Monday Must-Haves: Sample Sizes

For a number of reasons, I am in love with samples. Most of the time they are offered along with an order, for example, on Nordstrom, if you spend money on any products from their beauty department online, they will let you select 3 free beauty product samples at check out and will be mailed with your order. Sephora and Von Maur, and I am sure other department stores do the same thing, as well. They can also come in the form of a Birchbox subscription (great gift idea, for any of the special ladies in your life!), where you are sent a monthly variety of beauty product samples. My friends must know me well because I've gotten two separate gifts (not at the same time!) of Birchbox subscriptions. Additionally, you can buy sets of beauty product samples which is sometimes the BEST option--I even gave my bridesmaids sample make up sets for part of their bridesmaid gifts.

I love samples not only because they are the cuter version of their larger counterparts, but you can really try some great products without blowing a wad on a regular-sized version right off the bat. I actually keep a candy jar in my bathroom closet full of samples for when I might need them. I love having little mini perfumes on hand to stick in my purse for a night out, or having shampoos and conditioners on hand for guests, or for traveling (those pesky carry-on-size plastic bags...grr!)! And I do occasionally buy sample sizes on purpose. I think sample mascara is the best thing since sliced bread! The shorter wands allow for more control and by the time you get to the bottom of a tube of mascara, its crumbly anyway.

Here's a sampling of my favorite samples you can purchase--no pun intended! Hover over the captions to click on links directly to the samples and websites!

Essie Minis: I purchased the Resort collection earlier this year because quite frankly, for us indecisive ones, its a large commitment to purchase just one bottle of fingernail polish. So instead of dropping $40, I dropped $17.  You can purchase sets like these on Nordstrom (right now they have SPRING and WEDDING sets). Plus, you'll get free shipping and free beauty samples with your order! ;) Other websites have the sets, as well! 

BAD gal lash by Benefit cosmetics is my go-to mascara, it is available here in .14oz. If you are a Sephora Beauty Insider, you can easily rack up points for amazing products and samples! Also, with every online Sephora order, you can select up to 3 samples to try!

I have a love-hate relationship with Bumble and Bumble. They are amazing products for your hair, but the price point isn't so amazing! My old hair stylist got me on to it. Anytime I am able to snag a sample, I do! Plus, its so much better than using those hotel room shampoos while on a quick trip somewhere, not to mention they are easy to pack! If you sign up for Bumble and Bumble emails, they will send you free travel sizes and also samples with every order! The thickening shampoo and conditioner are my favorites, and the smell is heavenly!

Buxom White Russian is my absolute 'go to' lip color. Unfortunately it doesn't come in a sample size. For a little sparkle, I'm a huge fan of April (go figure... is that vain?!). However, if you are anything like me, I love lip gloss that acts the same no matter what shade you buy. Slightly sticky, plumping and a little shiny. Side note, do not apply before you roll your windows down! This is a wonderful set available at Sephora.