The Bunnie Hole

Review: Skin79 VIP Gold BB Cream

2012-02-12T23:48:00.000-08:00

Hello out there!

Today I bring you a re-review about one of my ultimate beauty must haves (in the category of "I'm-stranded-on-a-dessert-island-omg-freaking-out"). I had initially written brief review on this product about a year or so agao but that was so visually awful that I decided it must be redone!

Here I re-introduce......

Skin79 VIP GOLD BB CREAM

* Everybody all at once now: "Ooooo shiny!" *

If you are unfamiliar with BB Creams (aka "beauty balms", "blemish balms", "beblesh balms"), they are essentially created to be a multifunctional product that combines both skincare and base/foundation properties into one daily use makeup essential. Think hydrating, sun protecting, skin healing, acne treating, wrinkle targeting, spot covering magic in a tube! Certainly different BB creams focus on different age groups or concerns but you can often find any combination of these properties in any BB cream. In a sense, you can call it the the Swiss Army knife of the foundation world...for women and men as well. I have tried a good handful of popular BB Creams from Asia yet this one remains one of my favourites based on quality and overall effectiveness.

The Basic Stats: as from Skin79

Produced by WIZCOZ Korea
Air tight pump dispenser
Lightly scented.
Sturdy weight plastic bottle
Shade: 1 only
SPF 25 / PA++
Claims: Whitening, UV protection, anti-wrinkle, (hydration)
Gold and Caviar extract creates beautiful shiny skin
Sebum control and great adhesion to the skin.
Korean Food and Drug Administration approved 3-functions.
Full size 40g @ approx $17-20 Cad (online/ebay)
Also available from Skin79 North American website HERE.
Other travel sizes/tubes available

Minor changes have been made to the design over the years that I have purchased it but the main look and feel of the product (and ingredients) remained almost identical. It has a very clean, sharp and high end aesthetic that would sit well on the vanity of consumers from any age range. Skin79 markets itself to be a very pharmaceutical brand (along the lines of say VICHY, La Roch Posay and Clinique), producing a wide range of skincare for men and women as well as a number of BB creams. The VIP Gold range is on the more prestigious end of their BB cream selection but they do have many options for various budgets and age groups.

Now we've covered the basics, ready to jump in?
Click the video to watch my review!

Before and After comparison

*click the photo to enlarge*

I must say that my skin has been pretty stable in the past few weeks so you're not seeing me at my worst. However I have have also used this during my bad skin days to smooth out bumps and redness and it works wonderfully. You can see details on my skin statistics HERE.

While it is a shame there is only one shade (poor colour selection is a fault with many Asian BB Creams), you'll be happy to hear that it does do some magical shade adjusting after minutes on your skin. From my experience, BB creams are not meant to be actual foundation but rather an extension of your skincare with some coverage properties and sun protection. Those that are able to find a good shade match may want to wear it solo but others who can't might want to try this as a foundation primer/base (hence less of a colour matching issue).

As you can see from the ingredients below, the composition of this product seems rather complex with your standard slew of foundation/skincare binders and emulsifiers but also a notable list of natural extracts as well. As with all natural extracts, effectiveness is often arguable but I'd like to think they do play an important role in the product. I am always happy to see natural ingredients in my products!

*photo can be enlarged on flickr, just click it*

The Final Breakdown

A daily use all-in-one product, better seen as an extension of your basic skincare but with some bonus foundation properties.

Closest skin tone match: NC20/NW20 - NC30/NW30

Natural / Satin finish if applied sparingly, glossy if applied heavily.

Smoothes over the skin, softening visible pores and fine lines.

Helps skin stay hydrated through the day, increased skin elasticity.

Average lasting ability: 5 hrs (no powder, no primer)

Best for skin types: slightly dry, normal/combination, slightly oily.

Best used as a foundation primer or tinted moisturizer.

A concealer and powder is also available from the same line.

THINGS TO NOTE:

This is not an oil-free product, although it has never gave me spots on my acnegenic skin.
Be weary of wearing this in flash photography, there is physical SPF (titanium dioxide) in this product.
You still need to REMOVE this at the end of the day like you would a foundation, don't sleep with it on.
This version, I feel, feels slightly less dewy than previous releases although I can not be certain if they have changed the product itself.

While you might be put off by the lack of colour selection, I would still highly recommend you give a chance to this BB cream from Skin79. Although many brands claim wondrous results, this is one of the few BB creams that have lived up to the claims and with extended use I have seen real improvements to my skin. And you know what else this would be good for? An exciting luxury feeling gift for your girlfriends or mother that doesn't cost a fortune. Win-Win!

Used this Skin79 VIP Gold BB Cream before?
Share you thoughts in the comments!

Ciao,

HAUL: Spring fabric, crafting goods & makeup books!

2012-02-11T22:48:00.000-08:00

A mummble jumbo of fun items in today's 2 for 1 haul video. That's right, one for beauty items and makeup books and the other for my fabrics and notions. Though you might want a chance of topic once in a while and since I am a crafty bunnie at heart, what better joy to share than some wonderful spring fabrics and sewing accessories.

Let's jump in with the beauty goods!

~ click to play ~

As you can see today's beauty haul had a different twist to it, I am currently in a huge reading/book phase and of course I went hunting for new ones to add to my collection. Two classic beauty items made its way back into my life and I couldn't be more thrilled...

Through all my experiences with beauty products, in the end you realize that when it comes to certain products...it is what it is and boy are these two bottles special. I won't leak too much juicy details right now but you can be sure this is not the last time you'll see of them.

At both Sephora and the Guerlain counter I was gifted sample vials of perfume. Shalimar, which is the other Guerlain legend (next to Samsara of course) and Escada's new release named Sexy Graffiti. It took me a second to realize that the Escada vial came in a stick format which I thought was particularity clever as it allows you to precisely control the application and amount used. Sprays on the other hand, tend to go everywhere!

Well how gorgeous are these faces!

I have been a fan of Scott Barnes products since I first tried it out about 2 years ago but alias it's rather difficult to get a hold of (as it is now discontinued, I think) and the selection is poor from the few places that you can still find them online. I was especially interested in his face sculpting technique and the way he uses it to transform and define the features, quite brilliant I must say and very Hollywood!

And for a little something extra, here's a look at some fabric and trim I picked up recently. A good selection of spring hues, fun lace and yards of crochet just waiting to be incorporated into a flowy sundress.

~ click to play ~

A quick compilation of the pieces themselves, I just love the soft tones and beautiful textures of these fabrics. I'm already thinking a shabby chic blazer and a Laguna Moon inspired denim jumper with crochet trim (Lena was wearing it in VIVI, what can I say?)... if anything happens, you'll definitely see a post!

That's all for today, I will have a review on something awesome posted next so don't forget to check back soon. Wishing you all dream wonderful crafty dreams....

Ciao,

Daily Goods: Paint me softly... Sally Hansen nail polish

2012-02-08T12:09:00.000-08:00

I took this photo yesterday, when it was beautifully sunny and warm (for February anyways) and what do you know, today the clouds rolled in again. Well, at least I can look at this photo and feel a little better.

I'm a huge lover of creme finish nails...perhaps it's a inner rebellion from growing up in the 90s when metallic was all the rage. Or maybe it was the experience of owning my very first nail polish....a metallic rust orange. Either way I've been quite attached to cremes and I've recently added these two to my collection.

(L) Without a stitch

(R) Shall we dance?

The Sally Hansen complete salon manicure series is meant to have everything you need for beautifully done nails in one step; base coat, strengthener, colour, topcoat. But as my previous encounters with do-it-all products tells me, there is a high possibility that they will no nothing at all. (Two in one shampoo and conditioner? Yuck.)

I was especially attracted to "With out a stitch", which I later found out was part of the Prabal Gurung and Sally Hansen collaboration for Spring 2011. It may look just like any plain old nude but upon closer inspection it was unlike any of the nude shades I own. It has a pale yellow "creme brulee" undertone, not beige or taupe...just an almost sandy yellow which may absolutely rock or completely fail with my pale yellow undertone. I will be sure let you all know with a swatch when I get a chance to try this on.

Ciao,

Daily Goods: LE Etude perfumed syrup nail set

2012-02-06T17:46:00.000-08:00

(source)

Ever since I tried out the Etude house Party Gradation nail set, I was hooked on these little minis. With their pretty colour combos and ease of use, there is no more reason not to have pretty sparkly nails again!

This limited edition set features a collaboration with illustrator Annika Wester (blog here) and not just the nail polish either but the the entire Etude House 2010 "Wannabe" winter set!

Wannabe Perfumed Syrup Nails

...doesn't smell (or taste I don't think) like anything sweet so the name is rather deceiving but the colour combo is very sweet indeed! And at price of around $12 CAD (likely even cheaper in Korea), I would consider this a great value.

Of course you can layer this with a opaque base coat (instead of the sheer/pearl white they give here) to create various looks but if you really love glitter then this set looks very promising. I have yet to try it out on my own fingers yet since I'm currently enduring some nail issues but you can be sure a review for the Etude polishes will be on the way.

Sneak peak at the rest of the collection.

(source)

I was incredibly tempted by the LE lipsticks in those adorable little tubes....they are still floating around in the back of my mind. The compact shown is a shimmer powder, likely similar to a MAC beauty powder/pressed powder duo so I skipped out on that one.

Wannabe Sweet like Etude?
The last time I checked you can find these LE items online,
on ebay and also on Colorful Circle (here), (no affiliation).

Ciao,

Daily Goods: PONY's Korean makeup book

2012-02-03T17:19:00.000-08:00

Look what I found in my mailbox!

*waves frantically*

Now in case ya'll can't read Korean (neither can I) and you think I'm a nut, here's a little background information. This is a Korean makeup book penned by one of the most popular original Ulzzangs in the cyberworld...Park Hye Min, otherwise known in the triple-w as "PONY"!

Photos of her can be found scattered throughout the internet but most are traced back to her blog.

PONY cybworld blog: http://www.cyworld.com/jpshop01

(source)

I'm not absolutely familiar with the term but "ulzzang" was a major Korean (and later Asian) trend which roughly translates into "perfect face". Guys and gals deemed as Ulzzang have a certain desired facial beauty (natural, makeup or Photoshop..bring it on!) and are often online models and bloggers. They are, in a sense, everyday celebrities... whilst they are not actors or performers, their day-in-the-life photographs keeps them on top of the Asian blog world.

(source)

I discovered Pony while browsing through a forum on Asian idols (a whole post onto itself..someday) and like most people I was quite taken by her makeup skills, particularly the way that she made even the heavy looks quite wearable. What results from her tutorials are always approachable and perfectly shaded, two qualities that I admire. To date she has released two makeup books and I searched high and low for a copy....

(source)

In the end I tracked one down on ebay and purchased her second makeup book. While I'm quite certain that I am not taking full advantage of her book since I can not read Korean, the abundance of photographs in the pages combined with my basic knowledge of makeup products works out decently and I am quite thrilled with trying out some of her looks.

(source)

Stay tuned for a full review on her makeup book as this book certainly deserves one, I just find her so lovely! I think I might need to go through her products list a pick up a few items that are frequently features and perhaps even share some inspired tutorials...

Let me know what you think!

Ciao,

Handmade: Sweet spring floral bow

2012-01-27T11:41:00.000-08:00

A little something something to dress up your day.

HANDMADE HAIR BOW

Size: 9 inches x 4 inches
Style: Looped Bow
Attachment: Barrette clip

Find it HERE

Ciao,

Review: Hard Candy Glamoflauge concealer

2012-01-25T22:11:00.000-08:00

Meet my new favourite concealer.

HARD CANDY

Glamoflauge heavy duty concealer has a lot going for it, with all the "ooohs" and "aaaahs" from the beauty community since it's initial release everyone was excited to see a concealer heavy weight in the drugstore.

Boasting tattoo worthy coverage and a creamy formulation I was eager to jump in and try this one out for myself. Having gone through a slew of concealers (almost all of the MAC ones, Revlon, Almay, Maybelline) there were very few that performed exceptionally well to hold a semi-permanent spot in my top makeup drawer (most used items). But this one tube might change it all....

Let's start off with the basic stats:

3 colours available (light, medium, tan)
includes one tube of concealer () and a concealer pencil ()
No SPF
available in Walmart exclusively where Hard Candy is sold
Runs approximately $7 CAD

I have here the shade light which I was extremely hesitant on purchasing because it looked rather dark in the tube. The colour selection is small as with most drugstore base products but should fit a range of people between NC15/NC20 to NC40 or so.

Ready for the details?
Click the video to watch my review!

A quick summary...

As you can see from the minimal ingredients list below, Glamoflauge is not here to play around. It doesn't boast any skin-caring, SPF-providing, moisturizing properties at all. Instead it is solely and solidly a concealer and in this aspect is performs superbly well. In fact, I would call it comparable to the concealers by Coverblend (the high end conceal-it-all mega hit) though this is every so slightly powdery and heavier in feel but not by much. The pigmentation alone is worth a look by someone who is interested in a full coverage concealer.

The only major things preventing this tube in becoming my favourite concealer? PETROLATUM.

No it isn't the evil of all beauty ingredients and I'm sure there are likely other things much worse that exists in my makeup products but just the word "petrolatum" or otherwise "mineral oil" in a base product makes me cringe. Maybe it's actually not so bad, certainly on the occasions I have put this on my face for blemishes nothing horrific happened but it is undeniably something that will continue to bother me.

My final breakdown

Truly a full coverage concealer, very little is needed for each application.
Smooth to blend and adheres well to skin, easy to reapply if needed.
Longer than expected lasting ability; 5 hours no problem!
Dries to a slightly powdery finish so you can skip powder.
No breakouts so far with consistent use, no significant clogged pores either.
No SPF means no fears of flash photography.
Best for those with oily, normal/combination or slightly dry skin.
*TIP: Apply this with a synthetic concealer brush, then smooth with fingers for best results.
THINGS TO NOTE:

The mineral oil content should be taken note of if you break out easily with this ingredient, it is the dominant ingredient to give this concealer its smoothness.
Lack of colour selection will be problematic for some, the concealer applies quite a bit lighter than it looks in the tube.

Overall, Glamoflague is an excellent product to try. It is absolutely hard working and deserves every penny! A true drugstore dupe of some high end base products costing 3-4 times it's price.

Hope you enjoyed today's review.
Do share your thoughts on your favourite concealer below!

Ciao,

OPEN: GlymmBox... Jan 2012

2012-01-24T17:39:00.000-08:00

The first Glymmbox for 2012 arrived at my doorstep a few days ago and as usual, I was curious to see what goodies awaited testing for this month. This is my third Glymm beauty box and I have been generally pleased so far with the selection though I have yet to be floored by a particular box yet!

Let's see what hopefuls are inside January's box....

A few quick points on "beauty boxes" and Glymm Box in general.

Available in Canada.

This is a "subscription" service (like you would a magazine)
$10/month (+ tax) + free shipping per month
Receive a specially curated box of deluxe sized beauty samples (often times there is at least one full sized product!)
Products are chosen based on your initial preference survey but it's a box of surprises every single month!
Glymm offers points for each box purchased (more points if you refer friends) which can be redeemed for products on their website.

That's the brief but if you want more details on Glymm as a service,

you can drop by their website HERE.

At first glance...

.... the box contents seemed good but again not "wow" in my opinion (of course this also varies depending on what products that you are interested in). My own preferences generally veer towards skincare and makeup so products in that range tend to excite me more so than others.

Click to roll the video!

A closer look...

ANASTASIA

Clear brow gel

Allure's editor's choice award winner
Keeps brows in order without being stiff or flaky
Full size: 0.28oz @ $21 CAD

My first thoughts: This would have been so much more appreciated by me if it was a tinted version. As someone who has very few brow hairs, I don't need much "taming" but rather I need something to add some colour and shape to them. However I can see how choosing the "clear" version to send would make this a more universal product. On the bright side, Anastasia is a much talked about brand and one I would definitely be interested to invest in given some testing. Generally, I don't just JUMP into a brow investment.

CARGO

Eye Pencil "Black"

Cutting edge formulation, highly pigmented in a smudge free formula.
Easy application with minimal skipping.
Full size: 2g @ $16 CAD

My first thoughts: YES! A black eye pencil! While the point of these beauty boxes are to get me to try out new products, I'm often just not a "colourful eyeliner" type of gal. But a good old black pencil? Well I can certainly appreciate this one! Overall I am very faithful to my Revlon liquid liner but my favourite pencil liner is the MUFE AquaEyes. With a light swatch, I found the Cargo to be quite pigmented although not a deep rich black as I anticipated. I do love the firmness of the product, it has great potential to create a beautiful graphic line.

BURT'S BEES

Naturally Nourishing Milk & Honey Body Lotion

Clinically proven to restore moisture
Milk and Honey soothe, soften and hydrate skin with no greasy feel.
Full size: 170grams @ $12.99 CAD

My first thoughts: I would have preferred this in a tube because once you open this type of paper packing, they dry up fast! Other than that, I'm pleased to receive this Burt's Bee's product. From the couple of items I tried over the holidays their products seem to be solid and I'm taking quite a liking to their lip balms. The price of the full size is a little more than what I would usually prefer to pay for a drugstore lotion (hey, Vaseline on sale is only 2.99Cad) but not over the top.

VASANTI

BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator

Aloe-enriched cleanser brightens with papaya enzymes.
Reveal a brighter, younger looking complexion with micro-crystals for a rejuvenated look.
Full size: 120ml @ $34 CAD

My first thoughts: This is my first encounter with Vasanti although I've seen it been mentioned in other people's beauty boxes previously. I believe Vasanti is a Canadian beauty brand offering both skincare and makeup products. At first glace I was pretty excited about a face exfoliator, it is an essential part of a well balanced skincare routine in my opinion and I have tried quite a slew of exfoliating products over the years. At $34 dollars for a full sized tube (almost the price for a Dior cleanser) this had better perform some miracles.

KAIA NATURALS

Juicy Bamboo facial cleansing cloths

Sweep away dirt, makeup and oil for a clear complexion.
Soaked in vitamins and made with 99% natural ingredients.
Full size: 30 cloths @ $17.99 CAD

My first thoughts: Simply said, I'm just not much of a facial cloth user. I have upon occasions "indulged" in some Dove cleansing cloths which were convenient and fun but not a necessity for me unless I'm traveling. I do like the fact that this is made with 99% natural ingredients but as a makeup removing cloth in general, I would likely just opt for a bottle of grape seed oil and call it a day!

This wraps up my Janurary GlymmBox 2012.
Let me know what was in your beauty box lovelies!

Ciao,

Demo: Sweet Valentine Glitter Gradation Nails

2012-01-19T23:13:00.000-08:00

Hello Everybody,

I've got a sweet simple and beautiful nail look to share with you. If you're not one to get too crazy with your digits but want something fun and different then this will be the perfect style to try out.

The best part?
It's super easy to achieve!

This look was inspired by this absolutely adorable nail set I purchased a few weeks ago from Etude House... I've never had the patience to do many fancy nail designs but this set made it a snap to get glitterlicious nails (ok, so I'm sure that's not really a word....)

Feminine, girly, sparkly.
Think ahead for Valentines!

I'm still trying to get myself around doing "nail swatches" so forgive me for the awkward experimental photos today... must learn from some nail blogs!

Let's take a look at the basics....

I didn't use anything extra other than the basic Etude set along with a base plus a top coat. I'll add in a couple of tips at the end along with different colour variations but first....

Click the video go get going on this sweet nail look.

See, I told you it was quick and painless...

A few tips and trick to look out for when doing a gradation nail

Base Colour: Feel free to choose a sheer or opaque nail polish, a creamy base actually looks very pretty but if you would like to keep the look more natural (like you magically have diamond finger tips) certainly choose a semi-sheer base colour.

Mid colours: Whatever colour you choose (be it glitter or not) make sure this nail polish has a semi-sheer finish, if you are laying an opaque colour over your base it's very easy to end up with an awkward harsh blunt line. *TIP--If you are using a different shade, try applying the 2nd coat when the 1st one is still slightly wet. It will help them blend a little better.

Final shade: Choose a polish with chunky glitter bits for maximum impact and remember to "dot" the polish so the glitter adheres to your nail instead of clinging to the brush like they tend to do.

*TIP-- Remember that you can always use more than 3 polishes for your gradation nail. This is especially helpful if you have longer nails and have more space to cover as this will also help give more room for the colours to blend...more layers, more blend ability.

Try this look with some other colours!
I pulled a few from my collection and quickly gave them a go.
*all combos below do no have top coat...

A pretty way to dress up your spring pastels!

For those who love a classic red nail...

Try this out and have some fun!
Let me know your favourite glitter gradation combinations!

Ciao,

Scent: Friction by FCUK

2012-01-18T22:08:00.000-08:00

..feminine & hypnotic – a tantalizing mix of fruity florals and velvety coconut penetrates the senses and leaves him begging for more...

FRICTION

by FCUK

Advertised as a seriously sexy perfume, Friction hit me a little unexpected but in a very good way... for one thing I was unaware that the promo image for Friction was Lindsay Lohan.

...but FCUK had a few more tricks up its sleeve than Miss Lohan, the intriguing blend was something that I have never encountered before and I was hooked!

THE BASICS

Released in 2011
notes:
pink honeysuckle, apple blossom, red berries, creamy coconut, spun sugar, vanilla absolute, pink jasmine, white vetiver, blonde woods, sandalwood, amber, magnetic musk.

Let's rewind a few and talk about how I came about this fragrance as I do feel that it was rather a matter of luck and ....well, lack of information about the product. I purchased this as part of a boxed FCUK set when my local drugstore was clearing out some out of it's overstock. With no details about the scent at all and having no experience with FCUK scents to begin with I contemplated for a long time before putting it in my basket. My previous experiences with similar brands like GUESS and CK had me worried that Friction would be too musky and deep for my usual floral self. And had I known that this was a coconut based scent, it would have stayed on the shelf...but that's where it begins to get interesting....

THE INITIAL REACTION

The first whiff had me surprised at the distinctive fruity notes mingled with what was undeniably...coconut. Even stranger? I think I like it. In my mind, coconut scents tended to be overwhelmingly sweet, almost too rich and had something cloying about it. (Think left over coconut cream pie.) Yet this was completely different, the honeysuckle opened the scent with a sweet note, the red berries were bright, almost slightly frosty and the creamy vanilla coconut added depth to the fragrance. This unexpected blend was feminine, flirty, playful and might I say...even a little sexy.

THE WEAR & FURTHER CONTEMPLATION

After a good 6 hours of initial application I was still able to catch a waft of FRICTION every once in a while. The majority of the fruitiness has faded, what lingered was a light coconut woven with sandalwood and pink jasmine. This worn effect has a beautiful soft fade on the skin and I suspect....will be a man magnet. The warmth of the base notes, sandalwood and vanilla mixed with the residual coconut makes this the perfect snuggle scent for fireside evenings. (Apparently, according to most magazines food scents are a huge turn on. Pumpkin anyone?) However, I still have no idea what is "white vetiver"....still need to research on that one.

FINAL THOUGHTS & RATINGS

Smells like: fruity floral cream
What stands out the most: honeysuckle, red berries, coconut, sandalwood
I'd recommend this for: women of all ages
Words I'd use to describe this: feminine, flirty, warm
Best worn for: a day scent that dries to something warm & cozy for night
Repurchase factor: most definitely considerable

This fragrance wowed me on so many levels and had I known any of the descriptions ahead of time, I would have surely just walked away. But this fruity floral from FCUK was completely unexpected. Without the heavy muskiness of CK scents (I keep mentioning CK because I try really hard to love their scents), this undoubtedly feminine elixir is a great choice for those shy girly girls who are afraid step out of their everyday comfort zone. It's something familiar with a little extra magic.

Tried anything by FCUK before?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Ciao,

FOTD: Winter berries

2012-01-18T18:04:00.000-08:00

Decided to wear a purple eye look today and thought I'd pair it with a berry lippie, I added things here and there and this is what ended up happening...

FACE

Lancome Teint Miracle foundation
MAC Ombre blush "Azelea blossom"

EYES

KATE Designing eyebrow (Ex-4)
UDPP
Urban Decay "Ecstasy"
Urban Decay "AC/DC"
Annabelle Smudgepaints "Plummed"
Urban Decay eyeliner (brown one)
Maybelline Colossal Volum' Express WP mascara

LIPS

Revlon Just Bitten lipstain "Passion"

I worked on a glitter gradation nail tutorial for you guys...hope it turned out well, I still have to view it on my computer and edit!

Ciao,

Giveback Giveaway #1 : We have a winner!

2012-01-16T15:27:00.000-08:00

A great big thank you to everyone who have particapated in my very first Give Back Giveaway. There were so many insightful resolutions from scoring high on the SAT's to developing a healthier eating style.

The winner randomly drawn for the

Limited Edition : The Body Shop eyeshadow palette was.....

Melanie!

She answered: "i want to be healthier this year and eat more healthy foods"

I think that's easier said than done but we're all rooting for your success!

^_^

Stay tuned for the next Give Back Giveaway...very very soon.

Ciao,

Bunnie finds: Etsy January edition {2012}

2012-01-16T10:00:00.000-08:00

Hello out there!

Today I come to share another round of Etsy finds. It was so much fun doing my previous post (Shabby Chic style) that I've decided to make these posts a regular feature on my blog. I want to share my support for the handmade community and at the same time bring you guys something wonderful in case you are in the mood for gift giving.... just see me as an extra pair of eyes looking out for goodies.

Not sponsored, not paid, just sharing the love like I always do.

Light up my heart and let it burn.

*and I hope it smells like gardenias*

Vintage Paris Wooden Candle Blocks

by CheltenhamRoad

Hot Chocolate Mug Soy Candle

by BandBCandles

Carved Baroque Candle ~ Romantic Memories~

by Prima Candle

Pure Beeswax Big Skull Candle

by Peace Blossom Candles

White Heart Shaped Wedding Bird Candle holder

by ahindle78

Hope you found something worthwhile

even just some eye candy for your day.

Ciao,

Daily Goods: Xtreme wear nailpolish in pastels

2012-01-15T18:13:00.000-08:00

I think I'm going to start posting "Daily Goods" where I'll post up a quick snap of something fun I happen to buy without having to shuffle them all into a large fancy haul video.

Today's item are these cute little nail polishes from Sally Hansen.

They've had these shades for a good while now but right now seems like a good time to get them...you know, in anticipation for spring.

Strobe Light.
Lacey Lilac.
Mint Sorbet.

I also find this to be a rather amusing photo because it was snowing the day I took the photographs even though the colours are so spring/summery.

Ciao,

Style: Vintage quirk at Mod Cloth

2012-01-14T18:05:00.000-08:00

I have a soft spot for old things.

(not the ripped up, green moldy kind)

I love the design, detailing and character of vintage clothing but of course shopping vintage is a tricky business. It's hard to find them in good condition and sometimes they are even more expensive than new clothes.

During my web browsing I've come across this website many times and when I finally curiously clicked on the ad, I was hooked! Now, I have yet to take plunge on any of the items and make an order but I wanted share my browsings from this kitschy, stylish, vintage inspired site!

Mod Cloth mainly retails vintage inspired clothing, jewelery, accessories, housewares and even shoes. What drew me there were the gorgeous dresses and the quirky home decor.

Here are some of my favourite finds!

Can't say no to a coral dress. Ok, well this might be borderline orange but I'd like to think it's coral anyways. I love the lines in this dress, normally I veer towards simplistic styling but I think the crepe fabric and vibrant hue makes this dress an absolute winner.

This is something that I'd choose for a fancy dinner out on the town. Again, there's that bright pop of red/coral in the bodice but that vintage lace gives this an old school appeal. The shape is a classic sheath but who can resist that little peek-a-boo bit at the back?

This top just screams fun in the sun! I love the tangerine leopard design framed by the little black collar. The trapeze shape is rather modern and would go well with some jean shorts and a bright shoe.

Cute romper? Check.

Floral print? Check.

Pockets for mints? Check.

Absolutely darling for the spring? CHECK CHECK CHECK!

A few other titbits that caught my eye...

Mod Cloth also carries some of the cutest home decor items. Everything is such a fun surprise. I think it'll make any home that much more interesting.

A few things I have noticed when looking through their website is the lack of descriptions for materials of the clothing, which (unless you are very good a differentiating via photographs) might be a problem for some. However they do have a "review" section where customers can rate and talk about the item so that is helpful for shopping online. In addition, I really wish they had a petites section as I am rather...small... to say the least.

Mod Cloth is certainly a treasure house of catchy clothing and accessory pieces. I often see myself as the little black sheep in the crowd, I like something a little different than what is generally offered at the mall. If I'm not sewing it myself, I think Mod Cloth is the place I'd be. It'd also be a great place to look for unique gifts for family and friends...okay, I'll stop rambling now...I really think I just need to get something from there...

What's your favourite online place to shop?

Leave me something in the comment below :)

Ciao,

Asia Haul: BB Cream, haircare, skincare and all! (01.2012)

2012-01-14T00:31:00.000-08:00

A quick simple visual post for ya'll today. I love seeing beauty items from other parts of the world so I thought I'd share mine. Keep an eye out for anything you might want a review for, I'd be glad to do one for you ^_^

Well then, let the fun begin!

Quick photo wrap-up...

My focus recently has really been more on skincare rather than makeup. Ya'll know I adore a good foundation/base but I'm always left feeling a little guilty when smothering my face with it. As good as it might look, I want my still to get some benefits while I'm covering up. So of course, back to BB Creams I went as they offer a balance between skincare and base coverage. My favourite is of course the VIP GOLD from Skin79 but I thought I'd also try out THE ORIENTAL GOLD in case it is better.

And on the topic of skincare, this exfoliating peeling gel from B&C had been calling my name for months ever since I saw it first. As much as I thought the Laneige version was effective and "cool", I like the watery feel of this one. It certainly has the consistency of a liquid gel instead of a thicker cream, rather refreshing in my opinion.

Oh my hair....

I am thrilled to report that my hair has started to grow out longer again. Even though it's always such a love/hate relationship with short hair/long hair, I love the romantic ethereal look of long locks. But they don't come easy, especially if you are not working with virgin hair. After the bleaching and dying (I do miss my hair dye...) AND refusing to cut off the coloured bits, my only option is to condition like a mad woman.

Now having long hair doesn't meant that I always have the patience and skill to "style" it properly. I'm always on the look out for easy, quick and effective style products that do not require a degree in hairbrush wielding. Since my natural hair does have some texture to it, I'm looking forward to adapting the technique of "scrunch and spray". I like the slight bit of rump from just rolling out of bed but I'm not a fan of the frizz, hopefully a hair cream will do the trick!

I won't say much about these since they most definitely will be recieving some more attention in a review or something later on, for that I am certain. These are just the cutest nail polish set from Etude House (a Korean beauty brand).

Let me know if anything catches your eye.
I'd be glad to do a review ^_^

Ciao,

Handmade: The new scoodie caplet

2012-01-12T01:03:00.000-08:00

Hello Lovelies,

In the past few weeks, I've been busy sewing up spring items for my handmade Etsy shop. Everything from designing to cutting fabric, sewing and resewing. You can not imagine the amount of fabric bits that get's stuck to carpet. It's a nightmare. However, here is the very first of my spring items to share with you!

*proud face*

This is my handmade hooded scarf caplet.

Denim blue outside, crochet pattern inside.

I had been trying out new ways to update my standard hooded scarf (or scoodie as you many know them as) pattern and thought it might be cute to add a closure to the front so it can be worn similar to a caplet.

This new design is still based on a long scarf so it isn't round like a true caplet but I feel its adds a fun element to regular scoodie. In addition, I've also altered the bottom edges so that they have a curved scalloped shape rather than a straight line cut.

The perfect little piece to go over your spring dresses.

Covering up no longer have to look drab.

Fine this hooded scarf caplet HERE.

All handmade, all by me :)

*Let me know how you like this new design!*

Ciao,

Scents: Fancy by Jessica Simpson

2012-01-09T14:43:00.000-08:00

I'll admit a little secret, until recently I've never been too keen on scents. I'm as skeptical about fragrances as I am about foundations, not that I don't love smelly things but rather because I find that I have a very particular taste that is hard to satisfy. Not that there aren't many "good smelling" scents but I want ones that smell "stunning"!

However, in the past year or so I have gained a new liking to perfumes and would like to share some of my collection with you all. Granted, I still have much to learn in perfumery but I shall try my best at this!

What's this lovely vintage looking bottle you ask?

FANCY

by Jessica Simpson

The Basics

Released in 2008
Top notes: sparkling pear, apricot nectar and red fruits.
Middle notes: gardenia, jasmine, toasted almond and caramel.
Base notes: creamy sandalwood, vanilla crème and amber crystals.

FANCY is one of the array of perfumes launched by Jessica Simpson, along with FANCY NIGHTS, I FANCY YOU and FANCY LOVE seem to tie together a romantic and feminine theme. As the first of the line, FANCY is meant to be a playful and sweet scent which dries down to a soft vanilla/sandalwood whisper on the skin. Normally, I stay away from caramels as they tend to be too nauseating for me yet I was greatly intrigued by the allure of sparkling pear, not to mention I'm a huge fan of gardenia and jasmine. I had no clue what "apricot nectar" smells like, the same goes for "amber crystal".

The Initial Reaction

I don't think it's an exaggeration to say that I was utterly overwhelmed by this perfume when I had my first spritz. What I had expected something sweetly fruity with a warm undertone. What I got (after recovering from the excessively large spritz that one pump seemed to provide) was a heady dose of something a little suffocating, perhaps it was the caramel (it's a sneaky one!) but something in that bottle came on too strong. I had to step away from the area that I just sprayed in order to breathe for a minute. Did I also mention that the first sniff also smelled incredibly similar to a bug-bite ointment which my grandmother used on me for mosquito bites? Oh we are off to a bad start already.....

The Wear and further Contemplation

It takes about a good 15 minutes or so for the initial shock of the perfume to wear off, either that or that my olfactory senses have been numbed enough with shock to get used to it. What I found now was a bit of (what I think is) "sparkling pear" peaking out, the strong undertone of caramel is still present and the sandalwood base note is strong as well but I wasn't able to locate the jasmine at all. Missing from the mix was also the vanilla reference though I suspect it has mixed in with the sandalwood, as those two ingredients are a classic pairing. By the 4-5 hour mark, the majority of the notes have melded into a singular creamy sandalwood with an ever so slight waft of gardenia every once in a while.

My final thoughts & Ratings

Smells like: a deep floral/oriental
What stands out the most: caramel, sandalwood and gardenia
I'd recommend this for: women in their 20's and onwards
Words I'd use to describe this: heady, richly sweet, mysteriously feminine
Best worn for: snuggling or lounging around on a warm day
Repurchase factor: not likely

While this perfume has been labeled as a "floral" scent, I'd personally put this into the deep floral/oriental category due to it's overwhelmingly heavy sandalwood and caramel base notes. Having said that, I think FANCY would be a more preferable choice for a grown up audience, though I'm sure Jessica Simpson is incredibly popular amongst the younger crowd...this is by no means a kiddy perfume. What I would have liked to see is a better arranged display of scents instead of being hit hard on the head with the middle and base notes. Personally, this was a rather disappointing scent and while I do have a soft spot for a few oriental scents, this is definitely not a perfume that I would repurchase again.

Have you tried any of the other variations such as Fancy Nights, I Fancy You or Fancy Love?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Ciao,

GiveBack Giveaway #1: The Body Shop LE "Boho Beauty" eyeshadow palette

2012-01-04T20:37:00.000-08:00

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.

When life gives you love...you give it back!

How exciting it is to be able to finally bring you this post that's been bouncing in my little bunnie head for weeks! With the overwhelming support that you have all shared with me, I wanted to find a way to cast this back into the world.

Thus this new series was created, my Give Back Giveaways are spontaneous, fun and a way for me to say "Thanks for allowing me to do what I do". There is no set date/period for each giveaway, nor is there any logical trend to the giveaway products. Often times it will be makeup (after all, the beauty junkie Bunnie must stay true to her roots), sometimes it might be a cool gadget, an inspirational book or a handmade accessory. You never know what's coming up next!

The prize for today is a beautiful Limited Edition (The Body Shop) eye palette. This caught my eye instantly because of its versatile colour combination and stylish design...oh and did I mention it was Limited Edition? (I am a huge sucker for LE products.)

*The shades are less orange in real life. My camera was having a fit with me. Vintage Apricot is definitely more peach and less tangerine!*

I hope that this new Rafflecopter Widget works out well, I'm excited to get this going on a consistent basis. It would run so much smoother when I don't have to count entries by hand...horrah!

Please read all the giveaway details below carefully.
I believe you must have Javascript enabled to see the widget!

Qualifications

Be a public follower of my Youtube channel and/or my blog.
Be at least 18 years of age or have parental consent.
Open to residents of CANADA and USA

How to enter: Rafflecopter

Follow the instructions on the Rafflecopter widget you see below, enter via Facebook login or with your name and email address.
In the widget, answer the question posted for +1 entry, Tweet this contest for an extra +1 entry for a maximum of two entries per person. All entries will be recorded in Rafflecopter ^_^
Make sure to use a current email address as that is the method I will be contacting the winner.
**Remember if you are a subbie of mine on Youtube, include your Youtube name in the "extra info" section or else just put N/A.

A QUICK PHOTO DEMO

Are you ready?

Enter in the Widget below.

Details

Winners will be drawn randomly within 1 week after the giveaway ends and will be announced on both my blog and on Twitter.
Winners will be contacted via email (which is why it's important to have a current one when you enter the info below) if there is no response within the week, a new winner will redrawn.

Thank you for supporting me through my explorations.

Share this with your friend and let's get winning!

Good Luck to all!

Ciao,

Happy Haul-a-days: Christmas 2011

2012-01-02T00:49:00.000-08:00

Hello, out there!

I'm here with a holiday post, sharing some of the wonderful gifts I had received this winter from family and friends, along with a few haul goodies thrown in here as well....

It's been a real fun filled haul-a-day!

I'm not sure about y'all but I adore shopping for gifts for the holidays... I take great pride and joy in coming up with quirky, fun or useful items for all occasions. Be it a DIY project, an inside joke toy or just something that reminds of a friend... I think I get more excited planning and wrapping the gifts than the person receiving it! (Hahahaha)

Without further adieu....

Click the play button to get started

Time for a close up....
a few nick-nacks from the USA, I go down there once in a while to go to the outlets and usually drop by Walmart as well. Since the States often stock items earlier than we do here (or products not sold here), I always take a quick browse through the beauty isles to scour for goodies.

The three items on the left (Clinique, L'Occitane and MAC) came from the CCO. They had a greats selection of products there this time, including a bigger than usual Bobbi Brown collection but I reined myself in (almost go lured away by a Bobbi Brown foundation) and just came out with one necessity which was the toner and one fun item which was the MAC Beauty Powder. (But I really really really did want to try the Bobbi Brown since it is so expensive here at regular price..they had the foundie for $30 usd at the CCO.)

Have yet to try this on my face but hoping that it will give me a subtle glow, it's tinged with a pale champagne shimmer which should blend well with my yellow undertone.

Crazily excited about the new Baby Lips lipbalm from Maybelline and might I add that they have just been flying off the shelves here. This one called "Pink Punch" actually provide a fun pop of pink rather like that "I just ate a raspberry popsicle" look which is very cute and flattering.

Ta-da! The creator of the curls/waves that you see in the video today. The glove was a great idea in concept but I found it frustrating to pick up hair with it on. There is still much to learn about using this curling wand but I can say I already love the long lasting effect of the curls! I will certainly post more about this Remington wand later.

"Who here is a Burt's Bees fan?"

I've heard many a things about them but this is actually the first time I've gotten my hands (and lips..hehehe) on these items. Much has been promised now we'll just have to see if these little guys deliver big results.

Ooooooooooooooooooo here come the smelly things! I am a sucker for cute bottle and smelly scents. Although I'm very particular about fragrances, it's always refreshing to mix it up and be surprised with something I wouldn't normally choose. None the less, they shall be put to good use...don't they just look so happy just sitting there?

And lastingly, the starting base of my body butter collection....I can certainly see this one growing, hahaha. I'm currently head over heels about the Cocoa butter one (the white mini) not only the luxurious smell but also the smooth consistency of the product and the way it seems to seal the moisture on my skin. This could be the start of a wonderful relationship.

Now that I think back, I should have photographed what I gave away for the holidays because I found some really wonderful items....must remind myself for next year so I can show you all ^_^

Join in the haul-a-day fun!

Let me know what you received this year!

OPEN: Glymm Box...Dec.2011

2011-12-24T17:01:00.000-08:00

*Ding dong * Ding dong*

My December Glymm box has arrived!

A few quick points on "beauty boxes" and Glymm Box in general.

Available in Canada.

This is a "subscription" service (like you would a magazine)
$10/month (+ tax) + free shipping per month
Receive a specially curated box of deluxe sized beauty samples (often times there is at least one full sized product!)
Products are chosen based on your initial preference survey but it's a box of surprises every single month!
Glymm offers points for each box purchased (more points if you refer friends) which can be redeemed for products on their website.

That's the brief but if you want more details on Glymm as a service,

you can drop by their website HERE.

Let's see what's in my box....

CAUDALIE

Vinoperfect Enzymatic Peel mask

Grape acid and antioxidant-rich grape seed oil
Dissolves dead skin cells and promote renewed luminous skin
Full size: 40ml @ $40 CAD

My first thoughts: Wow this was a small sample but once I looked at the full size (which is only 40ml) I realized this is likely a very potent product and thus perhaps the 3ml sample will be alright for 2 applications after all. I have long been interested in Caudalie products and look at their items every time I run into Sephora, I adore the concept of a enzyme face mask but fingers crossed that it doesn't burn!

AHAVA

Mineral Hand Cream

Powerful blend of ingredients to treat hand dryness and dermatitis
Rich nourishing Dead Sea minerals hydrate and restore moisture, powerful but non greasy in texture
Full size: 3.4 oz @ $20 CAD

My first thoughts: A girl can never have enough hand cream in her handbag, that has been my motto for a good six months now and thus I'm happy to try out a new hand cream. While I've been very devoted to my beloved Crabtree and Evelyn hand therapy, it's always nice to see what else is out there. The smell of this product is wonderfully spa-like and reminiscent of my Nuxe products. I would mind this scent being a face cream either!

YVES SAINT LAURENT

Le Parisienne Eau de Parfume

Cranberry, Damascus rose, delicate violet, fresh peony, patchouli, vetiver, musk and sandalwood
A floral, feminine yet sensual fragrance which will leave a trace of mystery
Full size: 3 oz. @ $85 CAD

My first thoughts: "Oh my goodness a mini perfume bottle!" was my first thought, I love collecting these small bottles (so much cuter than the vial sprays). It's always exciting to try out high-end fragrances (those which I consider an investment) as they are quite expensive, so I want to be certain that I am madly in love with one before buying it. I'd say this is a mediocre scent for me, it wasn't love at first wiff nor do I think it will grow on me. There doesn't seem to be anything too unique or attractive in this one....-sad face.

SULA BEAUTY

Natural Lip Gloss "In Disguise"

Playful yet sophisticated line of natural based beauty products from Canada
Soften, sooth, moisturize and colour your lips, designed to compliment and not define.
Full size: 0.5 fl oz. @ $8 CAD

My first thoughts: I was really pleased with the colour choice I received (I know there were variations in the colours being sent out) as I am absolutely a pink lippie type of girl. However I was worried that this would just go into my stack of already overflowing pink glosses and wouldn't get much love. When I tried it on, I was surprised to find that is gave me a plumped up juicy baby lip result. There was no stinging but somehow the combination of colour and shimmer made my lips look fuller in a very natural way.

BONUS: $10 off Glymm giftcard

Will likely pass this along to a friend or something as I don't see myself using it.

That was my December Glymm box. Not overly bad in general though I was expecting them to do something special for the holidays!

Let me know what you received in yours!

Ciao,

Beauty Advertising, distortion & self identity

2011-12-24T13:21:00.000-08:00

Hello y'all,

I thought that I'd touch on a slightly different beauty topic today than usual. It's been in my mind for a long time to make a video talking about beauty imagery, especially the way it applies to our self image and identity.

Like I said in the video, I feel that the key is to have a clear separation between what we see and the real people in our day to day lives (ourselves included). There is nothing innately wrong with photo editing (or video editing) as it is part of a production and creative process, no one told Advant Garde artists such as Picasso or Matisse to change the images they created because they were not "realistic", that is the point isn't it? And once that boundary is established, I think it becomes easier to accept ourselves as real people, alive, breathing, with our own wonderful "flaws" and differences. Let the marketing companies do what they do, it is there job after all to create an illusion of something bigger and better than life. As long as we know the difference, we can all live our happy lives.

And if you haven't noticed already, a few large cosmetic companies have taken note (stating the obvious perhaps) to identify the post-editing process and to provide more transparency. Here's a few that I have seen.

I have seen these types of advertisements for years and only with in the past 6 months or so have I noticed the fine print that has been provided for clarification. Certainly this is a step towards the positive, whatever that is done it should be done with a certain level of transparency. Being able to change and create is a beautiful thing, whether it be a photograph we take, the nail polish your wearing or a new hair colour...just keep it real.

I hope this post and video gave you some ideas to think about and a new beauty perspective for the upcoming year. Happy Holidays, yay Christmas Eve!

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Ciao,

TALK: Your essential brushes for makeup

2011-12-15T00:04:00.000-08:00

Makeup brushes are a tricky thing, some people swear by them for a flawless look while others don't care for them that much at all. I think that there are certain useful and helpful brushes to make your makeup application easier and more precise. Today, I'm here to share some of my favourites.

A few things to keep in mind as you are building you brush collection.

Look for brushes which fit your style of makeup application (this will make more sense as you watch my video) because while there may be certain "standards" in choosing brushes, in reality you are the one using them. Therefore, they should feel comfortable and fit your purpose.

Think of brushes are multi-functional tools. One brush might be good for a variety of usages, choose tools that work hard and work well. Not only will this be more affordable but also skims down your necessary tools.

There is no real winner between synthetic and natural haired bristles, rather it depends on what is the brush is used for. Natural hairs are said to better distribute powder products and synthetic hairs might be better suited for cream products as they do not absorb products.

Ready to get going?
Click the video to play!

A quick photo summary...

(1.) Makeup sponges:

use them wet for blending/applying foundation, cream blush or cream highlighters/bronzers

(2.) Synthetic hair foundation brush:

use it for liquid/cream foundations, liquid highlighters or concealer

(3.) Large rounded fluffy brush/Powder brush:

use it for look powder/ pressed powder, blush (large areas)

(4.) Small rounded fluffy brush:

use it for precision blush application, powder highlighters.

(1.) Small pointed eyeshadow brush

use it for precise application of darker shades of eyeshadow or to create a cut-crease look, also great for the lower lash line

(2.) Large round shader brush

use it for quickly applying large strokes of colour, the densely packed bristles offer excellent pigmentation effects for eyeshadow, can also be use for blending.

(3.) Fluffy round crease brush

use it for softening colour around the edges or blending colours together, I rarely use this for applying colour directly. Will also be good for a soft touch of powder highlighter if you want precision.

(4.) Slanted flat brow/liner brush

use it for linning the eyes with powder/gel/cream eyeliner or for drawing in your eyebrows with a powder product.

(5.) Flat synthetic concealer brush

use it for applying creamy concealer and for cream eyeshadow as well

(6.) Brow/lash groomer

use it for separating clumpy mascara on your lashes and brushing your brow hairs into place

*Missing from the group photo*

(7.) Eyelash curler!

use it for creating perfectly curled lashes before mascara, it absolutely helps to enlarge the appearance of the eye and add the finishing touch to your entire eye look.

This wraps up today's post!
I truly believe that it's not always necessary to have the most expensive or fancy brush tools to get a beautiful look. Yes they are lovely but it is often the person who uses the tools that make the look come together.

Any tool is quite useless unless you practice using it.
A few essential items will get you to gorgeousness in no time!

Ciao!

Review: Duo Lash glue (vs. Lash Grip)

2011-12-14T22:33:00.000-08:00

So you might be thinking, "seriously? She's going to talk to us about lash glue?"

Why of course!

While it might be one of the things that most people overlook (especially if they do not wear false lashes frequently), a good lash glue is essential for keeping those falsies on your eyes all day and all night. The right glue will also make the whole lash application smoother and who knows, might even foster some new lash addicts.

As you see here, I've put the DUO glue next to the LashGrip glue by Ardelle. This is not only for size comparison (which I will talk about in a bit) but I'd like to do a small product comparison between these two.

Lash Grip was my very first lash glue and I had used it until it was (probably) too old to be sanitary and thus retired into the garbage can. On the other hand, I had heard about DUO from many bloggers and it appeared to be the glue of choice for makeup artist around the world. Thus on my following trip to Sephora I went straight for a tube of this miracle glue.

DUO LASH GLUE
Available in Clear and Black
Available in small or large tubes (mine is large, 14g)

Packaging: Squeeze tube with pointed tip
Availability: Sephora and select drugstores
Texture: Quite runny, harder to work with
Drying time: Very long (at least 1-2 minutes)
Lasting power: Incredible
Ease of removal: Very hard

My thoughts: This product certainly has its merits, the adhesion (once its' set and dry) is incredible and will should last well through water, sweat and oil. However the long drying time makes the application process more difficult and lengthy than it should be. I often find myself sitting around doing nothing but waving the lash strip around waiting for it to dry and put it on. In addition, the removal process is rather difficult and needs to be soaked with waterproof eye makeup remover for a long time before it loosens. DO NOT try to pull this one off as it will take out some of your own lashes with it.

ARDELLE LASH GRIP

Available in clear and black

One size.

Packaging: Squeeze tube with pointed tip
Availability: Most drugstores
Texture: Creamy and easy to apply
Drying time: Quick (around 30 seconds)
Lasting power: Good
Ease of removal: Easy

My thoughts: I'd say this is a good everyday glue and great for beginners who aren't that comfortable working with falsies and glue yet. The thicker consistency of the products makes it easier to apply to the lash bone while the quick drying time means you can get this one your eye faster (and back to other things). Once set it's definitely not as long lasting as the DUO glue but for daily wear it's easy to use and easy to remove. I must also note that this does smell a little funny...rather stinky in fact though it doesn't linger.

The Final Verdict?

I'd say go for the Lash Grip if your lash needs aren't complicated and you are just looking for something that's easy to use and wears well for day to day occasions. If you're looking for a product for photoshoots, sports, swimming or other "high intensity" occasions (weddings included), then DUO is your best choice for undeniably long lasting hold.

Personally, I'll likely go back to the Lash Grip just because it dries faster and isn't such a pain to remove. I like squeezing the glue straight onto the lash bone and the thicker consistency of Lash Grip also makes application easier (no goopy messes here).

Can't decide which types of falsies are best? Find the answer in this POST.

Still working on the application process? See my video tutorial HERE.

Do you have a favourite lash glue?
Share it in the comments below.

Have a great night Everybody!

Ciao,

Winter Therapy: Gift ideas and new items

2011-12-12T17:55:00.000-08:00

Hello all you Snow Bunnies!

I'm excited to bring you today's post featuring some fun winter products I've found that would also make wonderful gifts. In fact, I happened upon most of them while I was out completing my holiday gift list. You'll also get a peak at some new drugstore releases... well then, what are you waiting for?

Click the video to enjoy!

A quick photo round up...

These Bath and Body works products are just darling! I've never splurged too much on bodycare, what you'll find most often in my drawers are $2.99 bottles of Vaseline. However I think these products just create a lovely experience overall, these days I can't wait to shower so I can put on the body creams. They aren't too expensive at their regular price (much less than I thought they would be) but it's certainly a great treat when they are on BOGO! You'll definitely be seeing more Bath and Body works products featured in the future.

Ooooh, this love/hate relationship with my hair. I know it's time for a trim and eventually take off all my coloured ends but I can't bare to part with my hair just yet. Thus I've been looking up and down for great hair treatments. The Garnier Fructis was a delightful surprise, I even went back to pick up an extra bottle and also a frizz serum from the Sleek and Shine line (reviews to come when I'm ready!) As for the JOICO K-Pak Reconstructor? There are no words for how thrilled I am to see this sitting in my bathroom. I have yet to find a hair care line that performed in the same way as this ph-balance, protein rich JOICO system. Try looking for them in "sets" which are often at discounted prices, these guys are sure to please all!

I'm sure these Revlon Lip Butters have been hyped to the moon and back. The new trend in lipcare products seem to be this new balm/lipstick hybrid which seems to me like a lip version of "BB Creams". Meant to treat and paint your pout in lovely shades of cranberry, ruby, raspberry and caramel, I love the way they make lips look but really wished they were less expensive. The pink tube is twisted all the way up and even though it's new, the total product seems quite minimal. There should at least be 20-30% more in the tube in my opinion.

And lastly, I shall leave you with this photo of some new releases and my ASOS order. I really wished that ASOS would carry more UK lines, it's always incredibly exciting to be able to test out products from other parts of the world. The Union Jack Rimmel palette is said to be released in Spring 2011 in North America (probably later for us in Canada) and is likely to have a slight variation in colour theme than the UK version. Unfortunately, I can't be sure when and if the Kate collection of lipsticks will ever cross the pond.

Look out for reviews and tutorial featuring these new drugstore products very soon, I have a couple looks planned which I think will go very well with these items. I hope you guys are looking forward to the holidays and getting wrapped up in the hustle and bustle of the season, it only happens once a year!

Inspired: Victoria's Secret model makeup

2011-12-08T16:57:00.001-08:00

Hello Lovelies,

I've always wanted to try a Victoria's Secret makeup look and since the 2011 Annual VS fashion show aired last week, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to share a VS "angel" inspired makeup tutorial.

I feel there's a few key points that carry through all the VS models, irregardless of their ethnicity (although there are a large number of hot Brazilian models) and style. They are always glamorous yet have that "girl-next-girl" appeal which makes them so lovely. Today's look is not quite a "replica" of any particular VS makeup look but rather my version of a VS Angel imagery.

Let's get familiar with some of VS's most popular faces...

Miss "Legs-for-miles"

Alessandra

Veteran VS Model

Adriana Lima

New Angel on the block

Rosie H.W.

Here's a few key feature to take note of ...

Natural looking skin (flawless but real)
Lush lashes for batting at the boys
Plump lips
Bronzers and highlighters for that angelic glow

Ready to transform yourself?

*click the video to play*

I feel that this look is really adaptable, certainly it can be worn in an extremely natural way or kicked up with more dramatic lashes and slightly darker eyeshadow. The feel of this look over-all is meant to be soft and approachable but not boring.... extra little details and a light touch should do the trick.

As you can see, I avoided going all out with the bronzer which would have easily looked too heavy with my pale complexion. Instead I focused on a bright pop of blush and just a slight kiss of shimmer along the cheeks.

An unedited before & after comparison!
(oh I'm never quite fond of this part)

Products used for today's look.

Bourjois Healthy Mix foundation #51
Maybelline Fit-Me concealer "Fair"
NYX Jumbo eye pencil "Milk"
TooFaced shadow duo "Sexpresso" (for brows)
Daiso Ellefar palette "peach-gold"
Wet 'n Wild Colour Eyecon trio "Sweet as Candy"
Revlon Liquid liner "Black"
Dollywink Liquid liner "Black"
Shiseido lash curler
Maybelline The Colossal Volume Express mascara wp "Glam black"
DUO Lash glue
Ebay lashes (flared corners)
Etude Top 10 Tan shimmer liner
CandyDoll blush "Strawberry Pink"
Too Faced Pink Leopard Bronzer
Rimmel 1000 Kisses lip liner "Tiramisu"
Victoria's Secret Big Smooch plumping gloss "Pink & Plump"

If you haven't seen photos from the recently 2011 VS Fashion Show, you can find a good selection of them from PopSugar. They've posted a good selection of the photos. Or better yet you can always search Youtube for the real deal.

As I was researching this, I happened upon some lovely Asian models who walked the runway for VS this year. Including (who appears to be) our beloved Liu Wen, who appeared in photographs from my previous runway inspired makeup looks.

In a sea of tanned bronzed skin, it's nice to see some variety. I mean honesty, my only road to Alessandra's golden colour is through a bottle of St. Tropez (actually probably two bottles).

I hope you all had fun with today's makeup tutorial and doll up yourself as an angel from time to time. For those who are a little shy about makeup or those looking for a light but pretty look, this one would be a stunner.

Take care of yourselves everyone.

And have a wonderful day!

Ciao,

Tutorial: Roberto Cavalli fw2011 (Rustic smokey eyes)

2011-12-02T09:49:00.001-08:00

Here's a look that's a little out of my comfort zone today, something dark and smokey inspired by the rustic look at the FW2011 Roberto Cavalli fashion show.

The look for the show was a smudgey charcoal eye with hints of rustic cooper and gold it in the tear duct. I skipped over the "scuba hair" look created by leading hair stylist Guido Palau and tried to make my adaptation slightly more wearable.

As always, for creating any inspired look, it really helps to have wonderous photographs so you can see the placement of the colours. All runway and beauty visuals you see here came from my style haven "Style.com" and of course their excellent photographers.

On another note, I've been extremely excited about the influx of Asian models in the international fashion scene. Not only does this help to create a more globally cohesive feel but it also makes adapting looks so much easier as I have model references with Asian features similar to mine. See how the make looks so different on Karmen and Nimue (above) and Liu Wen (below)?

KEY FEATURES

Skin: Satin finish with cream highlighter
Cheeks: Bronzing powder
Eyes: Charcoal black, khol rimmed eyes, bright rust and gold
Brows: Thick and a little unruly
Lips: Matte pinky beige

I tried to use similar colour combinations but mainly I focused on the placement of the eyeshadow and the general colour scheme. I lack that intense red rust shadow used on the inner eye so I opted for a orange-cooper instead. Certainly you can always make adaptations using what colours you have on hand.

Ready to see this look in action?
*Click to video to play*

Before & After

For me the biggest challenge were the eyebrows and the general shape of the eyeshadow application. I rarely wear a crease look and certainly not one this dramatic but I was surprised by how it turned out. Of course the false lashes are optional though I felt that it balanced out the heavy eyeshadow and make the look more glamorous overall and more wearable than otherwise.

Products used

Lancome Teint Miracle foundation
Maybelline Fit-Me pressed powder
Maybelline Fit-Me Concealer
Hard Candy Fox in a box blush "Smooth Talker"
MAC Beauty powder "Smooth Harmony"
Too Face eyeshadow duo "Sexpresso" (for brows)
Daiso Brow pencil "Dark brown"
MAC paintpot "Groundwork"
Daiso Pearl eyeshadow palette "Brown"
Smashbox single eyeshadow "24k"
MAC Lip erase "Pale"
B.E. Buxom lip crayon "Sydney"
ebay false lashes

A few photographs from backstage...

Ahhhhh...the life of a model, the makeup artist, nail guru and hair genius all primping over you at the same time. Seems rather uncomfortable to be honest.

The clothes...

I'd still say this is a very essentially Cavalli show, the rich patterning and play with texture is what I've come to know of Roberto Cavalli's designs.

Leather, feathers, rock 'n roll gyspy-esque goddesses!

Sheer dresses with velvet burnouts?
YES!
Dark take on silk and chiffon?
DOUBLE YES!

I hope you are all enjoying my series of runway inspired posts, I feel they are great fun to try out new styles (for me) and of course to think about how these trends can be adapted for us "regular" people..hahaha.

Take care everyone!

Ciao,

Best nude lipsticks (2011 edt)

2011-11-30T19:50:00.001-08:00

Wheeeeeee, you can't imagine how much fun I had picking out the products for today's post. Nude and pinky lipsticks are my kryptonite, I own way to many and while I am absolutely certain that each shade is unique, many people can't tell the difference and wonder why I keep so many of the "same colour".

Today I want to share with you some of my favourite nude lipsticks (perhaps I will remember to do this yearly as an update?). I'd say there are a few key things to keep in mind when searching for a nude lipstick...

Undertone (cool/warm/neutral)
Texture and Finish: Sheer? Matte? Glossy?
Intensity: Super pale or Warm Caramel?

I'd say that out of these three points, "undertone" is the most difficult one to tackle mainly because when it comes to nude/beige shades, the undertone is very difficult to detect. My suggestion is just to try it out on your lips, if it somehow doesn't "feel" right the there's probably something amiss. Most people would be able to pull neutral shades and either a warm or a cool shade as well.

Ready to get going?

*click the video to play*

You can view my foundation matches & other details HERE.

A quick photo roundup...

CANMAKE Lip concealer:

Coverage: medium to full
Intensity: pale to light
Finish: satin (with an ever so slight hint of shine)
Availability: drugstores in Japan/Asia or online for the rest of us!
Other: Love it's versatility but don't like how SMALL it is.
Review of this HERE.

MAC "Myth" Lipstick:

Coverage: medium to full
Intensity: light
Finish: matte / satin
Availability: MAC online or via MAC counter/ department stores
Other: Can be unforgiving and harsh if you're not careful, can also be tricky to apply.
Review of MAC lipsticks in general HERE.

GOSH Velvet touch lipstick "Darling"

Coverage: light to medium
Intensity: pale to light
Finish: glossy
Availability: Some drugstores or online
Other: It's sometimes too light even for my skintone but I do adore the glossy finish.

NYX Round lipstick "Summer Love"

Coverage: medium to full
Intensity: light/medium
Finish: Satin
Availability: Drugstores or online
Other: This is a very close match to my natural lip colour, would make a great everyday nude for those who are afraid to go too pale.

NYX Round lipstick "Orange Soda"

Coverage: medium to full
Intensity: light/medium
Finish: Satin matte
Availability: Drugstores or online
Other: One of my absolute favourite lipsticks, just enough pop but still a works like a nude.

Mayelline Colour Sensational lipstick "Beige Bombshell"

Coverage: medium to full
Intensity: medium
Finish: Satin
Availability: Limited edition but may still be available online.
Other: So rich and creamy and such a sophisticated colour.

REVLON Super Lustrous lipstick "Just enough buff"

Coverage: sheer and buildable to medium
Intensity: medium dark
Finish: Cream (according to the label) but more like Satin/glossy
Availability: Drugstores everywhere or online
Other: A very universal shade, would look great on the fairest of skintones to deepest cocoa skintone! Win win!

Hope you enjoyed today's post.
Do share your favourite nude lipstick shade!

Ciao,

HAUL: Wait what? Yes! Bourjois, Orly, LE L'oreal & Maybelline

2011-11-29T11:49:00.001-08:00

Hello y'all

Hope you are all in the festive spirit! We're only 2 days away from December and I am eager to start decorating the house. I've got reindeers, squirrel toys, pine cones....

But before we get there, today I want to share a few items I've added to my collection from a purchase from the UK. And of course (if you still remember) my 6 month makeup ban is still in effect but I've decided that limited edition items and/or overseas products should still be up for grabs. Most of them I will end up storing in my "save" box for use after the 6 month period is over. (Yes, I'm an incredibly organized product collector.)

Let's get in first with the video ^-^

A bit more information!

Bourjois Healthy Mix serum foundation: I think this may have been one of my favourite purchases in a long time. The way this applies on the skin just feels incredible and the finish it gives is just as pretty. I'd say it's not very long lasting but otherwise seems pretty perfect in my books. I might have to do a review on this one later on but very good first impressions.

30ml / 1 fluid oz. Made in France.

Bourjois does have a Canadian website if you are interested, though the selection is very sparse. You can see it HERE.

Maybelline AngelFit 2-way powder foundation: is by far my favourite powder foundation that I have used and that is saying a lot since I cringe at most powders. Many are too thick, resulting in a dust ball effect, others are so thin they do not provide any coverage at all. The AngelFit powder foundation seems to be a great medium with a light texture and feel on the skin but imparting enough coverage for those "just rolled out of bed" mornings when you do not have the time or energy to put my regular base makeup.

SPF22/ PA++ (7.5g/ 0.26 Oz.) Made in China.

This is an Asia exclusive release but you may be able to find it through ebay.

L'Oreal True Match superblendable powder foundation: I believe this is a different formulation than what we have here in North America but the concept is meant to be the same. Seamless coverage, impeccable blendability, matching your skin tone and texture to provide a natural and undetectable finish. Big promises from L'Oreal but this is going into my "save" box for now since I want to use up some other items first.

SPF20/PA++ (9g)

QUO by ORLY polish keeper: Now THIS is something that I am incredibly excited about and have been gushing over it ever since I tried it for the first time. Those who use and love the Seche Vite fast drying top coat will understand what I mean when I say that Seche Vite can be "difficult" at times, drying up goopy in the bottle and hard to work with over time. Well, this new product from Quo is a solid contender for the top spot of best top coat. I think it's a very smart move by QUO to team up with a big name like ORLY to launch their nail products and the quality is certainly evident.

14ml/0.48 fl Oz., Free of DBP, Formaldehyde, Toluene. Made by ORLY in USA.

That's all for now.
Have a wonderful day Everyone!

Ciao,

OPEN: Glymm Box...November 2011

2011-11-24T18:17:00.001-08:00

Hi again,

To continue with the "November-ness" of yesterday's post, I want to also share my very first Glymm Box that arrived in the mail this week (just 2 days before my LuxeBox). I thought it would be good to test out two of the most popular Canadian beauty box services (Glymm and Luxe Box) before making a final decision on which one suited me best.

A few quick points on "beauty boxes" and Glymm Box in general.

Available in Canada.

This is a "subscription" service (like you would a magazine)
$10/month (+ tax) + free shipping per month
Receive a specially curated box of deluxe sized beauty samples (often times there is at least one full sized product!)
Products are chosen based on your initial preference survey but it's a box of surprises every single month!
Glymm offers points for each box purchased (more points if you refer friends) which can be redeemed for products on their website.

That's the brief but if you want more details on Glymm as a service,

you can drop by their website HERE.

Now with all the logistics out of the way,

let's open my very first Glymm box!

My Glymm box came to me wrapped up in a lovely shade of pink, stereo-typical? Yes. Cute? OH YEAH! Here's a quick sneak peak at the wrapping and products.

Let's get rolling on November's Glymm goodies!

Click the video to play.

A quick product summary....

LISE WATIER

Flash lift radiance vial

Vitalizing serum that can be applied any time of the day
Erases signs of fatigue and smoothes the appearance of wrinkles
One application per vial
Full size: 7vials (1ml each) @ $27CAD

My initial thoughts: Given that I still had my vial from my October Luxebox, I'm excited to have two applications. Now I can test this out a little better. Certainly appears to be a very innovative and functional concept and from the little snooping around I've done, many people did seem to like it.

ORLANE

Light smoothing Cream

hypoallergenic day cream infused with rich vitamins and minerals
Defends against daily toxins with "Cellular Life" complex; 7 minerals, 12 vitamins and 19amino acids
Full size: 50ml @ $80CAD

My initial thoughts: A little much don't you think? "Celluar Life" complex may sound cool but I was alittle taken back by the amount of minerals, vitamins and amino acids it claims to contain. It sounded complicated and expensive. Yup. I wonder how many people can actually afford a $80 jar of cream? Glad to be able to try this but very unlikely to ever purchase it even if I did like it.

RAHUA

Luxury Shampoo & Conditioner

Natural, organic haircare from the Rahua nut, harvested from the Amazonian rainforest
Full size: 275ml each shampoo $32CAD & conditioner @$34CAD

My initial thoughts: I don't have much feeling about this one. Like I said, one small sample pack is unlikely to change anyone's mind about a certain product, especially if they are already faithful to another brand. Plus, there really wasn't much information given about the ingredients or what other benefits this haircare system had.

RGB

Designer Nail Lacquer "Camel"

Named InStyle magazine's "America's most wanted polish"
LA's contemporary nail care brand making chip resistant & ultra glossy polishes; 3Free and well known with Jenna Hipp and Urban Outfitters
Full size: 12.5ml @ $18CAD

My initial thoughts: I was beyond excited to see this in my Glymm box as I love trying out new nail polish, plus I was even more thrilled to see the label "Camel". Sure enough this turned out to be a luxurious shade for fall. Neutral but absolutely classy.

ANNABELLE

Smudge Paint in "Plummed"

Smudgeable paint shadow and eyeliner
Innovative brush design for easy travel and portability
Wear it discretely for day or dramatic for night
Full size: 2g @ 10.95CAD

My initial thoughts: Another great surprise! I am very particular about my eyeliners yet I was just looking at this new product by Annabelle in the drugstore the other day. The brush in handle concept is very smart and well thought out. Even though this strays from my basic choice of black or brown eyeliner, I know that purple usually enhances brown eyes...so I will definitely give this one a go.

A last Snapshot together!

In short, I am immensely impressed by my very first Glymm box! The choice of products were mostly interesting and certainly the RGB polish by itself would have cost more than the entire box itself. The value is certainly evident and I can't wait to see what is in my next box.

What did YOU get in your November Glymm Box?

Share it with me in the comments ^_^

Ciao,

OPEN: LuxeBox ...Nov. 2011

2011-11-24T16:28:00.001-08:00

Hello Y'all,

Novembers Luxebox has just arrived at my door, so then, it must be time for another...OPEN BOX post! This is my second box and so far, I'm still quite happy, certainly we all have a "comfort zone" and since this beauty box subscription has started, I've really come to look forward to the goodies that I normally wouldn't have purchased.

In case you are not familiar with Luxebox,

here's a rundown of how it works in three points.

Subscribe monthly for $12/month, renewed automatically.
Receive 4-5 curratted deluxe sample sizes of beauty products to try out.
Items range from cult classics to new releases!

You can get more information HERE from their website,
but let's get on with it already!

This months array contains a very thoughtful selection of products, I'll let your eyes wander for a bit first....

Now, on to the video!

*mind you I was a little giddy that morning*

A quick product summary....
(tea not included...will talk about it in another post!)

BENEFIT COSMETICS

B. Right! Moisture prep toning lotion

Vitamin E acetate, natural oat & meadow-sweet (reduce lines)
Aloe leaf & yeast extract (purifying)
Full size: 177.4ml @ $29CAD

My initial thoughts: This was a line that I had been looking into for a few months already and if I had actually visited a Benefit boutique when I was in San Francisco, I likely would have tried something. Finding this in my November box was a wonderful surprise (it's like they read my mind) and I adore that the mini size comes in a smaller version of the retro bottle. No cheap plastic looking sample products here!

LISE WATIER
Plumpissimo Le Gloss

Dehydrated hyaluronic filling spheres fill up fine lines in lips, expanding when coming in contact with the natural moisture on your lips
The result is fuller, sexier and poutier lips!.
Full size: 6.2ml @ $20 CAD

My initial thoughts: Not quite sure how I feel about these plumping lipglosses, I've always been interested in the concept of them but didn't like the sting that most of them inflicted. The colour however is gorgeous AND full coverage, must give Lise Watier bonus points for that one!

PUR MINERALS
"Midnight Sapphire" eye pencil

Automatic twist-up pencil, long lasting and in an array of shades
Smudge tip at the end helps to achieve a perfect smokey effect
Full size: 0.28g @ 19.50 CAD

My initial thoughts: I am extremely particular about my eyeliners, I don't try very many and I am devotedly faithful to the few that I like. My issues with liners is mainly smudging (when it's not supposed to) and the intensity of colours. I love bold opaque colours, so I will just have to see if this lives up to the claims.

OLAY RENGENERIST
Wrinkle revolution Complex

Advanced micro-fillers and light diffusing particles smooth the look of lines
Superb hydration to ease deep lines in just 14 days
Full size: ??? (information not provided)

My initial thoughts: Personally, I have no use for this at the moment. Going straight to my Mum :)

PACO RABBANE

Black Xs (his/hers)

HERS: Ultra-feminine and sensual

tamarind blossom, pink peppercorns, cranberry, hellebore rose, black violet, cacao flower, massoia wood, patchouli and vanilla
Full size: 50ml @ $65CAD

HIS: Woody, virile and powerful, provocative and audacious

Cinnamon, tolu balm, black cardamom and praline, calabrian lemon, kalamanzi, tagete and sage, palissandre wood, black amber, patchouli and ebony wood.
Full size: 50ml @ $56CAD

My Initial Thoughts: As you saw in the video, I was completely confused about this until I saw the two bottles together (oh what silliness). I can certainly say that this is such a thoughtful and fun item, irregardless if I end up liking the fragrance or not, I am impressed by this matching his and hers item. Very sweet! I adore the design of the bottle (in fact I'm really starting to love all these mini sized packaging) and as fragrance can be a finicky choice, it always makes me smile to get deluxe samples to test out.

Bunnie Loves: Favourites Ep. #2

2011-11-20T22:55:00.001-08:00

Hello Everyone,

It's official. Fall has set in over here, we have been receiving nothing but rain for a few days straight, the skies are gloomy and I feel rather like a wilted flower that has not seen any sunlight. But the important thing is that without natural lighting, its quite annoying to take product photos, so everything you will see today comes from either my light-box or other forms of artificial lighting. [My apologies in advance!]

Today I thought I'd share with you some of my new favourite items, a continuation of my series called "Bunnie Loves". These are products that have taken up a semi-permanent position in my makeup routine (semi-permanent because I have a hard time committing to products *hahahaha--).

Click the video to get rolling!

A quick summary...

Rimmel Lash Accelerator (available in drugstores)

Solid contender in the lash growth department (at least for me), I've been interested in lash growth treatments and lash extension for a very long time (the longer the better, right?). However I wasn't ready to pay the price for them since they were only semi-permanent (extensions) and expensive. I'm so happy to see brands like L'Oreal and now Rimmel rolling low-end versions and guess what? They are very effective to boot! I loved using the L'Oreal "Lash Serum" and this Rimmel Accelerator is great too. Definitely longer lashes and a slight increase in density too! I think I will just switch up between these two and my lashes will have a bright future ahead. Just remember to wear these products at night because they do tend to leave a slight white residue on your lashes.

Etude House: Collagen Moistfull smoothing ampule primer

(available in Asia or search online)

Right up there with my favourite Laura Mercier primer is this one from Etude house. Honestly, I wasn't even sure why I decided to try this because I'm just not a primer girl as they tent to clog my pores horribly and leave me feeling suffocated. This lightweight primer with a dry texture yet pearly finish is truly the best of both worlds for combination skins like me. Oh, and no dehydration lines to be seen :)

Rimmel: StayGlossy lipgloss (available in drugstores)

Ultra smooth, glossy and with a good smidgen of colour! These glosses have proven to be a quick favourite of mine since I first tested them out. Have been using them none-stop in my everyday makeup look, they are subtle enough to through together with any look yet provide a juicy, high shine pout. Absolutely no complains here.

Hard Candy: Fox in a box blush "Smooth Talker" (available in Walmart)

If you've seen my review for the Hard Candy Fox in a Box blushers you would know that they are pigmented, fun and versatile. But did you chance upon this lovely shade? Actually, now that I'm looking at this photo, it does have that fall warmth to it doesn't it? I think it will make a lovely shade for those with fair to medium-tan skintones.

Moroccan Oil: Oil Treatment (available online or in salons)

Blew my mind. (Well...more like blew my "hair"...) Either way, I adore this treatment for its effectiveness and long lasting effect. Initially I had thought this was another one of those over-hyped products boosted by the prestige market but this oil treatment really delivers. I highly recommend this for those with colour treated or permed hair who need something potent. I've gotta look out for this brand more often!

Revlon: Super lustrous lipstick "Just enough Buff"

Hello gorgeous Halle Berry! After seeing her in the Revlon ad the lip colour she was wearing stuck in my mind, imagine my surprise to find it on sale at my drugstore on a whim. I quickly scanned the display for this shade and am pleased to report that it looks lovely on my fair skin as well. Truly a universal shade that is creamy, smooth and unscented, for those that love a naturally sexy nude lip.

That wraps up this episode of my favourites....

I hope you found something wonderful to try from this post.

Feel free to let me know your current favourite product!

Stay warm out there!

Ciao!

Foundation Collection (Nov 2011)

2011-11-14T17:05:00.000-08:00

Get ready! Today's post is going to be lengthly but I think it will be worthwhile and help alot of you out there who have been curious about various types of foundations. There will be lots of links everywhere to reviews I have done for these products so look out for those sneaky links!

So let's talk foundation, it's my favourite makeup item since I have long battled with skin issues.

A quick few points about my own skintype.

Very breakout prone, large visible pores around the center of my face
Combination skintype with oily forehead but also dry patches, easily dehydrated
Neutral/pale yellow undertone (click here to see a list of all my foundation matches from other brands)

I prefer foundations that have a satin to glowy finish as I feel it looks the most beautiful on the skin for a day to day wear, it's fresh for younger skin but also very forgiving on mature skin as well. A good foundation should stand well on its own, without the help of primers and powders, which I consider "extras" because this way I will know the true effectiveness of the product. Long lasting ability is not the greatest concern for me but my foundations have to feel comfortable on the skin.

Now that we've covered the basics,
let's jump into the video!

Products mentioned in the video

*all photos can be enlarged on flickr, just click them*

Holika Holika : Aqua Petite Jelly BB (SPF20)

best for normal/oily skin, powdery finish, high coverage

Skinfood : Red Bean BB Cream (SPF20/PA+) (review here)

best for dry/normal/slightly oily skin, satin finish, medium/full coverage, will transfer

***Hadalabo : BB Moist Cream (SPF32/ PA+++) (review here)

best for dry/normal skin, glossy finish, medium/buildable coverage, will transfer

Rimmel : Lasting Finish 25hr wear foundation

best for slightly dry/normal/oily skin, satin-matte finish, light-medium/buildable coverage

***Maybelline : Fit-Me foundation (SPF15) (review here)

best for dry/normal/slightly oily skin, dewy/glossy finish, light-medium coverage, slight transfer

Clinique : Even Better foundation (SPF 15)

best for slightly dry/normal/slightly oily skin, satin finish, medium/full coverage

NARS : Sheer Glow foundation (review here)

best for normal/oily skin, satin-matte finish, light-medium coverage, extremely long lasting

***Lancome : Teint Miracle foundation (SPF15) (review here)

best for normal/oily skin, glowy/pearl finish, medium/buildable coverage, slight transfer

***These are my favourites of the bunch for their overall performance.

I have also posted previously about my foundation swatches/collection, feel free to browse those posts (here & here2) to see what I have used before.

Hope this post was informative for everybody and thanks for stopping by.

Have a wonderful day!

Ciao,

NUXE skincare ~ Dry oil, Creme Fraiche, Creme Prodigieuse

2011-11-10T00:49:00.000-08:00

Hello Lovelies

This is going to be super fun post because I want to share with you one of my all time favourite skincare brands. While they aren't so well known in North America (I rarely hear or see them being talked about), they seem to be a large and well established brand in Europe.

I would say that as a product lover, NUXE is possible one of my best finds ever. Period. Yes, they stole my heart with the very first product I tried and while I don't think that every single NUXE item is worthwhile, a large number of them are just fantastic. In fact, I feel that many of these items from the NUXE range would be just as wonderful for men as well. I want to share three of these great products with you and maybe you'll turn into a NUXE nut like me!

Huile Prodigieuse

According to Nuxe...

"Huile Prodigieuse® was created in 1991, and originated from the needs of a young mother, Aliza Jabès, for a practical, comprehensive skincare product for active women like herself."

"Huile Prodigieuse® was the first multi-purpose and multi-usage oil in pharmacies and quickly became a cult product symbolizing the brand, but also a symbol of the adoration showed to the brand by women and stars. It sums up the philosophy of authenticity, sensuality and effectiveness held in high esteem by NUXE.
As a best-seller for the brand, this dry oil nourishes, repairs and protects the face, body and hair with its unique concentration of Precious Plant Oils (30%) and Vitamin E. It enhances the skin and leaves the hair with a radiant shine in just one step."

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Wow, really just wow. A great concept that came out as a beautiful product that was executed, so well in fact that I think they should keep making this forever. It's a multi-purpose product that is easy to use and effective, in fact one of my favourite ways to use it is by mixing it with other moisturizers. Don't prefer this on my hair as it is a bit too greasy/heavy on my fine hair but other wise a great investment product that works as well as it looks luxe. Do note that there is a bronzing version available as well.

INGREDIENTS (via NUXE website)

ISOPROPYL ISOSTEARATE*, MACADAMIA TERNIFOLIA SEED OIL*, COCO-CAPRYLATE/CAPRATE*, DICAPRYLYL ETHER*, PRUNUS AMYGDALUS DULCIS (SWEET ALMOND) OIL*, CORYLUS AVELLANA (HAZEL) SEED OIL*, CAMELLIA OLEIFERA SEED OIL*, PARFUM/FRAGRANCE, TOCOPHEROL*, BORAGO OFFICINALIS SEED OIL*, OLEA EUROPAEA (OLIVE) FRUIT OIL*, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL*, ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS (ROSEMARY) LEAF EXTRACT*, HYPERICUM PERFORATUM FLOWER/LEAF/STEM EXTRACT*, SOLANUM LYCOPERSICUM (TOMATO) FRUIT/LEAF/STEM EXTRACT*, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, BENZYL SALICYLATE, BUTYLPHENYL METHYLPROPIONAL, CITRONELLOL, GERANIOL, HYDROXYCITRONELLAL, LIMONENE, LINALOOL [N1005/E].

* Origine naturelle

Creme Fraiche de Beaute Suractivee

This is another five star product from Nuxe, of it's well known basic products that I feel is often overlooks in the sea of other fancy lotions and creams with high prices.Thick, luxurious and incredibly comforting on the skin. Don't be turned off by it's denser texture, you can always use less of it if you do have oilier skin but this is my best recommendation for a solid/high performance face cream. With continued use I found that my skin was better balanced, less sensitive and with a slightly glow; this product is simple yet potent and is great one to use to maintain healthy looking skin.

INGREDIENTS

AQUA/WATER, GLYCERIN, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, OCTYLDODECANOL, DIMETHICONE, BORON NITRIDE, HYDROGENATED VEGETABLE OIL, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (JOJOBA) SEED OIL, CYCLOPENTASILOXANE, PEG-20 METHYL GLUCOSE SESQUISTEARATE, HYDROXYETHYL UREA, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, METHYL GLUCOSE SESQUISTEARATE, XYLITYLGLUCOSIDE, CYCLOHEXASILOXANE, CORYLUS AVELLANA (HAZEL) SEED OIL, ANHYDROXYLITOL, HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER, TOCOPHEROL, TRISTEARIN, DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER, SQUALANE, POLYACRYLATE-13, PHENOXYETHANOL, METHYLPROPANEDIOL, XYLITOL, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, PARFUM/FRAGRANCE, CI 77891/TITANIUM DIOXIDE, POLYISOBUTENE, ALLANTOIN, METHYLPARABEN, ACETYLATED GLYCOL STEARATE, AVENA STRIGOSA SEED EXTRACT, LECITHIN, OPUNTIA VULGARIS EXTRACT, POLYSORBATE 60, CHLORPHENESIN, TETRASODIUM EDTA, TROMETHAMINE, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL, TRITICUM VULGARE (WHEAT) SEED EXTRACT, SORBITAN ISOSTEARATE, BUTYLPARABEN, ETHYLPARABEN, GLYCOLIC ACID, JASMINUM OFFICINALE (JASMINE) FLOWER EXTRACT, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, PROPYLPARABEN, POLYSORBATE 20, ISOBUTYLPARABEN, SCLEROTIUM GUM, CITRIC ACID, LACTIC ACID, MALIC ACID, SACCHARUM OFFICINARUM (SUGAR CANE) EXTRACT, GLYCINE SOJA (SOYBEAN) OIL, CAMELLIA KISSI SEED OIL, POTASSIUM SORBATE, COCOS NUCIFERA (COCONUT) OIL, ALGIN, CYATHEA MEDULLARIS LEAF EXTRACT, DECARBOXY CARNOSINE HCL, PRUNUS AMYGDALUS DULCIS (SWEET ALMOND) OIL, PUNICA GRANATUM EXTRACT, DISODIUM EDTA, LUPINUS ALBUS SEED EXTRACT, ACACIA SENEGAL GUM, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, GLYCINE SOJA (SOYBEAN) SEED EXTRACT, PISUM SATIVUM (PEA) EXTRACT, PRUNUS AMYGDALUS DULCIS (SWEET ALMOND) FRUIT EXTRACT, ROBINIA PSEUDACACIA FLOWER EXTRACT, XANTHAN GUM, AVENA SATIVA (OAT) KERNEL OIL, COCOS NUCIFERA (COCONUT) EXTRACT, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, BAMBUSA VULGARIS SAP EXTRACT, SERINE, SODIUM METHYLPARABEN, TOCOPHERYL SUCCINATE, ASCORBIC ACID, SODIUM BENZOATE, LIMONENE, LINALOOL, GERANIOL, FARNESOL [N0403/F].

Creme Prodigieus

For me this is a comparatively new product (in contrast to the dry oil and the Creme Fraiche) but I've discovered a great use for it and it has fit into my daily skincare nicely. While this is marketed for "anti-aging", it is a very gentle product and particularly effective for sloughing off dead skin cells. For those (like me) with larger pores, keeping pores clear with ingredients like lactic & glycolic acid will also help to reduce the appearance of pore size. Of course, this is not as moisturizing as the Creme Fraiche but good enough if I use it once a day or every other day, it does leave my skin incredibly smooth without sensitivity. If you do have dry skin, you may need to pair this with another heavier moisturizer, otherwise normal to oily skin users will be just fine with this wonderful product. This renewing cream is something that I would recommend to men as well because of its gentle exfoliation, it would be good as a one step moisturizer and treatment for pores and uneven skintone that doesn't leave skin greasy. (A side note, even though I don't have fine lines to treat, I feel that this can be used as a beginners fine-line treatment. Those with deeper lines should look into their Nirvanesque products from NUXE.)

Ingredients
Aqua/Water, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Water, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Glycerin, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Dimethicone, Octyldodecyl Myristate, Caprylic/capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Cyclopentasiloxane, Peg-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Cyclohexasiloxane, Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Acrylates/c10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Triethanolamine, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Parfum/fragrance, Benzophenone-4, Methylparaben, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium Edta, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Bht, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Sebacic Acid, Hypericum Perforatum Flower/leaf/stem Extract, Alginic Acid, Citric Acid, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Sodium Methylparaben, Methenamine, Edta, Tartaric Acid, Isobutylparaben, Tocopherol, Benzyl Salicylate, Linalool, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Limonene, Citronellol, Geraniol, Hydroxycitronellal [N1003/d].

You can visit their website for more details on their brand and range of products.
http://www.nuxe.com

Websites that I have seen that carry NUXE
http://www.eskincarestore.com/
http://www.skincarerx.com/nuxe.html
http://www.garden.co.uk/php/showCatPage.php?cat=985

This wraps up my NUXE skincare post. As I mentioned, I think their brand concept is solid and they certainly have some very effective products. My skin is very finicky and I'm rarely happy with a single brand but NUXE ranks high on my list and I would be happy to use their products for a very long time. However, as with all skincare, do take note of the ingredients list to see if it is worthwhile.

Ciao!

DEMO: Cute drama girl makeup (杨丞琳的可爱彩妆 )

2011-11-06T01:17:00.000-07:00

Hello Y'all

To continue with my Chinese speaking videos (which by the way I am still quite shy about), I've decided to share a 杨丞琳 (Rainie Yang) inspired makeup tutorial as I've been obesessed with watching "Hi, my Sweetheart". Rainie is a Taiwanese actress, singer and all around mega cute celebrity.

And while her style/look may change from time to time depending on her album releases here drama characters are generally the "cute and loveable" type. In this drama she plays alternate personalities but I think key elements of her style is still noticeable!

Soft eyes, long lashes, semi matte skin and glossy lips can be said to be part of her trademark look. While her personality is absolutely quirky sometimes, you just can't escape her cuteness.

I believe this is from the 67th Venice Film festival.

Ready to see how to Rainie's cute look?

Let's go!

Products I used for this look

Holika Holika BB Jelly foundation
Etude House collagen moistful ampule primer
Physicians Formula blush "Rose"
Maybelline Colour Explosion "Caffeine Rush"
Maybelline Eyestudio gel liner "Dark Brown"
Maybelline Colour Sensational Pearl lipstick "Pearly Pink"
Hard Candy Plumping serum gloss "Girl next door"
False lashes

Click the video to see how it's done
^_^

Overall, this is a pretty easy look that you can where anywhere and everywhere. And yes, while I look absolutely nothing like Rainie I think this makeup is pretty cute, just like her!

Maybe something to wear on a first day? Or maybe star in your own backyard drama show? Either way I hope you liked today's tutorial and keep on smiling!

Have a wonderful day Everybody.

Ciao,

Tutorial: Nina Ricci fw2011 inspired (soft & feminine)

2011-11-02T15:43:00.000-07:00

Today's makeup look is inspired by the gorgeous faces done up at the Fall&Winter 2011 Nina Ricci show. My take is a softer version of the feminine soft browns and coral/pinks.

Big brows.

Bright lips.

Soft brown eyes with bright inner corners.

Ready to go?

LET'S GET STARTED!

I really love how this makeup transitions into fall, picking up some of the fall orange tones yet keep it fresh and youthful. As you can see I didn't go all out for the bright pink/coral lipstick which would have made this look a bit more dramatic, the best I had at the moment was a soft tangerine from Etude House.

The much dreaded unedited before and after...

See how utterly brow-less I am! Oh dear.....

The backstage view...

Custom mixed lipstick for the models, I wish there was a lipstick exactly that colour, it is stunning to say the least!

A glowing complexion achieved with cream foundation and lightly powdered.

A new familiar face backstage, Liu Wen get's done up too!

On to the clothes...

there seemed to be 3 general colour schemes.

Pastels.

Jewels and metallic tones.

Romantic textured blacks.

I hope you enjoyed today's inspired makeup look and let me know if you decide to try it out! Check back often for more runway features in the next few weeks.
Have a wonderful day everyone!

Ciao!

Style: Finding your Shabby Chic

2011-10-26T14:44:00.000-07:00

So maybe you're an interior design buff and you already know what I'm talking about today. Or maybe you just looked at the title and said: "Shabby...what?"

Shabby Chic as a descriptive term refers to a style of design that is based on vintage looking items with a rougher more "worn in" feel (think layered, distressed finishes) and a undeniably romantic touch. Think pastel tints of mint greens, spring lavenders, cotton candy pinks and the like. Whilst this is often most evident in interior design, you can find many everyday "shabby chic" items such as clothing, jewelry, stationary and just about anything you can think of can be shabby chic (well...maybe not food, haven't figured out how you can do that one!) Flowers and stripes are common as well as fine detailing like crown molding and curved lines, it's both a little English yet a little French.

Of course, this trend can be interpreted in different directions as well to combine with other tastes. For example...combined with woodsy, earthy feel and you get something alittle more rustic..... and country.

...or it can be paired with more elaborate Victorian tastes.....

What underlines the attraction of shabby chic styling for me was it's human quality, sure the sofa, the fireplace or the desk can be mass produced but that "shabby" aspect is (in theory) a sign of human contact and wear. It's a little imperfect yet special in every way, it has that heirloom quality to it that seems synonymous with my love for handmade.

Here I want to share with you some wonderful shabby chic items from Etsy.

I was so incredibly inspired by these, gosh if only I owned a place of my own.

I'd decorate it like mad!

*pssst..the name of each item is also a link*

Natural Kei Romantic Shrug Top

True Rebel Clothing

Shabby Chic Crochet Peach Cream (Set Of 2)

Sincerely Raven

Beach Decor Candlesticks - Shabby Chic

Beach Grass Cottage

Cabbage Roses Shabby Chic PILLOW COVER

Emma Dear

Light Blue Shabby Chic Earrings Holder

tammnonny

Shabby Chic French Chairs

smdinteriors

shabby chic handbag (Cath Kidston pink roses)

modernandvintage

Ashley: Shabby chic romantic earrings

iloniti

The best way to find your very own shabby chic pieces is probably at yard sales, vintage stores and flea markets. Look for quality pieces with stand out detailing. Other wise you may also want to DIY your own items with a little sand paper and paint to produce that aged result. Or if you are lucky enough to live near a Target, I just found that Rachel Ashwell (the woman behind the book in the first photo) who designs and collects shabby chic accessories produces a line sold right inside Target!

Hope you found something inspiring for today!

Ciao,

Haul: Holika Holika, Etude & makeup ban!

2011-10-25T23:24:00.000-07:00

This will be my last makeup haul.

F-O-R-E-V-E-R

Well no, just for 6 months but that already sounds like forever for a product junkie like me. As I'll explain further in today's video, I'm approaching a threshold in which I have too many products and I can't possibly keep track of them all, never mind using them on a regular basis. It's time to clear out and rediscover the gems that I own!

But before this horror sets in, I thought I'd share with you my last haulage before the ban takes effect (well actually, by the time you are reading this post, it would have already started). A few Korean items and some drugstore goodies.

Ready to jump in?

*read on!*

I present to you, today's fine selection of eye candy.

I think this haul is a good balance of everything and while this may look more like a summer haul to you, the key items that make this a winter them is the Etude House foundation primer and the Limited Edition Maybelline eyestudio quad...I'm super anxious to try them out!

Oh and did I mention I have a special treat for you guys today?

Ah... yes, my first makeup-less video in a long time.

*click to play!*

~ a photo summary ~

Heard this is number #1 selling drugstore bronzer (though the ad didn't mention the details of this statistic), either way if it turns out to be good that would be fabulous since it's very affordable.

Too bad this photo doesn't quite how off the beautiful shimmery metallic sheen of the dark graphite shade. This quad actually looks very similar to my favourite Daiso pearl shadow palette but I would say that the texture is different and the two browns in the middle are more of a satin finish instead. Overall a stunner for all seasons.

Who can resist the cuteness that is this blusher?!?! I haven't even swatched this yet because I didn't want to touch the pristine pattern. Mood boosting? Looking at this photo makes me happier already!

~ my Korean items ~

I had a budget to keep for this Korean haul so it was really hard for me to choose what I was going to get but I am thrilled with the look of everything that I picked out.

Have never been much of a primer addict but moisture and winter goes hand in hand so perhaps this will become a useful product come the next few months. I've tried small samples of the skincare from the Collagen Moistfull line and loved the smell and feel of them but this (upon first application) actually feels drier...a thicker consistency and ever so slightly silicone-ish...Hmmmmm.

Doesn't looking at this lipstick just make you feel warm and happy all over? Just because we are heading into fall doesn't mean we have to put away all the fall colours. In fact, shades of oranges like rust and terracotta are always in style for fall. I think I'm going to mix this gorgeous lippie with my warm brown clothing pieces.

This is my first Holika Holika item and I have high hopes! I was lucky enough to find the ingredients for this product before I purchased it and it looks good on paper. Having swatched it on my hand the jelly texture absorbed quickly and didn't feel at all tacky or too wet on the skin.

This ends today's post, hope you found something fun. I will try to keep you updated on my 6 month makeup haul break (though I have a sneaky feeling that the lack of makeup will lead to an increase in haircare or skincare things)

I'll see you in tomorrows post!

Ciao!

CANMAKE: Stretch-Cover concealer & Lip concealer

2011-10-24T11:00:00.000-07:00

Let me start off today's review by making something absolutely clear. I'm not starting off from a neutral perspective on this one, I have always been drawn to Canmake because of their spokes model, Lena Fujii.

Youthful, sweet and just alittle bit sexy, I think Lena and Canmake Cosmetics (Japan) make a great pairing. With their focus on fun, trendy and feminine cosmetics, I think Canmake has cornered a large audience just with their brand identity alone.Their goal of making affordable (it's considered a drugstore brand) and beautiful makeup has much to live up to.

Ready to see if their products live up to their brand?

! Read on !

The first of the two items for today's review is their concealer, called "Stretch & Cover". According to Canmake themselves, here's the brief...

~ ~"Covers skin problems, while also protecting your skin from ultraviolet rays and dryness. A UV concealer that won't run or look powdery

SPF25/PA++ Has a soft applicator tip that makes it easier to apply to both larger areas and more tricky areas."

Pigment-free, Unperfumed, Alcohol-free, non-chemical UV filters
Flexible stretchy powder, light-diffusing powder
Contains conditioning and sebum-absorbing powder
Botanical moisturizing agents, moisturizing/skin-protecting agent
Skin-firming agents.
Comes in 3 shades, light to medium shades.

As you can see from the colour swatch below the first good point of this concealer is its colour. For my Asian skintone, the soft pale yellow blends invisibly into my skin and while this may not be the right tone for everyone, it's definitely a great starting point for those looking for a hard to find colour match.

So what's to love about this concealer?

Great coverage while remaining blendable, the "stretch" factor is certainly evident here, I was able to blend it out easily with a light patting motion while retaining opacity.
Dries to a slightly powdery finish. I mean really, there is no need to set this with a powder if you don't want to or if you are in a hurry to get out the door.
Doesn't dry me out when applied to red areas around the nose or those pesky spots that pop up on my chin.
SPF 25 is always a winner for under the eyes where we tend to forget sunscreen most of the time.
Long lasting ability is average to high on my combination skin.

....and a few things to note....

It can become every so slightly wrinkly if you use it for under the eye (dark circles) but because the texture of the concealer is so pliable, if you happen to notice that through out the day, just smooth it out and re-apply a little more, good as new!
Only available in 3 shades, mainly dedicated to the average Japanese population that seems to be fair/light to medium skinned overall.
Only available in Asian countries, or else try eBay or other online shopping sites like Ichibanko (that's where I got mine!)

And now moving on....

Here's what Canmake has to day about their popular lip concealer!

~ ~ "Erase lip color and improve the color and lasting power of your lipstick with our new Lip Concealer!!

☆ The Savior of Nude-look Make-up ☆

We’ve created a moist-type product containing moisturizing agents from our super-popular lip concealer!"

Sounds like a fantabulous product, no? Having already owning MAC's Lip Erase, I really have much need for another lip concealer. Yet what drew me in was the promise for a naturally baby pink lip with moisturizing ingredients. Canmake already makes a lip concealer which is extremely popular and this new addition is supposed to be a step up. I suppose the goal was to make a product that you could wear on its own and still achieve an innocent baby pink pout, relieving the need for further products if you don't want to use a lipstick/gloss.

As Canmake continues to describe.....

● Fantastic news for those with red lips, for whom nude-look make-up doesn’t go according to plan!Use this as a lip base, to completely cover lip redness!
Achieve the perfect nude-look lipstick or lip gloss color!!!
● Also covers the horizontal lines that are the arch-enemy of nude-look make-up! For plump, kissable lips!
● A cute milky pink like flower petals – can also be used on its own as a nude-look lip cream.

What's to love about this lip concealer "moist" edition...

Produces the most gorgeous nudy pink lip, no kidding. This can certainly be worn as lipstick-like product without any extra product. While most lip concealers are beige or "flesh" coloured, this one gives you baby milky lips in one swipe.
Extremely natural because it has a satin finish and almost no texture on the lips if applied properly.
Applies almost like a lipstick, absolutely smooth.
You don't need to swipe it over and over, one fair layer works great!
Its small and therefore portable and easy to slip into your going out purse or even you jeans pocket for a sneaky touch-up if needed.

...other things to note....

While I wouldn't call this product drying on the lips, it certainly wasn't as "moist" as the name suggests. I find the best result is to apply lip balm to condition the lips (Carmex anyone?) first, blot off any excess to almost dry and then apply this.
TIP: Do not swipe it on like a regular lipstick, you will get wrinkly/uneven lips! As with all matte or lighter toned lip products, I suggest applying a little then pushing/blotting the colour around the entire lip area. This will help minimize those annoying lip lines and maximize your results.
Feel free to apply a lipstick over it but avoid gloss, as with most lip concealers (even some lipsticks) swiping on lip gloss with disturb the product and it will fade or even bleed into lip lines.
Not suitable as a solo product for those with medium-tan to dark skin, it will likely come off too pale and even slightly ashy so try it with a lipstick over top.
Only available in Asian countries, or else try eBay or other online shopping sites like Ichibanko (that's where I got mine!)

Over all, I am extremely pleased with the effectiveness of Canmake products. Add some adorable packaging, constant new releases and a gorgeous model, they've got it set for a long time to come. The Stretch & Cover concealer is currently my holy grail product and its now a staple for a quick and breezy face on both casual days or dolly days. I think that beyond appealing to younger ladies, Canmake's products can definitely produce a beautiful sophisticated look for a more sophisticated audience as well. I look forward to trying out new items!

What Canmake items have you tried?

Share it with me with a comment.

Ciao,

HAUL: UK goodies & NUXE

2011-10-22T17:33:00.000-07:00

Hello Hello!

I've been on a blog post roll this week and I'm hoping to keep it up. I know I love it when there is fresh content daily so I will try the best to provide the same for y'all!

I want to share another bit of a haul with you today because it contains some cool products that I haven't ever featured before. On a whim whilst searching for another item, I came across a listing for some lipglosses from Collection2000. They are a UK brand who's claim to fame (on Youtube anyways) seems to be their concealer which, quite unfortunately I wasn't able to find. But fear not! I was still able to score some cute goodies.

Want more details?

~ ~ well then read on!

Let's just jump into everything with the video shall we?

*click to play*

I ordered four fabulously gorgeous items from the UK. The lip glosses you see are from Collection2000 from their "Love your Lips" collection, these products are suppose to colour and condition your pout all in one swipe. Containing rose hip and mango extract, these smell delicious and feel great when applied! Really, it was love at first swipe with these.

Here are the two skincare items I showed in the video, I think both of them are going to work out great. I've only used the Biore toner for a week or so (the bottle is half empty because I poured it into a different bottle) but I certainly think it's comparable to the Clinique Clarifying toner I had been using previously. Even the ingredients are incredibly similar!

A closer peak at the NUXE cream, I'll try to remember to do a full review on my NUXE products since they are not talked about very often in North America.

Almost a whipped souffle texture that's so smooth on the skin and doesn't make me greasy at all. Oh yeah, did I mention its pore unclogging properties?
Yup, a match made in heaven.

The last of the bunch!
Didn't want to forget these guys.

With the addition of these two, I think I have built up quite an extensive collection of Maybelline Colour Sensational lipsticks. They are truly one of the best finds in the drugstore if you are seeking beautiful colour and sleek packaging. Overall the formulation for these lipsticks are great and I hope that Maybelline will continue to release their Limited Edition products with these formulas. I think everyone should try them at least once!

Wow, somehow this post went on longer than I anticapated for a short haul post.

Here's to wishing you all a happy weekend!

Ciao,

Review: Crabtree & Evelyn handcream, cult fav!

2011-10-21T20:11:00.000-07:00

The popularity of today's product has likely been around the moon and back again, with a cult following and raved by magazines and consumers alike. Crabtree and Evelyn's hand cream is something that I had been interested in for a good year or so.

But every time I get the urge to buy a tube, I think to myself "seriously....it's JUST hand cream right?" Well...the answer is yes, and no. When I had been lucky enough to be gifted a set of the famous hand cream for the holidays, I was both excited yet a little apprehensive.

The set itself contained six small sized tubes of the various types Crabtree & Eveyln has to offer. Each tube is part of a theme of a special range (usually along with body care products) and contain slightly different ingredients.

The general ingredients that are found in most of the C & E hand creams include,

Macadamia ternifolia seek oil
Shea butter
Squalene
Hyaluronic acid

The texture and feel of each handcream also vary, with some being thicker and more emollient, while others are fresh and light. My biggest worry, as likely with other people who don't use hand creams that often, is the absorption factor. I want a hand cream that immediately soothes my dry hands without feeling greasy or leaving residue everywhere.

After using a tube and a half of two different versions, I can say that you definitely need to test out each type to find your favourite as each does feel noticeably different than the other. The most popular of the hand cream is the "Gardeners Hand Therapy" (above to the left) which is geared towards those who work with their hands often and need a heavy duty treatment. Something like the "Rosewater" (below, pink) is lighter and more akin to a lotion.

One of the great things about these hand creams is that they last a long time, in fact much longer than I thought they would. The soothing effect of the product is immediate upon application and if used consistently it will actually improve your skin over time, thus needing to apply less often.

Certainly I'd say that the Crabtree & Evelyn's Hand Therapy series has changed my view on hand care products. The scents are lovely, there is plenty of natural extracts included in the ingredients, works well for normal to dry hands (maybe even extra dry if you try the "Gardener" version) and overall is a pleasurable experience to use. In fact, every time I pull this out of my bag, everyone asks for a dollop!

So next time your out and spot this hand cream, go give it a try (get the smallest size if you are apprehensive) or maybe even give a set like this as a gift. Somebody's hands will definitely thank you!

Ciao!

OPEN: Luxe Box...Oct 2011

2011-10-20T16:17:00.000-07:00

Wheeeee!!!
IT'S HERE! IT'S FINALLY HERE!

This is my very first beauty box and for starters I went with the big guy on the market, Loose Button and their Luxe Box service.

Not going to bore you all with too long of a detail about the service,
so here's a rundown of how it works in three points.

Subscribe monthly for $12/month, renewed automatically.
Receive 4-5 curratted deluxe sample sizes of beauty products to try out.
Items range from cult classics to new releases!

You can get more information HERE from their website,
but let's get on with it already!

! Ready on to see what's inside!

Time to open my Luxe Box.

A closer look...

I'm reasonably pleased at my very first box, especially since it contained an eye cream (something that I had put on my "to buy" list for a long time). Certainly, the totaly value of the entire set is much more than $12 paid for the service so for that I'm pretty happy as well.

Full sized lotion: $58 (200ml)
Full sized fragrance: $78 (50ml)

Exotic Fruits, Rich black orchid, Sensual woods

Notes:
Pomegranate, Persimmon, Green Notes, Black Orchid, Lotus Blossom, Champaca Flower, Liquid Amber, Mahogany Wood, Black Violet, Cream Accord.
Style:
Confident. Sexy. Chic.

Full sized bottle: $40 (100ml)

Award winning signature hair care product, in a lighter consistency.
Perfect for fine and fair coloured hair.

Full sized Olay eye cream: $60 (15ml)

Hydrates to restore the eye area to its optimum appearance by improving the look of crow's feet. Diminishes puffiness and dark circles.

Full sized Pur Minerals primer: $31 (30ml)

A correcting primer for concealing minor imperfections, designed for all skin tones and to even out the look of your skin.

Full sized Lise Watier Flash radiance vial: $27 (7x 1ml vials)

A concentrate of smoothing agents and moisturizers for a lifting effect and instant radiance.

Like I mentioned in the video, I had also subsribed to a beauty box service by Glymm which will come next month. For me, I think the beauty box concept is fantastic since (as a beauty junkie), its hard for me to settle with one product and being able to get my hands on deluxe sized samples will give some idea of how the product works for me and my needs. Often times I hesitate from trying out new things because I'm uncertain about whether or not they would work, especially if they are expensive.

For the most part, these deluxe sized samples will last you a good while and who knows, maybe like me, you'll get bored of a product quickly. With Luxe Box you'll never have to be "stuck" with one product, great for all you commitment-phobes out there.

What did you get in your beauty box this month?

Review: Hard Candy's Fox in a Box (blush boxes)

2011-10-18T23:35:00.000-07:00

What's that Fox in a Box?

Why its Hard Candy's version of a gorgeous range of beauty blushers!

Ever since Hard Candy went back on the market (there had been a long lapse) starting with the Walmart shelves, there have a couple of items from their range that have really stirred a wild fire. Amongst them are the Camouflage Concealer (review in the works) and also the FOX in a BOX Blushers which I'll be talking about today.

Ladies and Gents,

I present you this beauty!

Want to know some more about this cute little box?

Well then read on!

This particular shade I own is called "Hot Flash" and boy does it pack a punch of colour, in fact I think many people might be turned off from this colour thinking it is way too bright. While there are other more subtle options available in the range, I adore the vibrancy of this particular blusher.

What's better is that they matched it up with a nude/rose powder as well, thus not only can you use it to blend out the bright pink, if you choose to swirl the colours together, it will make the palette more wearable.

As you can see from the swatch above, this blush means business when it comes to colour pigmentation. The bright pinks only required a gentle touch while I had to press a little harder to get the paler nude blush to show up on my skin.

I find that the colour wears well throughout the day even though it doesn't claim to be a long lasting product. It's easy to blend, is versatile in colour and doesn't come off too powdery on the skin. In fact the slightly satin finish really makes you believe that they can pass this off for being a department store product!

My only disappointment with this blush?

Mineral oil.

Its one of those ingredients that often pops up in cheaper products and sometimes even show up in the higher end items too. Its often used to give products a softer texture, (pretend) to be more moisturizing and enhance pigmentation in powder coloured products such as eyeshadow. And while the debate is still on about whether or not mineral oil causes breakouts for acne prone skin, I still try to be careful about avoiding it in my products. For the most part, I run fast and far away if it's inside a base/foundation/skincare product but I'll tolerate it in other items such as blusher and eyeshadow as it doesn't seem to have given me any problems. Fox in a Box didn't cause any problems for me!

Over all, still a fantastic buy for the price and performance. I highly recommend you check out the full range of Fox in a Box blushers from Hard Candy, I know I'll be picking up more of these little boxes next time I'm off in Walmart. I've already got my eyes on a gorgeous tangerine/orange shade ---*har har!

Share your experience with Hard Candy

or feel free to recommend a favourite HC item!

Ciao,

Review: Lancome wows with Teint Miracle!

2011-10-17T15:43:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Another popular product today to share with you, Lancome's Teint Miracle foundation! This can be said to be one of Lancome's most exciting releases in the past year. As I am not all fond of their mascaras (though they hold the top selling mascara in the prestige cosmetics market), I think they have a good shot with their base makeup products. I was thrilled to see this being used by a couple of makeup bloggers and even more excited after seeing the demos on HSN.

Want to know what I think abut this baby?

Read on!

First and foremost, you can't resist the beauty that is Juila Roberts. I think Lancome's choice for the spokes model for this foundation is spot on. Sure, there is photoshop and a team of beauty experts behind this ad to "enhance" her look, I still think that Julia represents the aesthetic that Teint Miracle is trying to sell.

If you aren't a Roberts fan, well then I still think that the design team at Lancome did a fantastic job with the look and feel of the product. Classic, simple and somehow very elegant without looking too dated. The iconic Lancome flower tops the lucite cap as you can see here.

Meant to produce flawless yet natural results on the skin, Lancome claims several new technological developments with this foundation. Here's what Lancome has to say about this....

Light emanates from the most beautiful skin. Now, reproduce it.

With Aura-Inside™ technology, Lancôme invents its 1st foundation that recreates the true natural light of perfect skin. Its unique weightless texture provides perfect buildable coverage with a bare sensation. Instantly, complexion appears lit-from-within, visibly flawless.

With 10 years of research, and 7 international patents pending, this ultra lightweight formula enriched with soothing rose extract, unifies the skin for a flawless complexion, while giving 18 hours of hydration.

Technology

Aura-Inside™ technology
10 times less powdery fillers
Liquid Light Essence "liquid micro mirrors"
37% pure water and soothing rose extract calms the skin
Oil-free, fragrance-free formula
SPF 15

Buildable/Moderate Coverage

True-to-Skin Natural Finish

Suitable for sensitive skin. Oil-free. Fragrance-free. Non-comedogenic. Dermatologist-tested.

Time for my 2 cents on this product?

Click the video!

My own before/after results with
Lancome Teint Miracle Foundation
Buff 2 (w)

Reduced redness overall
Evened skintone to a uniform shade
Reasonably good match to my neck colour
Natural finish, felt thin and comfortable on the skin
Not at all greasy and no obvious shine to the skin afterwards

What about Lancome's own claims?

Did it live up to what it said?

Benefits

Enhances skin's natural light. The complexion appears flawless, full of life – as if lit-from-within (true)
Bare skin sensation, correction with translucency for a natural finish, as if matter-free (true)
18 hour hydration (decent)
Diminishes redness for a more uniform complexion (VERY TRUE)
Non-irritating/doesn't cause break-outs (true)
Protects skin from UV damage (N/A)

a quick peak at the ingredients....

In short...

Recommended for most skintypes unless extremely oily or extremely dry
No breakouts or skin issues after use
Medium coverage and spread well without loosing opacity
Great for all ages, from younger age group to mature skin
Comfortable feel though not long lasting (try primer and powder)
Slightly rose scent enhances the application experience
Dries to a sophisticated sheen on the skin, not too flashy but not matte either

I think beyond the longevity factor, this product by Lancome has really impressed me. The texture and feel of it is quite perfect and it certainly gives a brightened look to the complexion, I can see myself reaching for this one often. It has a strange reminder to my beloved CHANEL Pro-Lumiere but slightly less creamy and better suited for combination oily skin. Both are in my top list!

Hope you enjoyed.

Leave me your thoughts

on this product if you've tried it!

Chat later!

Ciao!

WINNER! Daiso Giveaway winner!

2011-10-16T22:03:00.000-07:00

Wheeeee*

The magic number for the DAISO draw is......

Congratualtions to supermomochan!

And thank you for everyone who participated.

I had so many entries that I spent almost 2hrs writing down

and reading all your entries, amazing.

See you in tomorrows post!

Ciao!

TooFaced: Glam gone Wild Kit (Review)

2011-10-13T21:17:00.000-07:00

Hello World!

Today's post brings you something from one of my previous haul videos, the TooFaced Glam gone Wild Collection that was part of the Vintage Sale a month or so back from their online website.

I choose this kit mainly because it offered a "full face" (cheek, lips and eyes included) and absolutely because I was drawn to their every famous bronzing powders. Of the entire line of bronzers available from TooFaced, I believe the Pink Leopard was one of their original formulas and currently remains a hot seller.

WANT TO KNOW MY THOUGHT?

READY ON!

First, my video talk on the products and my TooFaced online experience.

Now let's do a quick review of the products in the kit.

*click photos to enlarge on flickr*

I am now fully convinced that all the hype about this bronzer is true. Somehow, the three colours blend perfectly in tone to create a gorgeous slightly tanned flush that looks natural and healthy even on my pale skin. I love that there is enough pink in this palette to show up even when you swirl all the shades together, no shade dominates over the other and the result is a harmonious and fresh finish to the cheeks.

For someone that never quite got attached to the primer trend, this Too Faced product really did change my mind. In fact, I like it so much that I'm looking forward to picking up a full size of this "Primed and Poreless" when I finish using up my sample tube. What I particularly love about this product is how it magically smooths my complexion even without makeup. A huge rave from me on that aspect alone.

ADORE Sexpresso. Can do without Peach Fuzz.
Enough said.

Another surprising product that I did not expect to like as much as I do is the Lip Bonzing gloss. While the colours looked a little intimating and dark in the tube (especially that bronze) it creates some magic when mixed together and actually applies as a warm rose gold lipcolour with good depth. The only gripe I would say now that I look again at the ingredients list is mineral oil that is listed, seemed unnecessary to me. I don't think I will repurchase for the sake that I will never use up 15ml of lip gloss!

Hope you enjoyed today's review!

Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below.

Ciao!

BunnieLoves: Episode #1

2011-10-12T00:30:00.000-07:00

Hello my Lovelies

A short and sweet post to introduce you to my new video/blog series called...

{BUNNIE LOVES}

This is basically a combination of "monthly favourites" and "Your Shopping List" videos but they won't be don't every single month. So think of this as a Current Favourites video where I will share with you what products and items are rotating in my life at the moment.

Ready for the First Episode?

*Click ahead!*

Products mentioned

--Daiso Earmuffies!
--Makeup is Art (Book)
--Organix: Moroccan Argan Oil
--NYC Liquid Lip Colours
--Maybelline nail polish (Natural Beauty)
--Juicy Couture perfume *original*
--Nuxe Dry oil/ Huile Prodigieuse
--Nuxe: Creme Fraiche de beaute surractivee

Let me know YOUR current favourite thing or product by leaving a comment below, I'd love to hear all about it.

Goodnight Y'all

HairDiary: My Hair Routine!

2011-10-07T17:32:00.000-07:00

t's a complex relationship, you know, this thing between women and their hair. Many of use feel greatly attached to it, perhaps much more than any other of our outwardly visible body part. Sometimes we love it, other times it drives us crazy.

My relationship with my hair is no different. Though I've never been extremely caught up in the latest hair "styles" or doing different looks day to day, I have and have been for quite a few years now, in a locked combat between colouring my hair and caring for it. You colour it. Then feel guilty and try to treat it. Your roots grow out and you're back to colouring.

Currently however, I've been putting in a good effort to keep my hair in its best possible shape, while still doing some colouring from time to time. My best hair buddy? Conditioners, masks and post-shower treatments.

Here I'll share some of my current haircare items!

a photo log

Shiseido Tsubaki Shinning Haircare [shampoo + conditioner]

For me this line (at least the red one) is pretty mediocre. Its good but nothing fantastic. I think perhaps it is one of those things you need to use over time to see consistent results. For a basic haircare line its good and I like the way it smells.

Joico K-Pak haircare [Shampoo & Conditioner]

Nothing but good things to say about Joico's K-Pak line. Yes it is REALLY expensive and totally not within my budget for haircare however I will get it if it goes on sale for a good deal. After the very first use I could tell the effect it had on my hair, it was just so much smoother, resilient and manageable. I suppose it may not be the best choice for oily hair but otherwise, a stand out product!

KAO Essential Damage Care [Nuance Airy]
Shiseido Tsubaki DamageCare Conditioner

Surprisingly, I really enjoy this combo as well. Even though they are from two completely different lines I like that the shampoo lightens up the feel of my hair while the heavier conditioner treats my ends. The bane of coloured hair is often oily roots and dry ends and this combination of products pretty much solves the problem. I quite like both of them!

DAISO loves + GIVEAWAY!

2011-10-05T00:43:00.000-07:00

ello World!

A short and sweet post for y'all today because not only do I show you some of my favourite products from DAISO, I picked up some extra goodies to put together in a giveaway! *dance-dance*

First off, a sneak peak at what is in the giveaway basket....

But wait! What are these things you ask?

Well, watch my video to find out.

*click click*

A quick review of the giveaway rules....

1) Be a subbie! Of course! This is a giveaway for all the people who support me along my journey. So make sure you are subscribed to my Youtube channel or my blog here...*heck, sub to both!

2) If you are under 18yr/o please make sure you're allowed to enter, you know the normal parental knowledge thing just in case they get weirded out.

3) Leave a comment to the one or both of the following questions

What is your favourite affordable beauty, hair or skincare product?
What videos/posts would you love to see more often?

(You can answer 1 of the questions for one entry or answer both for 2 entries, please leave them as separate comments so I can easily keep track! Of course, you can do this on my video page on Youtube, works the same way.)

4) The maximum number of entries per person is 3! So please keep count :)

Giveaway ends

October 16th

6:00pm Pacific Time

Good luck to everyone!
I can't wait to hear your responses.

Review: HADALABO Moist BB Cream

2011-10-02T17:14:00.000-07:00

Helllloooo Everyone,

Following the success of their very popular skincare line, Hadalabo (the Japanese Skincare line) has released a sunscreen and BB Cream line!

*jump for excitement*

As I'm already a devoted fan of their Shiroyjun Whitening skincare (reviewed HERE), I went straight to try their BB Cream. I believe its a good sign when a skincare brand starts doing makeup because I feel that they will likely make colour products with a skincare conscience.

.....want to know what I think of this Hadalabo BB Cream? Read on!

The packaging and aesthetic of this product certainly reflects Hadalabo's concept on simple, effective skincare...the branding is minimalistic with clear bright text. Perhaps a little bland for some, but I personally think it works well with its pre-existing line, one look at this and you KNOW its from Hadalabo.

I choose the darker of the 2 shades available for this BB Cream (the Emulsion version also has 2 shades but not the exact same shades as the BB Cream), which is Natural Ochre. While it is darker than my skin tone, I find that once it blends out, I have no real problem with it though that might change as I get paler in the winter.

Ready?

Set?

Click the video!

Before and After
(having a terrible breakout at the moment...oiiii)

*Sorry Everyone, I couldn't find the packaging for the BB Cream so no ingredients list for you today :(

Final words on the HADALABO BB CREAM...

BB Cream (2 shades) & BB Emulsion (2 shades)
Leaning towards yellow undertones, runs slighter darker than other Korean BB Creams I have encountered
Both have SPF to protect you from the sun rays
Texture is very bendable with fingers
Medium coverage & layer-able
Hydrates the skin through out the day
Soft semi-glowy finish
BB "CREAM" version: recommended for dry, normal or combination skin
No breakouts or sensitivity!

Overall this has got to be my favourite BB Cream ever, of course I still got my eye on a few others I want to try but really, I think this product full fills pretty much all of my requirements on a BB Cream. Albeit it doesn't have any "miraculous" skincare/healing results, the fact that it can keep my skin hydrated through a 10hr + day is a huge feat on its own and I'd say that the skincare background of HADALABO really stands out in its base care. Highly recommend this for everyone, try the Cream or the Emulsion, either way I think the quality of the product certainly evident.

Thanks for stopping by!

I hope this was helpful.

Ciao!

Best Fall nail polish 2011

2011-09-29T00:09:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

A quickie post today about some of my favourite fall shades in terms of nail paint. I've seen the "standard" trend shades for this season but I want to offer some variety to you, perhaps a few you've never seen and some old favourites that I wear every winter season...

Keep on reading to find out more.....

What really gravitates me to a colour in general is its saturation and then its finish/texture. Creamy finishes are forever a classic, a slight shimmer is elegant and a metallic can be both high/fashion yet romantic.

For the most part, fall shades are richer, deeper...luxe and sultry. You can certainly still pull off pale shades for fall (and I show a few lovely ones in my picks) but you want a good saturation of colour.

Ready to see my picks?

Click the play button!

a closer look.....

The Greys

The Berries

The Romatics

And there you have it, my fall nail picks and a few classic shades to get you excited for the colder weather. Try one on or better yet...I dare you to wear one on each finger...muahahahha~

Share YOUR favourite fall polish in the comments :)

CIAO!

The Bunnie Hole

Review: Skin79 VIP Gold BB Cream

HAUL: Spring fabric, crafting goods & makeup books!

Daily Goods: Paint me softly... Sally Hansen nail polish

Daily Goods: LE Etude perfumed syrup nail set

Daily Goods: PONY's Korean makeup book

Handmade: Sweet spring floral bow

Review: Hard Candy Glamoflauge concealer

OPEN: GlymmBox... Jan 2012

Demo: Sweet Valentine Glitter Gradation Nails

Scent: Friction by FCUK

FOTD: Winter berries

Giveback Giveaway #1 : We have a winner!

Bunnie finds: Etsy January edition {2012}

Daily Goods: Xtreme wear nailpolish in pastels

Style: Vintage quirk at Mod Cloth

Asia Haul: BB Cream, haircare, skincare and all! (01.2012)

Handmade: The new scoodie caplet

Scents: Fancy by Jessica Simpson

GiveBack Giveaway #1: The Body Shop LE "Boho Beauty" eyeshadow palette

Happy Haul-a-days: Christmas 2011

OPEN: Glymm Box...Dec.2011

Beauty Advertising, distortion & self identity

TALK: Your essential brushes for makeup

Review: Duo Lash glue (vs. Lash Grip)

Winter Therapy: Gift ideas and new items

Inspired: Victoria's Secret model makeup

Tutorial: Roberto Cavalli fw2011 (Rustic smokey eyes)

Best nude lipsticks (2011 edt)

HAUL: Wait what? Yes! Bourjois, Orly, LE L'oreal & Maybelline

OPEN: Glymm Box...November 2011

OPEN: LuxeBox ...Nov. 2011

Bunnie Loves: Favourites Ep. #2

Foundation Collection (Nov 2011)

NUXE skincare ~ Dry oil, Creme Fraiche, Creme Prodigieuse

INGREDIENTS (via NUXE website)

INGREDIENTS

DEMO: Cute drama girl makeup (杨丞琳的可爱彩妆 )

Tutorial: Nina Ricci fw2011 inspired (soft & feminine)

Style: Finding your Shabby Chic

smdinteriors

Haul: Holika Holika, Etude & makeup ban!

CANMAKE: Stretch-Cover concealer & Lip concealer

HAUL: UK goodies & NUXE

Review: Crabtree & Evelyn handcream, cult fav!

OPEN: Luxe Box...Oct 2011

Notes:Pomegranate, Persimmon, Green Notes, Black Orchid, Lotus Blossom, Champaca Flower, Liquid Amber, Mahogany Wood, Black Violet, Cream Accord.Style:Confident. Sexy. Chic.

Review: Hard Candy's Fox in a Box (blush boxes)

Review: Lancome wows with Teint Miracle!

WINNER! Daiso Giveaway winner!

TooFaced: Glam gone Wild Kit (Review)

BunnieLoves: Episode #1

HairDiary: My Hair Routine!

DAISO loves + GIVEAWAY!

Review: HADALABO Moist BB Cream

Best Fall nail polish 2011

Notes:
Pomegranate, Persimmon, Green Notes, Black Orchid, Lotus Blossom, Champaca Flower, Liquid Amber, Mahogany Wood, Black Violet, Cream Accord.
Style:
Confident. Sexy. Chic.