Carmine is the latest brand to release a sample box in the ever growing beauty box market, so when I was offered the chance to try it, I was keen to see how it compared to the others. The Carmine box is priced at £10 plus £2.95 postage, which puts it at the same price point as a Glossy Box and Boudoir Prive.
My initial thought was that I didn’t like the packaging. Presentation is important to me and something which is attractively packaged makes the whole unveiling of the product a much more exciting and enjoyable experience. The Carmine box deviates from the now ubiquitous pastel pink and black which are synonymous with Glossy Box and Boudoir Prive with a burgundy and a lime green interior. As a girly girl, I was disappointed as there’s nothing dainty or feminine about this box and I found it quite repellant and garish so it’s not a box I’ll be reusing around the house.
Aesthetics aside, the box was frustratingly difficult to get into. The design means you will most definitely need someone on hand to help get the lid off, or risk struggling with it yourself for a good 20 minutes. Another downside is that the leaflet which tells you about the products doesn’t mention price, so unless you visit their website you’ll be left in the dark about how costly a full size version is. Once I was in, however, I liked what I found…
The Balm Frat Boy all-in-one Shadow/Blush
In my opinion you can never own too many blushes so I loved the addition of this peachy pink shade which would suit all skin tones. The cute retro packaging appeals to me and I like how a little mirror is included for touch ups on the go.
Daniel Sandler Eye Delight in Peach
This little pot of loose pigment eyeshadow contains a gorgeous peachy nude shade which again would suit all skin tones. It has a beautiful shimmery finish so I’ll be using this as a highlight colour as well as on my eyes.
Balance Me Super Moisturising Hand Cream
Hand cream is always something I have with me and I love trying new brands in the search for the ultimate cream. This award winning hand cream one smells lovely, absorbed quickly, left my hands amazingly smooth and it’s the perfect size for your handbag.
Trind Nail Repair Natural
I regularly abuse my nails with false nails and acetone so anything which promotes strong supple nails and promises protection is a welcome addition to my ever growing nail collection.
Caudalie Quenching Sorbet Creme
I’m don’t get too excited over moisturisers but this creme has a pleasant scent and feels silky on the skin once applied.
Overall I like the selection in the first Carmine box. There’s a good range of products and the makeup items are fairly neutral and safe in their shades so should suit all tastes. The only let down for me is the packaging.
I love the packaging on the frat boy blush!! so sweet.are you going to do a review? Ive not signed up to any of the beauty boxes as im unsure which is the best, help!
Oooh, I love the packaging! x
Looks like so much good stuff!
I have recently review Caudalie, and love Daniel's makeup range. Intersting to read about the other brands x
OooOoo this box looks pretty good!!
Victoria – VIPXO – http://www.vipxo.co.uk
I like the contents but I agree about the packaging. Isn't very girlie!
Thanks for reviewing this! Now a fan of the packaging either, could definitely do with a rethink. Impressed with the products though, THEY seem well though out! xx
You have an amazing blog and I loved this post. The pictures are great and I've actually been scrolling down your blog for the last 10 minutes.
Follow each other? 🙂
XO,
Lucija
WLL
Lovely post..you've a great blog..following you now..follow back please..
http://glossandmagic.blogspot.com/
i have the Balm frat boy shadow/blush and i love it!!
http://www.shellzdoll.com/