Sample Society launched by Allure & Beautybar.com

Birchbox, watch out!

Earlier this week, Allure magazine and Beautybar.com launched Sample Society, members-only subscription service that gives shoppers access to samples of hair care, makeup, skin care and fragrance products as well as a “mini issue” of Allure magazine each month.

The subscription ($15 a month) gets you five deluxe-size (translation: there’s enough in there for more than just one use) samples from brands like Frederic Fekkai, By Terry and Bond No.9. And each month there’s also a gift code for $15 to use toward the purchase of any product from the month’s featured brand. Tips and advice about the products from Allure editors is also included.

“Given the thousands of beauty products that are introduced each year, sampling just makes sense,” says Linda Wells, editor in chief of Allure. “Who can really buy all those products? Who has the time to try them all?

Finally, a reason to look forward to getting your mail!