Free Stuff, FAQ!!

Hey Guys, Story time!!

I love shopping! It is so fun to go out there and get cute things. They don't have to be pricey, I just enjoy it so very much.

However, I have this amazing little thing called OCD. I don't mean this in the adorable I just like it clean(although I do). I mean this in the crippling, has gotten professional help, I have scrubbed my floors dangerously slick type. I mean the I can't stop obsessing over the tiniest thing so now I have scratched my skin raw. The situation playing out on tv is too difficult to swallow, I must walk out of the room or turn it off. This room just looks too full I can't even be in it(that's a new one right there). Because of this I have decided to do away with many things, that although I love and are amazing are beginning to whittle at my mental health.

Many of these things have amazing memories, were thoughtful gifts, or are just awesome! I could take them to goodwill but that seems hurtful, so I decided to give them to people that will really want them instead! Everyday I will post as many things as I can on my Instagram, you just plop a comment if you want it, if more than a few people respond then I guess I'll number generate or something. I will then take this item to you if you are local (because I really do need reasons to leave this home) or you can pay for shipping. It must be priority because I do not have time to find a box!

Okay, if you made it this far these are some things that will go, shoes, clothing(casual, high end, and loli), cosmetics, collectible barbies, most of them Disney, purses, plushies, books, movies, limited edition items(so many!), I'm a crazy nerd that shops so you get the picture. You can keep them forever, give them to your cousin, I don't mind, but please don't take it if you will trash it, as someone else might actually love it.

Why Instagram? It seems easier and it won't constantly clog up peoples Facebook feeds. Also more organization for me.

Thank you for reading and hopefully I will have stuff you want.

PS: Rules! 

1. You have to comment (Mine, I want it, etc) to get the thing!

2. If you don't contact(dm) me in 48 hours it goes to the next person, no exceptions, 

3. In the event something is popular(over 10 wants very quickly) it becomes a raffle. Do not double
comment to get more chances, I will check and you will be removed.

4. Shipping is paid by you, again in 48 hours no exceptions. It's free no I am not paying.

5. Don't be greedy, if you don't want it do not comment. If I catch you selling some of the rare stuff I'm giving out I will find you and make your life hell!!
6. I have the right to not give you something it's my stuff i decided in the end if you get it or not. Granted if you paid for shipping it's totally yours, no take backesies 

**everything that is not new will be laundered and sanitized, everything you take is at your own risk. You can't sue me if you choke on a Barbie Shoe.

Innocent World Oddment (2015) packs A and B

This week week IW posted their biannual Oddment packs, and we decided to give them a go. I purchased pack A and ihasadragon got pack B. We both placed our orders on April, 20th, paid on the 24th and got shipping confirmation on the 22nd. Then this morning at 9:30 my doorbell rang and a box big enough to ship myself in arrived. I.W. is probably one of the fastest places I've ever gotten products from. Aside from Ap USA (but I pick that up myself next day) Pack A is priced at 50,000yen  and B is priced at 80,000 yen these are pre tax prices, and tax in Japan recently went up form 5 to 8% (will be 10 in October) the current conversion being used by paypal is 116.5861 Japanese Yen per dollar. 

 Pack A I paid $574.69        Pack B she paid $884.19

15 items received                            24 items received

4 dresses                                          9 dresses

2 blouse                                           2 blouses

1 coat                                              2 sweaters

1 blazer                                           1 blazer

2 bags                                              3 bags

2 pairs of shoes                               2 pairs of shoes

1 Bonnet                                        1 beret

1 headdress                                     2 head "bows"

1 clip                                      1 ribbon clip

                                                     1 necklace

                                                 1 pair of socks 

The pictures below are the items we received, 

A pack is on the left, and B pack on the right.
*Item will eventually be placed on LM

Rose Blouse - Spade & Heart Blouse*

Big Ribbon Blouse - Blouse with Rose Jabot (rose clip is in the accessories picture)*

Napolean Knitted Jacket - King of Spades & Queen of Hearts Jacket*

King of Spades & Queen of Hearts Mantel - Playing Cards Cardigan

Lace Scallop Heart Short Boots x2  SS*

T Strap Ribbon Shoes L* - Cross Strap Ribbon Shoes

Lost Portraits JSK Long - Lost Portraits JSK Short

Rozen Maiden: Hinaichigo - Rozen Maiden: Suiseiseki "*"

 Ellen Clapsaddle JSK*- Anniversary Rose JSK

Marionette Theater Frill - Merry Belle OP*

Both from Box B

Sugar Cake OP* - Gargoyles of Notre Dame*

Both from Box B

Kaneko Alice JSK* - Sharon JSK*

Box B Oriana checkered OP *

Box B Sailor crown cardigan

Angel Bag x 2 *1 only

A: Playing Cards Chocolate Heart Bag

 Both from Box B

Angel Bag - Chocolate Chess Bag

Three items on the left are box A, the rest are box B

A: 

Rozen Maiden Bonnet

Rocking Horse Ribbon Clip

Rozen Maiden: Suigintou Headdress* 

B:

Angel Pearl Beret

Rozen Maiden Kanaria Head Bow*

French Picture Frame Necklace*

Tea Time Head Bow*

Ribbon Emblem OTKs

Double Blades Button Clip

Lace Clip is supposed to be clipped to the 'Blouse with Rose Jabot'

Overall I was very pleased with my pack, not as in love with every item as last year though, I will be selling a few things off later on that just didn't suit me. I do feel that pack B gave you more bang for your buck.

ihasadragon: There are some items that I'm really happy with, however I did expect to like a larger percent of what I got, since I bought the larger box. Maybe next time. I also feel it was a better deal, especially if it had had items that suited me better.


ihasadragon also discovered that the majority of our items were from 2013 collections, and the items I got the year before were from 2012. We are going to start browsing 2014 in hopes of seeing what we might get next year.

Did you order the IW pack? What did you get, was it from 2013? I hope you loved it.

What I got last year, in case you were curious, it is also a pack A, I do know that I got very lucky with it though.

Genso BOX Review

As many of you know, last month, a very interesting add appeared on Lace Market. A J fashion box for only $100, by the name of Genso. Everyone was skeptical, and hopeful, what a great idea.... that could go horribly wrong. I was instantly entrance and afraid, would I get an amazing IW oddment pack type of deal? Or was this just another brilliant Milano plot to get all of our money(I wouldn't be surprised). So I took a baby step and went on the site. I took the test and of course got sweet Lolita. Regardless of what I change or went back to/cleared the cookies, all I could get was sweet lolita. So what ever, I took the plunge and ordered the monthly kit +$20 in shipping (yikes) and I sent an email stating I did not want sweet.

This was the Auto reply on my order.

And the reply to my email;

Dear Heartsnspiders,

Thanks for your registration on GensoBox.com. Now you can enjoy a personalized style experience from start to finish!

Happy Shopping!

All ready I was full of worry, Sweet Sweet Baby Jesus what had I done. Lolita God's is this your punishment?!?! Then I received this; (my thoughts)

Hi Andrea,

Thank you for purchasing the lolita subscription plan! My name is Miu and I am your personal style expert. I will have to ask you a few questions to customize your subscription box before we can begin to do our research and assemble your box. (OMG yes a human.. maybe?) From your quiz results it seems that you're bordering the line between gothic and classic lolita, do you have a preferred style in which we should base your style profile on? (So the quiz did get my info, it just kept defaulting to sweet... or someone read my email)What are some colors that would match your current look? What brands are your favorite (for example Victorian Maiden, Juliette et Justine, Moi Meme Moitie)?

Do you prefer very ornate accessories or simplistic accessories to match your coordinates? Would you like us to include socks or tights with your order? Do you have any motifs that you love? Any that you absolutely hate (for example architecture, painting dresses, florals)?

Thank you for your purchase, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Miu

Hello Miu,

I am so excited to be a part of this. I was the first to take the leap in my community here in California, and we were all pretty scared it would go badly since the test seemed so vague. I am so glad there is more to the customization. I am right in between gothic and classic.

I wear darker colors, black, red, navy, green, dark purples, metallic etc. I love prints, the more elaborate the better, I don't mind if it's Jesus, a cup cake, or outer space puppies, as long as the art is elegant and tasteful. I will even wear some things from angelic pretty as long as the colors are dark. I prefer ornate and over the top, Send me to the classiest funeral, just don't make me the corpse. 

Socks please. 

I think I look best in dark color ways but if the print has bright or even pastel colors as longs a most of the dress is dark I'll love it. I also love fabrics like organza and chiffon. 

<3 Andi

Hi Andi,

Thanks for your quick reply. I've put these all on file and will begin researching your box for this month (we will try our best to pick up on the darker parts of classic that are very popular lately). I like your style and I'm glad that I can help grow your wardrobe! This is your box, we want to make it perfect for you.

I'm sorry that the quiz was so vague, we just recently launched and are revising the quiz in the next few weeks in order for it to be a little more specific. The user feedback has been tremendous and very helpful.

If you have any more questions, feel free to ask, I will update the status of your order when we assemble your box!

Miu

That exchange all happened the day I placed my order, The responses were quick, human, and fairly reassuring. At this point my hopes were high, and by high I mean maybe I'll get taobao items worth the $100. They probably just buy in  large bulk. Most boxes do this and it's how they can offer such great deals. Essentially one massive group order, we all get the same thing but ALL THE VALUE!!

Then a week passed...two...(I worked Hello Kitty con) three... got back home to S.F. four... 

At around week three I saw someone had received and reviewed their Magical girl box, and it had been full of cheap fabric and knock of items. T^T The fear was all too real, this was the end. My body was ready(to click file a claim on pp), I would get cosplay lolita and maybe some sort of bow clip.

So I sent an email wondering where my stuff was, and if it hadn't shipped I wanted to cancel. Mind you I had received no other communication, no tracking number for my $20 package (WTF my IW oddment pack was $50 shipping and I could have shipped my self in that giant box. So I go on the site and am greeted by this lovely message, and just decided if I didn't get a response I would file a claim.

Any way, a few days and no response later, I finally got 

THE STUFF!!!!

This crazy little box was here. Tapped to no end mind you, and in this horrid color, I had no idea what it was until it dawned on me that this could be it. The box was smaller than I imagine, about 11" x 9"

As I was about to slice it open, I realized I had no idea how, so I started removing tape, it took me maybe 20 minutes to remove enough to see how the box opens. Maybe I'm just slow, but I was not about to risk slicing into an item. (then not be able to return it) Then I saw this.

Funny, I didn't order form this brand? I looked it up and this is the wig brand that sells the GLW knock offs but uses the GLW photos.... yah those are the same... right? NAILED IT! ( I did not get this wig in my kit XD)

So finally I saw the light and cracked this sucker open, ready to receive an empty box, my expectations were Zero, so I was a little surprised.  I can see cute things and the box looks pretty full.

The first item was a pair of really nice tights. I have purchase from this Taobao shop before so I knew these would be nice and thick, and printed well. I love that the paws are top and bottom so on the bottom of your foot you see the pads like on a real cat. Keep in mind I asked for socks lol. UPDATE** these are stolen

 Retail: 25 yuan/ $4.10 USD

The next item was this pair of wrist cuffs, the lace has a pretty detail, they aren't finished extremely well but on par with Meta cuffs, if you like that sort of thing 

Retail: 24.50 yuan/ $3.99

Then I got these odds and ends that I was really happy about. I love wrapping these around buns and I can't wait to put acorns all over my next up do. Retail: $1.75

Next up was this head band. The lace is thick and the roses are flocked. The ribbon is thick but not too firm or plastic like. The nice part is that the actual band is wrapped in a velvet and satin ribbon( I expected just raw plastic).

Reatil Price: 59.80 Yuan/ $9.75 USD

Then this guy, a choker,  I feel my neck is too short for these. I am not a fan of this item, it is essentially lace with a charm on it. Couldn't find the actual one but similar ones Retail: ~22 yuan/ $3.58

A bracelet in a similar vein, but I'd wear it. Again couldn't find this, but on average 

Retail: 17 Yuan/ $ 2.77

Then this ring, I enjoyed that it is sitting on a doily. I like mixed medium items so this was a pleasant surprise. The bottom looks a bit odd but it's very sturdy, and you can't see that when worn.

Retails: 18.50 Yuan/ $ 3.02

My final Item was this blouse, It looks correct in size( a bit big but better than too small)  The quality is a bit stiff, but it mostly just feels starched, after a wash it should soften up.

Retail: 228 Yuan/$37.19 USD

it included this bow as well, but looking at the link I believe it was just a piece of the blouse

Total, I basically got the entire set that was shown in the one teaser photo. I am not certain if everyone got this or if they just took a photo of mine before it shipped out. lol (was I the only one silly enough to order?)

They posted this set saying things would vary and more accessories would be included. Well I only got one extra thing (the $2 nuts) so uhm?

My total for what I spent was $120, the total I got in merch was 67.90, and that is rounding every bit up on every product. I paid double for every item that I received. Even with SS fees of 15%(average is 10) my total would have still only been 78.09 + shipping, that I'm certain would not have been $42. Not to mention I am pretty sure they purchased a good amount of all of these things, so they probably got a big discount from the shop.

Having said that though, I still have hope for this service. I think for a beginner lolita it is okay to pay a bit of an extra fee for someone to do the work. Personal shoppers get paid a good amount, they are essentially teaching you how to become a lolita, and although this isn't going to wow anyone, no one will think you don't fit in. The products were decent/nice for what they were (you can't expect too much when an item is $5), and averaged to about $15 an item. Again in my opinion for a beginner this is probably a decent deal. You don't have to get scammed terribly by Milano, you don't have to pick for yourself and get posted on 4chan, then cry in a corner, or spend way more at hot topic only to discover it's all wrong. For an experienced lolita though this may not be a good deal, if you know how to use taobao or have a reliable service, you could use this money to pick items you really want and save a few dollars. 

Conclusion: 

Do I feel like it was worth it for me? Mostly no, although some of these items can fit into my closet and are lovely in their own way, I do feel like I grossly overpaid, since I order from taobao myself and pay no fees. Although I don't consider $40 being wallet raped, it doesn't feel good to lose that amount of money, that's a tea party ticket!  Would I order from them again? Maybe, it's nice to just have a random box of cute show up at your door, and if they were to improve the value they offer I might. Overall it was a good idea, and I am glad I gave it a shot. I will however be e-mailing them and pay pal, for at least a partial refund. 

So why is this brand whore not burning it all and demanding her money back? I don't know these people but I would like to believe that aside from trying to make a few bucks, they were genuinely trying to start something fun and helpful. If I get angry because it isn't BURANDO or 100% what I would have gotten then it wont give them a chance to improve. I'm giving them the benefit of the doubt and I do walk away ok with some of the items (and consider my self very lucky for that lol). Maybe I have bad taste and am unfit to live in the USA lolita mecha that is SF. 

Until next time, lovely lace monsters

**UPDATE**

It was brought to my attention the art on the tights is stolen, I think it isn't so much of being up to my standards but a you get what you paid for mentality. I never expected real brand for 100. I expected something kind of cute and hopefully a decent deal. To me it could have been so much worse. Theft is never okay though so I will be contacting them about that. They have yet to respond to me though so I think my pp claim will be more a affective.

Sadly that was the item I liked most. back they go. 

Also this morning i got THIS!!

I really wanted to give them a chance, but they take an auto payment even when the site is down. *tsk tsk* Genso shop. There was no one to talk to about canceling since the site is down and they don't respond to emails 

**UPDATE 2**

PayPal has reimbursed me the full $119

Beauty Blender, colors, dupes, and give away!!

So recently we had the opportunity to have a special training with the creator of the beauty blender. She is an amazing person and so much fun. So I decide to share what a learned about the products. As well answer some questions that aren't readily available. 

I have been using and loving the beauty blender for about 7 months now, and before that I had a similar product, so I'll be reviewing and comparing the two at the end of the post.  I had a great time, learned so much, and also got some pretty neat swag.

What the heck is that pink thing?!?

The beauty blender is a makeup applicator that can be used for wet or dry products. It is composed of a special patented material that doesn't breed the bacteria like a regular sponge. It is also less absorbent so saves you makeup. It comes in three colors.

Do I just roll it on my face?!?

To use; firstly take the sponge and run it under water squeezing it gently to get it nice and moist all over. Then you give it a good squeeze to drain as much water out as possible. Then dab it dry on a towel. It will expand and is ready to go. Just dab into foundation then apply to face using a pressing motion for full coverage. Or sliding for medium. 

wet/dry

What are all the colors about?!?

Pink- the original blender made of patented sponge 

Black- because MUAs kept saying pink was too flashy for a kit. otherwise identical

White- for sensitive skin, no dye, the sponge is slightly different material, is less absorbent and more antimicrobial. Also fantastic for applying moisturizers and serums. Sometimes your hands are too harsh on a sensitive day. Use the sponge instead just enough exfoliation and not as much redness.

Okay so how do I clean it?

Easy enough simply run it under tepid water, add some cleanser, rinse and repeat until water runs clear. As a disclaimer some color may bleed the first time you wash it depending on the cleanser you use. If it's bleeding every time it may be too harsh and could be damaging your sponge. 

Okay so what cleanser won't damage my sponge?

BB cleanser. It comes in two forms. The original liquid. Yes it has a smell from the lavender. It is all natural no artificial fragrance is added. I love the large version's pump. But they also make small travel ones.   

Then there is the bb solid cleanser. It's essentially a bar off soap. Just pull it out, rub a rub rub, then rinse. As a note I had only ever used the liquid and had 0 color loss. The first time I used the solid my BB bled pink. This leads me to believe it is a much harsher cleanser. I'm not certain if this is better or worse for sensitive skin. I should have asked lol. Both of these cleansers can also be used to clean your traditional make up brushes as well.

Then just make sure you set the soap out of the dish and on the included round vent plate to dry. Otherwise it will stick to the dish and cause a mucky mess.Set your BB in the cup it came in to dry and your are good to go. Sit it on top don't cram it in or you may damage your blender. You want to clean it after 2-3 uses just like a traditional brush. You can also throw it in the dryer on the air dry setting, but that seems strange to me. Perhaps in a dryer bag would be best.

.Because these were gifted to us as trials we do not get the holding cup, instead they gave us these AIR port driers. I love it, I even purchased a white one after because I preferred the color for skin care. It comfortably fits 3 dry blenders and a bar of soap, or 1 wet blender and a bar of soap. You could squeeze two blenders in wet but it might take longer for them to dry. It has a magnetic closer, and sturdy key chain type clip so that you can attach it to your brush belt. 

 

But it's so expensive you say! 

For cleanser: mix equal parts of dish soap and olive oil. Bam! Clean sponge. 

For sponge: there are a few options. I used to own this one called the finished edge. It isn't bad I loved it. It simply pales in comparison to the branded one. The reason is thrice fold. 

1. Sponge is a sponge! This fella is basically just a different shaped sponge. The material absorbs so much makeup, it is wasteful. 

2. It's harder to clean all that make up it sucked up. It's also much more stiff so you press harder to get stuff out and can damage it. 

3. The sponge is firm. It's harsher on the skin and not the best for the eye area because you have to push too hard and it starts to hurt. 

Well I hope this helped some of you out there answer those burning beauty blender questions, Until next time!

<3 Alice

WOOPS forgot to mention! since I have a good amount that I got, and I all ready had 2 that I purchased my self. I think I'll give a sponge and the bar soap away. If you are interested this would be a traditional pink sponge and a new bar of cleanser. Leave a comment and in a few days I'll do a random drawing. Lucky for you this blog doesn't see much traffic yet so odds are great. lol