Be Green Bebe – choice of eco-friendly wear for babies and kids

We hear about organic items all around and on almost any product. We’ve heard of celebrity moms like Gwyneth Paltrow, Nicole Richie, Julia Roberts and Nicole Kidman who are nourishing their children with organic food. We’ve encountered organic skincare and body care products in shopping malls and probably used some. The rise of organic products for healthier living has become a strong trend in the market as more and more people have become conscious of its benefits. 

But I bet organic clothing is something new to you. As a mother, I find this very interesting and worth exploring. Has your child experienced rashes or skin allergies and you’re not sure what caused it? Have you ever thought that maybe our kids need some safer, child-friendly clothing?

be-green-bebe-eco-friendly-clothing

Be Green Bebe, a multi-label online shop at www.begreenbebe.com, was recently launched and introduced a world of organic and eco-friendly baby and children’s clothing to the Asian market.
Caryn Lim, founder of Be Green Bebe, has returned home to Malaysia from years abroad in London and realized there was a lack of chic and organic children’s wear in Malaysia. She wanted to introduce a range of clothing that was both sustainable and stylish, whilst remaining practical and most importantly comfortable for babies and kids.

be-green-bebe-logo

The luxury baby and children’s brands are handpicked from USA, Europe and Australia. The collection includes clothing in both clean and contemporary colours and fresh and fun prints, including brands like Aravore, Babysoy, Broken Tricycle, Go Gently Baby, Indikidual, Kate Quinn Organics, Kickee Pants, La Queue Du Chat, Mini Rodini, Old Rectory, Organic for Kids, Red Urchin, Rosy Cheek Cosy, Piccalilly and Purebaby.
Be Green Bebe challenges the misconception that all organic clothing is pricey, out of reach and produced in dull, boring colours. Many customers are often pleasantly surprised to see that Be Green Bebe’s clothing come in vibrant hues and learn of comparable prices and value offered at Be Green Bebe. In addition to organic clothing, Be Green Bebe also carries a range of must-have accessories for babies and children, including organic muslin swaddles, baby blankets, backpacks and lunchboxes.
What does organic clothing mean?
According to the Organic Trade Association, organic refers to the way agricultural products are grown and processed. Organic production is based on a system of farming that maintains and replenishes soil fertility without the use of toxic and harmful pesticides and fertilizers.
Organic cotton is grown using methods and materials that have a low impact on the environment, without the use of toxic pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. It is free from toxins and chemicals during the production process (chlorine bleach, heavy metal dyes and petroleum based pigments and ink), all of which may cause a range of illnesses ranging from asthma to cancer.
Non-organic cotton is responsible for a quarter of global insecticide use each year and Be Green Bebe believes that going organic makes a real difference. The use of pesticides on non-organic cotton also has serious health implications. The World Health Organization has estimated that 20,000 people die each year as a result of unsafe pesticide use, mainly in developing countries. Many small farmers also become dangerously indebted to pesticide and fertilizer companies. Aside from these costs, there are environmental problems associated with non-organic cotton growing such as reduced soil fertility, eco system imbalances and water pollution. Organic farming methods can help address these problems.
Why should I buy organic clothing for my child?
  • Organic clothing is extremely soft and breathable and offers excellent absorbency
  • Our children’s immune systems are extremely delicate and sensitive. As conventional cotton clothing retains harmful toxic residues this can cause allergic reactions and 
eczema on sensitive skin. With organic clothing, we reduce the risks of these diseases, especially when our children are still at a very young age.
  • Organic clothing offers great value given that it is more durable and washes extremely well. 
By choosing to buy organic, we are collectively doing our best to provide a cleaner, greener future for the next generation.

And so I checked out the items at Be Green Bebe…they are so adorable! Here are some of my top picks:
A. For our precious little babies
  
be-green-bebe-pink-baby-onesie

Long Sleeve Kimono Bodysuit – “Berry” | Kate Quinn Organics
RM80.00 (around USD25)
Pink kimono style long sleeve bodysuit in a berry print. This bestseller is incredibly soft, easy to put on and stylish to boot.
be-green-bebe-baby-onesie

MIBO Giraffe Onesie and Bib | Coqenpate
RM110.00 (around USD34)
Madeleine Robinson, the British designer of MIBO paper toys in recycled paper and vegetable ink has put her designs on Coqenpate onesies in 100% GOTS certified organic cotton. Set includes a coordinating organic cotton bib.
be-green-bebe-onesie

Henley Growsuit Anchor Print | Purebaby
RM110.00 (around USD34)
Short sleeve growsuit with all-over anchor print. Features a contrasting dark blue trim and poppers on the inner leg for easy dressing. Nautical inspiration is all the rage for your little tyke!
B. For our precious toddlers/ kids
be-green-bebe-pink-suit

Cherry Pink Playsuit – The “Stella” | La Queue Du Chat
RM160.00 (around USD50)
Fun cherry pink playsuit with one of LQDC’s latest prints – the grey hen. Features thin adjustable straps and beautiful smocking detail on the neckline and waistband.
be-green-bebe-black-girls-shirt

Fringed ‘Meow’ Tee | Mini Rodini
RM120.00 (around USD37)
Black short sleeved tee featuring a bright ‘meow’ emblazoned on the front and a long fringed hem. A fun throwback to the 80s!
be-green-bebe-boys-shirt

Nautical Checked Shirt | Purebaby
RM140.00 (around USD43)
Adorable nautical-inspired checked shirt with an anchor logo on the front pocket. Versatile and features roll up sleeves to make it a must-have for all seasons. Looks great matched with shorts or jeans.
be-green-bebe-striped-shirt

Striped Button Down Shirt | Purebaby
RM140.00 (around USD43)
Classic and versatile button down shirt in cream with stripes. Perfect for those days when your little boy loves to dress up or look preppy.
C. Gift Items and Accessories for the little ones
be-green-bebe-backpack-penelope

be-green-bebe-penelope-backpack

Backpack – Penelope | Beatrix NY
RM149.90 (around USD46.50)
Meet Penelope the octopus!
Embroidered with beloved forest creatures, these sturdy little packs hold everything a child needs for a busy day. Constructed from durable nylon and easy-to-clean laminated canvas. The large interior contains a smaller zipped pocket. Padded back panel and padded shoulder straps. Designed for ages 2 to 5. PVC free, lead free, phthalate free & BPA free. (9 x 12 x 5.5”)
be-green-bebe-backpack-percival

Backpack – Percival | Beatrix NY
RM149.90 (around USD46.50)
Meet Percival the dino!
Embroidered with beloved forest creatures, these sturdy little packs hold everything a child needs for a busy day. Constructed from durable nylon and easy-to-clean laminated canvas. The large interior contains a smaller zipped pocket. Padded back panel and padded shoulder straps. Designed for ages 2 to 5. PVC free, lead free, phthalate free & BPA free. (9 x 12 x 5.5”)
be-green-bebe-giraffe-backpack

MIBO Giraffe Backpack | Coqenpate
RM150.00 (around USD46.50)
Madeleine Robinson, the British designer of MIBO paper toys in recycled paper and vegetable ink has put her designs on canvas Coqenpate backpacks with 100% GOTS certified organic cotton lining. An ideal backpack for snacks, a change of clothes or teddy… great for baby showers or a 1st day of school gift!
Size (cm): 23 x 23 x 7.5
Details: 2 magnetized clasps, inside pocket, adjustable shoulder straps and handle
Care instructions: Wash 30°C inside out
For more information, visit Be Green Bebe at

Gifts Made Easy – Acqua di Parma Holiday Collection 2013

christmas-golden-ball-gifts



Let’s continue with the holiday season and gifts theme! This round, I am sharing about a very elegant, exclusive brand that has captured the hearts of men and women who truly appreciate classic culture and style.

Acqua di Parma arrived in Malaysian shores through its flagship store in Parkson Pavilion in 2011. If you’re a fan of unique and sophisticated brands, you will definitely love the collections from this brand. Classical-themed but modern products characterize this historic Italian brand.

Acqua di Parma has a wide range of products including extended line of handcrafted leather goods, aromatherapy products, candles, linens and terrycloth bathrobes, and new perfumes. The brand also offers candles that perfume and decorate the home, and room sprays to give a special touch even to drawers and cupboards.

Since 1916, Acqua di Parma has embodied the essence of Italian elegance and savoir vivre, delivering a universe of taste and quality, whilst being an expression of subtle and timeless sophistication. Acqua di Parma offers an unparalleled selection of prestigious products for the personal toilette, for moments of relaxation, for a place where style is an essential part of living.

To complement the existing classic collections, Acqua di Parma is offering a unique selection of limited edition gift sets, exclusively for the holiday season 2013. 

Here are some great gifts for loved ones and perfect gifts for yourself! My recent visit to Pavilion has awaken some gift ideas with fragrances and body care sets. And for those who are looking for classy gifts for the husband, boyfriend or simply for the important man of your life, Acqua di Parma also has gift sets for men. 

COLONIAS

COLONIA. A true classic
Created almost a century ago, Colonia perfectly embodies the sophistication of Acqua di Parma. Produced with the finest craftsmanship, it blends pure and traditional ingredients to express the freshness of a classic Eau de Cologne with a distinctive hint of citrus. Colonia offers a complete range of perfumed products for the bath and body: Bath and Shower Gel, Powder Soap, Bath Oil, Body Cream, Talcum Powder and Deodorants.

COLONIA ESSENZA. The purest expression of Colonia
A refined fragrance that captures all the emblematic characteristics of Colonia, made from the finest carefully selected ingredients. The freshness of classic Italian citrus fruits, becomes more lively and vibrant with the presence of grapefruit, tangerine and petitgrain. The heart is a blend of aromatic notes and floral accord. The fragrance closes with the strong and intense scent of pure patchouli which enhances the woody base.

COLONIA ASSOLUTA. Contemporary and sophisticated
The contemporary, vibrant and sensual interpretation of the classic Eau de Cologne. The sparkling freshness of Italian citrus fruits is enriched with warm spices and refined floral tones, laid on an enveloping base of white woods and amber notes. Colonia Assoluta is also available in a range of delicately scented products for the bath and body: Bath and Shower Gel, Aftershave Balm, Deodorants.

COLONIA INTENSA. Intensely masculine
An Eau de Cologne of great quality for the refined man. A unique composition, combining the traditional citrus notes of Eau de Cologne with an innovative leather accord, enshrouded by the spicy and smoky wood tones. Available also in the exclusive 500ml size, ideal for a prestigious gift and for anyone who loves to splash on this exclusive fragrance. Colonia Intensa offers a complete range of perfumed products: Hair and Shower Gel, Aftershave Balm, Aftershave Lotion, Deodorants.


acqua-di-parma-limited-edition

COLONIA Limited Edition Set

Contains: Eau de Cologne 100ml spray, Bath and Shower Gel and Body Cream 75ml.
Retail Price RM455 (around USD141)



acqua-di-parma-essenza-set

COLONIA ESSENZA Limited Edition Set

Contains: Eau de Cologne 100ml spray, Face Emulsion 50ml, Hair and Shower Gel 50ml
Retail Price RM455 (around USD141)


acqua-di-parma-assoluta-set

COLONIA ASSOLUTA Limited Edition Set

Contains: Eau de Cologne 100ml spray, Bath and Shower Gel and After Shave Balm 75ml.
Retail Price RM455 (around USD141)


acqua-di-parma-intensa

COLONIA INTENSA Limited Edition Set

Contains: Eau de Cologne 100ml spray, Bath and Shower Gel and Aftershave Balm 75ml.
Retail Price RM455 (around USD141)


LE NOBILI – my personal favorite in this holiday collection



acqua-di-parma-gelsomino-nobile

GELSOMINO NOBILE. Refined femininity

A noble interpretation of Calabrian Jasmine, an Eau de Parfum extraordinarily rich and elegant. A gentle, yet intense fragrance, in a spontaneous and harmonious alternation of luminous, sensual, delicate and encompassing tones.
A rich bouquet, where Calabrian Jasmine blends with precious notes in an intense, unforgettable creation. An elegant Coffret in a fabric like effect printed in the signature pastel green colour of Gelsomino Nobile line. Decorated with a refined and feminine satin ribbon. The Gelsomino Nobile logo is printed in gold.
Completing the line is a Radiant Bath and Showe Gel 50ml and Radiant Body Cream 50ml.
Retail Price RM415 (around USD129)


acqua-di-parma-magnolia-nobile

MAGNOLIA NOBILE. Elegant femininity

A refined interpretation of the magnolia flower, which reveals its most precious and unmistakable allure in this fragrance. A vibrant and sophisticated Eau de Parfum, which opens with crystal-clear citrus notes and develops into a majestic bouquet of tuberose, rose, jasmine and magnolia.
An elegant Coffret in a fabric like effect printed in the signature ivory colour of Magnolia Nobile line. Decorated with a refined and feminine satin ribbon. The Magnolia Nobile logo is printed in gold.
Completing the line is a Sublime Body Cream 50ml, a Sublime Bath Gel 50ml.
Retail Price RM415 (around USD129)


acqua-di-parma-iris-nobile

IRIS NOBILE. Feminine, aristocratic – and I would personally be so elated if I get this from my husband. The purple box is such an elegant touch to this gift set!

A unique interpretation of the iris flower, revealing all the feminity and fascination of this fragrance. A vibrant and subtly sensual Eau de Parfum, that incorporates the discreet elegance of the flower bouquet into the intensity of the classic chypre accord.
An elegant Coffret in a fabric like effect printed in the signature purple colour of Iris Nobile line. Decorated with a refined and feminine satin ribbon
The Iris Nobile logo is printed in gold.
The range comprises of a Precious Bath Gel 50ml, Luminous Body Cream 50ml and Iris Nobile Eau de Parfum 50ml.
Retail Price RM415 (around USD129)


acqua-di-parma-blu-mediterraneo-gift

BLU MEDITERRANEO

Arancia di Capri
Beginning with the orange, which finds its ideal home in the year round blooming gardens, to the charming secluded alleys that have attracted the cultural elite throughout history, to the exclusive venues of the international jet-set. Capri, the island of Sirens; Seducing, enchanting, and conquering. A small rocky jewel, where nature, beauty, and history melt together, and whose essence is evoked by Arancia di Capri.

The coffret comes in the institutional Blu Mediterraneo blue colour, with a design in line with Acqua di Parma classic Christmas Coffret. The hatbox is decorated with a sophisticated blue ribbon with the Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo logo.
The range comprises of Arancia di Capri EDT 150ml spray, Relaxing Shower Gel 75ml tube, Relaxing Body Lotion 75ml tube.
Retail Price RM450 (around USD140)


acqua-di-parma-fico-gift-set

Fico di Amalfi

Amalfi, the birthplace of all arts, boasts an enchanting landscape that makes it one of the most exclusive resorts in Italy. Breathtaking and enclosed, the island is a small treasure of nature. Famous for its figs, or “Dionysus’ drop” in authentic Italian, the fruit is known as a great source of vitality that gathers in Fico di Amalfi encompassing all the energy of the Mediterranean summer.
The coffret comes in the institutional Blu Mediterraneo blue colour, with a design in line with Acqua di Parma classic Christmas Coffret. The hatbox is decorated with a sophisticated blue ribbon with the Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo logo.
The range comprises of Fico di Amalfi EDT 150ml spray, Vitalizing Shower Gel 75ml tube, Vitalizing Body Lotion 75ml tube.
Retail Price RM450 (around USD140)
Acqua di Parma is exclusively available at Parkson Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.

Visit Pavilion and admire the Stars of Christmas display!


christmas-red-ball


It’s the most wonderful time of the year! This is the season when all shopping malls will be showcasing their creative and heartwarming display for Christmas. And through the years, Pavilion KL keeps surprising us with their amazing concepts. This is probably one of the reasons why customers turn into immediate shutterbugs when they visit Pavilion.
From the entrance facing Bukit Bintang (to tourists, this entrance is coming from Starhill Gallery/ Sephora side), you can immediately see tall white Christmas trees with the tallest green tree in the middle. The tallest one is sitting on top of a gazebo labeled with Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
pavilion-kl-entrance-display

pavilion-kl-tree

Inside, a beautiful display in white theme adorns the lobby of the mall. Polar bears with red ties are just irresistible to mall-goers. You’ll find it hard to find this space free of people taking pictures.
pavilion-kl-lobby-christmas-display

pavilion-kl-white-display

pavilion-kl-christmas-display

pavilion-kl-christmas-wonders


Behind this center display are fragrance collections that are perfect for holiday gift shopping. You’ll find popular brands such as Bulgari, Jimmy Choo, Calvin Klein, Paco Rabanne, Narciso Rodriguez, Carolina Herrera, Anna Sui and more.  For loved ones who enjoy perfumes and body care products from designer brands, these holiday sets are great gifts. I’ll share more about these sets in my upcoming posts.

stars-of-christmas-gift-display
gift-sets-display
gift-sets-display


This tree of gift sets is adorable and functional, too! It’s easy to see different gift sets at a glance.
christmas-tree-gift-sets

One tree is topped by this lovely, must-have Anna Sui set in the shape of a house. I’m sure any lady would be delighted to have this!
anna-sui-christmas-set

The wide flight of stairs is displayed with trees, white reindeer, giant snowflakes and mannequins in posh clothes.
christmas-display-pavilion-kl

I never thought that reindeer can be dressed up white and silver accessories. This one is simply creative and glamorous.
white-reindeer-pavilion-kl

Now, we get to the concourse where a lot of people spend more time taking pictures. At the center is a beautiful display of a white, brightly lit Christmas tree and a house surrounded by snow trees and white reindeer.
pavilion-kl-christmas-display

This house is quite popular among the visitors. So I had to wait before I got my chance to take a clear photo.
pavilion-kl-christmas-house
celestechoo-christmas-house-pavilion

You’ll also find this wonderful carousel that fits the theme perfectly. Kids and their parents queue up to have a ride and take pictures (of course!).

pavilion-kl-carousel-christmas


carousel-horse-ride


For only RM5 per ride, you get to enjoy a few minutes on the carousel. Not bad!
carousel-price-per-ride

School holidays are here and it’s a fun idea to drop by Pavilion with (or without) the kids. My son still has school until end of the month so I can only bring him during weekends.
My favorite time of the year is surely an excellent time to see wonderful Christmas theme displays. Pavilion KL never fails me every season. I’m already excited for next year’s display!
So to all, Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!

merry-christmas-greeting

Gifts Made Easy – 8 L’Occitane Gift Sets below RM200

Holidays are here! And as I shared before, I just love Christmas season! A lot of specials, a lot of sales promotions and yearend activities!
Giving gifts is exciting and fun but it can also be daunting when you’re having trouble finding suitable gifts that your loved ones will like and, of course, are within your budget. In this series of posts, I’ll be sharing some gift ideas that I noticed around and hopefully it can help you with your gift shopping. It would be great to somehow have an idea about what you’d like to buy before going to the boutique and maybe plan your budget ahead. 
loccitane-gift-sets
I’m starting with one of my loved brands, L’Occitane En Provence. Some might think it’s too expensive while for some it’s just fine (or maybe some might find it low-priced). I noticed some adorable gift sets which I think are worth sharing with you:
8 L’Occitane Sets below RM200

 Floral Shower Treat at RM110 contains:

– Lavender Organic Shower Gel 75ml
– Cherry Blossom Bath & Shower Gel 75ml
– Rose 4 Reines Bath & Shower Gel 75ml
– Pivoine Floral Shower Gel 75ml
– comes in a Gift Box
  


 Petite Cherry set at RM99 contains:

– Cherry Blossom Bath and Shower Gel 75ml
– Cherry Blossom Body Lotion 75ml
– Cherry Blossom Hand Cream 30ml
– Pouch



Shine with Fleur D’Or at RM191 contains:
– Fleur D’Or Luminous Oil 100ml
– Fleur D’Or Hand Cream 30ml
– Fleur D’Or Lip Gloss 15ml
– Pouch


Shea Hand & Foot Set at RM198
– Shea Hand Cream 150ml
– Shea Foot Cream 150ml


Travel With You set at RM169 contains:
– Shea Hand Cream 30ml
– Shea Foot Cream 30ml
– Repairing Shampoo 75ml
– Repairing Conditioner 75ml
– Shea Shower Cream 75ml
– Shea Body Lotion 75ml
– Cotton Pouch 


Petite Rose set at RM99 contains:
– Rose 4 Reines Bath & Shower Gel 75ml
– Rose 4 Reines Hand Cream 30ml
– Rose 4 Reines Body Milk 75ml
– Pouch


Angelica Starter Kit at RM151 contains:
– Angelica Gel Cleanser 50ml
– Angelica Face Toner 50ml
– Angelica Hydration Cream 15ml
– Angelica Milky Lotion 50ml
– Cotton Pouch

Almond Mini Kit at RM117 contains:
– Almond Shower Oil 75ml
– Almond Milk Concentrate 50ml
– Shea Hand Cream 30ml
– Pouch

I’m already planning my list before I visit L’Occitane. Have a happy holiday shopping!

For more holiday collections, you can visit
http://loccitane.com.my/ 

Estee Lauder Nutritious 2-in-1 Foam Cleanser


Wouldn’t it be great if your skincare works like healthy food for your skin? 

estee-lauder-nutritious-foam-cleanser


I’ve recently posted about cleansing and I admit that I love several cleansers from different brands. When I shopped for an Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair and a Nutritious Night Creme a few months ago, I was elated to receive travel size items that consisted of a Nutritious Foam Cleanser, Energy Lotion, Moisture Creme and an Eye Cream. Although I don’t immediately use travel size beauty products, I definitely bring them with me when I need to spend a night or two outside of home. 

estee-lauder-travel-size-nutritious


estee-lauder-nutritious-products

I went to Ipoh with my husband and son a few days ago and was just delighted to bring the Estee Lauder Radiant Vitality 2-in-1 Foam Cleanser. Why is it 2-in-1? It works as a cleanser and can be used as a mask when you want or need to. Use it as a cleanser on a daily basis and use it as a mask once a week. As a mask, simply leave it on for 2 – 3 minutes then rinse off. 

estee-lauder-foaming-cleanser


The Nutritious Foam Cleanser is formulated with Pomegranate Nectar Infusion. This 2-in-1 cleanser is the first step in the Nutritious regimen. It has a white cream color and has a very lovely scent, somewhat delicious maybe because of its pomegranate ingredient.  

estee-lauder-foaming-cleanser


estee-lauder-foaming-cleanser
Me in my messy, just-woke-up look

I love the texture of my face right after using it. There’s no drying feeling, my face feels fresh and smooth. 


I’m delighted by brands that use super foods in skincare products. It somehow shows commitment to healthier skin by using incredibly powerful food. 


Did you know that:
Pomegranate has superb anti-oxidant properties that make it a powerful anti-aging ingredient?
Pomegranate oil penetrates deeply into our skin which makes it good in treating dry skin?
Pomegranate has sun protective compounds that protect the skin against sun damage?
Pomegranate is considered a ‘superfood’?

pomegranate-fruit


Yes, I definitely recommend Estee Lauder Nutritious Foam Cleanser as a must-try product. It is a great cleanser that contains anti-aging properties and assists in repairing sun damage. With a superfood ingredient, this cleanser is a healthy option to daily cleansing! 

Embracing the philosophy “Every Woman Can Be Beautiful,” Estée Lauder believes every woman can achieve radiant, healthy-looking skin. In support of this philosophy, Estée Lauder launched Nutritious in 2007, harnessing the benefits of the Pomegranate, which is loaded with skin-boosting nutrients and potent anti-oxidants. Now, Estée Lauder elevates the Pomegranate to the next level with NEW Nutritious Collection powered by the proprietary NEW Pomegranate Nectar Infusion. Recharging the look of skin with a daily dose of powerful vita-nutrients, moisture and energy, this new collection helps to reveal a virtual “post-exercise” glow. Almost like a “superfood” for skin, the collection features a highly potent Pomegranate Nectar Infusion combines a blend of bio-converted Pomegranate and anti-oxidant-rich super berries, and helps detoxify irritants, neutralize free radicals, and infuse skin with energy and vital nutrients. A total approach to beauty, Nutritious Radiant Vitality 2-in-1 Foam Cleanser, Energy Lotion in Intense Moist and Fresh Moist, Essence Oil and 2-Step Treatment give skin a new look of active, radiant health.


To make the redness of this blog even more interesting, I’m sharing this photo showing the pretty red chairs in the hotel’s lounge in Ipoh…

red-couches-hotel-lounge

And my naughty son on the red chair…




Let’s Create Safer Cities and Healthier Homes with Philips!

Health and safety have become a major concern and challenge for the past few years. Being a mother of a 4-year old boy, my concern for safety is a daily affair and cause of stress. We parents need to protect our children and ourselves from danger. When I became a mother, I became more concerned of my own safety and health. Our children need us and we need to be more cautious and careful of everything we do. 


But we can only make small efforts with great love. And now that Philips has launched the Innovation That Matters to You contest, it is our chance to get our ideas heard. What’s more, the winning idea might be turned into reality! Isn’t that great? 

Philips-Innovation-that-Matters-to-You


Ladies, gentlemen, girls, boys, mommies, daddies, everyone, come and join us in getting our ideas heard by Philips! This is it. Get those creative minds rolling. I’m sure we all have a thought or two to share. Instead of everybody complaining about everything, let’s get things done. It’s quite rare for a big, global brand to ask for everyone’s idea or opinion and it’s great of Philips to launch this contest.  


How can you take part? It’s very simple. 

STEP 1: Log on to http://www.meaningfulinnovation.asia/malaysia/ or just click here

STEP 2: Choose which category you’d like to contribute on or choose both: Healthier Homes or Safer Cities. (I chose Safer Cities). 



STEP 3: Contribute your idea. 






Tips: Your ideas should be
a. Realistic – it must be practical to implement.
b. Sustainable – it should demonstrate long term viability.
c. Benefit many, not a few – the more people it benefits, the better your chance of having your idea implemented.

And that’s it! You can also share the contest on your Facebook and Twitter page to tell your friends about this great contest. After all, more brains are better than one so let’s collect more ideas and help make Malaysia healthier and safer for our loved ones. 


Did I mention that there are wonderful prizes to win? Philips is definitely rewarding great ideas. Here are some of the cool prizes you might win:

Philips Innovation that Matters to You



How does it work and how can you help? 

Philips Innovation that Matters to You


I’ve contributed my idea. Now, it’s your turn to contribute something that can hopefully help more people. Come and let’s all work together to build a healthier and safer place. 




Join the conversations on #meaningfulinnovation on Facebook, Twitter @PhilipsMY and Instagram and visit http://philips.to/innovationMY to find out more!



L’Occitane Brightening Cleansing Foam for Soft, Fresh, Radiant Skin

It’s been said so many times but I will say it again: cleansing is an essential part of our daily skincare routine and should not be taken for granted. For those who wear full makeup almost daily like me, it is very important to properly remove makeup with extra cleansing step such as cleansing oils and eye makeup remover. Cleansing removes impurities, excess oil, dead skin cells and dirt from our skin. I am the type of person who, no matter how tired even after working late until midnight, will still go through proper cleansing steps to make sure that my face is clean before I go to sleep. And for this, I am very particular when it comes to my facial cleansers.
washing face cleansing


I’ve tried a lot of different cleansers since my teenage days. I started quite early with my beauty routine at the age of 13, I think. At that age, I already follow the basic 3 steps of cleansing, toning and moisturizing. My cleansers range from bar soap, cleansing gel, facial scrub, facial foam and more. As I matured into my 30’s (agh, I’m so old), I’ve been more exploratory and enjoyed trying different brands. Some of the cleansers I loved were Perricone MD Nutritive Cleanser, the Body Shop Seaweed Pore-Cleansing Facial Exfoliator and Estee Lauder Nutritious Cleanser.
Since I’m concerned with dark spots and uneven skin tone nowadays, I decided to try L’Occitane’s Immortelle Brightening Cleansing Foam. This is a soap-free, non-drying facial cleanser. The Brightening Cleansing Foam is a very gentle face cleanser, enriched in Immortelle floral water and citrus fruit peel to lighten the complexion.

cleansing foam brightening radiant skin

brightening cleansing foam


l'occitane immortelle brightening


What L’Occitane Brightening Cleansing Foam does:
  • Gentle cleansing
  • Makes your skin radiant
  • Evens the skin tone
  • Softens the skin
  • Brightens the complexion

I’ve been using it for 1 week and I’m lovin’ it. The promise of gentle cleansing is really true and I’m enjoying the burst of foam on my palm through its pump.
brightening cleansing foam

I still use my cleansing oil to remove makeup as my eye makeup consists of waterproof items but my skin feels soft, fresh and ultimately clean after using this cleansing foam. It doesn’t leave a drying sensation and the gentle scent leaves the face with a delicate floral smell.
This is the 2nd L’Occitane product in my daily skincare routine. I love the Immortelle Brightening Moisture Cream and this Cleansing Foam is just as good. Though I haven’t noticed yet if there is brightening result from cleansing (still too early to see), the L’Occitane Brightening Cleansing Foam is a definite star cleanser for me and will be an addition to my list of great cleansers!
L’Occitane Immortelle Brightening Cleansing Foam’s tolerance is dermatologically tested.  Effectiveness tested over 3 weeks:
    Skin is gently cleansed:  100% of the women
    Complexion is even and radiant:  96% of the women
Made in France
Price: RM110 (around US$34) for 150ml

Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2014 is coming!

Melbourne is set to make waves with 200 events across Victoria with a glorious celebration of food and wine: All events on sale 3 December. 


Celebration of food and wine

Melbourne Food and Wine Festival presented by Bank of Melbourne will reel in more than 200 events for a global celebration of the bounty of water, 28 February – 16 March 2014.
Over 17 days food and wine lovers are invited to celebrate the world’s ocean and river fare guided by the best seafood chefs, join exclusive behind-the-scenes tours both on and off the water, get amongst it at lively street parties, secure a spot at never-to-be-repeated dinners with Michelin-starred chefs, and much more. Launched as one single program, tickets to all Festival events go on sale 3 December 2013.
The Festival’s hub project and centrepiece of the 2014 program is a bold expression of the Festival theme exploring the cycle of water with a temporary bar, restaurant and raingarden, popping up in the city’s Queensbridge Square.
Following on from the Urban Coffee Farm & Brew Bar in 2013, this ambitious project designed for the second year by HASSELL, anchors three levels to the Yarra’s edge featuring a riverside bar, an open-kitchen restaurant on the concourse and a top-level verdant raingarden. Melbourne chefs including Florent Gerardin (Silo), Jesse Gerner (Anada & Bomba), Adam Liston (Borrowed Space) and Daniel Wilson (Huxtable & Huxtaburger) will bring their take on dishes inspired by the three states of water – liquid, solid and gas – to the restaurant, and by night, the country’s boundary-pushing bartenders will craft one-off cocktails and drinks that celebrate the cycle of water.


Bank of Melbourne World’s Longest Lunch
Festival favourite Bank of Melbourne World’s Longest Lunch (28 February) gathers 1,500 lunching revellers at one 500 metre-long table to kick off the first day of the Festival along the banks of the Yarra in Alexandra Park. The three-course menu will be designed by Jacques Reymond, Adam D’Sylva, and Stefano de Pieri and brought to life by Peter Rowland Catering. Celebrating the world’s waterways as the lifeblood of food and wine, each chef will draw on personal connections to the Amazon, Mekong, and Murray-Darling rivers respectively to create a menu made with Victorian produce.
New for 2014, the Flemington Grazing Trail & Cellar Door combines the best of Victoria’s wineries, craft breweries and artisan producers with Group 1 racing on Flemington’s Super Saturday race meeting. The event at the iconic racecourse offers trackside wine tasting and gourmet produce picnics just outside of the city.
Back in Melbourne, budding cooks can learn from Melbourne’s favourite chefs about our city’s diverse culinary heritage at Festival Foodies, an event for kids in Queensbridge Square. For those seeking to explore and debate the social and environmental issues connected with water, the Festival is collaborating with The Wheeler Centre for a one-off talkfest featuring a broad spectrum of speakers on 6 March.
At the hotly anticipated Langham Melbourne MasterClass, 8 – 9 March, learn from and taste the creations of the new wave of young gun chefs alongside global greats of the kitchen as they share their connection with the world’s most precious resource, water. Chilean food forager Rodolfo Guzman (Borago, Santiago), seafood crusader and Spain’s Best Chef Angel Leon (Aponiente, Puerto de Santa Maria, Spain), and Lummi Island locavore Blaine Wetzel (Willows Inn, USA), are among the star-studded line up.
   
Now at the core of the new dedicated wine weekend, 1 – 2 March, Acqua Panna Global Wine Experience returns with benchmark wine tasting guided by a panel of Australia’s most influential winemakers, writers and sommeliers including Rick Kinzbrunner (Giaconda, Beechworth) and Guill de Pury (Yeringberg, Yarra Valley).
Melbourne’s hottest restaurants will pull out all the stops to bring you dining experiences exclusive to the Festival. Brothers Matt and Andrew McConnell join forces for Blood is Thicker than Water, a street party between Casa Ciuccio and Cutler & Co with water and blood-inspired dishes; Darren Purchese (Burch & Purchese Sweet Studio) takes over the historic Johnston Collection for decadent desserts at Swan Lake’s Sweet Seduction; and chef Frank Camorra and food writer Richard Cornish will talk foodies through a gastronomic tour of southern Spain, from the secrets of Spanish seafood to tales of nuns making moreish doughnuts (A Gastro-Tour of Spain, MoVida Aqui).
Learn about and taste the state’s outstanding seafood at events on and off the water. Hook, Lunch & Sinker returns with a fishing trip and lunch at Stokehouse Upstairs lead by The Age Good Food Guide Young Chef of the Year Ollie Gould, or at Melbourne’s Fish Mongrels at Sanford Australia, Melbourne’s wholesale fish hub, take a tour and a first-hand look at wild-caught seafood.


Join other food and wine lovers in this celebration


Foodies are invited to tour through Victoria over Regional Weekend (14 – 16 March) with all Festival events taking place out in the regions. The weekend kicks off with 20 Regional World’s Longest Lunches at spectacular locations across the state including Queenscliff Harbour on the Bellarine Peninsula, among the vines at Elgee Park vineyard in the Mornington Peninsula and overlooking the ocean in Inverloch, Gippsland.
Also over Regional Weekend, join the ultimate ‘60s themed cocktail party at The Dispensary Enoteca (Bendigo), H2007 James Bond vs. Don Draper, as they pit the signature drinks of the two smooth operators against each other. Feast at regional events embracing Victoria’s waterways, from floating down the King River ‘river sledding’ on lilos followed by lunch at Dal Zotto Winery (High Country) for Lilos & Prosecco; to dinner with Ovens River produce in the Alpine Valley at Tani Eat & Drink’s Down by the River.
Union Dining’s Nicky Riemer will bring her provincial style cooking to Bress in the Goldfields for Raining Produce at Bress, and in the High Country, get back to the core of outstanding produce at Philip Lobely Wines’ Water, Wheat and Wine, learning about the role of sun, water and earth in creating wine and artisan bread.
This is just a small taste of Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2014. The full program can be viewed from 26 November at melbournefoodandwine.com.au.

28 February – 16 March 2014 All Festival events on sale 3 December 2013

Guerlain Idylle Duet in Rose & Patchouli EDP

Guerlain’s Idylle Duet is probably the first eau de parfum that I personally bought for myself. I still recall my gorgeous ex-colleagues who introduced this golden bottle oozing with luscious floral scent at Guerlain’s counter in Isetan KLCC sometime last year. The scent of Rose & Patchouli is captivating and its bottle is undeniably a lovely piece to add on the vanity table so I decided to purchase this EDP. That and the fact that Isetan was having irresistible deals that day (yey!).


Guerlain Idylle Duet in Rose & Patchouli


I’ve been using this for a few months now and it’s such a delightful scent worth talking about. Very elegant, classic and perfect for any occasion. Well, I do wear it to work everyday and sometimes switch with a less luxurious fragrance just because I don’t want to finish it too fast. This Idylle Duet is my choice when attending wedding dinners or hosting wine events. The magic even gets better after a few hours.


Guerlain Idylle Duet comes in this lovely box where the bottle sits like a queen in a specially shaped nook. Not your typical packaging, this box makes presentation of the fragrance more like a jewel rather than a bottle of scented liquid, no? The whole product and packaging is wonderful, which makes it an ideal gift for ladies (attention to boyfriends and husbands there who need gift suggestions!).

 

Guerlain Idylle Duet in box



My half-finished bottle of Guerlain Idylle…




35ml, purchased at Guerlain counter, Isetan KLCC


About Guerlain Idylle Duet Rose & Patchouli
Inspired by Hector Berlioz’s symphony “The Specter of the Rose”, Guerlain’s perfumer Thierry Wasser revisits the stylistic exercise of “duets”—compositions created from two floral notes, around a unique bouquet. This trail of musky and woody harmonies was designed to be like the ideal music of love, a floral and mysterious olfactory symphony.


Signature of the Guerlain House, the Bulgarian Rose is here combined with Indonesian Patchouli, for a grand duo—a unique fragrance with a carnal and mysterious tempo. This fragrance, with its original harmonies, exists exclusively as an Eau de Parfum, and is enclosed in a femininely curved bottle, released in limited edition.

Beautiful Nail Polish and Makeup Collection at Inglot


I still remember the first time I was captivated by an Inglot shop. It was at Sunway Pyramid in 2011. That was the first time I saw the brand and I didn’t even know how the name was supposed to be pronounced. Is it ‘eeeng-lot’? Is it ‘eeeng-lohw’? Is it ‘eeeng-laht’? Well, it’s pronounced ‘eeeng-lot’. Inglot cosmetics was founded by Polish cosmetics maker Wojciech Inglot, who unfortunately died at the age of 57 in February this year.

inglot malaysia cosmetics makeup nail color beauty
Inglot Cosmetics Eye-Popping color collection
  
There’s something about Inglot boutiques that just captures attention. First, the shop design is simple yet it really makes colors stand out and pop to your eyes. The fixtures are in shiny, solid black against cream white walls and floors, making colors sparkle against it. The graphics also use solid black background that also makes colors gleam deliciously everywhere in the store. Creative and effective graphic and interior design is undeniably a great tandem for this brand.

inglot cosmetics makeup beauty
Inglot Cosmetics boutique in Mid Valley Megamall, KL, Malaysia

The first Inglot item I bought was a 2-piece eye shadow palette. I was so fascinated with the Freedom System that allows you to pick and mix the colors you want in your set. It’s such an enlightening thrill to pick the colors you like and create your own eye shadow set. Aren’t you tired of having those eye shadow palettes in your vanity kit and end up having 1 or 2 colors that you barely use? Inglot’s freedom system totally eliminates that waste of money. With their vast range of colors, it’s easy for anyone to pick colors based on their preferences. You can choose 1, 2, 4, 5 squares in whatever color you want. Look at these delicious colors!
 

inglot malaysia eye shadows
Inglot Freedom system for eye shadows

  
The Freedom system is also applicable for blushes, lip color and pressed powder. This is great for both makeup artists and those who simply love makeup.
A few days ago, I wanted to buy a new nail polish color and while walking along the brightly lit hallway of Mid Valley Megamall, which is still my favorite shopping mall since I arrived in Malaysia, Inglot once again caught my eye. And who wouldn’t be caught by this luscious display of nail color?
inglot nail polish color collection
Inglot Nail Polish Collection

  
The nail color collection is beautifully displayed in such a way that you can see all the colors popping in one glance. No need to rotate the fixture, no need to stand close and look down. Gorgeous and effective display that makes me want to grab them all and have a wall display in my own room like this.
   
Inglot nail polishes contain no toluene, no formaldehyde, no DBP (dibutyl phthalate), no camphor. A poster on top of the nail display announces O2M Revolutionary Breathable Formula, which is totally new to me. The sales assistant explained that this type of nail polish allows oxygen and moisture pass through! Mr. Wojciech Inglot developed this product to improve nail health. According to reports, the O2M nail polish has become very popular among Muslims because of its porous properties that make it acceptable to wear even during prayers. Inglot has recently announced that their product is ‘Halal certified’.
Among all the eye-popping colors, I picked this one in red-pink shade. I know its tempting to grab several polishes but this is my first time to try Inglot nail enamel so I have to do some test drive before I ‘indulge’.

inglot nail enamel in red-pink shade
My Inglot nail enamel pick for that day

I was also looking for a glamorous red matte lipstick and this vast display was very irresistible. Like the nail color display, the lip color collection display also allows you to see all the shades in one glance. To help you in choosing, there are also square swatches of colors in acrylic placed in front of each shade.
inglot makeup lip color beauty
Inglot Lip Color collection display

My Inglot visit to Mid Valley Megamall ended up with these 2 items in my beauty loot…
 

Inglot Lipstick and Inglot Nail Enamel

Nail Enamel in code 938, RM44 for 15ml
inglot nail polish enamel

Lip Color in code 409, RM52 for 4.5g

inglot lipstick in red matte finish



I’ll be test-driving these Inglot items and share my thoughts and experience with you soon!

Available at Inglot Boutiques/ Counter:
Mid Valley Megamall, KL
GF near North Court, Mid Valley Megamall, Kuala Lumpur

KL Sogo, Kuala Lumpur
GF, KL Sogo, 190, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman


Sunway Pyramid, Selangor
G1.36, Ground Floor, Sunway Pyramid, Subang, Selangor, Malaysia
Setia City Mall, Selangor
UG 55A, Setia City Mall, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Queensbay Mall, Penang
GF.59, Ground Floor, Queensbay Mall, Penang, Malaysia
City Square, Johor Bahru
J1-05, Level 1, Johor Bharu City Square, Johor, Malaysia