The surge of interest in subscription box services over the last five years has largely bypassed the fashion set. After all, our well-honed sartorial instincts are more inclined to leave us broke than unsure of where to spend our money. When stylist and designer Rachel Zoe set out to design her own box, she realized the need for one that doesn't tell stylish women what they need but rather gives us exclusive access to and discounts on pieces we're already coveting, like cashmere beanies and delicate jewelry. Unlike competitors, her Box of Style membership has a less-is-more approach, delivering only four times a year — in keeping with the traditional fashion seasons — and there's no need to return or exchange items to enjoy the next installment. (Who has time for all that shipping hassle, anyway?)
According to Zoe, each edition is designed to integrate seamlessly into your existing wardrobe, be versatile enough to style a myriad of ways, and timeless enough to earn a longterm position in your closet. "Every season I carefully select luxury products that can be worked into your closet and your busy life," Zoe explains. If, like any critical shopper, you're still not convinced to make the leap into the world of subscription services, note that every 5-item edition has the value of over $400 but retails for just under $100. I'm willing to bet the last fast-fashion purchase you made for that price probably stayed in your closet for one month. Here are a few other perks Zoe has thrown in to make a Box of Style membership the savviest investment you should seriously consider:
It's Curated By A Celebrated Stylist
Rachel Zoe has been in the industry for decades, not just as the first celebrity stylist to give fans behind-the-scenes access to the fashion world, but also as a designer, editor, and entrepreneur. She has literally made a career out of helping women elevate their personal style, so her selection of items for each box is made with painstaking attention to detail. Think exhaustive runway trend reports, endless rounds of sketching and sampling, and customized styling tips that accompany every item.
It Features Cult Beauty Products
As evidenced by every well-put-together woman on the planet, style is all-encompassing. It includes, but is not limited to, beauty and lifestyle choices, and as such the Box of Style never overlooks these spaces. Take for example the inclusion of Jen Atkin's Ouai Wave Spray in the Summer 2016 edition, just a month after her line launched, or the cult-favorite Caudalie Vinoperfect Serum which continues to be one of Sephora's best-selling natural skincare products. The Sunday Riley Luna Oil, included in the Winter box, retails for more than the cost of the entire box, so you're definitely getting a deal.
It Includes A Members-Only Marketplace...
So the 5-piece selection in the box is part of the $99.99 membership (or $350 if you spring for a full year), but the Marketplace offers members-only discounts on a wide range of other products. Croc-embossed leather clutches, the perfect red lipstick and luxe candles sit alongside ready-to-wear items like jumpsuits and blazers, all at up to 60 percent off their regular prices. Plus the shipping is already included in your membership. Win win.
... And Exclusive Collaborations
Zoe is not afraid to tap into her extensive contact list of designer friends to cook up collaborations exclusive to Box of Style members. When she sets her heart on a staple she becomes borderline maniacal about finding the perfect piece. On the hunt for the perfect watch for her Winter box, she convinced her friend, CFDA-award winning accessories designer Eddie Borgo, to design his first ever timepiece. The result is elegant, understated, and great value for the $100 membership price tag.
