sign up for the first Prospurly subscription box and get 10% off using the code: FOUNDER

**Note: According to their website, founders get 10% off for life***

My experience

Since this box just came out yesterday, I've ordered one of their first boxes.  As mentioned above, I did notice one glitch with their checkout system, but did receive confirmation that my orders were placed (I accidentally placed 2 thinking the first one didn't go through.  Once I hear back from their email address and once I receive my first box, I'll be uploading a review of it :)

Referral System

Prospurly offers a referral system where you earn a free box once you refer 3 friends. Since this subscription box is new I'm not quite sure how this system works, but will update once I've received referrals.

If you'd like to learn more about Prospurly or wish to subscribe, please use my referral code: https://prospurlybox.cratejoy.com/refer/Alex-XNJCHYGI

Golden Tote Review - February 2015

Introduction - What is Golden Tote?

Golden Tote is a fashion subscription box founded by designers Sarah Becker and Sarah Sweeney.  Both Sarahs are also the owners of the Puella clothing line, and their items can be found at Anthropologie.  Golden Tote offers a variety of different designer/boutique clothing items.

To learn more click here.

Golden Tote Review - February 2015 

This month my mom and I were able to order a $149 and $49 tote.  We ended up loving all items in our totes this month.  We're also super excited for the new GT website coming this March. 

Picked items

$149 Tote: My picks

Cozy Knit Cardigan
Potter's Pot Lace Blouse
Faded Indigo Joggers

Quilted Vest in Blue
Miss Love Plaid Shirt
Faded Indigo Joggers

For cardigans, vests and jackets, I usually size up to size large for an oversized look.  I love the soft knitted material of the cozy cardigan - pretty sure I've work this cardigan every day since I got it.  The quilted vest is also perfect for slightly chilly days.  It came in blue, white, black gingham and orange gingham.  I also purcahsed the Faded Indigo Joggers from the boutique since I didn't know how they would fit.  Got a size large and they fit perfect (and have the comfort of workout pants in jean form!) 

$49 Tote: Mom's pick

Cozy Knit Cardigan

Cuddle up with your favorite love bug for the last few weeks of winter in this cozy knit cardigan. Mom and I both love our cardigans. For reference, she's wearing a size M.

Surprise Items

$149 Tote: 

• Miss Love Plaid long sleeve shirt (pictured above with the quilted vest)

• Hourglass Lilly Blouse in blue and white. My mom and I love this blouse so much - mom keeps trying to steal it.  I'll have to find her one of her own from the trading group. 

• Newbury Kustom  in blue. Cool and soft to the touch, this blouse is a perfect transitional item from winter to spring - especially in warmer climates.

• Lime Chili gray dress with plaid accents. I haven't worn this dress yet but will likely style it with a belt and boots for work. 

$49 Tote

Le Sample Zipper back with Red detail

Golden Tote Trading group:

My mom and I had ordered mystery totes in January. For my birthday she surprised me and gave me a puella swing top I had been eyeing. Unfortunately, I had liked it so much I actually traded for it in the trading group! So I traded that top when it came in for this lovely Potter's Pot lace blouse (Love it too!)

Potter's Pot Lace Blouse
Faded Indigo Joggers

Verdict

Surprisingly I kept everything (which I didn't think I would - I snuck a peak at my codes).  Mom also loved her $49 tote and a few of my surprises. This month marks my 1 year anniversary with Golden Tote.  I can happily say it has been a wonderful year and I will continue buying Golden Tote.  With spring fast approaching (it's already here in CA) it's also time for some spring cleaning!

If you want to see pictures of Golden Tote items, be sure to follow my instagram account: alexmariahboxes


Today's blog guest starred Boris the Feline:

If you'd like to see more pictures of this adorable cat, be sure to follow his blog and instragram account (boristhefeline)

My Referral Code

If you liked this blog post and are thinking about taking a look at Golden Tote, please use my referral code. There's no obligation to purchase and sign up is free! [Note: I receive $10 in referral credit if you sign up and make a purchase using my referral code in the same browsing session.]

Golden Tote: http://www.goldentote.com/index.php?route=common/referral&referral=e2bc5413cfd9f65f

Golden Tote Review - September & October 2014

Introduction - What is Golden Tote?

Golden Tote is a fashion subscription box founded by designers Sarah Becker and Sarah Sweeney.  Both Sarahs are also the owners of the Puella clothing line, and their items can be found at Anthropologie.  Golden Tote offers a variety of different designer/boutique clothing items.

To learn more click here.

Golden Tote Review - September and October 

I have been busy with work and graduate classes, so I haven't had time to write a review for my September tote yet. My October tote just arrived this last friday (10/17) and so this post is a review for both months. For both months my mom and I split the totes we ordered. This October, Golden Tote teamed up with the Keep A Breast Foundation to create unique clothing items and accessories. Be sure to check out the KAB Foundation to learn about breast cancer prevention, donating, and how to get involved in the #CHECKYOURSELFIE movement. 

Picked items

'The Dude'

September - $149 tote & $50 tote.  Picked: Favorite Cozy Cardigan ('The Dude'), Merrick Golden Tote Swing, and Boyfriend Jeans in dark denim.

I picked The Dude cardigan (one size) and Merrick Golden Tote Swing Dress (size L - they were out of M).  My mom picked the Boyfriend Jeans in dark denim. We both regularly wear our chosen items regularly since we got these.  The Dude Cardigan is so comfortable, and the Merrick Swing is perfect to wear to work.  I also ended up trading for the Merrick in Cobalt since I loved it so much!  For mom's Boyfriend Jeans, we originally bought in size 29, but traded for size 28.  They fit us both perfectly!

Striped Merrick Swing Dress

Boyfriend Jeans and Le Lis blouse

October: $149 tote and add ons.  Picked: A-line swing dress in wine, Printed Anorak Jacket, Nordic infinity scarf, and Boyfriend Jeans in light wash.  (Boyfriend Jeans were the add on.)

A-line swing dress in wine & Nordic infinity scarf

Mom with her keep a breast bracelet and light wash Boyfriend Jeans

I picked the A-line swing dress in wine and Printed Anorak Jacket - they're perfect to pair together.  Mom loved the Boyfriend Jeans so much she had me order a second pair and has literally worn them all weekend - she loves them!  Since I picked the Printed Anorak Jacket the $149 tote was a 5 item tote. Fit wise, I typically order jackets a size Large, but had trouble at checkout and settled for an M. Luckily this jacket runs on the large size and it fits fine.

Printed Anorak Jacket paired with A-line swing dress

Surprise Items

September

Under the skies blouse (Mom's surprise)

Traded

Le Lis striped grey sweater (For Trade)

Promesa speckled grey maxi skirt and Jolie striped sweater (My Surprises)

Cobalt Merrick swing dress purchased from the Facebook trading group

Ivory Fringe Kimono (Boutique purchase in August

October

Back of the Le Lis Blouse (My Surprise)

Fantastic Fawn black swing dress - criss cross back (Mom's surprise)

Mom's Black and White Cut & Sew Cardigan & Keep a Breast bracelet (Both Mom's surprise)

Verdict

Surprise Scarf - Unexpected 5th surprise item for my 5 - item October Tote

September

We loved our picks and liked our surprise items. Mom selected the under the skies blouse as her surprise. I selected the promesa speckled grey maxi skirt, Jolie striped sweater, and Le Lis sweater as my surprises. We sold the Lily dress in blue and black - the pattern did nothing for us but we liked the cut/shape of the dress). To date, I haven't worn the Le Lis sweater yet and currently have it up for Trade. Only including items we are keeping (i.e., not trading) we liked 6/8 items. Not our favorite tote, but we really loved our chosen items. Our tote curator was 'KB.'

October

In terms of our October tote, we received 7 items in our 5-item tote.  The ladies at Golden Tote really out did themselves in their item selections this month.  Surprise wise, I loved the Le Lis blouse in black and tan.  It's so elegant, perfect for Fall, and work appropriate.  I was already prepared to trade for this blouse if I didn't get it.  As well, I absolutely loved the unexpected surprise scarf (pictured above). I'm a scarf person and love the knit and soft texture of this scarf.  My mom kept  the black and white cardigan, Keep a Breast bracelet, and Fantastic Fawn black criss cross dress (for reference the arms were too tight on me, but perfect on her petite frame). My mom kept so much from this tote I would say this is her favorite one yet.

The one item I wish our tote had included is this Le Lis sweater (I'm convinced Le Lis is amazing -- I've liked 2/3 items).

The Le Lis sweater that got away... [Photo credit: Facebook Golden Tote Trading Group]

The only issue I am currently trying to fix with customer service is that I was charged full price instead of the add on price for the Boyfriend jeans (the pants did not appear as available in either totes until after I had purchased -- otherwise I would have ordered a 6-item tote and added on the Anorak Jacket).  I think the person who curated our tote this month forgot to read our comments (in their defense I did make a boutique order the night before, tote order on tote day, and another boutique order after). However, I am 100% that the ladies at Golden Tote will fix this ASAP :)

If you want to see pictures of Golden Tote items, be sure to follow my instagram account: alexmariahboxes

For Sale or Trade (FSOT)

Click here for a link to my Pinterest board to view items that I have for sale or trade.

In Search Of (ISO)

Click here for a link to my Pinterest board to view items that I am in search of.

My Referral Code

If you liked this blog post and are thinking about taking a look at Golden Tote, please use my referral code. There's no obligation to purchase and sign up is free! [Note: I receive $10 in referral credit if you sign up and make a purchase using my referral code]

Golden Tote: http://www.goldentote.com/index.php?route=common/referral&referral=e2bc5413cfd9f65f

PopSugar Must Have - September 2014 Box

Introduction - What is PopSugar Must Have?

For those that don't know PopSugar Must Have is a subscription box that you can order at $35.95 a month. They send you a variety of hand-selected items in beauty, fashion, home, fitness, and food. As well, every quarter they come out with a Limited Edition box that costs $100.00.

For those that do not know, I've had mixed experiences with this subscription box.  Negative experience (customer service and with the boxes themselves): Spring LE box. Positive experiences: Sumer LE box, April box, and now the September box.  I would like to point out that I only tried the april and september boxes after a sneak peak was released.  Price wise, I think the monthly subscription box is a better purchase.  I feel the quality, type of items, and number of items is more bang for your buck than the quarterly purchases.

For the record, I would like to state that in no way was I paid to write this blog or given any services by PopSugar for writing this review. I purchased this box on my own.

September Box 2014

After seeing a spoiler for the scarf in the September box, I decided to take the plunge again with Popsugar.  I am very glad that I did.

Included in this box is: Modal Gradation Scarf in Raisin - Tilo Scarves ($125 retail), Stereo Earbuds -  Nicole Miller ($20), Almond Brownie - Urban Remedy ($6), Superfine Purse Size Hair Spray - Orbe ($21.50), Gold Foil Arrow Pencils - Letter C Design ($5), Garance Dore Assorted Girls Set - Rifle Paper Co. ($18). Special Extras included in this box were a $20 Nike Gift Card and Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Sea Salt and Almond Minis. I also found a $10 off any purchase of $50 or more for Urban Remedy.

Sorry for the poor picture quality, I've been sick and opened my box at night when I received it. 

Close up Assorted girls card set, foil pencils, hair spray, brownie, and Ghirardelli chocolate

My nike $20 coupon also came with a measuring tape! Awesome!

Wearing my new Modal Gradation Scar

Verdict

I cannot emphasize how happy I was with this box!  This has been my favorite box yet (even more so than the Summer LE box). The value of this box was ~$215+ and I paid $39.95! I can honestly say I will use everything in this box. Even the hairspray. Typically I do not keep beauty items from this box (I don't wear make up too often), but I do have a lot of hair ;)

I also cannot wait to begin using the card set for snail mail with my penpal. (Who I have sadly been neglecting while I worked full time this summer!) Alex I promise I will start sending my letters and cartoons again! 

Referral Links:

If you liked my blog post and would like to try PopSugar Must Have please use my referral link. For the record, I receive referral credit towards earning a monthly box when you use my referral code. To learn more check out my tab labeled "About POPSUGAR Must Have".

PopSugar Must Have: http://popsu.gr/rjKa