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Zoeva and Luscious Lipsticks to Get that Girl-Next-Door Look

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It’s amazing how a dash of color on a woman’s lips changes her personality and appeal.

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I’m getting more addicted with using different lip products and different colors these days. In one day, I’d probably use 2-3 different brands and shades of lipsticks at work: one in the morning before I go, another one right before stepping out of the car and a third one when I retouch after lunch time. I find it fun and stylish to be shifting lip colors through the day!
I have a collection of lip colors that I mainly use for my office look but there are times when I want to have that simple, innocent look (so I don’t look like that tough monster all the time at work, haha!).
I love shopping at Luxola and I had a fun time choosing 3 lipsticks to try and to achieve a girl-next-door look. I picked 3 different shades from light pink to vibrant red. And I was also excited to try 2 brands of lip color that I haven’t tried before: Luscious Cosmetics and Zoeva. I’ve tried Zoeva brushes and I loved them so I decided to try its Lip Crayon.
The Zoeva Lip Crayon comes in a black matte box and the lip crayon stick comes in a black matte finish with silver text letterings. The lip color shade is visible at one end so it’s easy to identify even with the cap on.
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ZOEVA Lip Crayon
Color: Tender Rose
Lipstick Pencil
Made in Germany
2.8g / 0.10oz
Price: RM34.00
What is it:
The ZOEVA Lip Crayon is a chunky lipstick pencil with a super light and creamy formula. It gives your lips sharp colour and a fine shiny finish. This product is also very smooth, as it melts naturally like butter on your lips for a visibly soft and plump effect.

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What makes it great:
This lip product contains Vitamin E and Jojoba Oil, making the lips smoother, plumped and moisturized.

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The downside to this crayon is that it’s not the twist up type. You need to use a sharpener for this one.

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The texture of this crayon is amazing. It’s so easy to apply, it glides smoothly on the lips on its own. I normally use lip balm with some other lipsticks but with this Zoeva lip crayon, I’m good to go without balm. It also has a soft sheen finish, giving you an overall fresh look. With light makeup, I can easily have a girl-next-door look. Adding a hair accessory like this Sereni and Shentel thin headband makes it even sweeter.

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I also decided to try this brand, Luscious Cosmetics, as it has an interesting name and the shades are fashionable. This Signature Lipstick comes in a combination black and silver tube, with the color visible on the base, like Zoeva Lip Crayon.
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LUSCIOUS Signature Lipstick
Color: Buff Pink
Made in USA
4g / 0.14oz
Price: RM57.00
What is it:
The Luscious Signature Lipstick Collection provides the lips with lightweight, vibrant colour. Each lippie in infused with nourishing oils that make the formula feel moisturising. It also offers a velvety finish that makes your lips look and feel rich.
What makes it great:
This lip product contains jojoba oil that keeps the lips well-moisturized. It feels lightweight on the lips while giving a velvety finish.

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The texture is good and color is buildable. If you want a very light touch of color, you can apply 1 swipe. I, however, prefer a deeper shade so I apply 2-3 swipes then blot my lips over folded tissue. It has a darker color than Zoeva Lip Crayon but it still gives me that girl-next-door look. Combined with a white plain headband, my look is complete, voila!

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And who said that dark, rich red lipstick won’t give you a sugar-spice-and-everything-nice appeal?
I was happy to give this Luscious Super Moisturizing Lipstick a try. The shade I picked is sexily named ‘Flirty Fuschia’, and it comes in a sleek silver tube. Nudes dominate the full color collection and I picked one of the deepest colors.

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LUSCIOUS Super Moisturizing Lipstick
Color: Flirty Fuschia
Made in Taiwan
3.5g / 0.12oz
Price: RM51.50
What is it:
The Luscious’ Super Moisturizing Lipstick gives colour and luster to your delicate pucker with its creamy and moisturizing formula enriched with Vitamin E and Grape Seed Oil.  
What makes it great:
This lip product contains Vitamin E and Grape Seed oil to keep lips moisturized and supple.

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luxola-luscious-cosmetics-lipstick-flirty-fuschia
The texture is great and like the other Luscious lipstick, the color is also buildable. Because it contains Vitamin E and Grape Seed oil, this lipstick feels smooth and comfortable on the lips. 
Yes, the color might seem too sexy for a girl-next-door look but with light eye makeup and right accessories, this shade can be sweet and dandy. Here is the flirty fuschia paired with my red Sereni and Shentel headband.

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I love these 3 new lipsticks and I find it amazing how I can change my look with different lipstick shades.  Do you switch lip colors throughout the day? Give it a try and explore how your lip colors change your mood, your look and your appeal!
Exclusive for my readers:
15% OFF on your first order at www.luxola.com/my
Use my code BLX-CELESTELIPS
Valid till August 31st and is not applicable on non-discountable brands found in Luxola FAQ
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Exclusive for my readers:

15% OFF on your first order at www.luxola.com/my

Use my code BLX-CELESTELIPS

Valid till August 31st and is not applicable on non-discountable brands found in Luxola FAQ.

 

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Love lipsticks? Discover more information and makeup tips via Luxola’s LX Edit! You’ll find amazing and useful guide for that perfect and fashionable look. 



SK-II Pitera Facial Essence Product Review

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I finally took the step to test this bestselling beauty product…why is this so popular and is it worth it?

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Since I arrived in Malaysia 5 years ago, SK-II has been one of the most prominent skincare brands in this country. I wasn’t really familiar with this brand before as it is not available in the Philippines, at least not before I left. The brand has such strong marketing presence and highly influential brand ambassadors that included Cate Blanchett. Oh, who doesn’t admire Cate, with her timeless beauty, grace and impeccable sense of fashion?
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Of course, I admit that I got interested to try the brand, mainly because of its Facial Essence. It promises skin transformation in 14 days, making spots less visible, appearance of wrinkles reduced, and making the skin radiant. I bought a Pitera Essence set for my mother-in-law before and I noticed a remarkable improvement on the radiance of her skin. After finishing that first set, I bought a second set for her and bought one for myself, too.
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Made in Japan
Price: RM229
Where to buy:
SK-II counters in major department stores – Isetan, Parkson, Metrojaya, Aeon
Sephora boutiques
Luxola at www.luxola.com.my
SK-II Pitera Essence Set contains:
SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion 30ml
How to use – After cleansing the skin, pour an appropriate amount (approximately 3 cm diameter) of Clear Lotion onto cotton pad. Gently wipe over T-zone, followed by U-zone from center outwards, then over neck.
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence 75ml
How to use – After toning the skin, pour an appropriate amount (slightly larger than the diameter of the cap) of Essence onto cotton pad. Gently pat onto face and neck.
SK-II Facial Treatment Mask 1pc
How to use – Place mask over eye area first, then gently spread over face and pat firm. Remove mask after 5-15 minutes. Discard mask after use.
I’ve used up the Clear Lotion and the Treatment Mask. These are both good products although it’s hard for me to fully evaluate, as the size of the lotion may not have been enough to show results while the 1-piece mask does give that instant hydration effect after use.
As for the Facial Essence, I’ve been using it for 3 months now. I’m not a big fan of the scent of the essence itself but it dissipates in a few seconds anyway so it’s not a big deal. The essence is water-like both in color and viscosity. It feels clean and light, easily absorbed by the skin.
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After first 2 weeks of use, it’s sad to say that I didn’t notice much change on my skin. I know that a skincare product’s speed of efficacy may vary from person to person, and this doesn’t necessarily mean that the product is not working so I patiently continued to use it. After 1 month, I did notice that my skin’s texture and radiance have improved. And on my 2nd month of use, I noticed that spots are diminishing, although not completely gone. 
I’ve seen good results but somehow on my third month, it’s just on ‘maintenance’ phase, as I don’t notice improvements anymore. I also find that the progress of results took longer than expected or as promised. I’m happy that my skin improved, especially with the diminished spots, however, I expected better. Considering that SK-II is probably the top brand in the country and that it’s mid-priced, I thought that results will be amazing or surprising, within at least a month. I find that it took long to see changes from the Facial Essence. Will I buy it again? Hmmm, I’d probably try something else with my RM229.
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About the product
SK-II’s signature product, the much-loved and most awarded bestseller, Facial Treatment Essence has over 90% Pitera™, the miracle ingredient discovered over 30 years ago that remains essentially unchanged till today. Its irreplaceable formula gently exfoliates the face and helps moderate the skin surface renewal cycle.

In just 14 days, your skin’s 5 dimensions are visibly transformed: spots are less visible, appearance of wrinkles is reduced, skin texture is more refined, firmnessis improved, and radiance is beautifully elevated. Skin becomes breathtakingly crystal clear.

Texture: This lightweight miracle water is quickly absorbed into the skin.

Key Ingredient: Pitera™ is full of vitamins, amino acids, minerals and organic acids that work together to allow the skin’s natural surface rejuvenation process to function at its prime.
Other Ingredients: Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Water, Sodium Benzoate, Methylparaben, Sorbic Acid.


Make Up For Ever Pro-Finish Multi-Use Powder Foundation

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No matter how good liquid or cream foundation is, I still need a good powder foundation to complete my face finish

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Oh, what would our photos be without foundation or at least a photo filter that creates the illusion of flawless skin like having foundation on?
I bought this Make Up For Ever Pro Finish Multi-Use Powder Foundation at its boutique in Sephora Starhill, together with the Mist & Fix Make-Up Fixer Mist. It comes in a sleek black compact with a black box.

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The compact has a compartment for the powder itself and the sponge: the powder on top compartment and sponge under. I’m not a big fan of this compact style because I need to keep lifting the powder part to get the sponge and somehow the movement keeps tapping the powder compartment. Eventually, this might make the compact powder break. It would have been better if the sponge was on top and the powder was under. But this is Make Up For Ever foundation and I wanted to give it a try.

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I picked color 125 (Beige Rose/Pink Rose), well, technically, the beauty consultant recommended it to me. This foundation has a 24-month life-after-opening period (if this is new to you, it simply means that after start of use or opening, you can use it for the next 24 months).
I’ve been using Make Up For Ever Pro Finish Multi-Use Powder Foundation for several months now. I am enjoying the texture and finish on my skin. I normally apply this after using my liquid or cream foundation, it works well with Guerlain Lingerie de Peau.

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The sponge is great to use but, of course, if you want a more flawless application, it’s best applied with a face powder brush. This multi-use foundation can be applied both in wet or dry application. If you are comfortable with sheer foundation effect, you don’t even need a liquid foundation. You can simply wet the sponge and apply the multi-use powder. Both with wet or dry application, this foundation lasts great through the day, although I still retouch once in a while because I love the freshly made makeup look and I have oily skin.
And definitely, after finishing my makeup, I apply the Mist & Fix. It works wonders on keeping my foundation in place. 

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Where to buy Make Up For Ever / Price: RM180.00 
Level 2 Sephora Starhill

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About the Product

With its transforming texture, PRO FINISH is the 1st multi-use powder foundation that allows you to fully customize your finish and coverage level. Formulated with exclusive bio-mimetic coated pigments, its breakthrough formula can be used wet or dry.


Apply it wet for a sheer semi-matte perfection or dry for a full coverage, matte result.

Created with talc lightweight formula, its texture is long lasting, has buildable coverage with no chalky effect and easily blends for a perfect professional result in just minutes.


Enriched with hydrating ingredients, PRO FINISH corrects and evens the complexion without drying our skin.

make-up-for-ever-multi-use-pro-finish-powder-foundation-shades

Olay Regenerist Advanced Cleansing System

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Some of us might not have the budget for a Clarisonic…but, hey, what about this one?

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For the past years, I’m sure you have witnessed the popularity of facial cleansing devices, dominated by best-selling brand Clarisonic. It took a while before beauty brands recognized the strong potential from this new beauty segment but it wasn’t too late for brands like Clinique and Olay to jump in the beauty device wagon.
While I think that Clarisonic is a worthy investment for good facial cleansing system, not everyone would have a budget of RM600+ to enjoy the benefits of a cleansing device. I wasn’t highly keen on trying out a cleansing device before but while shopping online at www.watsons.com.my, I received a free Olay Regenerist Advanced Cleansing System (worth around RM129) together with my purchase of RM150 of selected brands. I love online shopping and I love free stuff!

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This facial cleansing device set comes in Olay’s black and red box. The box set contains: 1 facial cleansing device, 1 brush head, 1 skin renewal cleanser 20ml and 2 AA batteries.
Benefits of Olay Regenerist Cleansing System:
  • Up to 4x better cleansing than cleanser alone (tested on removing makeup vs. cleanser alone)
  • Gently exfoliates
  • Delivers daily deep cleansing
  • Renewal Cleanser primes the skin for anti-aging regimen
  • Device has 2-speed control, is water-resistant and easy to hold

What results to expect:
  • Skin is instantly cleaner, feels fresher
  • Skin texture is improved and smoother with continuous use 

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I like that Duracell batteries are already included in this boxed set. Don’t you just hate it when you discover that you need batteries for something you just bought or received? It’s also easy to install the 2 batteries on the device. Gently rock the battery compartment (on the base) side to side while pulling to release battery cover. Then insert the 2 batteries and push back the cover. Reminder, do not mix old and new batteries.

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The device has 2 rubber buttons, 1 to switch it on or off and 1 to control speed. I prefer to use basic speed versus the faster one but this will depend on your personal preference.

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This set comes with 1 brush head, which is easy to snap onto the device. It is recommended to replace the brush head every 3 months. I haven’t replaced mine after more than 3 months, haha, but it still works fine and, don’t worry, the brush head is not disgusting or dirty-looking (yet).
A 20ml skin renewal cleanser is packed inside this set but you don’t necessarily need to use it together with the device. We all have our preferred cleanser so feel free to use the device with your favorite brand. I have a habit of trying new brands and products every now and then. I’ve used the Olay Cleansing Device with different brands like Garnier, Neutrogena and Shizens.  

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For the past 6 months, I’ve been using this device every evening to cleanse my face. Initially, I tried using it day and night but I developed a few pimples, around 2-3 (oh yes, I will count them coz I rarely get these!), so I decided to slow down and use it at night only. For someone who has not tried cleansing devices before, it probably ‘surprised’ my skin. When I limited use to once a day, the pimples stopped, yay! And the fun starts.
My skin does feel instantly cleaner, in a different way than it feels with normal deep cleansing without a device. And though it’s not Clarisonic, I’d say it does a good job in complementing my skin-cleansing regimen. So if you want to start exploring facial cleansing devices and you’re on a tight budget, the Olay Regenerist Advanced Cleansing System is good bet.
Where to buy: www.luxola.com.my / www.watsons.com.my
Replacement cleansing brush heads are available at www.watsons.com.my – RM29.90 for a boxed set of 2 pieces

Reebonz Makes A Perfect Hari Raya with Luxury Accessories at Friendly Prices

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Look Perfectly Put Together This Hari Raya with Timeless Luxury Accessories From Reebonz
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While getting ready for special occasions and events can be exciting and fun, it can also be daunting when trying to put that perfect look altogether and make it work. Many of us who will be celebrating Hari Raya Aidilfitri and hosting or going to numerous open houses, would have picked out the fabric and colors for each day’s ensemble, or we may have bought off-the-rack, while the rest of us are still searching, and growing increasingly frantic! It can take hours, days and weeks of searching for the right fashion picks that not only fit us nicely but also create our fashion statement and identity.
However, even the most beautifully designed and embellished designer outfit may seem unfinished if not paired with the perfect accessories be they handbags, shoes, wallets or jewellery.

Reebonz (pronounced ‘ribbons’), Asia’s trusted online shopping destination for buying and selling the widest variety of luxury brands has an amazing selection of handbags, shoes, small leather goods and jewellery to complete your look. All items sold through the Reebonz platform, both new and pre-loved are guaranteed authentic, and are often available at significant savings through the many sale events on the site.
Trends For Hari Raya Aidilfitri
Reebonz experts have curated some of the key accessories, colours, shapes and sizes for the festive season and beyond for the stylista in each of us.
The secret to successful Hari Raya accessorising is to choose timeless pieces that can be used after the festivities as well.  As a rule, traditional attire such as baju kurung, baju kebaya, jubah and abaya are best complemented by structured classic shapes, and elegant heeled footwear.
Key colors for Hari Raya include white, yellow and green (ladies, take note of these colors!) as well as classic black and shades of gold for formal dinner events.
Luxury comes in many levels and the Reebonz’ Online Price before further markdowns is always more attractive than the recommended retail price at designer boutiques. For the best value at Reebonz, stalk your favorite items for when they are at their lowest price, which could be during special sale events, at clearance or when it is the last piece available.  
Handbags Trends
Tote bags are functional and ideal for work and weekends. Choosing a structured leather tote with bold hardware can add contrast or subtly complement an outfit. For Hari Raya consider the Michael Kors Jet Set Medium Travel Multifunction Tote in Sun, the upbeat preppy look of the Sophie Hulme Mini Tote Saddle Bag, and Miuccia’s latest saffiano leather collection – Prada Saffiano Cuir Double Bag. 

=============== 
Note:
RRP = Recommended Retail Price  (in Boutiques)
RSP = Reebonz Selling Price (Online)  à before further markdown
“as low as” price = Clearance, last piece or crazy promo price – members need to seek these out, they don’t happen everyday! Look out for promo codes, and learn how to use marketing credits!
=============== 

Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Medium Multifunctional Tote
RRP: MYR 1429.00
RSP: MYR 1238.00
(as low as MYR 1001.00)
Stash away your shopping loot in this handy, sleek tote by MICHAEL Michael Kors! The ideal bag for both work or play.
Exterior
– Saffiano leather body
– Gold tone hardware
– Double top handles
– Open top
– Designer charm hang tag
– Raised designer lettering
Interior
– Fabric Lining
– 1 zipper compartment, 1 zipper pocket, 1 slip compartment, 4 slip pockets
– Strap with lobster clasp
– Debossed designer label
Color: Sun (Designer Colour)


Sophie Hulme Mini Tote Saddle Bag
RRP: MYR 1490.00
RSP: MYR 1288.00
(as low as MYR 998.00)
Carry this saddle tote by Sophie Hulme for an upbeat preppy look that will carry you through season to season.
Exterior
– Leather body
– Gold tone hardware
– Double top handles, adjustable and detachable shoulder strap
– Open top
– Designer key ring
Interior
– Unlined
– 1 slip pocket
– Debossed designer lettering
Color: Green
Clutches 
Clutches convey the elegance and sophistication of the wearer through their sleek, compact styling, either as handhelds or convertible to a shoulder bag with a strap. Flashback to the old school glamour of 60’s movie star Saloma and the many clutches that she used to accessorise her baju kebaya, for inspiration. Among the top pick from Reebonz includes the Christian Dior Medium event Clutch, petite Michael Kors Elsie Dome Clutch which is suitable for all Raya functions, and classic Saint Laurent Monogramme Clutch. 
Christian Dior Medium Evening Clutch
RRP: MYR 2510.00
RSP: MYR 2058.00
As low as MYR 1506.00
Lend a glamorous edge to the simplest of looks with a Christian Dior clutch. Wear this style to highlight a classic LBD or to give an opulent edge to elegant cocktail attire.
Exterior
– Cannage stitched nubuck calfskin leather body
– Silver tone hardware
– Detachable chain shoulder strap
– Magnetic snap tab closure
– Designer charm hang tags
Interior
– Fabric lining
– 1 slip pocket
– Debossed designer label
Color: Metallic Beige
Timelessness can also come in classic statement pieces that will have other guests oohing and aahing at your taste and refinement. Consider a Christian Dior Lady Dior Medium Bag, a Fendi Shopping 2Jours Petite Tote in buttery yellow or even a vintage pre-owned Chanel Classic Double Flap bag in black.

FendiShopping 2Jours Petite Tote
RRP: MYR 6300.00
RSP: MYR 5188.00
(as low as MYR 4095.00)
Indulge in understated luxury that speaks volumes of flair and poise, such as the Fendi 2Jours.
Exterior
– Calfskin leather body
– Silver tone hardware
– Double top handles, adjustable shoulder strap
– Snap tab closure
– Detachable designer hang tag
– 4 protective metal feet
– Designer lettering
Interior
– Fabric lining
– 1 zipper compartment
– Debossed designer label
Color: Yellow
Trend piece are ideal for edgy women. For example the minimalist M2Malletier La Collectionneuse’s clean lines and unique metal handle identifies its wearer as an individualist. The Céline Nano Luggage is a new classic that has been seen on the arms of the most glamourous women in the world – the charming ‘face’ on the bag shows off your quirky side. The Givenchy Medium Antigona is structured yet sturdy in a rounded shape that will draw the eye of onlookers.

GivenchyMini Antigona
RRP: MYR 7400.00
RSP: MYR 6998.00
Look your most professional in your corporate getup and top off that look with this chic and sturdy Givenchy number.
Exterior
– Goatskin leather body
– Silver tone hardware
– Double top handles, single shoulder strap
– Zip top closure
– Raised designer lettering
Interior
– Fabric lining
– 1 zipper pocket,  2 slip pockets
– Debossed designer label

Color: Yellow
Wallets
The details differentiate the lady from the masses. Reebonz’ picks for being perfectly put together include the Miu Miu Matelassé Wallet On Chain that can double as a petite shoulder bag, the Prada Saffiano Metal Long Flap Wallet and the Gucci Bamboo Tassel Zip Around Wallet. Give and receive duit raya with panache!
Shoes
Shoes maketh the woman, and luxury shoes maketh her even more awesome. For Raya open houses where you will be the host and on your feet the entire day, the Salvatore Ferragamo Vara 1 Pumps combine class and comfort. The Christian Louboutin Pivichic 100 with killer heels combine comfort and style, and elongate your silhouette for edgy elegance as you make an entrance, or be the belle of any ball when you put on the Jimmy Choo Lang Sandals in gold. The world will be at your feet.

Jimmy Choo Lang Sandals
RRP: MYR 3453.00
RSP: MYR 3073.00
(as low as MYR 1698.00)
The perfect evening sandal carrying you through this season’s black tie events, one step at a time.
Features
Details: Mirror leather heeled sandal, adjustable ankle strap, leather insole with signature designer logo label, leather soles.
*Euro Sizing
Color: Nude
  
“Reebonz is modelled around the concept of ‘accessible luxury’, bringing to its members a well-curated collection of new and pre-owned luxuries from the best designer brands in the world, authenticity guaranteed with on-time delivery and tracking that gives a new dimension to luxury shopping online. Especially during festive seasons when you want to stand out in how you present yourself, yet are strapped for time to shop, Reebonz is your best destination for luxury,” shared Mr. Tang Siew Wai, Country General Manager of Reebonz Malaysia.
About Reebonz
Reebonz (pronounced as ‘ribbons’) is Asia’s most trusted online brand, and a preferred shopping destination for buying and selling the widest variety of luxury products. Founded in March 2009, Reebonz has rapidly established itself as the one of the most promising and respected e-commerce business in Asia due to the business in taking great pride in its reputation for high quality products, great value and excellent services. It is headquartered in Singapore and has established offices in many parts of Asia including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Australia, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Korea.
For more information, log on to http://www.reebonz.com.my

Wine Talk Hosts First Winemaker Tasting Session featuring Bertrand Sourdais

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How often do you meet a winemaker in Malaysia? Wine Talk does it again…an enjoyable evening of wines plus an exclusive preview of new ones from France and Spain for its customers and Wine Club members.

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It is a rare event for a wine lover in this part of the world to meet the winemakers themselves. If you were in Germany, Australia, France, Spain or maybe Italy, you’d have good chances of meeting the talented men and women behind the art of winemaking process. But here in Malaysia, it would be a memorable occasion to enjoy a wine tasting session with the winemaker himself.
On 18th April 2015, Wine Talk, headed by its CEO and sommelier David Stephan, hosted an indulgent session of wine tasting and Spanish tapas at La Bodega Lounge in Jalan Telawi, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur. The tasting session featured 4 different wines from reputable winemaker, Bertrand Sourdais, who flew in to Malaysia that day for Wine Talk’s first winemaker tasting session this year.

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Bertrand Sourdais talking about Chinon wines
Freshly landing an hour before the event started at 4pm, Sourdais was a breath of excitement and enthusiasm as he entered the cozy lounge of La Bodega. And the moment he started talking, one can immediately feel his passion for wines and the meticulous work involved in his winemaking process.

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Sourdais with guests and David Stephan (in green apron)
Sourdais guided guests through 4 wines, which were all products of his lifelong passion for wines: Chinon ‘Les Messanges De Pallus’, Chinon ‘Les Pensees De Pallus’, Chinon ‘Le Grand Vin de Pallus’ and Bodegas Antidoto. The first 2 are already available in Malaysia, exclusively at Wine Talk, while the latter 2 wines are expected to arrive in June/ July. Sourdais’s Chinon wines are from France while the last one, the Antidoto, is from Spain.
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4 wines tasted during the wine tasting session with Bertrand Sourdais
Bertrand became the 5th generation of the Sourdais Family to manage the estate when he took over in 2004. They are based in the village of Cravant-Les-Côteaux, one of the 2 villages encompassing the Chinon AOC, which produces mostly red wine, Cabernet Franc being the King Grape of the region. Since he took over, he has been slowly converting the estate towards a fully organic approach, and working parcel per parcel (some planted in sand, others in limestone) to make a more drastic selection for the 3 different cuvees. He does this to produce extremely refined and complex wines, which are friendly to drink now but can also withstand some ageing.

Passionate about offering the purest expression of the grapes only, Bertrand works with a very respectful and minimalist approach, growing grapes with an organic method, combined with slow and careful oak ageing.
As a grand traveler and lover of Spanish wines, Bertrand has also been making wines in Spain since the late 90’s, first managing the now highly-renowned Dominio de Atauta, and during this event introduced Bodegas Antidoto. Wine Talk customers and Wine Club members were the first ones to enjoy a glass of this much-awaited wine, together with Chinon ‘Le Grand Vin de Pallus’, which are both arriving in 2-3 months in Malaysia.

4 Wines by Bertrand Sourdais:
Aged in concrete tanks and stainless steel for over 6 months, the grapes come mostly from vines planted in sandy soils – Dark berry and fruity notes combined with capsicum, mild spice and herbal qualities, make this a great value wine – dry and addictive! Perfect with a wide selection of meat dishes, better served slightly chilled. Les Messanges is a pure expression of the Cabernet Franc: dry, fruitful & very friendly.
‘Les Pensées’ (name of a flower which is very present around the vineyards) is the Domaine Trademark-cuvée. It is the one that put them on the World Wine Map a few years ago, getting top-scores everywhere. Sourced from parcels surrounding the estate, planted dominantly on sand-limestone hillsides and pebbly sand parcels, the wine is oak-aged for over 12 months and a further 6 months in tanks.
This is a beautiful bold dry red with great depth, richness to the layers of capsicum, plum, black cherry and redcurrant fruit, accented by notes of bouncy pepper, savory and olive. Perfect with a nice grilled steak!
Coming soon, exclusively available in Malaysia via Wine Talk at www.winetalk.com.my
Sourdais set aside the fruit of his oldest vines to produce just 100 cases of this very special grand vin. Named Grand Vin de Pallus, this wine is a pure expression not only of a blessed terroir and a historic vintage, but also of  Sourdais’ talent and his persistent passion to create a Chinon for the ages. This wine bursts with the essence of violets, combining rich black currant fruit with a bracing fraîcheur (this is a French word meaning freshness or coolness). As one of the guests described, this Chinon has an amazing flavor that “dances around inside your mouth”.  Sounds appetizing.
This Spanish wine is organically made from old Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) vines. Extractions are kept under control and second- and third year 225-litre barriques are used in order to limit oak influence. It combines 70% of old vines with younger vines, bringing a lively touch to the wine, resulting to fruit flavours of red berries, floral reminiscences, a racy acidity and considerable minerality while remaining juicy and dense on the palate. 
Bodegas Antídoto is a project designed by Bertrand Sourdais with David Hernando, an agricultural engineer and a former technical director of the winery Atalayas de Golbán, where he worked from 2004 to 2010.  Their objective is to produce fine, unique wines in the Eastern part of the Ribera del Duero region. Antídoto is a youthful project that started in 2009. Though it was not until 2011, the year in which the first Antídoto was made using grapes from the vineyards that they run in Soria, that the project truly gained momentum.

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Guests had a great time with Bertrand Sourdais, David Stephan and the rest of the Wine Talk team. Aside from the beautiful wines and Spanish tapas, they also enjoyed special prices to buy or pre-book any of the wines they liked that day.
To the surprise of guests, David Stephan had a lucky draw at the end of the session and gave away a beautiful magic decanter. Sounds interesting? The magic decanter speeds up the process of traditional decanting, which normally takes half an hour or more, by decanting the wine immediately as the wine is poured through. And a lucky guest bagged the prize.

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David Stephan and Bertrand Sourdais with the lucky guest
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Gastrodome General Manager Sach Seelan (left) with Bertrand Sourdais and David Stephan
Wine Talk is an online wine delivery service in Malaysia, providing fast, efficient and easy way for people across West Malaysia to shop online for wines, wine accessories such as wine glasses and decanters, and now including selected spirits that French sommelier David Stephan has carefully handpicked for customers.
During this event, Wine Talk’s Wine Club members enjoyed the privilege of free entrance to enjoy exclusive wines from featured winemaker Bertrand Sourdais. The Wine Club, the first of its kind in Malaysia, is a unique service where members subscribe to a monthly or bi-monthly delivery of wines. Wine Club wine cases contain wines that David Stephan himself personally picks to send to its members. It is definitely a great way to discover more wines from around the world, not just labels that one can easily find in wine shops. After all, discoveries make wine appreciation even more pleasurable.
Wine Talk online site offers red wines, white wines, sparkling wines, rosé wines, Champagne, crystal wine glasses, decanters, aromaster and spirits, sent right to your doorstep with FREE delivery for any order worth RM120.  
For those who are interested to discover more about the Wine Club and its privileges, you may visit https://www.winetalk.com.my/wine-club.html, call 1300889788 or send an email to info@winetalk.com.my

Want to attend a wine tasting and SALE event? Wine Talk is conducting its second tasting afternoon together with famous Spanish restaurant, La Bodega. It will be held on 23rd May 2015, Saturday, 4pm-7pm, at La Bodega BSC Kuala Lumpur. RSVP via Wine Talk Facebook page or click HERE. 

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You can even choose to travel in style with UBER. Enjoy 2 FREE rides up to RM30 when you sign up with a new account, use code UBERWINETALK15. This makes traveling a lot easier and safer after enjoying a few glasses of wine.

See you at the event!


Repetto Paris Perfume

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Pretty things often come in pretty packages…
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When I received this Repetto perfume and body lotion gift set from my sweet sister-in-law, I got excited to unbox it. Who wouldn’t enjoy receiving such a pretty gift?
This is the first Repetto product I’ve had. This French fashion brand is popular for its adorable shoes, and look, Repetto even has collaboration with Disney for a Cinderella collection!

Look at that adorable Cinderella-themed shoes!
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Anyway, I’ve unboxed this beautiful gift and I’m currently enjoying the Repetto Paris Eau de Toilette. I personally prefer floral scents and this one has floral top and middle notes. I’m not a big fan of woodnotes, somehow this seems a bit musky to me but it still smells nice.
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Compared to my Valentina by Valentino perfume, I prefer Valentina but I’ve almost finished it so it’s time to try a new scent. I am also using Burberry Body Tender now and I love it!

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This Repetto EDT comes in a tinted bottle, decorated with a satin ribbon bearing an ‘r’ charm.

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The gift set comes with a satin body lotion, which is also scented with the same notes of the fragrance. Oh, isn’t the ballerina theme so feminine and stylishly sweet?

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The bottle design according to Repetto (via www.repetto.com)
“It is a timeless bottle in movement, as an arabesque a night of ballet. The subtly tinted glass bottle bears an identical ribbon that is used on the famous Carlotta ballerina. The satin ribbon branded with the little charm wraps delicately like a ballet shoe around the ankle. A play of curves, volumes and unbridled forms gives the glass a unique suppleness.”
The fragrance
A satin rose that the trail twirls to wrap you like an infinite satin ribbon. A graceful and carnal fragrance.
Top Notes – Pear & Cherry Blossom
Middle Notes – Rose & Orange Blossom
Base Notes – Vanilla & Amber Wood

What I think about that Watsons Video Ad

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I’ve read mixed reactions on this recent advert by Watsons. What do I think?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5ytoPaBFy4
(Click image to watch full video)
I’ve been so busy these past few weeks and I barely have time nowadays to blog (I’m way behind my lineup of articles, gasp!). Well, work and family come first.
But today, I noticed a lot of mixed reactions regarding this Watsons video advertisement, an ad meant to announce its ‘Hottest Sale’ ever.

Watsons Hottest Sale Ever Video
It’s a simple, short video featuring a girl, with her boyfriend, shopping for things at Watsons then the girl, who looks pretty wearing makeup, says to the cashier that she doesn’t want to buy cosmetics. After which, her face turns plain, pale, colorless while her boyfriend gets shocked and panics a bit. 

The cashier insists that she will get huge discounts and places back the cosmetic items in the girl’s pile of products and the girl turns pretty again. The girl says that she still doesn’t want to buy cosmetics, removes the makeup items and she turns pale again. Her boyfriend panics a bit more. Then the cashier insists that with Watsons VIP card, she gets RM5 points. The girl’s boyfriend then grabs her wallet, takes out the VIP card and says that he wants.

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I’ve read some of the comments here and there, and it’s a bit confusing. Take note that I am not here to create any form of war against other people’s opinions. I’m just sharing thoughts and some questions.
Some people are appalled, saying that the advert means that women need makeup to be beautiful. To this I ask, isn’t this something that has already consumed the market? I mean, with all the hype and addiction of women to makeup, with all the selfies posted daily and hourly enhanced with pre-shoot makeup and post-shoot filters, with all the beauty bloggers including me who are blogging about makeup, with all the magazines in the world advertising cosmetics, are we saying that using makeup to be beautiful is a damnable statement and those who promote it should be condemned? I guess there are so many makeup brands that we have to condemn if that’s the case.

How many of us would actually go out, meet friends, go to work, go out on a date or important event, without, take note, withouta dab of makeup? Would anyone of us actually dare to spend a month, a week or even a day of meeting people outside the house without even a pat of face powder, lipstick or lipgloss, eyeliner, eye shadow, mascara or blush? None of any of these? Nothing at all? Just wash your face and out you go? Hmmm, sounds pretty impossible to me.
Some get angry, saying that their boyfriends would never react like that. Well, to this, I’d say that the ad did some exaggeration but it could happen in real life. Come on, let’s be realistic here. Nowadays, you see teens and ladies in the mall trying to look like Korean actresses with all the possible makeup, large or colored contact lens, fake eyelashes and more. Of course, with all the enhancements, some ladies would now look entirely different than how they normally would. 

So if a boyfriend has never seen a girl without the extreme add-ons, add-ons that she did to herself, and then suddenly he sees her for the first time without them, can we blame him if he looks at her differently? If he continues to love her or even more, then all is good. But if not, then it simply meant that his love was superficial. However, in the ad, the portrayal was not like this. In fact, the boyfriend in the ad was supportive of the girl. He didn’t scream or ran when he saw her without makeup. But let’s remember something here. If we have trained our boyfriends or partners to see us in our enhanced looks, then we have created that picture in their heads. It is not their fault that they expect you to look like a queen when you’ve always shown them that you look like a queen.
Some find it funny. Personally, this ad reminded me of an episode in Ally McBeal where Ling Woo (played by Lucy Liu) was not wearing makeup and when her boyfriend Richard Fish (played by Greg Germann) saw her for the first time without makeup, he screamed in fear. Or that episode in That 70’s show when Michael (Ashton Kutcher) sees Jackie (Mila Kunis) without makeup. His scream was epic. Check it out in this video. Super funny.

  

So if I were the brand director, would I approve this ad or conceptualize the ad this way? Yes and no. Yes, it is good to have a funny approach. This is probably one of the funniest sale ads I’ve seen. We normally see sale ads done in the repeated boring ways and this one gets a plus for extra effort. But no, I agree with some who say that there could have been a more tasteful way of announcing the SALE event or highlighting on makeup products.
But overall, do I find it offensive? Should it be a reason for me to jump and condemn the brand? 
No. And honestly, I just find the ad hilarious.

New Neutrogena Deep Clean Brightening and Hydrating Cleansers

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Love the deep clean feel of Neutrogena cleansers? You’re going to love them even more.

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I’ve mentioned so many times in my articles that cleansing is a vital step in taking care of our skin. In fact, I personally use several cleansing products at the moment to make sure that I cleanse my skin properly. I have makeup removers, makeup cleansing lotions, foaming cleanser and face scrub.
I love Neutrogena cleansers and am happy to talk about 2 new additions to the Deep Clean family: Brightening Foaming Cleanser and Hydrating Foaming Cleanser. Now we have 2 new products to use for healthy radiant and clean skin! Honestly, I just love that deeply cleansed feel after washing the face with Neutrogena products.

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NEW Deep Clean Brightening Foaming Cleanser
Effective Deep Cleaning Facial Cleanser with 2x brightening power for cleaner, fairer and more radiant skin with every wash
This cleanser comes with 2X brightening power! With the kind of climate that we have here and our daily exposure to the heat of the sun, it is not surprising that a lot of us experience uneven darkening or spots on the face. Aside from sunblock, moisturizer and serum, the facial wash you use should also contain brightening ingredients if you want to have brighter and radiant skin.
The formula of Neutrogena Deep Clean Brightening Foaming Cleanser contains mulberry extract and clinically proven whitening vitamin complex that boosts skin fairness with every wash.
What makes this cleanser good:
  • Clinically proven formula removes dirt and skin-dulling residue of makeup, sunblock and BB creams
  • Whitening complex contains Ascorbyl Glucoside, which inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase responsible for melanin production
  • It also contains Mulberry extract with Ascorbic Acid and Niacin, known to brighten the skin
  • Formulated with Neutrogena’s Unique Deep Clean trademark, which is dermatologically-tested to cleanse deep down into pores to remove dirt, oil, makeup and dead surface skin cells
  • Makes skin look fresher, healthier, fairer and luminous
  • Does not leave a drying or tightening feel on the face after use
  • Love the scent of this cleanser on my face!
  • Easy to rinse
  • Affordable


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The cleanser is packed in a soft press tube with a flip top cap. Like most other Neutrogena cleansers, this also comes with a sealed dispenser. The cleanser product itself is a pink opaque cream with a lovely scent that’s easy to fall for.
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Simply dispense a pea-size amount of the cleanser and blend with water, and the cleanser will lather into rich creamy foam. It’s very easy to rinse and definitely leaves that deep clean feel.
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NEW Deep Clean Hydrating Foaming Cleanser
Effective deep cleansing and retains moisture for cleaner, softer skin with every wash
This cleanser comes with 2X hydrating power! Ideal for people like me who experience drying of the skin, mainly due to long hours of working in air-conditioned places. I guess a lot of us will experience this once in a while. Nevertheless, we should use facial cleansers that are formulated to provide added hydration to our skin. Dehydration leads to premature aging of the skin…like wrinkles! So while it is important to have deeply cleansed skin especially after work, we have to make sure that our cleansers don’t strip necessary moisture from our skin.
The Hydrating Foaming Cleanser is enriched with Water Mineral Complex that instantly hydrates skin with 2X moisture boost.
What makes this cleanser good:
  • Water Mineral Complex consists of copper gluconate, magnesium aspartate, zinc gluconate and water, all working to improve skin hydration
  • Makes skin cleaner and yet softer
  • Formulated with Neutrogena’s Unique Deep Clean trademark, which is dermatologically-tested to cleanse deep down into pores to remove dirt, oil, makeup and dead surface skin cells
  • Does not leave a drying or tightening feel on the face after use
  • Easy to rinse
  • Affordable
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Like the Deep Clean Brightening Foaming Cleanser, the Hydration Foaming Cleanser also comes in a soft press tube with flip top cap and sealed dispenser. The cleanser product is in a fresh green color.

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I am using both cleansers daily; hydrating for morning use because I’ll be going to work and working in cold conditions, then brightening for evening to brighten and cleanse my skin from full makeup, sunblock and creams. Happy with these cleansers!
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Neutrogena cleansers are available in Watsons, Guardian, Caring, supermarkets and other pharmacies.

Makeup Revolution Give Me Power Lipstick

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Would you like 1 piece of lip product to produce 5 different effects on your lips?
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It’s easy to fall in love with Makeup Revolution. After trying out its Eyeshadow Palette in Acid Brights and Lipstick, I was hungry for more.
I have 6 lip products in my cosmetic bag, which includes 5 lip colors and 1 lip balm. I love my lipsticks and I enjoy changing lip colors through the day. I’m not a huge fan of lip glosses until I’ve tried Dior Addict last year. And now, another lip gloss item has caught my attention. This one’s even more interesting as it combines lipstick and lip gloss in 1 stick.
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Lip Power Everything’s Alright
Price: RM24.00
Give your lips real power, a duo lipstick and lipgloss in one!
A satin matte lipstick in a moisturising formula and a super slick lipgloss with a hint of shimmer. Wear the lipstick or wear the lipgloss or wear the lipgloss over the lipstick!
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This lipstick comes in a dual end tube: 1 end has the satin matte lipstick and 1 end has the lip gloss. The tube is protected with plastic and comes with an easy-tear seal.

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The shade of this color, Everything’s Alright, is a peach-orange tone. Texture allows easy application and you can even achieve 6 different color shade by layering and combining the 2 products!

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From top: Lip gloss, 1 layer lipstick, 2 layer lipstick
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From top: Lip gloss, 1 layer lipstick topped with lip gloss, 2 layer lipstick topped with lip gloss
The only challenge I experienced is application of the lip color with the length of this tube. Because of its length, the end of the tube cannot really rest inside your hand while applying the lipstick. As for the lip gloss, there is no problem at all.

And here are my 2 combinations! On the left is plain lip color and on the right is color plus lip gloss. So this means I now have 7 lip products in my cosmetic bag!  

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