Maquillage Lover

VS Wet & Dry Ceramic Straightener

2011-08-02T06:11:00.000-07:00

I went to Mall of Asia the night before my Bohol trip and I went to look for BaByliss when a sales attendant pointed me to check out VS since they're having a sale and so I got this instead. Original price is around Php3179.75 but I paid around Php2861.75. This is available in Watson's inside the department store.

This is a wet and dry straightener, you can use this even if your hair is wet but I'm a chicken to do so. My hair is really fine so heat will really fry my hair.

I got this because the sales attendant taught me how to curl my hair with a straightener. I thought it doesn't work but it really does work! Cool technique eh? It does work on my hair but sadly the curl doesn't last long coz my hair is naturally straight so I'm sticking with a real curling iron and get BaByliss.

I'm still deliberating if I will sell this baby or not since I've grown to like this though it's not in my plan to get a straightening iron. =D

Check the steam release vents. When you use this on your wet hair you'll hear some fizzle and sizzle sounds which the manual states it's normal but then again it's up to your discretion if you want to use a hot tool on your wet hair.

The built is impressive, the swivel cord is sturdy and the electrical line is really thick!

These are the switches. On your left most is the temperature wheel where you can see the 25 heat settings. Other hot tools will give you the temperature but VS has their own heat setting indications ranging from 1 to 25 depending on your hair type and the result you want to achieve.

Push the left button to turn the straightener on and wait for it to heat up. It takes a few seconds to heat up, let's say approximately 10 seconds which is quite impressive for me.

If you're in a hurry push the turbo button on to speed up the heat up process but for me I'm quite happy with the 10 second heat up.

This comes with this type of plug(the Hong Kong plug) but don't worry they'll provide you with an adaptor =)

Here's a snippet of the manual

Here's the temperature setting table for your reference.

Lemming for BaByliss ipro200 2361CE

2011-07-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

I'm currently drooling over this BaByliss curling iron. I checked it out last Sunday at Trinoma's Landmark and it's around Php2700+ which is a fairly reasonable price among the more expensive curlers in the department store.

Features:

Quick instant heat up - plus point for me!

Titanium ceramic - gentler for my hair!

LED or LCD display screen of the exact temperature - great!

Yup, that's it and I'm sold! I'm definitely getting this soon...

I'm pretty much easy to please now, mellowing and more content with material things, I guess?

Watson's Sectioning Clips

2011-07-08T05:55:00.000-07:00

I love my bangs and the way it frames my face, but when I do my make-up, wash my face or style my hair, sometimes it feels more like a hassle than an asset. So I decided to do something about it and get me some good clips.

Last weekend I got this from Watson's in SM North Edsa for around Php49. The clips are quite heavy duty and it does the work effectively. I think this is better than the plastic ones!

I'm getting pretty excited to use this to section my hair while doing curls! I love curls but I hate it when I lack sectioning clips, it makes me go brouhaha =D

Next stop, finding a good hair curler. Any good recommendations and where to buy them? =)

Let me know, girls!

My Lippie Collection

2011-06-25T00:40:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged for a looong time!

It feels refreshing to do this again, I'm just warming up for a bit.

For now I'll post my ever growing lip product collection, from lip balms, to lipsticks to lip glosses.

I still have a handful in their boxes (meaning I haven't used them yet)

P.S. I have removed other lip products I am not using.

Happy New Year Everyone! ^.^

2010-12-31T05:59:00.000-08:00

I've been pretty much out of the loop for the latter part of 2010 due to work but that doesn't stop me from greeting you a Happy New Year! =)

I'll do my best to catch up and write up on some products I have acquired for this year ^.^

Photo source

What I'm Reading Now: Cute and Cool Posts from Roughette!

2010-11-22T22:49:00.000-08:00

Cute Hello Kitty slipper boots, eh?

Check out more of these cute posts on roughette.blogspot.com

While you're at it, check out her other food posts on Illinois Chinese restaurants Joy Yee, Lao Sze Chuan, Shui Wah and my favorite pancake post IHOP ^.^

Shu Uemura Christmas Collection 2010 with Aya Takano

2010-10-14T22:17:00.000-07:00

Cute! Need I say more?

This is Shu Uemura's Christmas Collection with Aya Takano

I have been getting an obsession on all in one palettes and this tops my list with it's cute packaging and superb Shu Uemura quality

Cleansing oils for the child at heart ^.^

I thought this was a lip gloss but this turned out to be a blush tint

The miniature gallery is a nifty concept, it does justice to the make-up collection; each make up is truly a work of art

Forever 21 Sale

2010-10-12T23:04:00.000-07:00

Hurrah! F21 is going on sale! ^.^

La Sallian's Graduation Speech at UP College of Engineering

2010-10-08T22:12:00.000-07:00

Note: I got this from my Facebook and I'd like to share it with you.

I may not encountered any failure in grades at school, I graduated with honors but let's all admit it, we are all failures in one way or another, we all struggle to swim through the strong tides of problems that comes our way.

In a meritocratic dog-eat-dog society, it is hard to be recognized if one has no credentials attached to one's name but we often overlook what really matters: those moments we strive harder and never give up; those moments where God, friends and family pick you up and hold your hand through it all; those moments you feel like you're on your knees and yet you went straight forward no matter what it takes even if you crawl your way out. The moment you saw the light at the end of the tunnel and you told yourself you made it.

This speech was delivered by a La Sallian engineer in one of the graduation ceremonies at the UP College of Engineering.

Ngayong araw na ito, sa ating pagtatapos, mayroon akong dalang Transcript of Record. Ang estudyanteng may-ari ng transcript na ito ay nag-aral sa De La Salle University. Sa unibersidad na ito, kapag ikaw ay isang undergraduate, may ID number ka na nagsisimula sa “94” at pataas, kung lumipas ang isang buong school year at umabot ka sa 15 units na bagsak, masisipa ka sa paaralan.

Ang transcript na hawak ko ay mayroong 27 units ng bagsak. 12 sa mga ito ay tinamo ng estudyante sa iisang schoolyear lang. Ang isang subject ay kadalasang may bigat na 3 units. Kung iisiping mabuti, isang subject na bagsak na lang ay pwede na masipa ang estudyanteng may-ari ng transcript na ito.

Ang speech na ito ay hindi ko ginawa para i-acknowledge ang paghihirap ng ating mga magulang sa pagpapaaral satin. Hindi ko din ito ginawa para maghayag ng political statement, o kumbinsihin kayo na huwag umalis sa bansa at tulungan itong makaahon. Ang speech na ito ay para sa mga normal na estudyante na kagaya ng may may-ari ng transcript na hawak ko, dahil madalas, wala talagang pakialam ang unibersidad sa mga achievements nila. May mga awards na gaya ng “Summa Cum Laude”, “Best Thesis Award” at “Leadership Award.” Pero ni minsan, hindi pa ako nakakakita ng unibersidad na nagbigay ng “Hang-on and managed to graduate despite nearly getting kicked-out during his academic stay” award.

Maaaring isang malaking kagaguhan ang konseptong ito para sa karamihan. Bakit mo pararangalan ang isang estudyanteng bulakbol, bobo, tamad o iresponsable? Hindi ba dapat isuka ito ng unibersidad? Ito yung mga tipo ng estudyanteng walang ia-asenso sa buhay, hindi ba?

Ayun. Natumbok niyo.Iyun na nga ang dahilan.

Madalas, pag ang isang estudyante ay may pangit na marka sa paaralan, lalong lalo na sa kolehiyo, nakakapanghina ito ng loob. Nandiyan yung tatamarin ka mag-aral, nandyan yung iisipin mo “Ano pa kayang trabaho ang makukuha ko? Call center na naman o clerical? Ba’t kasi ang bobo ko. Kung matalino lang ako, sana, sa Proctor and Gamble ako, o kung saang sikat na kumpanya.”

Mas mahirap ang dinadaanan ng mga estudyanteng bumabagsak. Kahit na sabihin mong kasalanan nilang bumabagsak sila, hindi ninyo alam kung ano ang pakiramdam ng ganun. Madaling sabihin na “Kaya mo yan, mag-aral ka lang,” pero alam ba natin talaga ang sinasabi natin?

Kapag ang isang estudyante ay bumabagsak sa unibersidad, nandiyan yung tatawanan niya lang yan. O di kaya naman, ipagmamalaki niya pang “TAKE 5 NA KO!!!” o “Pare, magpi-PhD na ako sa Anmath3/Calculus/etc.” Pero hindi alam ng mga isang Summa Cum Laude kung ano ang nasa isip ng isang normal na estudyante sa tuwing matutulog ito at alam niyang pag-gising niya, kailangan niya na namang ulitin ang isang subject na nakuha niya na sa susunod na term.

Kahit kalian, hindi naging problema sa “Star Student” na sabihing “Nay, bagsak ako.” at hindi kailanman sumagi sa isip nila na “Paano kaya kung sa walang-pangalang kumpanya lang ako makapagtrabaho?” Dahil sigurado sila sa kinabukasan nila.

Huwag na tayong maglokohan. Grades are everything.Kahit bali-baligtarin mo iyan, hindi magiging patas ang mga kumpanyang kumukuha ng fresh graduates para magtrabaho sa kanila. Minsan din naman, nadadaan sa palakasan, pero ganun pa din. Kung hindi ka academically good, wala kang patutunguhan. Kung hindi man yun, mas mahirap yung dadaanan mo para lang makaabot sa prestihiyosong posisyon.

Kaya ngayong graduation, ang speech na ito ay inaaalay ko para sa mga estudyanteng lumagpak, muntik-muntikan nang masipa o yung sa lahat ng paraang pwede, ginawa na para lang makatapos. Gagawin kong patas ang mundo para sa inyo kahit isang araw lang. Kahit ano pa ang sabihin ng ibang tao, kesyo kasalanan mo man na pangit ang marka mo o muntik ka nang makick-out, saludo ako sa hindi mo pagtigil sa pag-aaral. Saludo ako na may lakas ka ng loob na harapin pa rin ang mundo kahit alam mong hindi ito magiging patas sa iyo.Saludo ako na kahit pangit ang transcript mo, taas noo ka pa rin ngayong graduation at proud na proud sa sarili mo.

Ano ngayon ang mangyayari sa mga graduates pagkatapos nitong graduation? Ayoko nang puntahan yung pwedeng mangyayari sa mga Cum Laude. Baduy. Alam mo namang may patutunguhan ang buhay nila e. Pero dun sa mga lumagpak, ano ang meron?

Maaring makakuha kayo ng mediocre na trabaho lang. Pwede ka rin swertehin, baka makapagtrabaho ka sa magandang kumpanya. Madami pang pwedeng mangyari. Huwag kayong mawalan ng pag-asa. Kung nung college, nagtiyaga kayo e ba’t titigilan niyo yung pagti-tiyaga ngayon?

Pwede ring ganito: Mag-aral ka ulit. Ipakita mo sa kanila na kung sisipagin ka lang, malayo ang mararating mo. Subukan mong patunayan sa kanila na kapag pinilit mo, kaya mo ring abutin yung naabot nila. Na hindi ka bobo, kundi tinamad ka lang.

Baka sabihin ninyo, drowing lang ako.

I’ve been on both sides. Naranasan ko na ring lumagpak, at muntikan na din akong masipa. Naranasan ko na ang umulit ng 4 na beses sa iisang subject. Naranasan ko na ang masumbatan ng magulang, kapatid at kung sino-sino pang propesor na walang pakialam sa pakiramdam ng estuyante. Naranasan ko nang hindi makatulog ng maraming gabi sa pagiisip kung paano ko na naman sasabihin sa magulang ko na may bagsak na naman ako. Kaya alam ko ang pakiramdam ninyo.

Akin ang transcript na ito.

Pagkagraduate ko ng college, ano ang ginawa ko? Eto.Nagtrabaho muna ng konti, tapos aral ulit. Kuha ng Masteral sa kurso ko. Hindi para sa trabaho o kung ano man. Kundi para patunayan sa sarili ko na noong mga panahong bumabagsak ako, tinatamad lang ako.

This is a rebellion. I raise my middle finger to every professor, over-achiever, naysayer and detractor THAT TOLD ME THAT I CAN'T MAKE IT. I raise my middle finger to every valedictory or graduation speech that only gratifies the university, those who were achievers in school or those who gratify the country when it’s supposed to be the graduate’s moment of glory. You are supposed to acknowledge EVERYONE. Even those who failed many times.

Kaya sa inyong mga graduates na medyo hindi maganda ang marka, para sa inyo ito. Kung kinaya ko ito, kaya niyo rin to. Imposibleng hindi.

Clinique Lash Power Mascara

2010-10-07T04:17:00.000-07:00

What Clinique says:

Mascara with staying power. Vows to look pretty for 24 hours without a smudge or smear. Lasts through rain, sweat, humidity, tears. Yet the formula removes easily with warm water. Unique brush reaches and beautifully lengthens even the tiniest lashes. Ophthalmologist Tested.

Mascara review time! ^.^

I got Clinique Lash Power trial size mascara at Sasa in Hong Kong for HK$22

I didn't know Clinique mascaras are made in Japan!

I got it in Black Onyx

Here's how the wand looks like; it seems like a regular wand for me but it sure does the trick in coating the lashes uniformly.

Here's my curled lashes without mascara

Here's my curled lashes coated with Clinique Lash Power Mascara

I really like this mascara for casual days if you want a natural look, it does not flake even if you rub your eyes but it is amazing that this goes off with warm water, no need to rub your eyes with make up remover. My lashes are short and thin to begin with so any mascara would make me a happy girl, haha! Volume and length wise, it fares well enough if you want to achieve a natural look but if you want to be more dramatic, Majolica Majorca is your good bet.

I usually use this when I go out but once it runs dry I'll go back to my ever reliable Majolica Majorca, the only con I can see is that my curl droops down even if I just coat my lashes once.

Majolica Majorca Holiday Collection 2010

2010-09-23T01:32:00.000-07:00

Photo and info Source

Majolica Majorca is a brand I trust when it comes to mascara.

For the holiday 2010 collection, they came up with a rather small collection as opposed to the previous holiday collections they've churned out in the past.

What excites me most is the red Lash Gorgeous Wing Neo mascara, it's perfect for the festive season! ^.^

The MajoRomantica perfume bottle looks small but elegant

The nail polish is a bit blah though =(

According to Haru the collection will be released early this October in Japan.

Weekend Trip to Tagaytay

2010-09-19T23:51:00.000-07:00

Once in a while, it's nice to go on a retreat up to the mountains.

The air is fresher, the temperature is cooler and life is much more simple.

This is the view of Taal Lake I shot from a restaurant;

It's pretty cool and foggy already by the time I took these photos.

If you'll check below there's a fish farm down there ^.^

It's appetizing to eat when you're surrounded by nature, the food tastes fresher and it really does it's job in relaxing you. Just don't throw your trash anywhere!

MAC A Tartan Tale

2010-09-13T06:23:00.000-07:00

Aah... Nothing beats a good handful of photos for the upcoming make up collections.

MAC A Tartan Tale will be launched by October (US date)

The huge collection looks very interesting and the colors are quite wearable.

I just love the packaging!

Eat Fresh!

2010-09-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

People living in Downtown would probably know this food place as a household name; Eat Fresh is located at Masangkay just right in front of St. Stephen's High School. It opened it's doors to hungry students when I was in my fourth year high school and now that I have graduated, I still go back to have some good chow time. I must admit I did miss the place! My father's cousins owns the place, here in the Philippines we usually say the term lutong Macau pertaining to 'cheating' but in my case, when I say lutong Macau it means it's really good food. Cantonese people cook the darnest dishes. Hou sek!

The sad news is that the original food place in Masangkay would be closed down by December-for downtown people who read my blog, don't gasp yet! It's not going bankrupt ^.^ The business is doing good, they're just closing it down because the land lord sold the whole building to another person. Instead, Eat Fresh is moving up to Retiro, Quezon City; in fact, they already opened their 2nd place and the food photos you're seeing right now comes from their 2nd home.

My parents actually got the food for me so I'm not so sure where the exact address is but I've heard it's in Sto. Domingo area and they've put up a new menu. I'll put up an update once I've heard more about the new place.

After the long story, let's get the food review started!

Here's an order of Takoyaki, actually my parents ate half of it so I'm guessing an order would be 10 pieces of Takoyaki balls. What I like about Eat Fresh is that they're trying to get a hold of Hong Kong street food stuffs and one of the best Takoyaki I have tasted is in a walkable distance from Canton Road in Hong Kong I have tasted when I was 10 years old; now I'm 21 years old and I can still vividly remember the food place. I love this because unlike other Takoyaki stalls that have mushroomed all over the city, this has real squid meat in it. I have tasted a lot and they're blah because they only serve you vegetables and batter. Eat Fresh's takoyaki is made of better quality; they even top it off with fish flakes and laced with Japanese mayo. However, I shouldn't be comparing this to the ones I have tasted in Hong Kong because Eat Fresh created their own twist to this popular snack food.

Taddah! See the red bits? Those are ginger, they're a lot like the ones we see in Yoshinoya. I guess this helps neutralize the fishy smell we get from the squid but I believe ginger also gives the takoyaki an interesting spicy zip with a fresh clean taste. I also like this takoyaki because it sticks together unlike other takoyakis that would break apart and fall off once you take a bite.

For those who are viewing this international especially those in Asia, yes I'm using a fork ^.^ Takoyakis are usually served with a wooden fish ball stick but I opted to use a fork because I usually eat with these utensils instead of chopsticks.

I downed everything with a half cup of orange juice. Again, my parents drank the other half =p

This is great because Eat Fresh is like a slice of Hong Kong street food; the orange juice is freshly squeezed right in front of you. What fascinates me is that they don't add water or sugar; just pure orange juice so a cup would contain 2-3 oranges. I love love love Hong Kong for their freshly squeezed pure orange juice, you see, it's the norm to order a cup of orange juice mixed with water and sugar. The taste? It tastes fresh sans being extra sweet and the texture is just the way it should be, you could feel the pulpy bits.

Viva Glam Gaga and Cyndi Lipglass

2010-08-22T08:37:00.000-07:00

MAC is churning out more Gaga and Cyndi lippies! Hurrah!

But uh-oh, now I'm torn between the lipstick and the lip glass

Gaga is a cool shade of light pink with blue undertones- this is a shade that's hard to pull off but that's Gaga-ness for you

Cyndi is a more wearable shade of coral, the lipglass counterpart seems a little less reddish than it's lipstick but I love both shades nevertheless!

To top it all off MAC is also selling Cyndi and Gaga lip pouches for $28

Wondering if this would reach the Philippine shores

Pucker up, ladies!

It will be released early September in the US, it's only a matter of a few more winks before it gets here!

Kirkland Signature by Borghese Brush Set Is Back for Sale!

2010-08-18T00:56:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to announce to my dear berrywinkle clients that Kirkland Signature by Borghese Brush Set is baaaack!

There are only a handful of sets ready to be shipped out so if you missed to get hold of a set before, now is a good chance to get one!

For my personal review of this wonderful brush set, click here

Personally I've been using the brush set everyday going to work

What I found out was that it didn't stiffen unlike other synthetic bristles

Love the eye lash curler too! It has a firm grip and curls my lashes nicely

A good value for your Php2,000 eh?

email me at chellechioa@gmail.com or check out www.berrywinkle.multiply.com for more purchasing details

MAC Venomous Villains Deets

2010-08-16T06:55:00.000-07:00

Ooh I'm loving this collection, there's something about being a villain that got me interested in this collection. It's delicious sinister!

The four main villains for this massive collection are Maleficent, Cruella de Vil, Evil Queen and Dr. Facilier

I would have wanted to check out how MAC would make a collection for Ursula though! I find Ursula a rather interesting character.

Cool promo photos eh?

Dr. Facilier Collection:

Lipgelee

Resort Life an over-the-top white champagne shimmered, silver glittered sheer gloss with subtle pink glitter. (repromote from MAC in Lillyland)

Pigments

Melon

a peachy-gold with subtle pink undertones.

Brash and Bold

a bright pop of dark pink with subtle satin sheen.

Push the Edge

a lightly shimmered violet purple.

Greasepaint Stick

Slick Black

deep dark black, very solid and opaque

French Quarter

a smoldering golden taupe brown with a black-brown base and flecks of bronze glitter-shimmer.

Magically Cool Liquid Powder

Truth and Light

a soft peach nude sheen.

Cajun

a medium tan with soft peach sheen.

I'm So Vain Mirror

Interior contains standard mirror on one side and magnifying mirror on alternate side

Malificent Collection

Lipstick

Violetta Bright clean violet purple

Dark Deed Burgundy plum

Lipglass

Revenge is Sweet Light Yellow Purple

Wrong Spell Deep plum with pink purple

Mineralized Eyeshadow Duo

My Dark Magic Deep pink with pink pearl / Deep plum with purple pearl

She Who Dares Deep navy with blue pearl / Deep forest green with lime green pearl

I want this! I want this! *jumping up and down*

Beauty Powder

Briar Rose Soft violet pink with pearl

Nail Lacquer

Bad Fairy Red with red multi-changing pearl

Formidable Teal green with pink multi-changing pearl

Mean & Green Purple with teal multi-changing pearl

Evil Queen Collection

Lipstick

Toxic Tale Bright coral

Sinister Soft brown plum

Hmmm... Am I lemming for another coral lipstick? Nah, I think I have enough to fill my appetite.

Lipglass

Strange Potion Soft Coral Pink

Hot House Deep raspberry with pink pearl

Eyeshadow

Her Alter Image Light Violet

I'm wanting this but I still have a lot of violet eyeshadows

Vile Violet Deep dirty blue purple

Vainglorious Bronze burgundy

Powder Blush

Bite of an Apple Soft coral pink

Ooh, I like the pop of color with this blush.

Beauty Powder

Oh So Fair Clean pink with gold pearl

Cruella de Vil Collection

Lipstick

Innocence, Beware! Light yellow pink

Heartless Cherry red

Hello vampy red lips with Heartless

Lipglass

Wicked Ways Deep fuchsia with pink pearl

Devilishly Stylish Light nude with gold pearl

I'm crushing Wicked Ways!

Eyeshadow

Sweet Joy Frosted creamy pale gold

De-Vil Rich copper

Carbon Intense black

Powder Blush

Darkly My Dear Dirty brown plum

Beauty Powder

Her Own Devices Cool nude

Penultimate Eyeliner

Rapidblack True Black

Product photos and details courtesy of Temptalia

Overall it's a good collection that I'm sure a lot would get a product or two. As for me I would probably just get She Who Dares mineralized eyeshadow because I have been drooling over the blue black eyeshadow since Style Black last year! If I might acquire an extra stash of money Her Alter Image would be a nice addition to my shopping cart.

It's great that the images are stamped/printed on the packaging but I wish MAC would have done something more artistic for a twist than stamping on images that we could easily get in Toys R Us or Toy Kingdom. Perhaps MAC would like to go classic and original with the timeless villains? Nevertheless, I still believe MAC Venomous Villains would be a big hit among MAC fans! ^.^

Venomous Villains would be available online by September 27, 2010

US Launch Date is on September 30, 2010

International Launch Date is October 2010

Chanel Rouge Allure Extrait de Gloss

2010-08-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

What am I anticipating this fall? Chanel Rouge Allure Extrait de Gloss!

I fell in love with Chanel Rouge Allure Laque in Dragon and I still am! I normally don't use red lipsticks on regular days but Dragon is an irresistibly sexy shade of red that I could pull off without looking like a clown.

Going back to Extrait de Gloss, I have high hopes for this one given my delight to it's predecessor

These are the deets I've read in karlasugar.net

Imaginaire (fresh pink)
Insolence (candy pink)
Confidence (rose)
Genie (coral)
Insouciance (nude)
Exces (red)
Emoi (raspberry)
Fatale (brown red)
Impertinence (chocolate)

Photo credit to karlasugar.net! Love it!

Official Chanel photos credit goes to Temptalia

Benefit CORALista

2010-08-07T00:44:00.000-07:00

What Benefit says:

why we love it:Our warm coral-pink cheek powder is your "coral blush for a tropical flush"! This shade cheers up every skin tone in seconds.what else you need to know:Complete with soft, natural-bristle blush brush.

product details

12.0g Net wt. 0.42 oz.

Am I late for this coral blush when almost all of the beauty bloggers I know tried this blush years ago? Haha!

It's better late than never!

I've been using CORALista for a week now and I must say I just love the shade!

It's a perfect blend of pink and peach that gives you a natural looking healthy flush, yummy!

Check out how it looks on the white bristles

I personally use the Box o' Powder brushes because it fits my cheekbones perfectly and it distributes the product nice and evenly. Just make sure to sanitize your brushes!

Benefit CORALista swatch

Compared to other blushes I own, CORALista has the less shimmer in it so it's refreshing for me to use this. I always use blush with shimmer- some are loaded with shimmer, some are lightly sprinkled but CORALista has the less.

CORALista lasts on me for a good whole day given that I just conveniently stay inside the office the whole day but we still have to test how it fares when I go out for some extreme commuting in Metro Manila.

Most of the time, I prefer unscented products but like '10', CORALista has a light floral citrusy scent that I love so this is an exception to my pet peeve.

Forever 21 Keeps It's Promise

2010-07-24T21:37:00.000-07:00

Remember several posts ago when I shared my experience on the Forever 21 mishap?

I posted a comment on Nikki's blog and it's very sweet of her to help me forward my concern to Jane Kingsu-Cheng; Forever 21's marketing manager. Jane promptly emailed me and forwarded my contact details to the store manager Vicky Ledesma.

Last saturday my schedule was already reserved for Cinemalaya so I was only able to drop by Megamall yesterday. Spotting Vicky at the store wasn't that hard; I called her up but the signal was choppy so we hung up, seconds later Vicky herself called me up.

Vicky was very nice so there was no point to attack Forever 21 staff and management, she greeted me, shook my hand and asked how I was before giving me a voucher worth more than I was execting; I only lack around Php57.50 but they gave me a P100 voucher.

While attending to my needs Vicky was also attending a rather angry customer who lost her receipt and yet she wanted to have her clothes exchanged but she still kept her cool.

I somehow understand how the front liners feel because I'm also a front liner at the bank but even before I started working I don't really like fighting with staffs; now that I'm working as a front line I now know how it feels to deal with clients and I'm glad I'm not a rude and unreasonable client because it really helps front liners feel happy about the job when they communicate with nice clients; it's always a nice warm feeling in the heart when a client smiles and thanks you for after assisting his/her in any way you can.

The Leaving

2010-07-21T06:37:00.000-07:00

Synopsis:

There is always a constant transcience in this world. This is the premise of “THE LEAVING (離別)”, sets in a neo-Chinatown in Manila where the “Tsinoys” (Filipino-Chinese) struggle with the diminishing of their morals and culture. We follow three intertwining stories (MARTIN, The LOVERS, WIFE) that leave elements on the other stories such that they are all connected.

“THE LEAVING: MARTIN”

MARTIN is living independently when he suddenly got laid off from his job, he’s now caught up in a situation of uncertainty. MARTIN later decides to leave the country and work abroad. He tries to visit the places as he collects memories of his past to find answers. But the sudden strange encounters during the CHINESE HUNGRY GHOST FESTIVAL(中元節) gives him something more than what he’s asking for.

“THE LEAVING: LOVERS”

A TSINOY businessman, WILLIAM is already married but finds his happiness with JOAN, a charming, nomadic bachelorette office worker. But the uncertainty in their relationship causes JOAN to decide to leave the country to start a new life on her own. But as JOAN is about to leave, her departure is halted and results in an unexpected event.

“THE LEAVING: WIFE”

A typical conservative Filipina-Chinese housewife, GRACE moves in the apartment building with her husband in same building where MARTIN lives. Neglected and unappreciated, GRACE finds comfort through his neighbor MARTIN but their relationship is fenced by their present circumstances. GRACE finds out her husband is cheating on her…then a sudden haunting later on unravels a horrifying secret.

All beings exist to find permanence in this world. But it seems to be the most grounded are the ones do not really exist at all…

I caught the last day for this year's Cinemalaya, I guess work hindered me from liberally going to the film festival anytime I want but that's okay, this is real life now and I don't have the luxury of time to freely do what I want. What mattered the most was that I got the chance to watch a couple of films last Saturday July 17 before Cinemalaya 2010 ended.

The first film I viewed is "The Leaving" by the Filipino-Chinese director Ian Dean Lorenos, boy CCP's main theater was packed for this film, I found the topic interesting because it tackles the Chinese living here in the Philippines and the upcoming "Hungry Ghost Festival" (in August).

I felt uneasy reading the synopsis from cinemalaya.org, I cannot wrap my mind around the three part synopsis but after watching the film then have I fully understood why it was written as such.

Narrative structure wise, it was unique that the film was shot at different points of view. It was experimental if I could label it because we could see how the same solid facts can have different interpretations for various characters; I guess this is what people mean when they say there are two sides to a coin.

Joan dismayed when William doesn't show up

Story wise, some parts are unrealistic- given Chinatown's chismis culture, it's almost impossible to go out with your mistress without the whole town knowing about it. Also, I find it hard to believe that people who kill their mistress, chopped her body into pieces and placed it in a sack could easily dump the rotting body on the sidewalk in broad daylight; the garbage collector picks up the sack without noticing the peculiar stench.

Grace hurt by William

LJ Reyes was named the Best Supporting Actress for Cinemalaya 2010 but I can't see any fleshing out of her character; all throughout the film she was simply a flat character- she's just Grace the martyr wife and the dutiful Chinese daughter who always complies to her family's decision for her life. I saw a glimpse of roundness peeking from her character when she displayed some complexities of a normal human when she lifted a knife and pointed it against William while he's asleep. Acting wise, LJ has improved and for me as the viewer, I can already feel the message she conveys even if there's just a subtle twitch on her face- it already tells me a thousand words; Ian Lorenos should have given LJ longer screen time and more important role as a wife.

Mystery unravels when the sun sets in Chinatown area

I was very much interested in the topic "Hungry Ghost Festival" because I've been seeing ghosts in the office since I had my first overtime there and the office is located in Chinatown. My family does observe the "Hungry Ghost Festival" and we offer food to the hungry ghosts here at home but I guess I learned more about the culture after watching the film, according to the stories I've heard, the "Hungry Ghost Festival" is a time of the year when the gates dividing earth and hell open so hungry ghosts could ask for food from the living- but I guess it's not always food they're hungry for; in "The Leaving", restless souls with unsettled business come back to haunt those who are in debt and often times they come to collect someone's life.

There are shots in the rough cut trailer showing some of the horror scenes but I opted not to include them because it really sticks to my mind and I will have a hard time sleeping plus it doesn't help when the ghosts at the office started to make themselves heard.

Grace off to look for her husband

I am very satisfied with the insight on the Hungry Ghost Festival but the film left a sour and bitter taste on my taste buds because I found the film too patriarchal by showing women who gets married transforms into a duster clad housewife who is locked in the house in solitude, when her husband comes home she should have prepared his meal already. Another issue is that contrary to the idea shown in the film, pre-arranged marriage is not popular anymore, is it? I have encountered couples who are from pre-arranged marriages but they are quite old already and I have not encountered younger generation couples who are pre-arranged or kai siaw.

Also, most Chinese women I know now would leave a marriage when they learned that their husbands are cheating and they won't endure such marriage just to be able to eat her meal three times a day, this is contrary as to what Grace's mother said "you should just tolerate your cheating husband, he provides you well with a house and you eat three times a day" I really wanted to curse and punch Ian Lorenos on the face and tell him "What an effin' point of view! Are women simply pets you just feed and provid shelter to and we promise never to leave the house?' but perhaps that was what he wanted to trigger in us- to let us see older Chinese women's point of view and how they don't see it as an oppression because they are provided with food and shelter.

Martin and Grace in a temple

Another thing I don't like about the film is that it mystifies Chinatown- instead of demystifying how Filipinos view Chinese, I felt that the film just built a barricade between the two cultures but of course there are always two sides to a coin so this is just my interpretation; I have yet to hear how a Filipino audience viewed the film.

I found it funny and sad at the same time when some of the talents are Chinese but they can't speak the Fookien dialogue well; Fookien is the primary language spoken here in the Philippines next to Mandarin and the least spoken is Cantonese. Kuddos to LJ Reyes who spoke Fookien fluently.

Joan and William in a love scene

Overall, the film was interesting but I just clenched my fist a few times when there are traditional ideologies oppressing women as portrayed in the film.

Charles and Keith Sale

2010-07-17T22:51:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I acquired another pair of sandals when I stumbled upon Charles and Keith with a big 'SALE' posted on their window

I was lured inside and I immediately fell in love with this pair of gold sandals with ruby red crystals.

From Php1799 it went to Php999, at first I thought they won't have my size anymore- that's the problem with sale, they usually come in broken sizes already but I was lucky to have my size 38- the last pair available! ^.^

Charles and Keith is available at almost every mall there is- SM, Robinson's, Rockwell etc. Hopefully they're still on sale so you could also check it out!

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque

2010-07-16T07:04:00.000-07:00

It's a good Friday night here in Manila and I really need to unwind, when stress gets in the way I always reach out to Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque

For some reason, the minty toothpaste scent and tingling sensation calms me down even for just a bit before I get my slumber.

This costs Php329.00 at Healthy Options which is pretty cheap for a mask considering disposable masks costs Php50 a piece when this would last you a long time.

The texture is quite soft and watery, I can easily spread this on my face and it's not sticky at all.

My skin can breathe easily and I don't have allergies with this one, yey! ^.^

On my skin, the mint julep masque does dry up my small zits faster, but actually I don't have a lot of zits now coz I've been using a lot of anti-acne products ^.^

I feel that I would quickly grab this when I get a big zit because the cool tingling sensation eases the pain. The mint julep masque dries to a hard finish but it can be easily rinsed away with water; after patting my face dry, the green mask never fails to make my skin ultra-soft like a new born baby's skin- but of course the effect is only temporary but hey! It's always nice to touch your skin feeling so soft and smooth.

This is the classic 'green mask face' I used to imagine when I was a kid haha!

On the contrary, this is a lot nicer and lighter on the skin ^.^

Weekend Forever 21 Shopping

2010-07-11T00:13:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a pretty exhausting day if you planned to go shopping in Forever 21 in Megamall, eh?

It's the first Forever21 store here in the Philippines so I expected a big crowd but I didn't expect it to be that much! Due to the big crowd, our shopping bag was misplaced when the SA asked us to leave our shopping bag at the front, nice service? I dont think so, we got the wrong bag with the same silver coloredfootwear I chose, only it was 2 sizes bigger, the design was not what I chose and it more expensive- around Php400 more! The bad part was that I just noticed it after swiping my card so they can't give me back my money, instead they asked me to exchange it and get another stuff so I could use up my money, unfortunately I can't find anything around the same price range as the one debited from my account ='( I lost around Php50+

One suggestion for Forever21 Philippines? It's great to see that their SAs are giving extra service like placing our shopping bags at the entrance of the fitting room so we won't be tired carrying it to the fitting room but kindly give us some numbers to make sure we really get our own shopping bag back. The make shift baggage counter was filled with the same black shopping bag so there would be human error especially if there's a big crowd ambushing the store- I can't blame the tired SAs who are working hard, all shopping bags are black and most sandals comes with the exact same color with just a few difference in design so they would really get dizzy with the hiatus but I think the bad part is that they're making errors at the expense of the customers. The worse part? They don't issue vouchers so I could claim my Php50+ next time I go shopping at Forever 21 again.

I'm not really mad, I don't like getting mad because of money, getting mad because of a material possession might do me more harm than good but I hope they'll improve their service. It's forgivable now because the crowd is really uncontrollable but hopefully they'll try to attach some name or number to the shopping bag to avoid these incidents.

Anyway, let's forget the bad experience, despite the service I still like what I bought ^.^

Despite the cheap prices, I still decided to choose quality over quantity so I just got 2 stuffs (plus one for my mother)

When I saw the black and pink top modeled by a mannequin at the Twelve by Twelve section

I felt like this is the one but when I checked the hefty price tag of Php1850, I dropped it like I accidentally touched a hot iron and I wandered around the store checking out other things to buy.

The funny part was that I can't find anything that would fit me, I'm a size S but I can't find my size anymore among the things I want except for this one so I thought it's really meant to be.

I love all the sweet intricate lace designs so much, this is the first time I felt that I really really want a piece of clothing material.

It's chic to see that it's a zip up top, I thought I'd have a hard time zipping it up at the back because the zipper is heavy duty but it was surprisingly smooth to zip up.

I love the lace pattern and old pink satin cloth peeking through

Overloaded with lace fabrics and paired with satin cuffed sleeves is pure love!

More lace trimmings, if this is a piece of chocolate, this would be overly sweet and irresistible piece of chocolate I've ever tasted!

I also have to say that despite the price which is pretty pricey since almost nothing is over Php2000 in Forever21, I'd still choose this over cheaper ranges because of the quality, the cloth feels thicker and softer, the lace isn't rough and it feels gentle on the skin, the zipper is very heavy and sturdy and yet it zips up and down without getting stuck and the design is very elegant and flexible- I could wear this over and over again on different occasions.

Another buy is my infamous pair of sandals (that caused all the mishap haha)

This costs Php605

The sole is pretty soft- I wanted to get one from the Php400 price range but the sole was really hard I might have a pain walking.

I got this because of the clasp lock design, it's a lot convenient to strap it up =p

Don't be afraid because of my bad experience, just go and enjoy yourself, it ought to happen anywhere at any store so just be watchful of your belongings- don't let it stop you from getting good fashion pieces at a fraction of a price but just be really careful what's inside your shopping bag because SAs are people too, they get tired and they can commit errors like all of us.

Healthy Options Biotin Food Supplement

2010-07-07T06:10:00.000-07:00

Hair care time!

On my previous articles, I have mentioned that one of my big problem is falling hair

I took the initiative to seek gentler shampoo thus I got Avalon Organics shampoo and conditioner

However, I found out shampoo and conditioner is not enough and I might be lacking some nutrients.

My hunch is right! I lack Biotin and my hair was already screaming for some aid thus the rush to purchase a Biotin food supplement.

I was apprehensive at first because I don't like drinking food supplements as much as possible but if my body can't produce an ample amount of biotin to sustain my hair, I might as well help my body.

Biotin at 500mcg (micrograms) can be purchased at any Healthy Options store

I got 2 months' or 60 days' worth of capsule since I only take this once a day

A 60 day bottle costs Php407.00 so it's pretty reasonable priced as biotin is just a cheap and affordable vitamin

Reading some health articles online, our body only needs a small amount of biotin so once a day would be good already.

One of the drastic things I noticed is the immediate effect it has on my long locks

It does keep my hair strands holding on tight for it's dear life on my scalp and it's growing strong.

Another thing I noticed is that my hair grows at a rapid rate- I never thought I'd see the day when my hair would grow really fast!

Now I need a hair cut, haha =p

This is how it looks

Biotin is practically odorless and tasteless

I swallow this easily because I just need a small dose of biotin daily.

I'm repurchasing my 2nd bottle soon and I'm making sure I'm getting 90 days worth of biotin lovin'

Sale of the Week from Wehaveit43!

2010-07-06T06:56:00.000-07:00

Bon recently texted me her sale of the week and I'd like to share this piece of good news with everyone! ^.^

From the original price of Php900, it's now Php650!

10 bottles are up for grabs.

Check it out at wehaveit43.multiply.com

MAC Alice + Olivia

2010-07-02T06:06:00.000-07:00

Credits to glossy-kiss for photos and info! ^.^

I just have to say I felt a bit down when I found out MAC's collaboration with Alice + Olivia is only internationally available in Japan and Korea =(

I love the punch of colors here and there with this collection, though it's a relatively small collection, nothing seems ho-hum and boring!

Then again, let's just celebrate aesthetics and let's roll out the deets

MAC Alice + Olivia Collection for Summer 2010
U.S. Launch Date: July 8th, 2010 at MAC Freestanding Stores and OnlineInternational Launch Date: August 2010 (Japan & Korea only)

Dazzleglass Creme ($18.00 U.S. / $21.50 CDN)

Sparklicious Creamy pale pinky white with soft multi-dimensional pearl (Limited Edition)

If it’s Pink… Hot pink with soft multi-dimensional pearl (Limited Edition)

I.Want.Candy. Hot yellow with soft multi-dimensional pearl (Limited Edition)

Pigment ($19.50 U.S. / $23.50 CDN)

Later. Black with transforming purple pearl (Limited Edition)

If It Sparkles… White with transforming pink pearl (Limited Edition)

Partylicious Turquoise with silver pearl (Limited Edition)
Nail Lacquer ($12.00 U.S. / $14.50 CDN)

Morning.After. Creamy turquoise (Cream) (Limited Edition)

So Rich So Pretty Bright purple with pearl (Frost) (Limited Edition)

Military Black matte with silver suede pearl (Matte with Pearl) (Limited Edition)

I'm craving for So Rich So Pretty nail lacquer, Later pigment and If it's Pink Dazzleglass creme!

Oh well, I just have to channel my lemmings for Venomous Villains and other upcoming collections

I'm getting excited, you see, I love fall and winter collection, the packaging becomes more exquisite just in time for the holidays and the colors are more exciting for me.

Weekend Haul

2010-06-29T07:55:00.000-07:00

Here's my small haul over the weekend to de-stress and enjoy life! ^.^

MAC Select Moisture Cover Concealer in NW20 for Php950- love the coverage compared to Shu Uemura concealers! I thought MAC concealers aren't that good but I'm glad I gave it a try before judging it too early.

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque- at last! The ever elusive green facial mask has been re-stocked

I bought this at Healthy Options for Php329.00, boy oh boy I love how it makes my skin supple and my acne dries up faster!

A dainty floral dress from Zara

I spotted this from Rockwell but I refrained from buying it because the stocks are a bit worn out

Then I saw this again at the Mall of Asia, they carry relatively a larger volume of the dress and most are not 'abused' yet so I quickly grabbed one! ^.^

You can find cute floral summer dresses at TRF or Trafaluc for Php2,490

I was also eyeing Kamiseta's Liberty of London dresses but I found it exorbitantly priced at Php2,990 so I opted to get Zara.

Mall of Asia was having a bit of a sale, Mango and other giant clothing brands were having their sale but Zara didn't participate, that's okay, I don't want to wait for the sale, if I wait for a couple of months the dress might have been out of stock.

The last leg of this shopping is a purple bandeau from Calliope

Calliope is on sale so I went in their store not knowing what to get, I was just planning to window shop but I thought I found a good bargain, this is originally priced at Php299 but I got it for Php199. Bandeaus from Kamiseta and Karimadon costs almost the same price too!

Forever 21 in Manila!

2010-06-26T07:19:00.000-07:00

Yipee!

This is another clothing brand I've been wanting to come to the Philippine shores

Let's see some juicy info according to Forever 21's Facebook profile:

2700 square meters (the huge store where Cinderella used to be)

60 sales associates

34 fitting rooms

I have not seen a lot of fitting rooms before

Probably in Hong Kong at one of my favorite clothing brand but not here in the Philippines so this is refreshing.

Check out Forever 21's Facebook page

This is the better part, if you work in Ortigas, jump for joy!

On July 2 Friday, it's Ortigas day and that means it's a non-working holiday for lucky Ortigas people

It's also Forever 21's opening day!

Be the first 250 to line up before the store opens and get Php200 voucher (no purchase needed)

Now I'm wishing I'm working in Ortigas too!

I'm scouring for nice dresses ^.^

Oh yeah, did I mention there's a rumor everything is under Php2000?

I'm jumping for joy! ^.^

Wehaveit43 BB Creams Up for Grabs in NBC Tent this June 26 to 27!

2010-06-22T05:13:00.000-07:00

Lemming for a BB Cream but you don't can't to wait for delivery?

Go to NBC Tent The Fort this Saturday and Sunday, June 26 and 27

Look for Bon of Wehaveit43.multiply.com and get a opportunity to purchase BB creams on hand! ^.^

Check this out to see the list of products up for sale:

http://wehaveit43.multiply.com/photos/album/89/On_Hand_Products

What are you lemming for?

I haven't purchased much from Bon lately actually! I want to try out one of My Beauty Diary masks and see if it's really good, I might purchase a full sized box! ^.^

Pond's Flawless White Under-Eye Cream

2010-06-21T06:20:00.000-07:00

Aah... One of the underestimated products when you're young, eye creams!

Being young gives us the luxury of neglecting proper skincare and under eye care but when we start seeing the signs of aging on our face, it's harder to bring back those youthful carefree days.

One of my main concerns is my hereditary dark circles and this is why my mother picked this up and she eventually left on her dresser gathering dust.

So I snapped it up and tried using it on my own set of peepers and I learned why my mother stopped using it.

The texture is a light white lightly scented cream

When spread there will be a minimal light diffusing particles on the cream, on the tube it claims that it helps give the illusion of a brighter set of eyes but then again, it is very minimal and you probably won't see it if you have poor eyesight. You really have to look close enough to confirm the light diffusing particles.

Here's how it looks blended on my skin, very minimal light diffusing properties eh?

Of course, this doesn't help minimize fine lines and wrinkles but that's okay, Pond's did not market Flawless White Under-Eye cream as an anti-aging eye cream. Overall this is pretty okay if you have young skin that doesn't need much treatment, this under-eye cream helps keep your under-eyes pretty hydrated which prevents premature aging. ^.^

MAC Venomous Villains Collection Sneak Peek

2010-06-19T22:23:00.000-07:00

Credits to glossy-kiss ^.^

Here's the collection info:

MAC Venomous Villains Collection for Disney for Fall 2010 U.S. Launch Date: September 2010 International Launch Date: October 2010

CRUELLA DE VIL
Lipstick ($14.00 U.S. / $16.50 CDN)
Innocence, Beware! Light yellow pink (Cremesheen) (Limited Edition)

Heartless Cherry red (Amplified) (Limited Edition)
Lipglass ($14.00 U.S. / $16.50 CDN)
Wicked Ways Light nude with gold pearl (Limited Edition)

Devilishly Stylish Deep fuchsia with pink pearl (Limited Edition)
Eyeshadow ($14.50 U.S. / $17.50 CDN)
De-vil Rich copper (Veluxe Pearl) (Limited Edition)

Sweet Joy Creamy pale gold (Frost) (Limited Edition) (Repromote from Passions of Red)

Carbon Intense black (Matte) (Permanent)
Penultimate Eyeliner ($16.50 U.S. / $20.00 CDN)
Rapidblack True black (Permanent)
Beauty Powder ($25.00 U.S. / $30.00 CDN)
Her Own Devices Cool nude (Limited Edition)
Blush ($18.50 U.S. / $22.00 CDN)
Darkly My Dear Mid-tone brown plum (Matte) (Limited Edition)

EVIL QUEEN
Lipstick ($14.00 U.S. / $16.50 CDN)
Toxic Tale Bright coral (Satin) (Limited Edition)

Sinister Soft brown plum (Lustre) (Limited Edition)
Lipglass ($14.00 U.S. / $16.50 CDN)
Strange Potion Soft coral pink (Limited Edition)

Hot House Deep raspberry with pink pearl (Limited Edition) (Repromote from Strange Hybrid)
Eyeshadow ($14.50 U.S. / $17.50 CDN)
Her Alter Image Light violet (Veluxe Pearl) (Limited Edition)

Vainglorious Bronze burgundy (Frost) (Limited Edition)

Vile Violet Deep blue purple (Matte) (Limited Edition)
Penultimate Brow
Universal
Beauty Powder ($25.00 U.S. / $30.00 CDN)
Oh So Fair Mid-tone pink with gold pearl (Limited Edition)
Blush ($18.50 U.S. / $22.00 CDN)
Bite of an Apple Soft coral pink (Matte) (Limited Edition)

MALEFICENT
Lipstick ($14.00 U.S. / $16.50 CDN)
Violetta Violet purple (Amplified) (Permanent at PRO)

Dark Deed Burgundy plum (Amplified) (Limited Edition)
Lipglass ($14.00 U.S. / $16.50 CDN)
Revenge is Sweet Light yellow purple (Limited Edition)

Wrong Spell Deep plum with pink purple (Limited Edition)

Mineralize Eyeshadow ($19.50 U.S. / $23.50 CDN)
My Dark Magic Deep pink with pink pearl / Deep plum with purple pearl (Limited Edition)

She Who Dares Deep navy with blue pearl / Deep forest green with lime pearl (Limited Edition)
Beauty Powder ($25.00 U.S. / $30.00 CDN)
Briar Rose Soft violet pink with pearl (Limited Edition)
Nail Lacquer ($12.00 U.S. / $14.50 CDN)
Bad Fairy Red with multi-changing pigments (Limited Edition)

Formidable! Teal green with pink pigment (Limited Edition)

Mean & Green Purple with teal pigment (Limited Edition)

DR. FACILIER
Lipgelee ($14.00 U.S. / $16.50 CDN)
Resort Life Off-white with pink pearl (Limited Edition) (Repromote from Lillyland)
Greasepaint Stick ($17.50 U.S. / $21.00 CDN)
Slick Black True carbon black (Limited Edition) (Repromote)

French Quarter Black green with multi-colour pearl (Limited Edition)
Pigment ($19.50 U.S. / $23.50 CDN)
Melon Bright golden peach (Permanent)

Push the Edge Bright magenta (Limited Edition) (Repromote from Makeup Art Cosmetics)

Brash & Bold Deep bright purple with pearl (Limited Edition) (Repromote from Makeup Art Cosmetics)
Magically Cool Liquid Powder
Truth and Light Sheer shimmer reflects silver and pink (Limited Edition)

Cajun Sheer bronze reflects gold (Limited Edition)
Mirror
I’m So Vain Round special decoration compact mirror (Limited Edition)

I felt a bit underwhelmed with the packaging but the colors looks promising! ^.^ I'm eyeing Maleficient's She Who Dares mineralized eyeshadow.

Vaseline Hand and Nail Cream

2010-06-18T22:52:00.000-07:00

Who says summer doesn't make your skin dry?

It makes mine just as dry during the cool season!

That is why Vaseline Intensive Care Hand & Nail Moisturizing Lotion is a staple in my dresser.

This is available in Hong Kong for HK$9 or approximately Php40-50 at your regular mini mart while it's a whopping HK$16 at the Hong Kong International Airport. Pretty cheap for a hand cream huh! I have not seen this in Taiwan yet so whenever I go to Hong Kong this is a must buy but I wouldn't be surprised to see it in the Taiwan sooner or later!

This is great during the summer because it is not sticky. It actually feels light and watery that is wonderfully paired with the light refreshing scent.

Now I wonder why they didn't bring this to the Philippines?

The best part is that this has Keratin and my nails quickly absorbs it, whenever I opt to grow my nails longer I always use this to avoid accidental nail breakage that's yucky and painful at times.

Vaseline Hand and Nail Cream is one of the cheap and highly effective products I have tried!
Have a great weekend everyone!

The Face Shop Fruity Jelly Tube PK103

2010-06-16T06:09:00.000-07:00

One of my long time friend gave me The Face Shop Fruits Jelly Tube as a Christmas gift because she knew how much of a beauty junkie I am! Haha!

Now, I'd like to share with you guys what I think of this lip gloss.

I love the high shine and sticky formula, it goes on sheer which is good if you want to use this to top off your favorite lipstick or if you just want to add a little bit of glow to your make-up.

The lip gloss smells fruity but not overpowering, it scent's formula is just right. <3

However, I don't use this often because it breaks me out near my lip area especially during hot summer days but this is great during cooler days when you need extra hydration.

Nevertheless, this is for keeps since a good friend gave it to me! ^.^

Getting Ready for the Rain with Pluey's Ooh La Lace Wellies

2010-06-13T22:56:00.000-07:00

Drought is finally ending and we're already getting a taste of what's to come in the Philippines- rain!

It has always been like this especially in tropical countries, it's too hot with minimal rain on the first half of the year and it's pouring rain for the second half of the year.

Last year's Ondoy was a nightmare that still haunts me, I always twitch in pang whenever I hear loud thunder, strong winds and rain; I always remember the distracting images aired on the news and shared on the internet.

Now that I'm working, there wouldn't be anymore forgiving 'No Classes for Today' announcement, it's rain or shine you should report to work. My workplace is at risk when it comes to rain and flood so I have decided to gear up before it's too late.

That's why I have decided to order these fabulous boots from Pluey's

A sturdy and heavy duty pair costs Php2399 inclusive of shipping fee.

I have checked out a famous shoe store today and I saw they almost have the same mold and form, it's a lot cheaper but it's a lot lighter too which means the rubber isn't as dense and solid as Pluey's.

One of my main concerns when it comes to wellies is that it often looks baggy and it is normal to wear 'em baggy, but not to fret when you don't dig the baggy boots look, try to get your actual size instead of going a size up as recommended and it will still be a comfortable fit ^.^

As for my size, I got a size 38 which is my normal size and it fits well even with socks, I love the side view look because it doesn't look so loose, it just has the right amount of space if I want to wear pants and for my legs to breathe. Oh yeah, did I mention Pluey's are cloth-lined already? If you're an office girl like I am you could just slip on your small pumps or flats socks and it will feel comfortable inside so when you get to the office you could slide the boots off and fit in your shoes easily without bringing another pair of socks.

Here's the front view

Pluey's boots does not look so rubbery actually, the lacey print makes this pair of rain boots a fashionable one and the fit cut makes it look like a casual pair of boots!

Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil in Fresh

2010-06-12T05:51:00.000-07:00

If you love using cleansing oils but hate the hot humid weather, you should try using Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil in Fresh!

What's great is that Shu Umeura Cleasing Oils are opthalmologically and dermatologically tested which means it's safe for the skin and our eyes in the usual case cleansing oils gets into contact with our peepers. I know I always get cleansing oil in my eyes!

It feels very light and moisturizing, it's gentle on the skin and yet highly effective in removing make-up, dirt and grime from our face. Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil in Fresh can be easily rinsed off with water and it doesn't feel oily at all but for best results follow it with facial cleanser.

Shu Uemura Cleaning Oil in Fresh is definitely non-clogging, my pores can easily breathe and this star product doesn't promote nor aggravate acne on my skin.

The best part is that it easily strips off the famously stubborn Majolica Majorca mascara formula! ^.^ This means more gentle massage on my eye area and less pre-mature wrinkles from tugging and pulling just to remove the mascara.

Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil is simply one of the best cleansing oil in the market!
The best part is that I just got this for HK$389 or roughly around Php2300+ when it costs around Php3000 to Php4000 here in the Philippines.

The Face Shop Freshian Eye Shadow 114 Tender Purple

2010-06-07T06:31:00.000-07:00

The Face Shop first emerged in the Philippine market approximately four years ago (Wow! Time flies so fast!) Back then, I wasn't aware of Asia's passion for make-up and beauty so I was baffled at how much a brand could offer.

A few years later I picked up The Face Shop Freshian Eye Shadow 114 in Tender Purple along with Dusty Peach. However, my love for Dusty Peach doesn't translate well to Tender Purple =(

I found the formula a bit hard to use and apply; it's not gritty or rough on the skin but no matter how hard I try using make-up tools to pick up the pigment, it just won't let me.
This is also hard to blend as opposed to Dusty Peach =(
The good thing about this is that it lasts a long time! <3 Perhaps it might be attributed to the hard to budge formula...

However, I really love purple eyeshadows, it is one of my weakness, I stopped using this until I got hold of Urban Decay Book of Shadows 2 and Alice in Wonderland and Urban Decay didn't fail me with their wonderful formula ^.^

Jill Stuart Pure Lasting Make-Up Base

2010-06-05T06:01:00.000-07:00

After several weeks of using Jill Stuart Pure Lasting Make-up Base, it is about time to make a good review for this primer. ^.^

Like most Jill Stuart products, their primer also carries Jill Stuart's signature floral scent which is pretty tolerable on my skin and olfactory senses because the scent is very light on this one.

The bottle looks disappointingly small but when I used this almost everyday, I realized it's more than enough because the texture is very light and yet it spreads on my skin easily. The small bottle can carry 25ml of primer which is enough ^.^

I love the "J" logo <3

Here's how Jill Stuart Pure Lasting Make-up Base looks like uncapped.

It just puzzles me why it's not a pump tube, it's a bit hard to squeeze or pinch the bottle but thank goodness the formula is light and watery enough that's easy to ooze out.

It has a light pink tint that seemingly disappears when spread out but it gives you a natural glowing overall look.

As for oil control, I think Jill Stuart Pure Lasting Make-up Base is more effective than MAC blot powder, it keeps me oil free from 6am to 12nn ^.^

Nevertheless, I still like to use the two in tandem to keep my oil at bay.

As for primer to primer comparison, Pure Lasting Make-up Base wins on the oil control round if compared with the Day Care Essence. With Day Care Essence I oil up after 2-3 hours but that's not a surprise since Day Care Essence is under the skincare category but Jill Stuart SAs often tell their customers Day Care Essence can also be used as a primer.

Here's the list of ingredients ^.^

MAC Dare to Wear Sneak Peek

2010-06-03T06:47:00.000-07:00

Credits to joliette.be for posting promo photos on specktra! ^.^

Ban This! - Deep purple with multi-pearl

Bold & Brash - Bright red with multi-pearl

Dare to Dare - Light blue pink with multi-pearl

Gimme That! - Bright fuchsia pink with pink pearl

So Bad -Mid-tone coral orange with pink and gold pearl

Wind me Up - Dirty bronze with pink and gold pearl

I'm looking forward to So Bad! I'm such a coral lippie junkie =p

The tubes are pretty tall and slender for lipglass eh?

I wonder how much it could carry as opposed to the regular 3g/01. US oz. lipglass tube

Cool! <3

Free to Be - Bright true coral (Matte) (Permanent)

Going Bananas - Soft lemon yellow (Frost) (Repromote)

Lime -Lime green (Matte) (Permanent, PRO)

Sky Blue - Sky blue (Frost) (Permanent, PRO)

Winkle - Mid-tone cornflower blue (Satin) (Permanent)

Zingy -Bright blue (Matte) (Limited Edition)

Aqua -Subdued, pale greyed aqua (Matte) (Permanent, PRO)

Atlantic Blue - Bright violet blue (Matte) (Permanent)

Crazy Cool - Mid-tone lavender (Limited Edition)

Louder Please - Bright fuchsia pink (Matte) (Limited Edition)

Sassy Grass - Bright pale green (Matte) (Limited Edition)

Shock-a-holic - Bright purple (Limited Edition)

I'm loving the pop of color in this collection, I just wish they'd vamp up the packaging as well because it goes well with the collection's theme, nevertheless, the colors can stand alone and I'm already salivating over Free to be, Sassy Grass, Crazy Cool and Shock A Holic! ^.^

What's your lemming in this collection?

Warning: Unauthorized Use of my Photo in Formspring

2010-05-29T00:09:00.000-07:00

One of my college friends informed me someone's using my photo on formspring.me.

I was puzzled because I don't have formspring and I was wondering who would take interest in using my photo haha! I am flattered and amused but I feel that it's a form of robbery. Whatever things the person will post on his or her formspring page- I might be held accountable for that because I'm the face of that page.

That's why I'm taking this opportunity to announce that I do not have a formspring account and I am not held liable for anything the person will post on his or her formspring page.

I won't be so violent and verbally attack the person through his or her formspring page, I just simply asked 'why are you using my photo?' I hope I get a good civilized response and out of delicadeza, I hope the person will take my photo off the website.

You can check it out at http://www.formspring.me/craeee

P.S. I have a college friend named 'Crae' but I'm pretty sure it's not her and she has her own formspring account.

Chanel Rouge Allure Laque in 75 Dragon

2010-05-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

Vavavoom! This is one of the perfect red lipstick I've encountered!

I got this Chanel Rouge Allure Laque in 75 Dragon from Martha for Php1000, sweet deal!^.^

This retails for Php1895 in Rustan's

I often see reviews and photos about Rouge Allure Laque but I rarely see the top Chanel logo, I was surprised to see the logo when I opened the box!

Here's how it looks on the doe foot applicator. I love the black glass tube, it contributes to Dragon's vibrancy! The glass tube is really classy but you have to take good care of this one, you can't use this when you're in a hurry or else you might accidentally drop it. Also, try to wipe the tube off with a clean cloth after use because it's a fingerprint magnet =p

Here's my Chanel Rouge Allure Laque 75 Dragon swatch

On me, Dragon looks a bit darker than my Shu Uemura RD170 but it's a beautiful stunning solid shade of blood red. It makes my skin whiter with a healthy glow- not white ghostly pale.

I was surprised with the lightweight texture, it doesn't feel as heavy as it looks. It is one of the better lipstick formula out there in the market, it looks so pigmented and yet it's feather light to wear.

Although I really really love the color and the formula, sometimes I find the lipstick transferring to my teeth =/ I really have to be careful using this. It lasts a good time and when it fades, it leaves a nice red stain just like my Shu Uemura RD170.

After testing Chanel Rouge Allure Laque, I can say this is one of the best lip product I've tried and it really makes me want to purchase Mandarin (reddish coral) and Phoenix (pink)! ^.^

Oh wait, my cousin Shirley just purchased me a handful of lipstick from Sephora! Hmmm... Chanel would have to take a back seat for a while ^.^

Marc Jacobs Lola Make-up Kit Dimension

2010-05-22T23:57:00.000-07:00

A sweet person emailed me this week to ask for more photos of my Marc Jacobs make-up kit

I promised her I'd email back the photos on weekends and here it is ^.^

Here's a comparison with my MAC blot powder, Kiehl's lip balm and Givenchy lipstick

Here's how it looks like inside, no dividers whatsoever (it's okay for me coz it's free when you purchase a magazine!)

Here's my hand on the pouch, pretty small and nifty eh?

Evian Brumisateur Facial Spray

2010-05-21T06:47:00.000-07:00

Another beauty buy from Rockwell! =p

I really really love Rockwell, they carry my favorite make-up brands like Shu Uemura, MAC and Shiseido, my favorite clothing brands like Bayo, Kamiseta, Kashieca, Dorothy Perkins, Top Shop and Zara. For food I love Pepper Lunch and their cinema snack bar's nachos, the latest addition would be Chili's coming soon! I also love Heatlhy Options ^.^

There's also a Japanese salon opening on June 1, I think that's also worth checking out.

What surprised me is that PCX (Personal Care Exchange) has Evian!

I have been searching this last April in PCX too but they didn't have this yet, lucky me I paid a visit to PCX, lo and behold Evian Facial Spray is the first thing that greeted me! ^.^

Evian Brumisateur Facial Spray PCX price list:

50ml is Php189

150ml is Php 336.50

300ml is Php 410

Here's the atomizer spray which creates a fine mist

I primarily use this to fix my makeup especially when it looks a bit cakey or I have some patches of dry skin due to the changing temperature. Evian Brumisateur facial spray is also refreshing to use after a hot humid day and you feel so oily and icky, I liberally spray the cool water on my face and wipe it away with facial tissue.

According to the instructions, after spraying this on your face, grab a tissue and lightly pat the water away but I let the water dry since it's just really a fine mist, it pretty much dries on it's own.

I also like the fact that this is unscented, I heard there are some facial sprays that are scented- as much as possible I don't like spraying on scented products (but of course, Jill Stuart is an exception!)

Evian Brumisateur facial spray doesn't seem like a necessity, I initially thought what the heck, it's just an expensive bottle of water but when I started using it, I did notice my skin became hydrated and the dry patchy flakes are almost non-existent and it makes makeup application easier! If it works for me, I ought to give the product due credit. ^.^

Have a great weekend everyone! <3

MAC Venomous Villains Collection is Finally Confirmed!

2010-05-19T05:53:00.000-07:00

Click here to check it out!

There has been quite a buzz about MAC's collaboration with Disney and circulating rumor was that it was supposed to be released in the spring/summer 2010 collection, we thought it's not gonna happen because summer came and no villains collection popped out.

Now the collection is coming to life! Well, it is properly stored as of the moment and we're just waiting for September to come =p

I'm highly anticipating for the Venomous Villains to roll out!

Cutie Star Daiso Oil Blotting Paper

2010-05-15T22:17:00.000-07:00

One of my unsung hero! When I first visited Daiso at Robinson's Galleria, I felt a bit giddy seeing their small beauty section ^.^

I quickly picked up two blotting papers, I finished up the first one with some cute hologram design

Before I finish this up I'd like to post a dedicated review on one of the cheapest but effective way to blot oil away. Just look at the blot paper's battle scars (or folds), I always carry it with me, even if I bring a small bag that's not enough for me to put my small make-up kit in, I always slip this inside my small bag because I can't live without this.

This doesn't have the adhesive unlike other plastic blot films because well- this is a light blot paper =p

I like blot papers better than films because I feel this is a lot gentle on the skin but be careful because this can tear up easily!

If my memory serves me right this costs Php85 for around 150-200 sheets.

I took a sheet out

Blotted it on my forehead and see how it absorbs oil!

I've never been this oily before!

My blot paper is running thin but I bought around 3 Mentholatum Acnes oil blot films last January when I went to Hong Kong, I hope that would last me a long long time!

MAC Pret a Papier Fold and Tuck Lip Glass Review and Swatch

2010-05-15T07:29:00.000-07:00

At long last! MAC Pret a Papier was finally launched this afternoon!

But I have a hunch Pret a Papier arrived around April. Last April, when the MAC SA informed me Pret a Papier would be launched on May and she said it's a pretty collection, I sensed in her voice that she already saw the collection but they're just waiting for the go signal to release it.

Here's how MAC Fold and Tuck lip glass looks on the doe foot sponge tip

This is priced at Php950 which is pretty much the same price with MAC lipsticks.

Here's a swatch of MAC Fold and Tuck lip glass

It's THE perfect coral lip gloss for me! I love the color, it has the right blend of pink and orange which creates a beautiful color that compliments my skin tone.

Like other MAC lip products, I got light headed with the vanilla scent but the color is just too pretty to past up. Although a lot are satisfied with MAC's glue-y sticky consistency, I still find Shiseido PN Primalise Gloss more sticky and much more longer lasting than MAC Lip Glass but it's always fun to retouch lip gloss <3

I really wanted to buy a back up because this is a limited edition but I'm holding on to my dear money haha! I'm just thinking I barely finish a tube of lip gloss up because I usually grow out of it after a while. Right?

Do you know a dupe for this one?

I didn't purchase MAC's paint pot in Coral Crepe =( First, I bought Martha's Chanel Rouge Allure Laque in Dragon and second, Coral Crepe didn't look as pretty on blog reviews =( When I swatched Coral Crepe on the MAC counter in Rockwell I thought it was too dark on my skin tone, the hue looks a bit muddy on me and I felt that Paint Pot formulas are a bit on the dry side but if a pretty Paint Pot color comes up I just might go ahead and purchase one to try it ^.^

P. S. I really like Raymond from MAC Rockwell! <3 She remembers me! (I have decided address gays as 'she' as a sign of respect to their gender preference) Well, she remembers my boyfriend because he's a bit colorblind haha! Too bad the last time I went to purchase MAC Blot Powder Raymond wasn't around because Wednesdays is her day-off but I'm pretty sure I'll be visiting MAC Rockwell mostly on Saturdays ^.^

Jill Stuart Smooth Silk Powder Foundation N in 202 Ivory

2010-05-12T07:21:00.000-07:00

At last I am blogging tonight! ^.^

Oh I really miss blogging! I'm still on my adjusting period; I'm still trying to adjust my body to the working condition, it's not that stressful but the traveling and commuting is because of the bottleneck traffic and rush hour in the Philippines' business district.

Tonight's blog would be the much anticipated review on the Jill Stuart Smooth Silk Powder Foundation N in 202 Ivory. When I was doing my 'research' on this foundation, I couldn't really find much info and actual photos except for two helpful blogs, I decided to post a lot of photos and comparison so I hope this could help Jill Stuart fanatics and makeup lovers out there who are also doing their 'research' before buying/investing on a makeup =p

Once again, Jill Stuart doesn't fail when it comes to details. I really love paying attention to details and that's why I love brands that do. When you open the box, a small dainty floral accent will greet you <3

This is how the case looks like

This costs NT$450

What makes this compact different from the previous compacts is the hygienic separator from the sponge to the actual powder.

Here's the refill

It's interesting to take note that the plastic case is very very sturdy! If you don't have the budget to buy the case, you can opt to buy this first and buy the case later since I believe the clear temporary plastic case is sturdy enough.

This retails at NT$1050 which is pricey but I got this on a promo so it's definitely a good bargain for me!

I was surprised to see a clear plastic film with Jill Stuart print laced on top included below the plastic case!
Once again- Jill Stuart pays attention to details
You can use the clear plastic film to cover the pan for added hygiene if you are OC-like me =p

At the back, you must strip the white paper off to reveal the adhesive

On the compact's box, there's an instruction in Japanese telling you to also peel off the stub on the lower left side of the the sticker. I'm no expert in Nihonggo but common sense tells me it's telling us to also peel the '202 Ivory' just in case we ran out of the powder and we totally forgot our shade, we can always refer to the stub.

Here's how it looks like on my palm, a big gem eh?
If you have this, try to swirl it around and look at the pretty kaleidoscope like pattern emerging on your compact =p The prettier and colorful environment, the better!

Here's the comparison to my MAC blot powder
On the outside it looks pretty much the same but side by side, Jill Stuart is a lot bulkier and MAC is slim thin

Here's how it looks when opened

Taddah! Jill Stuart actually only has 10 grams as opposed to MAC's 12 grams

Here's how it looks on my skin

I only applied Pure Lasting Make-Up Base and Smooth Silk Powder Foundation N so you could see the real coverage without any concealer hiding my eye bags.

Coverage is actually sheer! No matter how much you try to pile up it doesn't look cakey although this could be a con too because it won't hide your imperfections effectively- but of course that's concealer's work =p

This is great for the no makeup makeup look because you could see your skin, the foundation just creates a thin veil of foundation on your face to lightly improve the overall look and texture of your skin. This is great if you have healthy and flawless skin but if you're looking for a heavier coverage it's advisable to use their liquid foundations.

Here's how I tested it, I used the foundation along with Jill Stuart primers(Day Care Essence and Pure Lasting Make-up Base) on two separate days to check which is more effective in oil control which will keep the makeup last long- I didn't have the luxury of time to apply a lot of eye makeup these days because I'm always in a rush actually =p

Foundation + Day Care Essence

My skin became oily after a few hours although Smooth Silk Foundation's oil control did help control the oil for a couple of hours. Day Care Essence is really on the skin care line but SAs are also marketing this as a primer for those who don't like the heavy silicone feel.

Foundation + Pure Lasting Make-up Base

My skin was shine free for almost the whole day! I was surprised! My face was an oil rig for the past couple of months and I was surprised to experience an almost oil free day for once this summer.

I actually like Pure Lasting Make-up Base even if it seems like it's an unknown Jill Stuart product- I think this primer and Smooth Silk Powder Foundation N will work better in the Philippine sun.

Hope this review helps! ^.^

Jill Stuart Pouch & Happy Mama's Day!

2010-05-09T06:29:00.000-07:00

Oops! Pardon me, I forgot to include this sweet Jill Stuart Pouch Bon included for me on my Jill Stuart promo set order! <3 I'm not sure though, Jill Stuart was having another promo along with the promo set before, if I buy something worth NT$3000 above they give me a limited edition Jill Stuart cellphone charm but it ran out quickly so I guess this is the replacement.

Thanks so much to Bon! We really really have to meet soon ^.^

Here's a close up of the floral details

The fabric is made of smooth satin-y fabric that feels luxurious to hold, very dainty- just the way I like it!

I love lace and I felt giddy to see the pouch with lace trimmings! <3

I thought a freebie pouch from Jill Stuart was good enough, they really pay good attention when it comes to details that they included a Jill Stuart logo inside <3

********
Happy mother's day to all the mothers out there!!! ^.^
Make sure to call your favorite restaurant for a reservation and give your mom a break from cooking your meals, restaurants are usually jam packed during these occasions...

Fruits & Passion Orange Cinnamon & Cannelle Hand Soap

2010-05-03T06:38:00.000-07:00

My aunt gave this to me as a gift and I just used it now since I ran out of hand soap

One thing I noticed is the super cute packaging ^.^

The bottle is shaped like an orange with an artificial leaf tied on the pump dispenser!

Here's the label on the box

Here's the close up

I got the leaf and tied it to my Khiel's Face Moisturizer and it looks cute <3

Here's how it looks like inside the box

The soap is pretty much okay, it lathers well and does it's job sanitizing my hands, the liquid soap looks metallic orange- so cute!

It doesn't make your hands dry but it's not too moisturizing that it leaves a thin film of slippery substance that I hate so much, it makes me feel I still have soap on my hands.

However, I really don't dig the smell, it smells a bit like those orange flavored medicine for kids =(

But overall this is okay, I'm not very picky with soaps as long as it does it's job well ^.^

I'll be working tomorrow! I'm very excited, wish me luck! At last, I will learn new things and finally have something to do after being idle since December! <3

Beware: Are You Suffering From An Incurable 'Allergy' from Wearing Fake Crocs?

2010-05-01T22:52:00.000-07:00

This as a PSA (Public Service Announcement) from Maquillage Lover

We all know fake crocs are everywhere here in Manila, we often get them at 168 and Divisoria Mall

My brother used to wear fake crocs my aunt gave him during their shopping trip to 168.

Later on he developed some form of 'skin allergy' but he still insisted on wearing his fake Crocs and the so-called allergy grew bigger.

We forced him to stop wearing those fake Crocs and took him to several dermatologists, even the famous and in demand dermatologists just claimed it's just an allergy and gave my brother some ointment but it didn't go away.

My mother even thought he must have aggravated some lamang lupa (dwarves, elves and other earthly creatures with magical powers in Filipino folk lores), we had a witch doctor check up on my brother and the witch doctor claimed he did aggravate a lamang lupa. The witch doctor prescribed herbal medicines. Nevertheless, my brother still didn't get his foot healed.

Later on my mother and brother went to Taiwan for a summer trip, my aunt to them to a neighboring pharmacist and show him my brother's foot. The doctor explains it's not an allergy but fungus growing on my brother's foot. It might lessen with the Philippine derma's medication but it will continue to grow back. In fact, fake Crocs became a big news in Taiwan before because a lot acquired fungus from the bad rubber, my mother said some news even showed a man's whole foot covered in fungus.

The Shu Lin Pharmacist gave my brother Inhfungus cream and it killed the fungus caused by fake Crocs!

I know fake Crocs are still tolerated here in the Philippines but let this serve as a health warning to those who are wearing fake Crocs, I'm not condoning if you plan to wear fake or original Crocs- that's not the point, the more important issue here is that you should understand the consequences of wearing fake products- it might be more harmful to your health.

I'm not sure if Inhfungus cream is available in the Philippines, this is a Western medicine but repackaged in Chinese print.

Here's the formula:

Inhfungus Cream

Econazole Nitrate 10mg

Triamcinolone Acetonide 1mg

I'm not a doctor nor a medical expert, I'm not prescribing this medicine to anyone, it's up to your discretion if you would like to try this medicine but my point is Inhfungus cream helped treat my brother's foot when everything else failed.

My brother's foot quickly healed and the fungus is gone but we got a spare tube in case something happens again.

My uncle wore fake Crocs and recently developed fungus on his foot- he went through the same ordeal, hopping from one derma to another in search for a cure but it didn't do much help until we informed him of the Inhfungus cream.

I thought maybe someone out there is also suffering from the same thing so I decided to share this information with you guys and hopefully help you find the real culprit and seek proper medication. The local news has not put out their public service announcement regarding fake Crocs for some reason but I felt this is my obligation as a media person to share the information regarding fake Crocs and how it can give you fungal infection.

New Way to Control My Make-Up Addiction and Finish All the Products Up!

2010-04-30T23:21:00.000-07:00

What's a girl got to do when I have a tight budget though I have a huge huge huge hunger for makeup?

I've thought of a new way to curb my appetite and finally finish everything up!

For almost every product I have, I am putting a 'bait' on it just so I'd always use the product and finally finish it up. The 'bait' is another product that I'm lemming for.

I wanted to do 10 pan projects but the task seems so huge that I lack the initiative. At least I'm breaking it down by placing a carrot on my view and trying my best to run and chase that carrot, I'm actually finishing up a product and finally replace it with a new one that I'm lemming for!

The last thing I want is makeup tucked away unused but I really have a big appetite with makeup, it just doesn't show because I'm controlling and moderating my appetite for my wallet's sake. Money is hard to earn and we should live within our means, we would probably accumulate a lot of products we can't use up after a couple of months, so instead of buying new stuffs, why not just use everything we have up before buying another new one?

Here's a list of products I have and the bait:

Products I have = Bait

MAC lipstick in Sweetie = MAC lipstick in Cyndi

Shu Uemura lipstick PK308 = Chanel Rouge Allure Laque in Phoenix

Shu Uemura lipstick RD170 = Chanel Rouge Allure Laque in Dragon

L'oreal Blush Delicieux in Fresh Papaya = Benefit CORALista

L'oreal Blush Delicieux in Rosy Cheeks = Anna Sui Face Color Accent

Jill Stuart Moist Silk Liquid Foundation = Shu Uemura Face Architect Smoothing Fluid Foundation/ Anna Sui Liquid Foundation

Shu Uemura Pro Concealer = MAC or MUFE concealer

Urban Decay Primer Potion = MAC Paint Pot in Soft Ochre

Hope this method works! So far I'm using my MAC lipstick in Sweetie and Shu Uemura lipstick RD170 more often... In line with this project I've posted this 'Bait List' beside my blog, hope it works coz I'm really looking hard at my list. I'm thinking of putting the bait list on a Post It and stick it on my dresser's mirror so every time I'd do my make-up I would be reminded of the things I want to buy and the list of things I have to finish before buying new ones.
Wish me luck! <3

MAC Blot Powder in Medium Dark

2010-04-29T00:30:00.000-07:00

May I say we're sizzling hot in here? Wooh! Yesterday reached around 37 degrees Celcius here in the Philippines and lucky for me, I've set a date with the boyfriend so we went strolling around in our favorite mall Rockwell.

We also watched "Kick Ass" and it's really a kick ass!

However, for a makeup addict, the best thing to do in Rockwell is to visit Shu Uemura and MAC counter- of course there's also Beauty Bar.

I remember I really wanted to try MAC Blot Powder because I'm having a bit of problem with my T zone so I grabbed the chance to purchase one item from MAC. Just one ^.^ I'm a good girl, I wanted to buy Liberty of London's Free to Be eyeshadow since it's still available and MAC Cyndi lipstick but I skipped everything else and controlled my makeup appetite. MAC Cyndi resembles a bit like my Givenchy Rouge Interdit Satin Sensual Rose- both are beautiful rosy red coral shades but in my comparison, Cyndi goes on sheerer with a light touch of shine because it's a lustre lipstick.

MAC Blot Powder in comparison to my hands

MAC Blot Powder costs Php1200.

When I checked the compact, I thought "Woah!" It almost slipped from my palm, no wonder I see a lot of broken MAC compacts on the internet =( I think the culprit would be the smooth matte finish that makes it slippery than the glossy ones plus MAC Blot Powder's case is thinner than the other MAC clamshell cases. However, I really love matte finish so I'm taking care of this baby.

I checked the shade selection, the darkest shade Philippines carry is Medium Dark but I disagree with the selection, a lot of Filipinas have beautiful tan skin tone and MAC ought to bring in darker shades ^.^

For reference, I am second to the lightest shade in Jill Stuart (a Japanese makeup, most Japanese brands carry lighter shades than most brands)

I checked Medium and I initially thought it was nearest my shade but the SA recommended me to go for Medium Dark. I forgot to check her name but I swear she's very nice also like Raymond who wasn't around that time. The SA said she's afraid Medium might look paler and espasol like though it goes on transparent. I agree! I swatched both Medium and Medium Dark, turns out Medium Dark looks more natural and invisible on my skin tone.

MAC Blot Powder in Medium Dark

Here's how Medium Dark looks like, it doesn't actually look so dark, eh?

I tried a spot on my forehead and nose to test how good the Blot Powder is on oil control. 37 degrees later, the small spot and my nose bridge remained shine free! ^.^ There was a teeny tiny bit of oil residue but it's nothing compared to the oil slick and shine I was having all over my face. MAC Blot Powder is good enough <3

MAC Blot Powder is a hefty 12 grams which would take me forever to use up. I often finish up powder compacts for a year to a year and a half with daily use so this is a good buy for me. Luckily, the shelf life is two years! ^.^

I'm still trying it out today for the second time using my own brush. It goes on smooth and silky; it doesn't look cakey at all! It's really transparent on my skin with or without foundation. I felt that my skin was soft to touch without much oil. I applied Blot Powder around 1pm and my face starts to oil up at 3:30pm which is pretty okay because usually my face would oil up after an hour. I just retouched, I normally start retouching by using a blot paper before layering another powder so my pores wouldn't be so clogged up with oil and powder but for now I skipped blotting paper and proceeded to brush on MAC Blot Powder just to see how good this is at absorbing oil, again it goes on smooth and silky and it did absorb the oil on it's own! It looks natural and not cakey. Great stuff in keeping oil at bay! Although my OC self would still want to use a blotting paper before applying Blot Powder ^.^

I will definitely repurchase this after finishing it up.

MAC Pret a Papier Lemmings/Buy List

2010-04-27T09:35:00.001-07:00

I know I still have a lot of makeup and beauty products to review for you guys but I'd like to show my Pret a Papier lemmings first ^.^ I'd be buying 'em once it's available, sadly, we still don't know when it's gonna be available in the Philippines =( All we know is that it's gonna be available by May 2010.

I'm a huge fan of coral shades, it looks good on my cheeks and lips but I wanna try it out on my eyelids too.

I just wanted to get two items and the first one is...

MAC Paint Pot in Coral Crepe

At first I was hesitant to try coral colors on my lids because I'm afraid it will make my eyes look swollen haha!

But yeah I'm game to get this paint pot!

MAC Lip Glass in Tuck and Fold (first lip glass on the left)

Tuck and Fold is a bright peachy color that might replace my shopping list target Chanel Rouge Allure Laque in Mandarin

Better and cheaper alternative for a coral lip color, I guess ^.^

And it's about time I try MAC's famous lip glass!

WeHaveIt43 Has Been Revamp!

2010-04-26T23:22:00.000-07:00

My favorite beauty online shop wehaveit43.multiply.com has been revamped much to my surprise!

And I'm loving the new look! <3

Bon has been telling me she wanted to change her site's look so the customers could navigate easily on the site and it has finally happened.

On the center of the page you could check her best sellers

On the right side you could click on the list of brands she's also selling on a pre-order basis

Don't forget, she also has on hand products ^.^

This really makes online shopping easier, I thought Bon was selling a handful of brands but when I checked the long list out I didn't realize she's really selling a lot! This makes me appreciate her site even more <3

I'm Lemming for Chanel Rouge Allure Laque Phoenix and Mandarin

2010-04-25T23:17:00.000-07:00

Oh no! I'm lemming for these pretty babies...

Hello wallet, are you still alive? Can you make it?

I wanna get Phoenix which is a pretty and sexy shade of pink and Mandarin which is more of a reddish coral color.

Love it? Leave it? I want 'em all! <3

But I need to control...

"Telephone" Parody by Lady Gagita and Benzonce

2010-04-25T06:57:00.000-07:00

Recently, Youtube superstar Lady Gagita and Benzonce bursted into the spotlight
My brother first introduced me to the quirky duo
Later on one of my friend mentioned about the Mayaman University production team ("mayaman" means rich in Filipino terms) and we all claimed we've viewed the parody of "Telephone", amazing!
Later this week I checked the broadsheets and I even saw Lady Gagita in print!

Wow oh wow aren't these two getting the attention they truly deserve.

Do they deserve a spot on my blog? =p Yes they do!

As one Youtube commentator said, they're very resourceful when it comes to costumes and I love them for it.

It doesn't matter if you have the budget or not, as long as you have creative juices and passion for it you can create an outstanding music video.

What caught me and my friends' eye, since we're all film majors, Mayaman University is not your ordinary home made parody. The location might be low budget, the costumes are not really replicated but still it takes a lot of effort because they created a lot of costumes. However, the people behind this video really know how to work the camera and editing, we're even thinking Vinzon Leojay Booc and the rest might be film students too.

Camera movement may not be so flawless, the camera quality may not be at par with high budgeted music videos but that's okay, it really takes time to train steady hands and we cannot really purchase expensive broadcasting quality cameras since a good unit might cost a hundred thousand plus Philippine Pesos. I really really love the sleek and almost perfect editing to bits and it makes up for everything else.

Can I just say I love Lady Gagita and Bezonce for their incredible talent? ^.^

I must say, I've watched various music video from various countries and I will stand by my comment that the camera truly loves Filipino talents. At first I wasn't so sure if they're Filipino because the location seem a bit different from the ones here in Manila and they're talking in another dialect, sometimes I often interchange local dialects to Thai, Malaysia and Indonesia's languages but but later on I checked the other videos, I saw a car's plate number and it's definitely the Philippines' plate number. When I try to think about moving to another country I know I will miss the Philippines for the great entertainment and talent; they're irreplaceable. They're the best, Filipinos can sing, dance, act etc. Moreover, most Filipinos have quirky characters and they're very expressive; it shows on their face and they are a natural when it comes to projecting their expression on camera. It doesn't matter if you don't look like the standard good looking celebrity, as long as you have the character and you can project it well, the camera will love you <3

I Love "Working Girls"!

2010-04-23T23:45:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I haven't watched the full movie yet but the trailer is so enticing!

I love Eugene Domingo as an actor, she's the one who delivered the line "I will stand up for it". Reading some of her past interviews before, I learned that Eugene Domingo has a degree in Theater Arts from University of the Philippines. I've watched "Kimmy Dora" before and her acting is oozing with energy whichever character she plays. As Kimmy, I really felt the tension and stress while Dora releases that stress from me. Haha! This year is a good year for Eugene Domingo actually, she has a lot of shows in GMA, one of the leading TV network in the Philippnes, plus great movies churning out.

Another thing that caught my eye is Bianca King. I can really really feel for Bianca King's character as a segment producer. Believe me, being told you're a crap, your concepts are a bloody bore, you yourself is a bloody bore etc. did made me a better Communication Arts student. but I'm still a human and I do get hurt and tired of hearing the same insults over and over again for the past 3 years, I'm just glad I was spared getting my work thrown at my face! Haha! However, that doesn't stop me from doing online publishing! <3

"Working Girls" is directed by Direk Jose Javier Reyes, I believe he had a Communication Arts teaching stint in De La Salle University before along with the Sir Doy del Mundo Jr. I love Sir Doy, at first I thought wow he must be a superstar, he wrote the screenplay for great Filipino films like "Maynila... Sa Kuko ng Liwanag", "Markova: Comfort Gay" etc. etc. but it turned out he was very approachable and down to earth. Sometimes me and my friends call him Papa Doy because he is like the father figure in Communications Department. Sir Doy is loving but I didn't say he's not a terror. He could be loving but he is strict (still a relatively mild term) but believe me, he's gonna make you a better person, hone your skills and improve your work ethics. Direk Joey or Jose Javier Reyes is also a great filmmaker, he does mainstream films like "Working Girls" and yet he also creates indie films.

"Working Girls" is actually the third remake from the 1984 film with the same title and it was directed by another great Filipino filmmaker Ishmael Bernal. Later on "Working Girls 2" was done in 1987 also directed by Ishmael Bernal. I haven't viewed the first and second film but clips are included in the trailer above.

I think I'm gonna enjoy "Working Girls"! ^.^

FOTD: Simply Primped and Polished

2010-04-23T06:46:00.000-07:00

This would be one of the rarest times Maquillage Lover puts up an FOTD!

After doing this makeup I felt it looks simple and yet pretty so I'd like to share this with you.

Japanese make up makes the prettiest sheer color;

it gives an illusion as if you're wearing almost nothing at all but you look so primp and polish with just a light touch of color here and there.

Just the way I like my makeup! Not too over done with shocking colors but not too bare that my eye bags are saying hello to the world!

I made this FOTD last Sunday before going out.

Here's the product lineup:

Shiseido eyelash curler, Taiwan version

Shu Uemura Pro Concealer

UDPP in Eden

Majolica Majorca Lash Expander Frame Plus

Jill Stuart Jewel Crystal Eyes in Princess Sapphire

Jill Stuart Eye Jelly in Midnight Shine

Jill Stuart lipstick in Baby Coral

Shiseido PN Primalise Gloss

Kiehl's lip balm #1

Jill Stuart Moist Silk Liquid Foundation

Benefit 10

Jill Stuart Mix Blush in Fresh Apricot