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)

Lego Shop and Model Display in Bangsar Village

Posted on June 13, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

At this age, I am still fascinated by Lego bricks. And I’m happy to see that my son shares the same adoration for these tiny pieces of genius.

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LEGO Shop now open at Lot 29, 2nd Floor, Bangsar Village II

Last weekend, my-in-laws, my husband, my son and I went strolling around Bangsar Village for a fun Sunday. We don’t regularly come to this area, my husband’s place of business is mainly at The Curve so my son and I would sometimes join him on a Saturday afternoon. So I was surprised to learn that a Lego shop is now open in Bangsar Village.

What grabbed my son’s attention from outside the mall was the huge poster or ad wrapping the exterior of the bridge connecting Bangsar Village I and II. Expectedly, my son kept asking to see Lego while we were looking for a parking space. And so we walked to Bangsar Village II, guess what we saw at Level 1?

A display wonderland of Lego city models!

There’s a city model display called LEGO friends where you’ll see beautiful structures for girls.

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LEGO Friends Sunshine Harvest model at RM89.90

LEGO Friends Heartlake Juice Bar model at RM149.90

And then there are displays that will be appreciated by mostly boys and boys-at-heart…

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The LEGO day for my son won’t be complete if he doesn’t see the shop. We went to the 2^nd floor to find the newly opened LEGO shop, here with several old and young shoppers. It was shining brightly and twinkling in the eyes of my naughty son.

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The LEGO shop has a lot of themed merchandise such as Legends of Chima, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings and stuff for girls (sorry, I was paying more attention to boys stuff). You can even find LEGO figures of Iron Man, Spiderman, Darth Vader and more.

Well, my feeling was right that LEGO is not just for kids. I’m sure that artists, designers and art lovers would agree with me that these models are very tempting to buy: the LEGO Architecture models. Look, it even has the Empire State building model.

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LEGO Architecture Empire State Building and Willis Tower at RM99.90 each

The naughty boy got what he wanted and was all-smiles after his daddy got him some LEGO toys.

This LEGO shop is located at Level 2 in Bangsar Village II, Jalan Telawi 1, Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.

The LEGO model display is located at Level 1. For more info, visit http://www.bangsarvillage.com

Stay connected to LEGO through their FB page at:

http://www.facebook.com/LEGO

To find out more about LEGO, visit them at:

http://www.LEGO.com

Longines Opens 2nd Boutique at Suria KLCC

Posted on June 11, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

Step Into the Latest Longines Boutique at Suria KLCC To Experience Unparalleled Horological Elegance

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Longines, the Swiss watchmaker renowned for its devotion to elegance, tradition and performance welcomes watch enthusiasts and collectors to experience unparalleled horological elegance with the opening of its second boutique in Malaysia at Suria KLCC.

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Located at lot 128A First Level of a prestigious mall, the boutique’s façade sporting the winged hourglass logo conveys the timeless elegance within.

In keeping with the design aesthetic of its flagship stores worldwide, the new boutique is very elegant with interiors that harmonizes fine traditional materials such as lacquered wood paneling, burnished leather, polished marble and carefully selected fixates and furnishings that create a calm, inviting warmth that complements the distinction of Longines’ timepieces.

Form flows beautifully into function as the narrow entrance cleverly directs the eye to the full sweep of Longines horological mastery, before narrowing again to usher guests to the VIP area that features a visual history of the company.

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The boutique is shaped after a classic Longines timepiece, all curved walls and linear cases. The tapered entryway that features recessed display cases mimicks the watch strap. This widens into a rotunda that is a subtly stylized round case complete with bezel, crown and watchface set with batons that form the ceiling. From this vantage guests have a full view of Longines current and classic collections. The space tapers again with more recessed and freestanding displays.

The palette of warm mahogany, cream, black, brushed stainless steel and white set off refined plinths that cradle key pieces of the Longines collections, allowing a clear view of these exquisite timepieces.

The ambience and atmosphere embody Longines’ vision that Elegance is an Attitude.

The opening of Longines second boutique in Malaysia in as many years reflects the brand’s commitment to watch enthusiasts and collectors in Malaysia.

The second Longines boutique allows guests to enjoy the full Longines experience that encompasses products of surpassing craftsmanship in an elegant setting that is both contemporary and warm.

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With each new boutique opening, Longines takes the opportunity to show different facets of Longines’ fabled passion for elegance and constant innovation and showcases the brand’s values and 182-year heritage of effortlessly weaving elegance and innovation.

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Simon Baker for Longines

Longines has been based at Saint-Imier in Switzerland since 1832. Its watchmaking expertise reflects a strong devotion to tradition, elegance and performance. Longines has generations of experience as official timekeeper of world championships and as partner of international sports federation. Known for the elegance of its timepieces, Longines is a member of the Swatch Group Ltd, the world’s leading manufacturer of horological products. With the winged hourglass as its emblem, the brand has outlets in over 140 countries.

Father’s Day Gifts and Deals from L’Occitane

Posted on June 3, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

Father’s Day is approaching fast! Have you found a gift for the special man in your life?

Just a quick post to share the special offers from L’Occitane. Well, I love their products and have reviewed a few skincare items. Which reminds me, I should grab that Almond Milk Concentrate one of these days. I’ve tried the sachet sample and I just love the texture and scent!

Okay, back to Father’s Day. L’Occitane has body care products for men and here are some great gift ideas from L’Occitane. What’s even better, you can order it online and enjoy FREE shipping with purchase above RM200! Why not surprise the special father with a delivery direct to home or office? By the way, they have FREE gift wrapping service, too!

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Gift for Dad – The Vert & Bigarade Set at RM135 (worth RM165) includes shower gel, soap, mini EDT and a pouch

Gift for Dad – Sophisticated L’Occitane Set at RM175 (worth RM204) includes shower gel, roll-on deodorant, shaving gel and a pouch

L’Occitane also has GWP or gift with purchase deals available online. These make it even more tempting to buy presents at www.loccitane.com.my

Get a FREE Almond Shower Oil, Almond Delicious Hands and an Aromachologie Body Lotion when you purchase above RM380. Receive an additional Almond Milk Concentrate and a premium bath duo when you purchase above RM550. All while stocks last so hurry if you like these gifts!

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To all the fathers and fathers to-be, happy father’s day! May you shine light and wisdom to your children and make this world a better place!

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

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

Valentina by Valentino Perfume and Lotion Gift Set

Posted on February 15, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

valentina-valentino-perfume-and-lotion-gift-set

Valentina Fragrance and Lotion Gift Set

Last Christmas, my husband gave me a beautiful perfume set for the first time. He never bought fragrance for me before so I was delighted to receive one from him, and it’s not just any perfume…it’s Valentina by Valentino.

When I first saw this bottle while still working at a previous company, I was captivated. The floral motif in matte finish is just so feminine and iconic. One look and you can tell that this is a designer’s masterpiece.

Valentina Eau de Parfum 80ml Bottle

The clear glass bottle comes in round shape front but has a flat bottom to make it stand nicely. The designer name ‘Valentino’ is neatly engraved on the gold cap that sits on top of the smallest flower motif. It features an unconventional spray shape, a black round spritzer with a flat top piece that also comes in gold.

Examining the bottle while inhaling the enchanting scent, I was asking myself how to keep the spray from accidentally being pressed if I bring this to travel. At first, I thought it looks very nice but there’s no protection for the spray. Oh well, never mind. So I lifted the lotion bottle to give it a try and to my surprise, under the lotion was an instruction card!

Valentina Perfume set instruction card

The card gave instruction on how to use the spray by pressing the top of the fragrance bottle. And to answer my question, the card also revealed a secret; I have to lift the tray to discover the safety cap for the bottle! Obediently, I followed the card and there was the cap, carefully mounted behind the tray. Clever design trick, I must say, because if they put it together in front, the presentation of the bottle and gift set may not be as impactful. The safety cap is just meant for carrying/ traveling purposes anyway.

Valentina perfume safety cap

Top notes:

The exuberant freshness of Calabrian bergamot is enhanced with the unexpected twist of white Alba truffle.

Middle notes: The iconic beauty of a white floral bouquet (Amalfi orange blossom, tuberose, jasmine) is subtly kissed by wild strawberry.

Base notes: The captivating sensuality of amber is enriched by the noble signature of cedar.

Valentina fragrance satin body lotion

The gift set included this lovely lotion in a good size of 200ml. The plastic bottle replicated the flower motif embossed on the plastic itself. The cap is also a resemblance of the gold signature on the fragrance glass bottle. The scent is, oh, so beautiful. It’s the perfect fragrance lotion after bathing at night to engulf and relax your senses in floral aromas. It gives the skin a smooth, satin finish. Best to apply all over your arms and legs after shower.

Valentina evening bag

And because my husband bought this during Christmas season, it came with a nice GWP (gift-with-purchase) item…a Valentino evening bag! It’s in light rose pink color with 3 zipped compartments that are convenient for bringing basic necessities during an evening celebration. I haven’t used this yet but it’s really a charming addition to any lady’s bag collection.

Oh, yes, I love this gift set. The perfume is captivating with dominant floral scents, which I love when it comes to fragrance. The lotion is just divine and leaves the skin deliciously enticing. I’m not sure if it’s still available in stores, but if it is and if you (or your special someone) love floral scents, better include Valentina in your fragrance collection and daily body care routine!

Valentina by Valentino Perfume and Lotion gift set

GIFT SET includes:

Valentina by Valentino Eau de Parfum (EDP) 80ml

Valentina Satin Body Lotion 200ml

Made in Spain

Comes in elegant and textured hard board box with satin label and floral motif made of chiffon cloth; Free bag also comes in a hard board box

Available at selected department stores in Malaysia

(Mine was purchased at Metrojaya The Curve)

More about the Fragrance

From this sensual, insolent beauty, this blatant femininity that eludes conventions, two master perfumers, Olivier Cresp and Alberto Morillas, created a fragrance as a tribute to today’s Valentino woman. With attitude, sophistication and unexpected characteristics, the bouquet of Valentina blends an irreverent Italian floral oriental in which each facet reveals a paradox. Calabrian bergamot is a hymn to exuberance and freshness, shaken up by the insolence of white Alba truffles. In their trail, jasmine, Amalfi orange blossom and tuberose celebrate radiant beauty, while being offset by the rebellious delight of wild strawberries. Finally, the nobility of cedar is seduced by the captivating sensuality of amber… Valentina marks out a solar, unexpected trail, classic yet modern. (by www.parfums.valentino.com)

The Inspiration behind Valentina

Synthesized in a refined bouquet of fragrances, the ingredients that define the femininity and uniqueness of the Valentino woman have inspired a new perfume called Valentina that was conceived as couture style and a signature element of distinction that expresses a feminine ideal. Valentina is beautiful, radiant with charms belonging to a modern heiress. She is seductive, sophisticated, unconventional, charismatic. She creates her own style. She sets home in a classical Roman Palazzo but there is nothing she likes more than feeling the heartbeat of the vivid city of Rome. She is the only protagonist of a hypnotic, bewitching story full of references and allusions to legendary figures of Italian fashion and cinema. Valentina comes to life in the advertising campaign for the perfume shot by David Sims and the TV film directed by Johan Renck along the dark and secret streets of a sumptuously deserted, nocturnal Rome. (by www.parfums.valentino.com)

Stay connected to Valentino via

http://www.facebook.com/valentino

Silk Apple delivers beauty right to your doorstep!

Posted on February 10, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

When I first encountered online beauty shopping several years ago, I was a bit skeptical about ordering beauty products. My experience in managing skincare brands has given me good knowledge that if the shipment is not properly done and the products get exposed to extreme heat, skincare items will not be in good condition by the time I receive them. Heat is one of the enemies of beauty products including makeup items.

I love shopping!

But over the past years, online shopping has given me good experience. I’ve probably shopped in every online shopping site launched in Malaysia. Well, I didn’t shop for beauty products right away. I started with non-expiring items and hair treatment services; those discount deals are just irresistible, right? Like a lot of shoppers, I admit I’m a sucker for huge discounts, too.

I then dared to buy some skincare products online and I was surprised to receive them in good condition. Well, I guess I underestimated the capability of online beauty shops!

I recently had a chance to experience a new online beauty shopping that has reached the country — Silk Apple.

Silk Apple is an online beauty-shopping site (www.silkapple.com) with headquarters in Taiwan that delivers to Malaysia as well. Silk Apple offers a wide range of products: eye care and eye makeup, skincare items such as cleansers, lotions, serums, moisturizers and masks. Silk Apple is currently carrying 4 beauty brands namely: Angel en Provence, Ferrmina, Echisse and Reacheer.

I received all these 4 items in good, intact condition from Silk Apple:

silk-apple-online-beauty-shopping-malaysia

4 items delivered directly to my address!

I was, of course, excited to sample and test the products.

ECHISSE TOTAL ESSENTIAL LOTION

RM48 for 200mL

With an infusion of many kinds of plant extract essences such as chrysanthemum extracts, oats and hyaluronic acid, Echisse Total Essential Lotion naturally stimulates repair and maintenance of the skin. It refines pores, reduces dark spots and promotes a brighter skin color. It gives a younger, firmer look, minimizes the lines on the face, and supplements moisture content.

How to Use: After cleansing and drying your face, disperse Echisse Total Essential Lotion on cotton pad and gently pat on the face. Allow a minute for your skin to absorb the lotion before applying your serum or moisturizer.

My verdict: This lotion is easily absorbed by the skin and makes the skin supple and smooth. The light, fresh scent is pleasant and makes your cheeks even more kissable, especially in the evening. I just hope it will come with English product information and instruction on the bottle in the future.

silk-apple-aqua-fresh-facial-cream-price

FERRMINA AQUA FRESH FACIAL CREAM

RM58 for 50mL

This lovely smooth cream balances oil on the skin while minimizing that greasy uncomfortable feeling. It enhances the skin’s natural moisture content and provides lasting hydration to the skin. Ferrmina Aqua Fresh Facial Cream contains flower and plant essences and snail mucus extract, which provide superb moisturizing properties, giving your skin that moisture boost to maintain supple, youthful feeling.

How to Use: After applying your toner or lotion and/or serum, take a pea-size amount of Aqua Fresh Facial Cream and massage all over the face and neck in upward direction.

My verdict: This water-based facial cream has a nice texture and spreads easily on the face. It does have lasting hydration on the skin and also provides a good canvas before applying makeup during the day. It also comes in a cute, unique jar. This is probably the first time I’ve used a moisturizer that comes in 3-color container. Similar to Echisse item, I also hope it will have an English instruction and product information.

silk-apple-reacheer-radiance-makeup-base-price

REACHEER RADIANCE MAKEUP BASE (Purple)

RM67 for 30mL

Your makeup will spread evenly and last longer with Reacheer Radiance Makeup Base. The color of the product adjusts naturally to the color of your skin. The technology behind this makeup base allows you to have an even and radiant complexion. It gives your skin a healthy radiance and defines your makeup finish beautifully.

How to Use: During the day, after applying your sunscreen, dab a few dots of Reacheer makeup base all over the face and gently spread using your ring and middle finger until product is fully spread. Apply your foundation on top. At night, simply apply before your foundation.

My verdict: This is my favorite among the 4 products I’ve tried from Silk Apple. I love the black, clean look of the tube (yes, I’m a sucker for nice packaging) and I enjoy seeing the magic of the purple cream naturally blending to my skin color after spreading on the face. This product has some English product information, which is good, although some info are still in Chinese.

FERRMINA SMOOTH PORE INVISIBLE CREAM

RM53 for 25g

Bothered by huge, visible pores? The Ferrmina Smooth Pore Invisible Cream provides instant solution to reduce the appearance of pores. This quickly and naturally clears the pores, leaving them smooth with an effective protective barrier.

How to Use: After your skincare regimen, apply Ferrmina Smooth Pore Invisible Cream on targeted areas where pores are visible such as the nose, cheeks, chin and forehead. This can be used before or after makeup.

My verdict: I am actually surprised that at this relatively affordable price, this pore cream does its purpose well! It blends smoothly with makeup without cracking or ‘caking’. It also spreads nicely on the skin both before and after foundation.

silk-apple-beauty-products-price-malaysia

Silk Apple provides an easy, affordable access to beauty products that will be sent right to your doorstep or preferred address. I was happily surprised to receive my chosen products within 3 days; that’s very fast. Silk Apple is currently offering a promotion to Malaysian shoppers: simply purchase RM150 and enjoy FREE delivery plus FREE eyeliner of your choice.

FREE Delivery and Eyeliner of your choice from Silk Apple!

Here are some of the new products at Silk Apple (hey, that Shea Butter Hand Cream looks interesting):

silk-apple-beauty-products-selection-malaysia-price

More beauty products at Silk Apple

Silk Apple’s site also hosts beauty tips or photos showing actual application of featured products:

Beauty Tip Photos at Silk Apple

Several payment options are available for online shoppers at Silk Apple. Choose from Visa, Mastercard, Paypal and American Express.

If you’re looking for good beauty products at an affordable price while enjoying the surprise of receiving them at your home, check out Silk Apple’s range of beauty items!

Stay connected with Silk Apple, visit their FB page at:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Silk-Apple-Cosmetics/1398996150311803

Check out more fabulous beauty products at

www.silkapple.com

Silk Apple is headquartered at:

Freedmart Pretty,

3f/8. No.1 Wu Chuan 1st Rd, Hsib-chuang Dist,

New Taipei City, 248 Taiwan

If you have an enquiry, contact Silk Apple by clicking HERE

Sweet Deals on Champagne and Wine this Valentine’s Day!

Posted on February 10, 2014 by CelesteDeJesus

Valentine’s Day and Chap Goh Mei celebrations are here! But I guess a lot of us are looking forward to the celebration of love this Friday! Why not make it more classy and unique with some wines versus the usual?

Express your love with wines this Valentine’s Day!

Pamper your sweetheart with Wine Talk’s Sweet Celebrations champagne and wine this Valentine’s Day. With great offers on iconic champagnes like Moët &Chandon (now only RM190) and Dom Pérignon (now only RM528) as well as a specially arranged Valentine wine set for RM248 you can be sure to enjoy the celebration with a smile on your face rather than a hole in your pocket. The Valentine wine set consists of 3 most popular sweet wines to express your sweet love for your sweet one: a light and fizzy Moscato from Australia – Peter Lehmann Princess Moscato (500ml), a rich and luscious Muscat from Spain – Torres Floralis Oro (500ml), and a gentle but intense Semillon from Australia – Cranswick Estate Sarus Botrytis Semillon (375ml). This is a great gift of love for the season!

Yummm…My Sweet Valentine Set!

Celebrate the day with a bottle of Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial (750ml) priced at only RM190. Moët& Chandon’s unique style is distinguished by its bright fruitiness, its seductive palate and elegant maturity. Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial can be enjoyed throughout your meal from the entree to dessert and pairs perfectly with sushi, white fish oysters and even white fruits such as a white peach tart with chocolate cream.

wine-talk-valentines-day-gifts-champagnes

Champagnes ON SALE now!

Instead of the conventional bouquet of roses, romance her with a bottle of Moët& Chandon Rosé Impérial (750ml) at only RM240. The sparkling rosé is a symbol of spontaneous, radiant, romantic expression of the Moët & Chandon style. The Rosé Impérial pairs well with foods that have simple, intense and colourful flavours such as red meat with fresh, red-fleshed fruits, fresh goat cheese and mozzarella.

Feeling like spoiling yourselves this Valentine’s, Wine Talk is giving champagne lovers a reason to do so with a special price for its Dom Pérignon (750ml) at only RM528. Appear effortlessly sophisticated when you present her with a bottle of the most iconic Champagne in the world – intense, full-bodied, and hedonistic.

Wine Talk sommelier David Stephan said “In the age of technology, online shopping is fast becoming a trend and people are sometimes too busy to physically shop for wine. Let Wine Talk take out the guesswork for you with wine advices or with our mixed wine sets that are all ready for you to choose from.”

Transform your home into a classy wine and dine restaurant!

If you want to take things a step further, you can even transform your home into a classy restaurant in just one hour! Order his or her favourite dish from Room Service and enjoy Valentine’s Day dining in the comfort of your home. All orders before VDay will receive RM88 food vouchers from Room Service.

Need advice on which wines to serve? Easy, breezy. Let Wine Talk’s French sommelier do the choosing for you. You can call them at 1300 88 9788 or email us at info@winetalk.com.my for the best wine advices this Valentine’s Day season or maybe Chap Goh Mei! Visit www.winetalk.com.my for more details.

Wine Talk’s Sweet Celebration makes it easy for you to express your love this season!

Celeste de Jesus

Beauty, Lifestyle, Health, Fitness and Other Addictive Stuff

Tag Archives: gift ideas

A Fabulous Summer with NARS Makeup

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

My NARS Summer Picks!

The NARS Illuminator will give you instant shimmer!

Lego Shop and Model Display in Bangsar Village

LEGO Shop now open at Lot 29, 2nd Floor, Bangsar Village II

LEGO Friends Sunshine Harvest model at RM89.90

LEGO Friends Heartlake Juice Bar model at RM149.90

LEGO Architecture Empire State Building and Willis Tower at RM99.90 each

Longines Opens 2nd Boutique at Suria KLCC

Simon Baker for Longines

Father’s Day Gifts and Deals from L’Occitane

Dior and Women’s Weekly present Makeup Masterclass Workshop

Dior Capture Totale Dream Skin

Dior used new products at the workshop

Luxola Online Beauty Shopping Experience

DuWop Payoff Eyeshadow Intensifier

Tweezerman Classic Lash Curler

Crazy Rumors Red Velvet 100% Natural Lip Balm

Zoeva 101 Luxe Face Definer

Sigma Small Tapered Blending Brush E45

Givenchy Launches Prisme Libre and Poudre Premiere Loose Powder

Introducing the new Prisme Libre and Poudre Premiere from GIVENCHY

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

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.

Jess Ying of jessying.com

Peter Yap, Fashion & Beauty Editor of The Sun

Givenchy Poudre Premiere

Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Powder

Valentina by Valentino Perfume and Lotion Gift Set

Silk Apple delivers beauty right to your doorstep!

Sweet Deals on Champagne and Wine this Valentine’s Day!