A Fabulous Summer with NARS Makeup

Posted on June 25, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

I just can’t get enough of NARS, do I? The makeup collections are just too chic for a beautyholic like me to resist!

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Summer is here! This is one of those seasons when I miss my home country. In Philippines, summer is a big celebration when everyone will be getting ready to have fun in the sun. It’s also summer vacation period from April to mid-June for students so the youngsters will be heading to the beaches! Most of all, fashion will shift to colorful trends that range from casual wear to swimwear.

Makeup colors will be showing new and fresh colors, too. Although summer may be a bit of unnoticeable season here in Malaysia due to the year-round tropical weather, fashion still follows global trends. We, beautyholics, are of course delighted to discover and try the new season’s makeup collections from our beloved cosmetic brands.

So what’s in store at NARS Cosmetics this summer? I excitedly tried 3 items from their summer collection: Duo Eyeshadow, Eye Paint and the Illuminator.

My NARS Summer Picks!

My NARS Summer Pick Number 1:

Baalbek Eye Paint RM95

Definitely my new favorite eye definer and best friend! This small pot does magic! I’m someone who can’t live without eyeliner. I use pencil eyeliner, I have liquid eyeliner and I’ve tried a gel paint liner. But this NARS Baalbek Eye Paint tops the list. It can immediately give the eyes a smokey effect with just a few brush strokes or with the fingertips.

I use it on my eyelids with a cream eye shadow brush. The great thing is that it’s weightless and doesn’t have a thick, sticky feel at all.

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And it doubles as eyeliner, too! That’s why I love it! I just use my eyeliner brush and I can already achieve a defined eye shape.

The color has a lovely, dark metallic shimmer that looks really great on the eyes.

Line, highlight, shade and define with modern artistic versatility. Introducing new NARS Eye Paint—a brilliant pot of high-impact pigment in an innovative silky, weightless gel formula. Rich, hyper-saturated shades that glide smoothly and dry down quickly in long-lasting finishes from icy metallics to modern mattes. Elevated artistry that boldly strays from the straight and narrow. (NARS)

Multi-use application
18-hour wear
Highly-saturated
Weightless gel texture dries smoothly and quickly
Replace cap securely after use
Remove using a dual phase eye makeup remover such as NARS Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

My NARS Summer Pick Number 2:

Duo Eyeshadow Lost Coast

(Golden Pewter/ Lilac Snow) RM120

This color pair caught my eye as it reminded me of summer flowers in my favorite color. The lilac and pewter combination comes out very fresh, trendy and easy to pair with my other loved eye shadow colors like deep purple, blue and green.

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I love the texture of this eye shadow; it glides well on the eyelid without leaving drops of powder marks under my eyes. Like the other NARS items with compact cases, the Duo Eyeshadow also comes in an ultra matte case that is very comfortable and elegant to the touch.

Modern, unique, sometimes unexpected color combinations of eyeshadow shades. Worn alone or together, the Duo Eyeshadow features micro-fine powders that are highly pigmented, longwearing and crease resistant. Color glides on smoothly, evenly and blends effortlessly. The effects can be subtle or smoldering — the options are endless. (NARS)

Can be applied dry or with a dampened brush for stronger intensity
Multi-function use for shading, lining and highlighting the eyes
Classic, neutral, and fashion-forward shade pairings

My NARS Summer Pick Number 3:

Hot Sand Illuminator

(Peach champagne) RM110

This one is definitely a must-have for models (or models-to-be) out there. Want to have that magical, enchanting shimmer that models have on their face, and sometimes on their arms or legs? Use this NARS Illuminator. I love the instant glow that it gives on the skin. Smells nice, too! I wonder if “peach champagne” smells like this…

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The NARS Illuminator will give you instant shimmer!

It is super flexible because you can use it by itself all over the face, or you can blend it with your favorite foundation, or you can apply it as highlighter on certain areas of the face. I love using it as a highlighter on my cheekbones, and between the eyes and bridge of the nose (that’s the celebrity effect, by the way). It can even be reapplied during the day if you want to refresh your shimmer, or maybe at night before going for a party and see how the light reflects on your radiant skin!

At first I thought the color was too bright for my skin but amazingly, this illuminator blends well with my skin tone. Because it’s ultra sheer once blended, I think it will be fine with other skin tones. Best is to allow a NARS artist to test it on your skin then see the magic of shimmer radiance.

Light the skin from within. A collection of light-reflecting liquids that glide on to refresh and enhance the complexion with shimmering incandescence. Deceptively sheer, decidedly luminous. (NARS)

Can be applied all over the face or used as a highlighter
Can be worn under, over or mixed with foundation

So here’s my before and after look with my new picks from NARS. I also used other items like black mascara, hot pink lip gloss, foundation, blusher and instant pore minimizer (mix of brands).

See the effect of the Illuminator on the cheek bones and between the eye and bridge of nose?

And I tried it again with my deep purple blouse:

I think I should go shopping for more summer outfits and test my NARS makeup…

I’m addicted to NARS, strap me! For smokey eye lovers like me, if there’s 1 thing you want to try first from Nars, I highly recommend the Baalbek Eye Paint. It’s a multi-functional item that you would want to bring with you everywhere. Have a happy and fabulous summer, ladies!

To find out how the pros do it, check out this video to get that summer look:

Where to find NARS cosmetics in Malaysia?

NARS Cosmetics opened their first store in Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur last year, located at Level 3.

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Stay connected to NARS Cosmetics via their Facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/narscosmetics

About NARS Cosmetics (via www.wikipedia.org)

NARS Cosmetics is a Shiseido-owned cosmetics and skin care company founded by François Nars, make-up artist and photographer. The cosmetics line began with twelve lipsticks sold at Barneys New York. Since then, NARS have created various multi-use beauty products. The minimalist packaging was created by Fabien Baron and has been hailed as a modern design icon. In 1996, Nars started his first advertising campaign doing the photography for the ads himself.

Product shades carry provocative names like ‘Orgasm’, ‘Deep Throat’, ‘Striptease,’ and ‘Sex Machine’. NARS ‘Orgasm’ blush is one of their most top-selling products, being Best of Sephora’s Best Blush for 2006, 2007 and 2008. They have developed an entire “Orgasm Collection,” including blush, lipgloss, multiples, illuminators, and even nail polish. In addition, NARS product shades are also named after geographic locations such as ‘Iceland’, ‘Kalahari’, and ‘Kuala Lumpur’.

Some of the most popular NARS products are blushes, bronzers, lipsticks, and their world famous eye-shadow palettes. The shadows are highly pigmented and come in an array of beautiful colours. They have been known to release products inspired by artists such as Andy Warhol using colours from one of his famous paintings ‘Marilyn Monroe’. (for more info, log on to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NARS_Cosmetics)

Dior and Women’s Weekly present Makeup Masterclass Workshop

Posted on May 31, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

What do I expect from a makeup workshop? Let’s see if this one passed my expectations…

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I’ve always been interested to attend makeup workshops. Although I’ve been wearing makeup since I was 16, starting with simple eyeliner at first, I know that there are new techniques, tips or tricks based on latest makeup trends and technology to learn. So when I discovered that the Malaysian Women’s Weekly and iconic DIOR are hosting a makeup master class, I got excited and I quickly signed up! How often would I get a chance to have this Dior experience?

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Like a lot of ladies who fall in love with French designer brands or all designer brands, I am also mesmerized by Dior products. I don’t have a lot of it, though. My only Dior product at the moment is a Dior Addict lipstick. There’s just something about the luxury of owning a designer item that appeals to us. And I do have respect and desire for Dior skincare products as well…one day, I will have more of those…one day.

Guests were welcomed by an array of delicious, healthy breakfast (you can see what we ate on the latter part of this article). Dior Chief Makeup Artist, Matt Ng, conducted the makeup master class together with his team of makeup artists, in Hilton Kuala Lumpur. It was a beautiful Saturday morning and all of us ladies were excited to hear what Matt had to share.

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Matt began with a step-by-step guide in preparing the skin for makeup. What some people forget is that the condition of our skin affects how makeup achieves its best. On this portion, we had the chance to try and apply Dior’s luxury skincare products on ourselves, a choice between Capture Totale and Hydra Life. Since I go for anti-aging, I chose Capture Totale while those who preferred hydration used Hydra Life, meant for moisturizing the skin.

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I loved that we were all provided with a Dior mirror each while we conduct our own ‘pampering’ or skincare application. And we also have a handout or booklet to follow Matt’s tips and to write some notes.

Here are some of the products I used…

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I really loved the Dream Skin, which is an anti-aging treatment that also works as a skin perfector. It works instantly and over time to make the skin more youthful, to reduce spots and redness, and to minimize pores!

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Dior Capture Totale Dream Skin

One of the disappointments I get with some workshops is the condition of the products to be used directly on the face. I don’t like testing products in a workshop that are obviously ‘old’ or have been used as a tester for a long time. I believe that if a brand really wants consumers to have a good experience with their products, it is a MUST to showcase products in good, fresh condition. But guess what, during this workshop with Dior, the products were mostly NEW, unopened ones, especially for skincare. I’m impressed.

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Dior used new products at the workshop

When it comes to applying makeup at a workshop, I’m not really comfortable with sharing makeup tools. Say that I’m fussy or whatever, but I’d rather be safe and hygienic than sorry and infected. A lot of skin diseases can be transferred physically and I also wouldn’t want other people to get anything from me, if I do have something. This is why a daily brush cleanser is important for makeup brushes. But contrary to my bad experience, Dior executed this workshop flawlessly. They provided makeup brushes or disposable tools like cotton buds and spatula for everyone. This is how a workshop should be.

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So we continued with the workshop, going through application techniques for primer, concealer, foundation, skinflash, eye primer, eye shadow, eye liner and mascara. I probably missed something, we had so many exciting products to test. I fell in love with Diorshow Maximizer, the lash-plumping serum.

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Matt also revealed their new IT collection with limited edition colors and, of course, the new Dior Addict Fluid Stick. This new lip item is a hybrid of the best-selling qualities of Dior lip products: lipstick, lip gloss, lip stain and lip balm. You get that pop of color, a touch of gloss, the comfort of lip balm and the long-wear of stain. I’m not a fan of lip gloss because of the sticky feeling but this fluid stick feels great on my lips.

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To complete the look and overall appeal, we also sprayed Dior perfumes, a choice between Dior J’Adore and the new Dior Addict EDP. I chose the latter.

So here’s my look before and after application of Dior skincare and makeup, all by self-application…

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It was truly a beautiful Saturday morning! And I got to bring home a goodie bag with these goodies! That includes a full-size, not deluxe sample or tester, of Dior’s new Fluid Stick.

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Did this workshop pass expectations then? YES, it did, beyond. I congratulate Dior and Malaysian Women’s Weekly for planning and conducting this workshop successfully. To me, this is workshop done right. The brand and products were presented very well and aligned to what an iconic designer label should be. Guests were treated as premium customers with good food and good environment. Products, testers and tools were all in good or new condition. No hard selling, just focused brand presentation and experience. Even the parking fee at Hilton KL was settled by the team for us. And to top it all, for a small workshop fee of RM60 per guest, we received all that plus a goodie bag worth over RM100.

Here are some of the yummy food we enjoyed at Hilton Kuala Lumpur:

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Thanks and congratulations to Dior and Women’s Weekly. Hope we’ll have more of this kind of workshops with you.

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Dior Addict Fluid Stick enables a flawless application in a single sweep: the high-impact colour and long wear of a classic lipstick, combined with the shine of a gloss, all in a thin film that delivers sensational comfort. Colour and shine come together as one for maximum impact with intense, long-wearing lip stain pigments directly encapsulated in spheres of gloss. Dior Addict Fluid Stick does not contain wax, but water for maximum lightness, an immediate fresh effect and addictive comfort…

A pure object of desire: the illusion is maintained until the case is opened and an applicator emerges that is steeped in colour and as precise and easy to use as a lipstick.

16 explosive shades like so many flashes of brilliance. Resolutely Dior, Terribly couture…

Price:

Dior Fluid Stick – RM102

Where to buy:

Departmental stores, selected cosmetic boutiques and Sephora

My Dior Wishlist – what I plan to buy soon:

Diorshow Maximizer Lash-Plumping Serum

Diorshow Iconic Overcurl

Dior Addict EDP

Dior Capture Totale Dream Skin

Stay connected to Women’s Weekly via:

http://www.facebook.com/themalaysianwomensweekly

and Dior via:

http://www.facebook.com/Dior

Say Yes to Watsons for Good Value Health and Beauty Products

Posted on May 15, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

Watsons Brand offers Malaysians quality Health & Wellness products at affordable prices

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From left: Jessica Ng (Marketing & Development Director, Watsons Malaysia); Reggie Lee (Malaysia’s renowned cartoonist); Kulvinder Birring (Managing Director, Watsons Malaysia); and Caryn Loh (General Manager of Trading, Watsons Malaysia)

Watsons, Asia’s largest health and beauty retailer and a member of the A.S. Watson Group, today launched its “Say Yes to Watsons Brand” campaign, designed to promote Watsons Brand, the store’s affordable, high-quality own brand, to the market in Malaysia. The launch, which took place at Damansara Performing Arts Centre (DPAC), Empire Damansara, was also graced by the presence of Reggie Lee, one of Malaysia’s most popular cartoonists.

The integrated marketing campaign will feature cartoons penned by Reggie Lee, who was specially commissioned for this project.

The campaign is timely in its implementation, as cost of living in Malaysia has increased in recent months. According to Jessica Ng, Watsons Malaysia Marketing & Development Director, “More people are making savings their priority this year due to rising costs of living. More than half of Malaysian consumers surveyed last year are cutting back on clothing, entertainment and are switching to cheaper grocery brands. We see this as an opportunity for us to market Watsons Brands as we are always committed to providing our customers’ quality, value and choice. I believe Watsons Brands high quality, value for money proposition will help our customers continue to Look Good and Feel Great without burning a hole in their pocket.”

Watsons believes that Malaysian consumers will warm up to the unbeatable combination of quality, variety and affordability offered by Watsons Brand. According to Caryn Loh, Watsons Malaysia General Manager of Trading, “Watsons is a major player in the health and beauty private label market. In Asia alone, we managed to sell more than 260 million Watsons Brand products last year. In worldwide, Watsons Brand is also the trusted choice of customers at over 3,500 outlets in Asia and Europe. We want our customers to be sure of the quality of Watsons Brand, hence an extensive research and development programme and stringent quality process goes into each Watsons Brand item to create products that are safe and effective in meeting our customers’ needs. In fact, each Watsons Brand product is put through an 18-month quality control test. And we test them again throughout the production process, to make sure that our customers receive nothing but the best.”

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Guest trying out the Olive Body Lotion, one of the products under Naturals by Watsons.

Watsons Brand health and beauty products target the discerning shoppers that looks for great quality with good value, range from everyday essentials to the latest fashion trends, delivering fun and variety to suit any occasion and are synonymous with quality, vision and value. Its extensive range includes Baby; Bath & Body; Face; Hair Care; Health; Oral; Paper and Cotton; Feminine Hygiene and Travel & Accessories.

Thanks to a team of Watsons Brand advisors at over 300 Watsons outlets in Malaysia, customers are supported with professional counselling and highly personalized advice on all its health and beauty products. Naturals by Watsons, an exclusive premium range under Watsons Brand, offers beauty products that harness the power of nature. To date, Naturals by Watsons features the Olive Body & Hair Care and Argan Oil Body & Hair Care ranges that replenish, restore and renew.

Caricature sketches by artists to complement the Say YES to Watsons Brand campaign approach

Showing the lighter side of the “Say Yes” proposition in cartoons that form the creative backbone of this campaign is Reggie Lee, one of the most celebrated syndicated cartoonists in Malaysia. Reggie’s iconic cartoon characters frequently caricature local current issues in Malaysia’s major newspapers. Speaking at the launch, Reggie remarks that his observations about price increases helped inform his creative direction for the campaign. “As I was invited to work on Say Yes to Watsons Brand campaign, the first thing I looked at was the issue of rising prices in Malaysia. When you listen to people talk today, it’s usually about rising prices and what they intend to do about it. That’s where Watsons Brand comes in as a hero, to help ordinary Malaysians keep living costs down,” said Reggie.

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Chit chat session on the concept & execution of Say YES to Watsons Brand campaign

The spectacular launch ceremony featured a chat session with Reggie Lee, Caryn Loh and Jessica Ng, after which Reggie was invited to sign three giant cartoon posters to officiate the launch. Also gracing the event on stage together with our VIP guests was Kulvinder Birring, Managing Director of Watsons Malaysia and Indonesia. Emceeing the event was popular TV presenter Reem Shahwa.

The “Say Yes to Watsons Brand” campaign is a 360 degree activation program which includes advertising initiatives, online media including a dedicated microsite and social media, and in-store promos designed to reflect the “value, trust and quality” proposition of Watsons Brand across Malaysia. The campaign will roll out nationwide during the next six months.

Stay up-to-date with Watsons via their Facebook page

www.facebook.com/watsonsmalaysiaor Watsons official website www.watsons.com.my

ABOUT WATSONS

Watsons is Asia’s leading health and beauty retailer, currently operating over 3,600 stores and more than 900 pharmacies in 12 Asian and European markets, including China (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau), Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Korea, Indonesia, Turkey and Ukraine.

In Malaysia, Watsons currently operates over 300 stores in the country serving more than 2.5 million customers per month.

Watsons continually sets the standards in the health, wellness and beauty market, providing personalised advice and counseling in health, beauty and personal care on top of its market-leading product range, making customers LOOK GOOD, FEEL GREAT every day. Since 2009, Watsons has been the No. 1 pharmacy/drugstore brand in Asia*. In Europe, Watsons is also the leading health and beauty retailer in the Ukraine.

Watsons is the flagship health and beauty brand of A.S. Watson Group.

Visit www.aswatson.com for more in-depth information about A.S. Watson Group and its brands.

*Campaign Asia-Pacific’s “Asia’s Top 1,000 Brands” Survey 2013 of over 5,000 Asian respondents

Givenchy New Prisme Libre Loose Powder Product Review

Posted on May 13, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

My first loose powder makeup comes in a beautiful iconic box

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Yes, I’m reviewing my first ever loose powder for the face. When I started using face powder in my early teens, I’ve only been using the compact type. If you fall under the same generation who used those pink or white compacts from J&J, well, hello there! We were born under the same decade, cheers to that!

Now we have hundreds of brands and types of face powder to choose from. But I wasn’t a fan of loose powder. I guess I was hesitant to use one. I have this impression that loose powder can get messy and I’m worried of spills inside my bag. I worry too much, huh? I’m the type of person who prefers to have an organized and clean bag. So, yeah, I’m choosy and careful with what I put inside it.

But when a French designer brand comes up with a new loose powder that is beautifully packaged in an iconic box, can I resist?

Givenchy, globally known French brand of haute couture luxury clothing, accessories, perfumes and cosmetics, has recently launched Poudre Premiere and Prisme Libre Loose Powder. You are probably more familiar with Givenchy in terms of fashion, perfumes and to-die-for handbags.

Having the Prisme Libre Loose Powder in my hands is such a delight. Just one look at the top cover and you know you have something of luxury, of something beyond cosmetics.

The black top cover has the Givenchy logo, a marriage of 4 G’s reflected and rotated to form a square. It has a faux leather finish with corners in silver lining. The center features the logo set in silver color.

The name Givenchy is engraved on 1 of the black sleek sides of the cover, matching the smooth, sleek finish of the transparent powder jar. It’s good that the powder container itself is transparent, making the four harmony colors of the product visible, and for practicality purposes, I like seeing if my makeup item is about to finish so I can buy a new one.

Givenchy Prisme Libre comes with a white microfiber powder puff with the logo name imprinted in silver on a satin lining. This puff is very soft and smooth to the touch.

A sticker seal that prevents the product from coming out of the screen forming the Givenchy logo protects the powder. You will notice that there are 4 different colors inside, reminiscent of the classic Givenchy Prisme Libre from 2006. In case you didn’t know, Givenchy Prisme Libre has been the only loose powder encapsulated behind a mesh screen that effectively combines 4 shades to create buildable harmonies in nude tones. The new version contains pigments that are more lightweight, more refreshing while softening the complexion to perfection. It has a new sheer and luminous texture, containing pigments treated with atomization technology. The Prisme Libre comes with an exquisite fragrance trail of lilac and white musk.

So how do you use it?

The cover is removed by twisting the beautiful black cap. Remove the seal by carefully peeling it off.

Gotta love that icon showing the 4 powder shades…

If you are using the white puff that comes with it, simply put the puff on top of the screen logo hole, turn the jar upside down and give it a few shakes. This will dispense the powder nicely on the puff.

If you want to use a brush, just turn the jar upside down on your palm or on your mixing palette.

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Let’s see how it looks on my hand first. Here I dabbed the 4 colors on my hand using my fingers…

Then blended it in a circular motion…oh, wow, my hand is now photo-ready! No trace of different colors at all.

Now, let’s see what it does on my face. After applying my daily skincare items then make-up primer and liquid foundation, I applied Prisme Libre using the white puff.

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Left: Without Prisme Libre

Right: With Givenchy Prisme Libre

I love how the loose powder feels and looks on my skin! It is actually addicting to keep dabbing it on the face. It feels super light, it mattifies the finish of my makeup and it looks very natural. The powder scent is enchanting, too.

So will I bring this with me where I go? Does it deserve to be in my daily cosmetic bag? YES. It’s perfect for my morning makeup finish and for my midday face retouch at work. Since the powder is carefully dispensed through a screen, I’m quite sure it won’t make a mess in my bag (and I tested it with rigid shaking just to see if there will be some ‘leaks’ but no, there weren’t). The only downside is that it doesn’t come with a mirror so you need to use other available mirrors in your bag or go to the powder room when you want to retouch. But I love this loose powder!

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The new Prisme Libre is available in 3 harmonies designed like extracts of radiance and inspired by haute couture fabrics:

Mousseline Pastel – sugar-coated colors which correct and reduce imperfections for a very natural opaline effect

Taffetas Beige – cocktail of beiges, apricot and yellow, which delivers a healthy glow in just 1 stroke of a brush

Voile Rose – sensuality and voluptuousness in a mingling of pinks and mother-of-pearl, which gives the skin a halo of light and radiance

Where to buy?

Givenchy PRISME LIBRE Mat-Finish & Enhanced Radiance Loose Powder is now available at Aeon Mid Valley, KL Sogo, Parkson KLCC, Parkson Pavilion, Sephora KLCC, Sephora NU Sentral and Sephora Starhill, retailing at RM205.

Stay up-to-date with tips, tricks and latest news from Givenchy Fragrances & Beauty via their Facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/givenchybeauty

Want to see what happened at the media launch of Givenchy Poudre Premiere & Prisme Libre? Find out by clicking HERE

Luxola Online Beauty Shopping Experience

Posted on May 11, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

I’ve been a frequent online shopper for the past few years in Malaysia and I only came to realize that I haven’t blogged about any of my online shopping experience so here’s my first one!

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I’m sure you’ve heard of Luxola or maybe noticed their ads online, on Facebook and other blogs. As I’ve mentioned in my other articles, I’m a bit reluctant when it comes to buying beauty products, specially the ‘perishable’ ones, via websites as I have concerns on how it will be delivered and I don’t want my beauty items to go through intense heat or careless handling. But I was looking for some makeup tools a few weeks ago so when I noticed their Facebook ad announcing Mother’s Day Sale, I decided to do some online beauty shopping. And here’s my first beauty loot from Luxola:

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Let’s take a look at the lovely items I received.

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DuWop Payoff Eyeshadow Intensifier

First is this interesting product that I never knew existed — DuWop Payoff Eyes Eye shadow Intensifier (RM65.00). I was surprised that there is such a product to make your normal eye shadow turn into a creamy texture with a more vibrant color. Made in USA and comes in a plastic bottle with a dropper. With this item, you can turn those forgotten eye shadows new again, according to reviews. Plus it will make your eye shadow last longer all day.

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Tweezerman Classic Lash Curler

I also got a Tweezerman Classic Lash Curler (RM50.50) that comes in a hard transparent plastic box, making it very secure and safe for delivery. It is made in Japan and comes with extra 3 non-stick silicone replacement pads. I haven’t used a lash curler in a long time but now that I’m using mascaras again, I decided to have one. I’ve started using it and works well for me. It is comfortable to hold and does a good job in curling my stubborn lashes.

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Crazy Rumors Red Velvet 100% Natural Lip Balm

I love lip balms. At any given time, I would have 3 different lip balms around: 1 at home that I apply every night, 1 in the office that I apply mid-day and 1 inside my handbag. I saw this deliciously named lip balm, Crazy Rumors Red Velvet 100% Natural Lip Balm, with a small sketch of a cake on the label. And it’s only RM17. It’s an interesting lip balm flavor at a good price so I quickly added to my cart.

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Zoeva 101 Luxe Face Definer

And the main purpose of this batch of shopping — makeup brushes! I wanted to have a contour brush but a lot of the contour brushes were out-of-stock that time. Anyway, I saw this Zoeva Luxe Face Definer (RM81.50), which can be used for foundation, blush and contouring. The reviews were great and it looks suitable for what I need. I was impressed when it arrived because the bristles feel and look good. The handle is in a sexy, sleek black and silver combination. Grip is also comfortable so I’m excited to start using this. This Zoeva brush comes with a plastic zip bag, which makes it convenient to bring while traveling.

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Sigma Small Tapered Blending Brush E45

I also got myself this Sigma Small Tapered Blending Brush (RM50.50) for eye shadow application. My makeup routine is very much concentrated on my eyes so I have this addiction for getting more eye makeup brushes. This brush also feels and looks good in its black and silver handle. The bristles are fine and shaped appropriately for shading.

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Now I have 2 new makeup brushes to add to my entire collection. Do you think I have enough? Most of these are for eye makeup application. I’m open to suggestions so feel free to suggest a brush that you love to use!

I have accepted that I am an online shopaholic. If I remember it right, the first time I made an online item purchase was for a black designer bag from US a few years back. And I’ve done a lot of online shopping since then: Groupon, MyDeal, Lazada, Lelong, MySale, Sereni & Shentel, Photobook, Sally Fashion and probably others that I just can’t recall.

I am pretty impressed with the service of Luxola. Their updates are very fast. I ordered on a late night then early next morning, I already received an update informing that my products have been shipped, which also came with a tracking number. And on the 3^rd day, I received my Luxola items.

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The packing was also good, which eased my hesitation when ordering beauty items online for delivery. The Luxola items were packed generously in bubble wraps, protecting it from heat and shock. Why should you be concerned with shock, anyway? If you ordered powder foundation or eye shadows, the last thing you would want is to receive them in shattered or broken condition. So, yes, your beauty parcel should be shockproof.

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If you are looking for beauty products, especially affordable makeup tools, I highly recommend www.luxola.com.my for your needs. They have fast and reliable service, good products and good prices. By the way, they also launched this weekly promo, We Love Wow Wednesdays!, where 20+ items will be on sale at 75% off every Wednesday. What a great deal!

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Explore and shop for amazing beauty items online:

http://www.luxola.com.my

Stay connected to Luxola Malaysia via their Facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/LuxolaMalaysia

Givenchy Launches Prisme Libre and Poudre Premiere Loose Powder

Posted on May 4, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

Givenchy successfully combines haute couture and cosmetics into magnificent products

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Introducing the new Prisme Libre and Poudre Premiere from GIVENCHY

What wonderful news it was when I received an invitation to attend the launch of these new products from Givenchy. Although I normally don’t attend events that fall on a weekday due to work priorities, I took the time off to witness what I would call ‘the renaissance of Givenchy in the beauty line’. We haven’t heard of the brand for quite some time and to top it all, the event was for the launch of a cosmetic item. I knew this had to be something great, and I had to make time for it.

Miss World Malaysia 2010 and TV personality, Nadia Heng, hosted the Givenchy event on 30th April at Image Rom, Sunway Damansara Technology Park. Nadia excitedly unveiled the new revolutionary products from Givenchy.

Nadia Heng unveils Givenchy’s iconic Prisme Libre Radiance Loose Powder

A glimpse of the stylish Givenchy decorations at the venue:

I really appreciate branding pieces like these. As a marketing person, I enjoy seeing small details that are put together to create ‘the look and feel’ of the brand. And admit it, this is just very stylish and very ‘Givenchy’.

Even the candle holder has the Givenchy logo!

Lovely pastel balloons floating with Givenchy logo cards and some products, too.

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Notice the genius layout of the square stools?

Some of my fellow guests at the event:

Jess Ying of jessying.com

Peter Yap, Fashion & Beauty Editor of The Sun

The Poudre Première and the modernized Prisme Libre have reached the shores of Malaysia. How many of you are in love with loose powder? This year, Nicolas Degennes, Makeup and Color Artistic Director at Parfums Givenchy, magically turned ‘loose powder’ into an ultra modern must-have that is essential in achieving a perfected complexion.

Givenchy Poudre Premiere

Poudre Premiere – An Ode to Simplicity

Ever had a wrong shade of foundation on your face? At one point or another, we have experienced picking, applying or being given the wrong shade for our skin tone. And it’s sometimes too late when we realize it, like when someone or a friend innocently asks what happened to your face or why is your face dark (agh!). But Nicolas Degennes solves this problem with a product that changes lives: the Poudre Premiere, which is a universal, superfine and comfortable powder. It always guarantees an even, matte and naturally radiant complexion, in complete simplicity.

The Poudre Premiere comes in a sleek, utterly glam, rock ‘n’ roll, chic couture, black case. Sexy. What’s not to love with this packaging? The top lid features the Givenchy logo in silver color against black, which is replicated on the powder case itself. Each Poudre Premiere comes with a white microfiber powder puff, which is soft and delicate on the skin. But if preferred, the powder can also be applied with a foundation brush.

Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Powder

Prisme Libre – The Modernised Icon

If you’ve already been a makeup junkie for the past years, you would recognize the Prisme Libre as it is one of Givenchy’s iconic beauty products since 2006. It has been the only loose powder encapsulated behind a mesh screen that effectively combines 4 shades to create buildable harmonies in nude tones.

What makes the new Prisme Libre Loose Powder even better than before? This new version contains pigments that are more lightweight, more refreshing while softening the complexion to perfection. It has a new sheer and luminous texture, containing pigments treated with atomization technology. The Prisme Libre comes with an exquisite fragrance trail of lilac and white musk. Ehem, this will make your face even more tempting and kissable!

The new Prisme Libre is available in 3 harmonies designed like extracts of radiance and inspired by haute couture fabrics.

Mousseline Pastel – sugar-coated colors which correct and reduce imperfections for a very natural opaline effect

Taffetas Beige – cocktail of beiges, apricot and yellow, which delivers a healthy glow in just 1 stroke of a brush

Voile Rose – sensuality and voluptuousness in a mingling of pinks and mother-of-pearl, which gives the skin a halo of light and radiance

Like Poudre Premiere, Givenchy’s Prisme Libre comes with a white microfiber powder puff but can also be applied using brush.

For the love of art, beauty and photography, I have to feature this Givenchy ad visual (I stared at it for several times and I’m still staring). It is so beautiful and breath-taking.

This features Mariacarla Boscono, Italian model, in her graceful pose against powder burst on her back. This has got to be the one of the most creative and stylish ads I’ve seen in years.

Givenchy’s Poudre Premiere and Prisme Libre are undeniably amazing infusions of haute couture and cosmetics into products. From concept to packaging to presentation to ad visuals, these are truly designer masterpieces at its best. I am excited for more cosmetics to come from Givenchy in Malaysia.

Where to buy?

Givenchy POUDRE PREMIERE and PRISME LIBRE are now available at Aeon Mid Valley, KL Sogo, Parkson KLCC, Parkson Pavilion, Sephora KLCC, Sephora NU Sentral and Sephora Starhill. Each product retails for RM205.

Excited to try? I sure am! I will soon be dabbing Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Powder on my face. Let’s see how it gives my skin a healthy glow and radiance. Stay tuned for my product review.

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A warm thanks once again to Prestige Cosmetics, Givenchy and Touch PR & Events for the invitation to this launch.

Stay up-to-date with tips, tricks and latest news from Givenchy Fragrances & Beauty via their Facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/givenchybeauty

NARS Contour Blush Product Review

Posted on April 30, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

Got myself another NARS product! I think it’s really worth the investment.

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I’ve not tried applying contour blush on my own before. This item sounds like something only a professional makeup artist can use. Although I’ve worked with pro makeup artists for model photo shoots or video shooting for the brands I’ve managed in the past, I haven’t really grasped the techniques of how they apply makeup and what products will achieve a certain effect. I’m sure it took them years of training and practice to learn the tricks for this.

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But I decided to be brave and give this contour blush a shot. According to pros, applying contour blush can give better shape and slimmer look on the face. Wow, isn’t that something? I am scheduled to attend a wedding in a few months and I am panicking on how to get slimmer or at least look thinner during the event. Sigh, the challenges of being a mummy who has gained a lot of weight and having a hard time burning it for years.

Well, if the Nars Contour Blush can provide me with the ‘contoured’ face in minutes then why not? I did a bit of video surfing on how to apply contour blush, as I haven’t done this before. It looks easy when applied by a makeup artist on you but doing it yourself can be tricky.

After applying my moisturizer, sunscreen, pore minimizer and foundation, I excitedly took out my new NARS Contour Blush in Paloma shade. I just used a normal foundation brush this time; I haven’t bought a new brush for this. I wanted to experiment with what I have first then only decide if I really need a new one.

NARS Contour Blush in Paloma shade

STEP 1:

Lightly sweep the contour blush (the one in bigger size or deeper shade from the duo shade) using your brush. Tap the brush a bit if you feel that you took too much product.

STEP 2:

Apply the blush starting from the hollow of your cheek towards your temple in an upward stroke. Repeat step 1 and 2 until you achieve sufficient shade/ contour.

STEP 3:

Using another brush, apply the lighter shade across your cheekbone to the temple. This is meant to soften the look of the contour blush.

STEP 4:

Repeat on the other side of the cheek.

You may also want to apply contour on your nose to make it look longer.

(For better guide on how to apply NARS Contour Blush, you can check the makeup artist video, click HERE)

And here are some photos before and after using NARS Contour Blush, with a dab of lipstick. My face looked a lot thinner after contouring. How come I didn’t try this long time ago?! What a quick fix to get nicely shaped face!

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Side view before (left) and after (right) using NARS Contour Blush

Contour of my cheeks before (left) and after (right) using NARS Contour Blush

Before and After using NARS Contour Blush (Paloma) plus highlighter

My technique is definitely not ideal yet, as this is my first time to use a contour blush. I think I should invest on a proper contouring brush to apply this more appropriately. But, hey, not bad for a first-timer!

I used NARS Contour Blush in Paloma color code (pink beige/ deep rose)

Love the matte black finish of the compact.

The NARS Contour Blush retails for RM135 and lasts 24 months after opening.

It is available in 3 duo shades: Olympia (ivory/ rose), Paloma (pink beige/ deep rose), and Gienah (honey/ amber).

A LUST FOR BLUSH:

A duo of contouring blush shades to create natural-looking dimension for the face with a lightweight luminous finish. A deeper shade enhances definition while a lighter shade illuminates the high points of the face.

NARS ARTIST TIP:

To create a beautiful sculpted cheek, apply the deeper shade of the Contour Blush to the hollow of the cheek with the Contour Brush #21. Using the Blush Brush #20, sweep the lighter shade across the cheekbone towards the temple to soften and highlight. Finish the look with a pop of your favorite Blush shade on the apples of the cheek. – Shayna Shapiro, Lead Trainer

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Where to buy NARS cosmetics in Malaysia?

NARS Cosmetics opened their first store in Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur last year, located at Level 3.

Stay connected to NARS Cosmetics via their Facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/narscosmetics

Want to discover more NARS products?

I’ve tried NARS lengthening and volumizing mascaras before. If you want to check it out, click HERE.

About NARS Cosmetics (via www.wikipedia.org)

Make Up For Ever HD Make Up Workshop

Posted on April 27, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

The mummy blogger continues to explore brands that she hasn’t tried before

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When fellow beauty addict Ashley Yeen announced that she collaborated with Make Up For Ever to conduct a workshop on high definition make up, I knew I had to join. I’ve certainly encountered MUFE long time ago but I haven’t tried any of the products. I guess I just didn’t have the chance or the time to really explore it before.

So it was good news when Ashley invited me to this workshop with MUFE! The agenda: High Definition Make Up. Wait, by the way, what is high-definition makeup? You guessed it right; HD makeup has something to do with video and photography. I’m sure you’ve encountered the term ‘HDTV’ or high-definition television. This type basically project images that are several times better in resolution than normal or standard types of TV. Same for photography, we have high-resolution images captured by DSLR and even point-and-shoot cameras.

And what do all these have to do with makeup? Simple. When these latest technology video cams or cameras capture your face, your makeup should be in ‘high-definition’ technique, especially if you want to hide some flaws. Professional make-up artists have undergone intensive training to perfect this high-definition technique but they also use good makeup products and tools to achieve that HD look. When the makeup technique is not HD-ready, a person’s face may reveal imperfections on video or on photos, which, of course, is something we ladies don’t like. Moreover, some make-up products or techniques make the face look overly done, unnatural and even older.

But HD makeup is not just for videos and photos. It is a great makeup technique for daily wear, especially if you have to face a lot of people. Having an HD-ready face is close-up ready, meaning your face will look great and flawless when people see you face-to-face. HD makeup effectively conceals imperfections without the look of thick application. Like what I said on Ashley’s post, HD means “Head-turning Diva”, and it was such a delight to attend a short workshop to learn how to achieve this look with Make Up For Ever.

Arriving a few minutes before the starting time, I had sufficient shooting time to explore Make Up For Ever’s store in Sephora Starhill. The façade is a welcoming display of cosmetics beautifully displayed on predominantly black walls and fixtures. The focus collection was HD high-definition makeup such as HD primer, HR elixir, HD foundation, HD cream blusher and HD concealer.

The class started with a short introduction and thank you remarks from Ashley. Our workshop make-up artist for the day was Angeline while the workshop model was a lovely gal named Izza. Here, Angeline started removing Izza’s make-up so we can see the full effect of HD make-up before and after application.

As this was a workshop, we were taught how to do it on ourselves. Here are some of the MUFE products that we used that day:

Make Up For Ever collection including HD products

I really loved that Mist and Fix because it makes your makeup look even better by adding some glow or radiance while making it last longer. For someone like me who only applies full make-up in the morning and needs it to last the whole day at work, Mist and Fix is a great make-up companion. I recommend this as a must-have item in your cosmetic kit. It is priced RM110 for 125ml.

Here are my fellow guests applying make-up on themselves:

We started by removing our own make-up (I used So Divine Cleansing Cream) then applied the HD primer blended with HD elixir, followed by the HD foundation. We also applied the HD concealer under the eyes. All these products blended smoothly and evenly on the skin. The textures were great, which allowed easy application on the face.

Here’s JL Buzzbee, whom I finally met in person that day, being assisted by pretty make-up artist of MUFE, Shiory.

Angeline also recommended using the HD high-definition concealer under the eyes to conceal fine lines and other imperfections prior to eye make-up.

The effect of the first few products was very flattering on Izza’s face. She’s lovely to begin with, by the way, but the effect of HD primer + HD elixir + HD foundation + HD concealer made her face look flawless. Compare the right to the left side and you can tell how HD make-up made a wonderful transformation in concealing imperfections without the look of overly done make-up.

The workshop continued with application of eye make-up, HD foundation powder, lip color and other make-up items. See all of us with HD-ready faces and smiles here, together with Shiory and Angeline of MUFE. Can you spot Izza in her full HD make-up look?

Can you spot where’s Izza with her new HD makeup look?

Oh, yeah, there she is, even lovelier than when we started the workshop…

While the other gals continued with their HD make-up sessions, I continued to explore the store and their products. MUFE has really nice make-up collections. Oh, please, don’t tempt me to overspend this month!

I loved the makeover tables at MUFE. Each table has a face drawing like this, showing a list of products used and by which make-up artist. Isn’t that cute and also helpful?

It’s a paradise of lipsticks and brushes!

Make-up, make-up, make-up…

I had a great time learning some tips and tricks for achieving a high-definition make-up look. Thanks to MUFE and to Ashley for organizing this session.

M.A.C. Mineralize Rich Lipstick

Posted on April 13, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

The mummy blogger continues to explore MAC lipsticks…

My first MAC lipstick, Rihanna Viva Glam, proved to be a successful trial and this lipstick has now become one of the must-have items in my everyday makeup kit. And it has triggered a strong desire for me to keep exploring lip colors!

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MAC Mineralize Rich Lipstick – Bold Spring

I was looking for a color that has strong pink tone and MAC’s beauty advisor recommended this one to me. I haven’t seen this one before and the MAC girl told me it’s a new collection — Mineralize Rich Lipstick.

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MAC Mineralize Rich Lipstick – Bold Spring (RM88)

The color I picked (or recommended to me) was Bold Spring. This shade, as the color name implies, has a bold pink color that oozes with freshness, like a fresh flower in full bloom.

It comes in a tube that’s different from the basic bullet-like MAC lipstick. An interesting character of this tube is it’s magnetic closure instead of the click clasp of traditional lip tubes. I love the contrast of shiny black base against the matte black cap. The box follows the normal MAC lipstick box of plain black with white text. Price is higher than the standard lipstick. This MAC Mineralize Rich Lipstick is at RM88 for 0.12 oz (vs RM68 basic MAC lipstick).

Here’s a look at 1-3-5 swipes against my skin. The color is not as buildable as my MAC Rihanna Viva Glam Red but 3 swipes will be good enough to have that bold pink effect on my lips. The texture is great; I love how it glides on the lips plus it has hydrating/ moisturizing benefits, too.

Swatches of MAC Mineralize Rich Lipstick

The color is simply glam but sweet. I love how I feel when wearing this — like a sweet lady in fresh bloom.

MAC Mineralize Bold Spring on me

Really loving my MAC lipsticks. Hmmm, wouldn’t it be nice to collect more from MAC lipstick palettes? Look at all those colors! Better save up for more of these!

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Ooooohhh, MAC lipsticks!

To see my product review on MAC Viva Glam Rihanna lipstick, click HERE.

About Mineralize Rich Lipstick by MAC

A 77-Mineral Moist Complex that instantly nourishes lips with maximum moisture in a lightweight, non-sticky formula. Larger bullet applies bright, long lasting colour in a single stroke. Medium shine finish, buildable coverage. Magnetic closure.

Visit http://www.maccosmetics.com.my to see more collections and to shop online.

M.A.C. Rihanna Viva Glam Red Lipstick

Posted on March 25, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

This will be shocking for a lot of women who love M.A.C. Cosmetics…but I haven’t tried or purchased any M.A.C. Lipstick until now. I have a few MAC brushes but I guess I didn’t pay much attention to lip color before. I only have 2 or 3 shades and that’s it. Those colors will last for the year.

I’ve been interested in exploring lip colors recently and have been trying different brands as well. While reading my monthly copy of Women’s Weekly, I came across MAC Viva Glam Rihanna collection. The color is incredibly striking, beautifully furious. I was captivated and I knew I gotta have one.

So, yes, I explored it at the MAC boutique during one of my visits to Pavilion. I loved it.

M.A.C. Rihanna Viva Glam Lipstick – RM68 for 3g

The lipstick tube is in a sexy red color with matte finish. With the cap off, the tube features Rihanna’s signature in red color against black.

M.A.C. Rihanna Viva Glam Lipstick box

The box is adorned with Rihanna’s signature in metallic red against MAC’s standard black packaging. Truly a celebrity style. Though, of course, we’re not going to use the box, I like that the brand paid attention to it and incorporated the signature.

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M.A.C. Lipsticks – Rihanna Viva Glam and Matte Lipstick

The lipstick is using the exact shape and size of the standard MAC lipsticks in the same bullet-like casing. And another good similar thing, MAC Viva Glam Rihanna has the same price as the other MAC lipstick at RM68.

Swatches of M.A.C. Rihanna Viva Glam Lipstick

The texture of this lipstick is beautiful. It glides smoothly on the lips and has a buildable finish. You can start with lighter red color or swipe a few times until you have that ‘Rihanna’ red effect on your lips. I swipe around three times until I reach that deep red color since that is the shade that I fell in love with in the first place. This Viva Glam item is a frost lipstick so it has that light shimmer finish. Here’s a closer look:

M.A.C. Rihanna Viva Glam swatches

The color is just so defined and creates an immediate impact to my makeup look. You can probably get away with having very simple eye makeup or no makeup at all then just swipe this MAC Viva Glam lipstick and you already have a fashion/ makeup statement. Oh, that red, red lipstick is to die for.

Love, love this MAC lipstick and I’m predicting I’ll have a few more. In fact, I bought this item together with a MAC Matte Lipstick in another deep red shade.

My current lip color collection top picks…(yeah, my last splurge was a Dior lipstick)

About MAC Viva Glam

Rihanna launches the new M.A.C. VIVA GLAM with two strikingly bold shades of red frosted Lipstick and Lipglass, perfectly capturing her fearless, confident style. Every cent of the selling price of VIVA GLAM Rihanna goes toward helping women, men and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Limited-edition, soft-touch red packaging features RiRi’s signature.