xbbkay

Haul - Bubbi/Quo Brushes, Lancome Cleanser, Clinique Real Foundation, Makeupforever concealer, Mac Fall Colour Collection for Fall 2011

2011-11-13T13:54:00.007-05:00

hey all ~

it's a gloomy Sunday afternoon, and I'm in the mood for some blogging. Here are some products that I've been using and would like to share with you all. It's not a lot considering how long I have not blogged!

My newly acquired Bubbi brushes. I happen to stumble on Bubbi's video featuring her newly launched brushes. I was interested in trying the foundation brush, but i also decided to pick up a powder brush as well.

Here is how they look: The powder brush and the flawless HD brush

When I first got them, I was surprised by the size of these brushes. They are almost like travel size brushes. I was really looking forward to using the "flawless HD brush" but I was highly disappointed by the size of it. Aside from that, I find myself falling in love with the flawless HD brush by the day. It works beautifully around the area of my nose, and around my eyes. What differentiates this brush from the stippling brush is its density and ability to buff out the foundation. I highly recommend using this brush with a thick-formula liquid foundation (these tend to be the full coverage foundations). It works beautifully with my Estee Lauder Double wear liquid foundation.

As for the powder brush, I like how soft it is, but aside from that it's just another regular powder brush to me. Overall, they are easy to clean synthetic brushes. The craftsmanship is not top quality, but okay and the design is adorable. You can find these brushes on Bubbi's Shop. They are highly affordable, and i received them within 2 weeks.

It must be the month for brushes, because here is another pair of brushes I managed to snatch up. These are the newly re-modeled Quo Professional brushes, available only in Canada. You can only find them at Shoppers Drug Mart.

Here I have the blush and crease brush. The blush retails for $35CAD and crease brush retails for $25CAD. I am incredible impressed by the makeover Quo has given these brushes. If you re-call the old Quo brushes, these are completely an upgrade! I read online that they are real hair, and this could explain why these brushes are super soft. They don't shed after washing and they stay in shape.

What i like about both brush is the size. The blush brush works perfect as a highlighter (especially Mac mineralizes powder). It blends beautifully as a blush brush as well. It picks up power well, however I find it doesn't deposit enough on the face. It's as if the brush holds onto the powder more then it should.

As for the crease brush, it does amazing at picking up and depositing the eyeshadow. What i adore most about this brush is the size. It's perfect for people with smaller crease/eyes. I don't think Mac has a comparable crease brush size.

Also, the material of the handle is identical to NAR's packaging. You are able to firmly hold the brush, however it does get dirty coming into contact with powder. Nothing a little water can't clean up though.

Here is a picture of them. I just used it yesterday. The blush brush is typically less dense then most blush brushes in my opinion.

Next here, i have the Clinique Perfectly Real Make-up Foundation. I recently acquired this and I am still testing it out. I love my Estee Lauder foundation however, i am always open to trying new foundation. After about a week of using the foundation I can say that it is definitely light coverage. The formula looks thick, but it's very blend-able. I've also noticed that there are tiny shimmers in the foundation, which i'm not sure if i like it. Once applied your skin feels like silk, however i find this foundation not long lasting, and it has a tendency to slip off your face. I feel the need to powder when i use this foundation, because it doesn't dry matte, hence i can easily get it onto my clothes..etc.

despite this, it does give off a nice glowly finish. You will need concealer if you have acne, blemishes. This foundation would be perfect for those who have minor discoloration, uneven skin tone, dry to combination skin.

It looks thick, but it blends like heaven, and the coverage is light to sheer. If you compare this to makeupforever HD foundation, this one is light coverage.

I never knew that makeupforever had a concealer like this until I was browsing the stand at Sephora. I love the the silicone tip applicator on this concealer. You twist the end of the stick to get the concealer to come out of the applicator, and none of the product gets wasted! You can apply it directly to your under eyess. The coverage is medium and the blend-ability is amazing as expected from makeupforever. However, i find it to slip off my face as well after a few hours even with powder. Not long lasting, as I seem to experience with most makeupforever products.

i use this concealer strictly for my under eyes. It doesn't settle into find lines, and it's buildable.

Recently I've grown fond of perfume. I have them, but i don't regularly use them, because sometimes i feel like it's a waste for everyday. I happen to be at Bath and Body one day, and every time i go there, i fall in love with the wonderful scent in the store. A sales associate introduced me to this fragrance and told me that it's their number 1 seller. I tried it and instantly fell in love. If you are looking for an affordable perfume that you can spray everyday, i'd recommend this one. It's incredible!

I'm not good at describing scent so here is a description i got off their website:
Paris Amour, a dreamy blend of French tulips, apple blossoms and sparkling pink champagne, inspired by a romantic stroll through the streets of Paris.
Top: Sparkling Mandarin, Petite Strawberry, Cassis, Pink Champagne, Apple Blossom, Dewy Freesia
Middle: Luscious Peach, Jasmine Petals, French Tulip, Water Lily, Frangipani
Dry: French Vanilla, Coconut Milk, Amber Wood, Sandalwood, Creamy Musk

Now as for skincare, i have been using Clinqiue Even better -It's designed to get rid of blemishes and scaring. I have yet to see results, but i do see that it does cause my skin to dry up a little. I will update you more on this when I see results

As for the cleanser, i'm really starting to love it. It's a foam type cleanser (no surprise there). I find it very gentle and it doesn't strip away my skin's moisture, instead, it nourishes. My skin is left feeling clean, but not irritated, instead very comfortable. I LOVE my LAneige Professional makeup cleanser, but i find it to start drying up my skin now that it's winter. Instead this Lancome one has been very pleasant to use during the cold weather. This is a sample size, I think i may purchase the full size once i am done with it. It smells very nice as well. I'm starting to like Lancome products!

As for blistex - this is a lip treatment for cracked, dried up lips. I love it, because my lips are very dry in the winter!

This is from the Fall collection by Mac. What i got here is the Snow Orchid lipstick. It's a very bright fuchsia shade. The lipgloss is C-Thru A90 and it's a sheer nude gloss. The mineralized skinfinish is called Lightscapade
and i got that to use as a highlighter.

Here is a close up of the swatches. I use the Quo blush brush to apply the mineralized skinfinish and i find it to be the perfect combination, because it doesn't deposit too much product on my skin. And lipgloss pairs well with nude lipsticks like Mac Creme De Nude, and the lipstick is a bold statement. Looks amazing with simple makeup.

I hope you enjoyed my post. It's nice to be back blogging and taking my mind off school. I'm really hoping to update more, but i don't think i'll have the time until Christmas. Until then, take care and thank you for dropping by

;)

P.S i used my phone camera to take these pictures, because my camera battery was dead. The quality isn't too shabby eh? hehe

My Natural Makeup Routine

2011-10-28T09:35:00.003-04:00

After taking a very long break from blogspot, I've realized that there is a post that i never ended up posting. Since i have not blogged in a long time, i decided to post this. Hope you enjoy!

For natural looking makeup, these are a few of the things i like to emphasize:

1)brows: define them, lightly pencil in, or use powder. A full set of brows frame the face.

2)eyes: - natural full or semi lashes; I don't have big eyes, so i like to make them appear larger than they really are.

- highlighting your lids (i used mac bare study paint pot) draws light into them.

- "tight linning" by using eyeliner to give the appearance of fuller lash line

3) cheeks:

- cream blushes gives off a natural glow compared to powder blushes. A soft pink never fails.

4) lips: i like to stick with semi lustre to matte finishes. A colour that doesn't scream attention but just enough to make you lips look kissable. I like warm tone pinks or corals.

5) face: depending on the season. I like to use a tinted foundation in the winter, that is hydrating to protect me from the cold weather. In the summer, I love my estee lauder for the long lasting power!

Here is my natural makeup routine and some of the products that I use.For eyes: define a lash - mac bare study paint pot - mac naked lunch eyeshadow - mac taupe brow pencil - black pencil eyeliner (not pictured)depending on your comfort zone, use false lashes -Here i used : revlon lashes

For Cheeks: Mac LadyBlush Creme blush - Costal Scent blush brush - Mac Fix +

For lips: Mac florabundance - Nars Belle De Jour

swatches of the products used:

(left to right) Mac bare study, Mac naked lunch, Mac Ladyblush cream blush - nars belle de jour, Mac Florabunance

& here is my final look: simple + clean.

now i must go back to my studying....

:(

My Summer Essential Makeup

2011-06-12T16:32:00.007-04:00

Here are a few products that i have been constantly using to fight the humid, hot weather.

Face

Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation:
I'm in the shade Desert Beige

I will consider doing a full review on this foundation in the future. For now, I will give a brief summary about my experience with this foundation. It's staying power is amazing, and the best out of all the foundations that i have used. I can depend on this foundation to last a good 6 hours, without slipping off my face. It also keeps the oil at bay ( no need for powder touch ups). I absolutely love this foundation for that. The only downfall I can point out is that the formula can be a bit drying, and lack that "natural, glowing finish" that you would get from a foundation like MakeupForever (which has more oil content), but I guess this is a trade off (to have a long lasting foundation). Also it does not come in a pump!!!

I have seen that there are a lot of mix feelings about this foundation. I actually like this foundation, so i will try to do a in depth review on it.

Cheeks

Mac Surf Baby collection - Lush light Bronze Studio Careblend/Blend

I'm not sure why they call this a Studio Careblend. I've never heard of that, but it's basically a good contouring, bronzing product to me. I just got it a few weeks ago, and I really adore it. I think the shade works wonders against my pale skin tone. It's just perfect. I don't own anything like this, so I really like it because i was searching for a product like this for the summer.

I use the Mac 138 or Quo Angled brush to apply this

on the left, i applied it solely on my cheeks lightly. On the right, i applied more then usual and used the excess on the rest of my face. Definitely look a lot darker!

Eyes

Mac Paint Pot in Bare Study

I like to apply this all over the lid. Simple, quick, and the best solution to brightening my eyes & making it appear larger. It lasts all day as well!

Lips

NYX Dolly Wink lip liner & Mac Creme Cup lipstick. Using a lip liner before using the lipstick will prolong the longevity of the lipstick

In the summer i love to wear bright lipsticks! The dolly wink lipliner is a super cool tone pink. I wore Creme Cup over it to give it some warmth. lol

hope you enjoyed! take caree . & thanks for reading

An update on life...

2011-06-02T17:08:00.002-04:00

It's been months since i've blogged. Where do i start? Well, for one, it's already been a month into my summer. I have yet to make travel plans, but i intend to in august. The weather here is super humid. We already have our AC on, because the heat is just unbearable. Heading to the beach would be perfect, but i'm not really interested in the beaches that are around here. I hope i can arrange a trip to the beach soon though!

I think i'll just share some photos that i've managed to capture during this month. There isn't much, because i don't often bring my camera. So lets get started.

Recap, shortly after school ended, my brothers, his gf, and my bf and i all decided to go out for dinner to celebrate the end of the school year. We had dinner at a resturant called Milestone.

Here is the few pictures i've gotten.
my delicious steak...yummm

my bf's chicken. ...i really love how they garnished this. Looks so pretty

& the two of us. Notice anything different? i got a hair cut. That is the true length of my hair. I chopped off A LOT. Hoping it would look healthier.

Shortly after dinner, we went to watch Fast Five. Not sure if you guys had the chance to watch that movie yet, but i absolutely loved it! Make sure you wait around for the preview of the next Fast Furious at the end of the movie. I can't wait till it hit theatres.

Aside from eating out a lot, I weather has finally allowed for outdoor activities. One day, my friend and i decided to take a walk down a park near her house. It was surprisingly big, and I really enjoyed it. I like to take walks on a warm day. The weather was perfect.

this is a photo i managed to capture. It was around 6-7 pm. Absolutely stunning.

a cross-over bag is absolutely crucial for these walks. LOL. It was very tiring holding the bag until i remembered there is a strap. I can't believe i can smile that wide. My eyes are almost non-existance. haha

my childhood friend and I. She is much more tan, but this picture doesn't do it justice though.

.....I finally had the chance to give my room a makeover. i wanted to do it a while ago, but never had the time. I painted my walls a colour called "wild berry". It's a pinkish plum. Previously, i had a light pink walls. I've decided that i needed a more bold, dark shade of colour to match my furniture.

I had to paint 2 layers. It's still not perfect in my opinion. I might consider doing a 3rd layer. I love the colour against my furniture.

Here's a peak of one side of my room that is finished. ....well basically finish. The other corners of my room still need to be rearranged and decorated. I'll update more on my bedroom when i'm finish!

Lastly, i went to this yogurt shop downtown. It's called YoYo's and i REALLY love their MANGO flavoured yogurt. It's SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO delicious. I got strawberry and Mango. strawberry is good too, but mango is even better!

thanks for reading, take care !

Haters & their comments

2011-03-24T14:00:00.004-04:00

Typically, it's not in my best of interest to address these types of things, but I feel spontaneous and bored enough today to feel the need to blog about it.

A few months ago, I started getting these hate comments left behind on my blog. Mind you, i never published them, and there is no need to explain why. But after reading those comments, i was actually shocked.

First of all, I didn't think much people actually read my blog - let alone take the time to leave a hate comment.

Second of all, the comments were addressing my personal life posts. So I probably know the kid behind that "anoyomous" comment.

Third of all, I never thought I was the type to have a hater. LOL. I always thought of myself as a neutral person that everyone was okay with. I mean i don't expect to be adored, but I never thought i'd ever be associated with hate. But then again, no one likes to think that they are hated.

But anyways, i won't say what the comment actually was. But i would say that it's not as bad as some of the harsh comments that are left on some makeup guru's youtube videos. What i just don't understand is, why do people even bother to leave comments like that. Does it make them feel better? Or are they just bored and have nothing better to do?

Things like this just makes bloggers like myself, refrain from blogging. I'm a personal person as it is, so i don't blog much about my life. However, I do like to share some of it once in a while, since I can only take so much of makeup posts (they take too much work as well!). But be assured, i won't let a little comment like that stop me from being me, and doing what I like to do.

I guess that's all for my little rant. I'm sure i'm not the only one here that has experienced this. How did you guys deal with it?

----------------------------------------------------
P.S I had an epic March, so i'm quite glad that things are starting get better now. I hope to get back to blogging soon

<3 Anh

Mac Venomous Villians, Wonder Woman, Peacocky Swatches & Collective Haul

2011-02-20T17:19:00.009-05:00

I've been acquiring a few Mac items here & there for the past few month. Some are from the permanent collection, and some is from the limited collection. I realize i haven't had the chance to play with them very much, since they are still in their packaging, but i wanted to swatch them for ya today.

First, let's start with the Wonder Woman Collection I grabbed one item from this collection, and it is the Mighty Aphrodite. The combination is pretty. The larger half of the blush is described to be light pink coral. It reminds me somewhat of Nars Deep Throat. So if you love Nars Deep throat, then i would recommend this blush. Might Aphrodite is just a tad bit more pink then Deep Throat. The smaller half of the blush is just a more reddish coral colour.

Here how the packaging looks like. I'm not really in love with it, but i guess it's nice to have changes.

I love the colours, but i'm not crazy about the formula. I'm actually disappointed in the pigmentation. It's very sheer. The larger half of the blush (light pink coral colour) is more pigmented then the smaller half of the blush (reddish coral). Definitely need to layer this on if you want it to be visible.

Swatches: It was much easier getting it onto my fingers then onto my hand.

The

second item

that i've acquired was from the Mac Venomous Villains Collection. I picked up this beauty powder, because i never tried any from Mac. The one I got is Blair Rose and this is like a pinky plum colour.

swatches: sorry, my flash kind of made it more warm tone colour then it should of.
The pigmentation is sheer but pigmented and I don't know if that's normal for beauty powder? I wear it sort of like a blush, because i think the colour is very beautiful. Don't be afraid of how it appears in the packaging. I wear this alone, when my face looks washed out. It gives just the right amount of colour to the face.

The

third item

is from Mac Peacocky Collection & i only happen to pick up one of their mega metal eyeshadow called Unflappable. I don't know how to describe this, so this is what temptalia says " it's a plummy-gray-taupe with soft metallic shimmer-sheen". I think this colour looks incredible, and i have nothing like this. I wish i had picked up more eyeshadows from this collection.

The eyeshadow is very pigmented, and i think it would look beautiful with a smokey eye look.

Now onto the permanent items...

I decided to try the Mac Select Sheer/Loose Powder. I was going through a period where i broke out a lot, and i really needed my foundation to cover my troubled area. I don't have any face powder product, besides my translucent powder from MUFE. The reason i was looking for another powder product was because, I wanted something that offered a bit of coverage while setting my foundation at the same time. Hence why i tried this.

What i discovered was - DON't BOTHER WITH POWDER, when your face is dry/flaky and breaking out. Using powder just EMPHASIS that, and it looks terrible. Sadly, i can't return this, but i figure it would come into use when i have better skin day. Perhaps i'll give this a try in the summer.

But overall, the powder on it's own has light coverage, it's very soft, and i do like it. I imagine it would be wonderful if you don't have dry skin issues.

Another product i got from the permanent line is a blush. It's called Pinch O' Peach and it's a sheertone blush. I'm absolutely in love with the sheertone formula! It's feels very velvety and creamy when i swatch it. The colour payoff is incredible, and i love the fact that this shade is not shimmery. Sometimes i just want a MATTE coloured blush. They always look great when i'm trying to do a natural look. I'm definitely going to look out for more Sheertone formula blush from Mac from now on.

btw i was told by the SA that MAC is bring out new blushes? I don't remember if she said it was the cream formula ones, or the powder one, but they are up to something she said. Anyone else knows anything about this ?

swatch:

LASTLY, i can not go to Mac and not pick up any of their lipsticks! Welcome the two that has now joined my lipstick family Mac Costa Chic, and Chatterbox. Costa Chic is a frost coral colour & Chatterbox is a amplified pink. They are both bright shades

left is Costa Chic and right is Chatterbox

...and that is all! Thanks for viewinggg

My Valentines Day 2011

2011-02-17T15:49:00.007-05:00

I hope everyone had a lovely Valentines day! Mine was very sweet and somewhat typical, but nonetheless very nice. I think everyday should be Valentines day. I want to share with you guys how it went....

Valentines Day did not start off too well for me. It was on a Monday and i had an assignment due Wednesday. Prior to that i had midterms, hence why the assignment was not yet finished. I gave my boyfriend a heads up that i would be at school all day Monday (Valentines Day) to finish my assignment, and asked him if it was okay to postpone "OUR valentines" day to the following day - being Tuesday.

So, i spent the whole day in the library with my friend working on our assignment. I didn't get home that day until 7 pm. After almost 10 hours of being at school working one that assignment, i was very bummed out by the end of the day. BUT i headed out shortly afterwards to buy a Valentines Card & a box of chocolate for my boyfriend. I really wanted to make one, because it would be so much more meaningful, but there was absolutely no time left for me to do that. So I ended up buying one and writing in it.

During that time, i was not at home for about 20 minutes. Shortly after i've came home, and walked into my room, i found this lovely thing sitting on my desk waiting for me

A fact : my bf has never gotten red roses....

Can you guys see the shape of how the roses are arranged?

I finally realized that he ordered it a week in advanced, and he gave the florist specific instructions to make arrange the flowers in a heart shape. Cheesyyyy! but that's okay because it's Valentines DAY!

this is the card that came with the flowers....

I was really surprised! I thought that my boyfriend didn't care to get flowers, and i thought that he was going to get it done last minute - but he totally surprised me this time around.

I absolutely love receiving flowers. I know a lot of girls think....it's just flowers, you can't eat it, you can't do anything with it - all you can do it wait until it dies. I guess i'm the opposite. Every time i receive flowers, i get butterflies. When my boyfriend gives me flowers, i guess it reminds me of the time when we first dated. When everything you experience was so new and amazing - not that it's not amazing now, but yeah you know what i mean.

Anyways, back to the story. My flowers were delivered by the flower shop. It happened to work out at the perfect time, because it was sent to my house when I left for a bit to get the card and chocolate. The funny thing is, my dad opened the door and received the flowers for me. LOL. I wonder how he felt receiving roses! LOL

So all of this actually took place ON Valentines day. Our actually date happened

the following day..............

The following day, again- i had class. Tuesday happen to be the longest day for me. I have 5 hours of straight lecture! Intenseeee! I finish class at 2.30, and he has booked RSVP for dinner at 6:00. We decided to go to a fine dinning resturant called: Micheals by the Thames. It was our first time there, but my brother has told us that the food there is pretty goodd - so we thought we try it out.

- YES there is still snow!

I don't have many photos....because i felt very awkward taking pictures there...These pictures were taken without flash

While we were waiting for our food: here's is yours truly! Despite the fact that i did TWO valentines day LOOK for my blog, i didn't have the time to do either for the actual day! School ruins everythingg...

some bread and butter to munch on while we wait..

We both has steakk!! yummi.. I love steak...My boyfriend tried the Filet Migeon - He think this is the best steak, because we had at it at wedding 2 years ago, and it was seriously amazing. Sadly this one is not the same, but still good!

I tried the Butcher's Block? I think that's what it's called. Strange name, but it was deliciouss. Can you believe my piece of bigger, yet his was more expensive? What a trade off. LOL

For dessert we had Strawberry ---something, i can't remember. There was a gentlemen that brought over this cart and started to make it infront of us. It was pretty amazing, when i got to see blue flames.

The final product was delicious. There's pieces of cake, strawberries with strawberry icecream, whip cream, some alcohol & their sweet sauce. I only wish there was a bit more icecream.

& that was my Valentines day! It's been 3 day already, and my roses are still gorgeous. I will hair spray it and keep it when it starts to die. i haven't done this before, but i'd like to try it! heard you need to hang them upside down first.

Thanks for reading <3

SEXY Valentines Day Look 2011

2011-02-12T18:58:00.025-05:00

Yesterday, i did a Natural Valentine Day look. Today, I really felt inspired to do a sexy, smokey valentines day look. I think this one was much harder to pull off, because my face is far from looking anything like sexy. But i took up the challenge.

The colours were suppose to be a reddish copper, brown, and black...with a bright magenta, but the shadows kept oxidizing on me. This is the best i can do in capturing the colours. I still have to say that it not very representative of the real look

But i hope you would enjoy this anywas

Some of the products used in this look

Eyes Nyx Rust, Mac Handwritten, Mac Carbon, Mac Fuchsia Pigment

Lips Mac blooming Lovely with Mac Pretty Please

Cheeks Nars Deep Throat

this look is very bold. I literally packed on 10 pounds of eyeshadow. There is a lot of layering involve. I kind of did it in a rush, so you can tell that my blending is a little..EHHH in the pictures. This look is definitely for those of you who like bold dark colours. Red looks very intimidating but it's not that bad, if you keep it within your lid-space.

here is the full look.

It was very hard photographing this look. I don't know why. Maybe because the colours didn't stay true. I'm a little disappointed with that. It would have helped if it didn't get dark so early here.

But anyways, I think this would be my last look for a while. I just felt the URGE to do th is look. LOL. I hope this has inspired you!! & once again, have a wonderful, & sweet Valentines Day.

Loves and Kisses to you all

Natural Valentines Day Look! 2011

2011-02-11T20:01:00.016-05:00

Today i felt like doing a look since valentines is just around the corner. The emphasis of this look is on natural, beautiful glowing skin. I think that for a day like valentines day, you want to look pretty and "glowing". When you are in love, you look & feel happy, healthy, blessed, and this is all reflected in your complexion. Having that "glowing" face just makes you look like your in love. hahaha. Does that make any sense? ANYWAYSS....

So here's my look:

It's quite simple. I sticked to using pretty lashes, blushes, and pink lipstick. I decides not to do major eyeshadow blending, because i've already done a Valentines look with pink and purple eyeshadow last year. So i thought i should do something a little more simple - something everyone else can also do.

Some of the Products Used:
Cheeks
Mac Pinch of Peach Blush
Mac Mineralizer in Smooth Verge

Foundation
Makeup Forever HD in shade 115

Others
Ardell - Luckies
Mac Way to Love lipstick - MY ABSOLUTE FAV (limited edition)
Mac Bare study Paint Pot - on eyes

oh and btw:

romantic curls is absolutely crucial. lol :D :D

washroom without flash:---------------------------------------------bedroom with flash

Have a WONDERFUL St.Valentines Day

If you're interested in the eyeshadow look i did for valentines last year. click here

thanks for dropping by.

P.S. I'l be doing a "How to achieve Glowy Skin" post sometime at the end of this month, hope you guys would like it!

FOTD: Girly Purple and Blue Look

2011-01-17T16:31:00.011-05:00

It's been a very long time since i've done a FOTD (face of the day). I haven't been wearing eyeshadow as often as before, so today i thought i test out my camera with this FOTD. I'm running out of ideas for colour combos. I might need to get new eyeshadows!

Here is the finish eye look: the blue kind of oxidized :S after a few minutes.

The Product List

Eyes
Mac Red Velvet shade stick
NYX Rust all over lid
Mac Moons Reflection over lid
Mac Fresh Water crease
Black Tide deepen crease (optional)
Taupe eyebrows pencil
QUO lashes in 801

Face
Makeupforever invisible foundation 115
Mac Love Rock Mineralizer

Lips
Revlon Pearl 405 Silver City
Rimmel 086 Sugar Plum

& the finish look.....
i'm really liking the mineralizer.

thanks for dropping by ;)

Box On Vanity

2011-01-13T16:13:00.003-05:00

i'm always on the lookout for ways to organize my makeup and unique ways to decorate my vanity. I found this cute little box at Winners, (by chance) and knew it would look great on my vanity. I'm not exactly sure what to store in it yet, but i was thinking some skincare products.

This is how it look and currently these are the things in it. I'm still deciding what is best. i thought it would look nice with my perfumes on it, but it's not wide enough. The only one that fits is the Vera Wang Pincers one.

a top view. Some miscellaneous items in the bottom drawer. Mainly, a lot of sample items, i'm testing out and what not.

These are someskincare products that are cluttering away on my vanity top. Anyone have any ideas or suggestions of how to organize/store these?? i use them on a daily basis.

So i need some ideas. What do you guys think would look good in my "box"?? Please share your creativity

MAC + NARS lipstick swatch + FOTD

2011-01-12T19:04:00.012-05:00

*WARNING- PICTURE HEAVY

you will be viewing a ton of pictures of me, please do not read on if you don't like these types of posts.

I want to swatch some lipsticks for you guys today, because i just got a new camera.

I've already done hand swatches on these in previous posts. If you are interested, search my blog and it should come up. However, like my NYX lip swatch, i've decided to do a whole face shot, so you can compare it against my skin tone. I think it's much more representative of the lipstick colour.

Mac Blooming Lovely (from London Liberty Collection)
Mac Ever Hip (from London Liberty Collection)
NARS Belle De Jour (decided to swatch this, because i see a lot of people are searching for this from my feedjit feedback)
Mac Gaga

Mac Blooming Lovely: i had this in my vanity for a very long time, because i didn't know how i can pull this off. This cool tone lavendar can easily make you look like you were just poisoned if applied on its own. In this picture, i lined and filled my lips with a lip liner from Shiseido Perfect Rouge which give my lip a pink undertone, then i lightly apply Blooming Lovely. This is a limited edition shade, but i heard the next closest thing is Lavender Whip from Mac Absolutely love the amplified finish. if anyone one else have any ideas on wearing this, let me know!

Mac Ever Hip: is a very bright coral colour. This is one of my personal favourite! Its definitely a summer must have shade for me. It looks a little awkward against my eye makeup/eyeshadow, but I was lazy to redo a whole new look, so please ignore that. I applied this on it's own. It's very pigmented. I can't think of a dupe for this at the moment. Sorry!

NARS Belle De Jour: I decided to include this shade in this post as well, because i noticed that a lot of people that visit my site are searching for swatches of it. The first swatch i made on it does not justify this colour. So here it is again. It claims to be a nude colour but it has a orange undertone. The payoff is lustre, and a little sheer in my opinion. I wish it was a bit more opaque. It looks almost coral in these pictures. The lighting is just a little off.

Mac Gaga: This is another cool tone pink. I think you guys have seen this colour around enough, but i just wanted to include it in here as well just because it looks very pretty. It's definitely BARBIE. Looks great with smokey purple eyes.

Hope you guys enjoy this post. I love lipsticks.

What do you guys think of the camera?? I think it did a pretty good job taking photos in my room and depicting the colours well. I never could have done that before.

Bath and Body - Scented Candle and Body Lotions

2011-01-06T14:55:00.014-05:00

Last year (2010) I started to become obsessed with scented candles and lotions. I've never cared for it, and i thought that it's a complete waste of money, but after my first purchase at "Bath and Body" i'm hooked.

I can't really explain what it is about it, but I've got into the habit of lighting candles and using the lotions now. A lot of it might have to do with how WONDERFUL it makes me and my room smells! I guess i'm a real sucker for stuff that smells good!

Here is my purchase. I took advantage of the deals that they had!

Scented Candles: Twilight Woods & Midnight Pomegranate

Claims

- Highly fragranced candle exclusively developed and tested by our team of Home Fragrance experts, including the world's best master perfumers.

- Made using the highest concentration of the fragrance oils, an exclusive blend of vegetable wax and lead-free wicks for optimal performance

- Burn time of approximately 40-65 hours.

Cautions: Do not burn for more than 3-4 hours at a time

If you buy these at their retail price they are expensive! I believe its $22.50 CAD, but if you wait for the sales, it's 50% off. I don't have experience using many candles, but to me, these candles last a long time. I've burned them atleast 15 times each already, (each time for more than an hour), and it's still not done.

My favourite is Twilight woods. They were burning it in the store the day that i wanted to purchase candles, and i had to have it. It truly smells romantic & calming to me (that makes no sense(i know) at all- but i just really love this scent!). i love it so much i got the lotion as well. Pomegranate is much more "sweet" so i light it time to time when i feel happy and hyper. I think the scent i burn reflects my mood.

Here's a quick shot of how the candles look after lighting. The top layer of wax will melt, and i believe that is the fragrance oils. It's incredible, (to me, because i never seen that before). The smell fills my room very quickly. Once you are done, just blow it out, or cover it with the lid to put out the flame, and the liquid layer would solidify again. Ready to be lit up again.

Scented Body Lotions:all with vitamin e and jojoba & shea butter

Twilight Woods: a hypnotic blend of enticing fruits and warm cypress inspired by a romantic walk in enchanted woods.

Sweet Pea: a fruity floral scent that evokes the intoxicating, floral-infused breezes of the Mediterranean

Japanese Cherry Blossom: "award winning" a seductive and mysterious floral sdcent inspired by the exotic garden of Japan.

The smell lasts a few hours, if you are not running around and doing much, but otherwise they fad quick in my opinion. Otherwise, it's nice to apply on, because it dries very quickly and nicely. It also dries matte, so that is a plus for me. I would say moisturizing wise - they are good, but not great. My arms does feel smoother when I've applied it a couple of times, but i don't have a problem with dry skin (body wise anyways). It does soften the skin noticeably, but it won't work if your skin is very dry. Silly me, but i apply it because it smells so good, and i like to smell good. :)

I think my favourite would have to be the Cherry Blossom , but i honestly love the other two as well. They're all unique amongst one another. They all smell very nice, probably the best ones the store offers (in my opinion)

BTW. Bath and Body has a great return policy. They are all about customer satisfaction . They say "If your experience is anything less than perfect, please remmeber our 100% satisfaction guarantee." right on their candle and receipts. i really like stores that are dedicated to their customers. It makes me want to come back.

Note: I'm not trying to advertise the company by any means, i'm simply a very satisfied customer

Make Up Forever HD Foundation Review

2010-12-31T00:34:00.030-05:00

I've been testing out a few foundations for a month now, and some of the brands that I've tried include Dior, Laura Mercia, and now Makeupforever. The first two brands that I've tried didn't work out too well, so I've returned them.

I've finally decided to settle with Makeupforever(MUFE) HD foundation, not because it's the best foundation ever made, but it's definitely one of the good ones that i've tried & would recommend to some

Make Up Forever Foundation

Claims"The Hd range includes complexion products designed for the new needs of high definition image using very fine ingredients for an invisible, natural make-up finish.

HD foundation combines flawless coverage and an extremely natural finish. The Sericite contained in HD foundation heightens the diffusion of light and intensifies the flow of the skin. Enriched with Relipidum, HD foundation moisturizes* (+46%**) and prepares the skin for make-up. Its usually smooth and elastic texture makes it easy to apply and a pleasure to wear. Skin texture is refined to give a very natural complexion."

Properties:
30 m/ / 1.01 fl.oz
liquid foundation
plastic bottle with pump
unscented
light - medium coverage

Price: $42.00 CAD

Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Aqua (water), PEG-10 Dimethicone, Neopentyl glycol Diethyhexanoate, Mica, Talc, Phenyl Trimethicone, Sodium Chloride, Laurayl Lysine, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Glyceryl Caprylate, Methylpropanediol, Hydrolyzed Yeast Protein, Phenoxyethanol, Dodium Myristoyl Glutamate, Chlrophenesin, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Butylene Glycol, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Propylene Carbonate, Biosaccharide Gum -1, Parfum(fragrance), Methylisothiazolinone, Methylparaben, Fragus Sylvatica Extract.

Repurchase? unsure

The Pros

- very smooth, slightly creamy texture (really like it)
- blends very well and smoothly into the skin
- leaves a nice semi matte, "natural" finish
- very controllable pump
- decent selection of shades
- nicely evens out complexion
- covers pores well
- skin is not cakey

The Cons

- not a long lasting foundation (4-5 hours for combination skin)
- not enough coverage for acne prone skin (sheer coverage & will need to use a concealer)
- shine and oily t-zone after 2-3 hours.

Recommended For

- people that have minor discoloration, freckles, uneven skin tone and other minor skin issues
- people who are looking for light - medium coverage
- will not be suitable for people who want a more heavy coverage for acne prone skin
-don't have very oily skin ( i have combination skin, and i would need to powder a few hours after wearing this foundation

My Experience

..with the shades....

While trying to find a suitable foundation, I found that finding the right shade is very important and surprisingly hard. For me, finding the right shade doesn't necessarily mean finding the shade that exactly matches my skin tone, but instead the right shade will enhance my skintone. I'm quite pale, and i like to find a shade that gives me a bit of a colour (with a nice pink undertone or at least a tad shade darker to make me look less pale). I've swatched quite a few foundation and some of them are very orang-ie based, which i personally really dislike, but it happens to work very well on people with tan skin.

Here I've swatch a few of the lighter foundation shades that they carry upon deciding which one to purchase. Here is a snap shot of the 3 that i compared

Shade: 119 117 115

Here you can see that, 119 obviously match my hands fairly well, with the yellow/olive undertone. 117 has a bit more "white" (compared to 119) undertone - you would need to be pretty fair to use this shade (else it might look like there is a white cast on your face) and 115 has a pink undertone.

The shade that I'm using is 115 - the pink undertone. It's just personal preference. My last foundation from Elizabeth Arden had this pink almost slightly brownish purple undertone that i really liked (because it made my skin this beautiful healthy colour finish) so now I'm really fond of using pink-toned foundation. BECAUSE, the coverage of this foundation is quite sheer, the shade almost completely match my skin tone.

ALSO, I've tried out the 119, and i think it's a good fit my skin tone as well. IT all depends on what kind of "shade" or "look" you want. It may be 2 shades darker but like i said, the formula is quite sheer, so the colour is not as dark as it may seem on your face once blended out.

..with the formula....

This is definitely one of the sheer liquid foundations that I have used. The finish is very nice, but one of the things that surprised me about the formula is the texture of the foundation. It feels very nice (almost like silky when you rub this into your skin) which makes it blends very easily. You can definitely use your fingers to apply THIS foundation. There are a lot of foundations out there that are too thick, or too drying that makes it very hard to blend, but this one is neither of this. With a easy to blend foundation like this, you can use the stippling brush MAC 189, contrary to a thicker foundation - you'd need a fuller brush that slightly more stiff??(is resistant).

The downfall to this foundation is it's lasting power. In about 4-5 hours, it starts to slips off my face and my face starts to shine (it doesn't look pretty!). If there is something i could also improve about this foundation, it would be the coverage. You would definitely need a concealer if you have any scaring, or breakouts. Any minor discolouration can be covered with this though.

..how it looks on me....

this is 115 blended out on my hands. Do you notice the slight glow? It's like light reflects off it.

& now, it wouldn't mean much if i don't show a picture of the foundation on my face. TADA ~ sorry, no full shot. I'm recovering from a break out, so i don't want to blind anyone right now. Here is a crop of my look on new years using this foundation. I think i also used the MUFE HD powder on top. I think it works well in covering my pores.

OVERALL

I like this foundation, but it's not a HG foundation for me, mainly because of it's lasting power. I don't mind the coverage, because there is concealer for that. I dislike full coverage foundation because 1) they are usually thick 2) being thick they will be cakey! Therefore, i don't go for the full coverage foundation. There are CONCEALERS to cover acne spots. I don't need full coverage all over my face, just on certain areas. To get back on topic - lasting power is a big thing for me. I don't like to reapply my foundation . I need something that would stay put for about 6 hours or more.

Hope this review somewhat helped you in finding that perfect foundation. Finding the right foundation is almost like looking for a soul mate...seriouslyy! haha Take care

<3 Anh

The Canada Goose Jacket

2010-12-29T16:06:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, my bf and i were at Yorkdale for some boxing week shopping. The mall is still flooded with a lot of people trying to get their hands on some good deals. Parking is still a pain, when you literally have to fight for a spot, but the drive there wasn't too bad.

Our goal was to get some items that can't be found here, because we both owe each other a christmas + 3rd year anniversary gift. Sadly all the things we were hoping to get were SOLD out, which made the trip quite disappointing. I guess i should've expected it. It's not that they were on sale or anything - it's just the shopping season is giving everyone a legitimate reason to spoil themselves. lol.

My gift to him was going to be a Canada Goose jacket - but they were sold out as well. I've never seen them worn here where i live, however there are people that do wear it. I've only heard about them from my bf. Apparently it's becoming quite popular. Yorkdale had more then plenty of people prancing around in it. We would walk by a group of people and all of them would have on the same coat, just different colours. My bf says "they travel in packs - or rather, flocks" LOL - And for that reason he refuse to own one now. -___-''

oh and if you don't know what they are. They are suppose to be these really warm jackets, that is made out of real coyotes fur. AND apparently there are a lot of fake ones- so do be careful when you shop. So here is a picture i've googled to gives you an idea of how they look.

For the price that they are charging, i don't think it's stylish enough for my liking. But who knows, maybe it looks good on?? Anywas, it has proven it self to be quite popular.
It looks like they might have a chance of becoming the next "UGG"s - for Canadians anyways. LOL . For anyone who knows about them, or own one - What do you think of it? I'm just curious to hear your responses.

Take care

MIA- fustrated

2010-10-25T09:47:00.007-04:00

I'm so frustrated, stressed, tired, and confused about everything. At this moment, i lack the motivation to go on and i can't figure out how I'm going to pull it together. I question myself, and my future. I guess this is what it's like to grow up. In that case, i want to be a kid forever...

I haven't been blogging much - mainly due to the fact that midterms are raping me left and right. But I'll hopefully be back soon :)

Just wanted to keep you guys posted - I'm drinking coffee everyday, and the library IS my home

oh & one more thing...I miss you best friend :)

edit: 2 hours later

i just finished class, and i'm studying in my sad little cubical at the moment. I've decided to camwhore a little, since it's been a while. GOD - the lighting here is amazing, cos it blocked out my horrible bags and dark circles!

look at my nails! omg. they're all chipped and i don't have time to even repaint them. it looks disgusting!

The highlight of my day: boyfriend

2010-10-07T00:36:00.003-04:00

Sometimes, the funniest things happen with my boyfriend.

The other day, he kindly offered to drop me off at school at 9.30 in the morning. That morning he also had to meet up with someone to pick up a phone for his cousin. When he picked me up, he realized that my phone was low on battery, so he also grabbed the charger and told me that he will take it home to charge it, while i'm in class. Seeing that i'm now phoneless, we exchanged phones.

I didn't really need the phone, but i took his phone for the meantime anywas. I attend my lecture as usual and suddendly the phone started to vibrate. I looked at it, and the caller ID said "DAD". I thanked god, that it was on vibrate, else i would have flipped out, because i have no clue where the setting was on that phone. Anywas, thats not the point of the story. I did not leave class to take the call, because i figured it wasn't important, especiall at 9.30 am! LIKE what can u possible want at 9.30am! Not to long later, it vibrated again, yet again from "dad". I started to panic when it did not stop vibrating, which meant that it was a serious call. Yet, i still did not leave class to pick it up & texted my phone (which my bf had at the moment) and told him that his dad called twice. I figured that my bf would be on his way home soon, so whatever it was, it could have waited. BUT- AGAIN, his dad called the phone!....andd.... eventually, "dad" stopped calling.

After an hour of class, i decided to text my bf (my phone) and asked him why he didn't reply to my text and asked him if he asked his dad why he kept calling. Half an hour later, i got a text saying

i quote exact words: "yep, they thought i didn't go home last night. So worried i got kidnapped. so gay. called your mom too."

HAHAHAHAHHAHAHA, as you can imagine after reading that i almost burst out laughing during lecture. It was so funny, i shared it with my friend who was sitting beside me (who knew his dad kept on calling!) & she couldn't help but also laugh.

apparently it was his mom using his dads cell phone to call him. She woke up that morning and did not see him in bed, or heard him in the washroom at all. She checked the driveway to see if his car was out there and it wasn't, which made her think that he didn't come home that night. She thought that someone kidnapped him, or at least jumped him. HAHAHAH. Now, my boyfriend doesn't look like those ripped muscular guys on tv, but he's average weight, with some meat, bones, and muscles. I'm sure he can pack a punch. WHO WOULD ever think of kidnapping him??!! it makes no sense, which makes this ridiculously halarious.

so the whole day, i made fun of him & this morning,

i texted him: "hunnie,where have you been? i kept on calling you but you won't answer, did you get kidnapped??"

his reply: "can you come to 123 bay street to get me? They need 1 million in cash, and in twenties only."

My reply: "can you try to bargain with him for $1.00 plus one oh henry bar instead"

( we bought a bag yesterday night and there was only one left this morning)

his reply: "these men are serious, they mean biz hun. I said my gf doesn't have that kind of money. But they said how come my value is so low? i said well ya know, i'm just for show. Now they know they kidnapped the wrong guy. I guess i'll be here for a while, -plus they like mars bar.

My reply: "turn on your charm hun, maybe they like men"

his reply: "he might like the charm, and keep me forever as his lover"

hahahahahha, and that's the end of our convo. hahaha. It was just so cute, and funny i wanted to share with you guys. My boyfriend and i can get a little random, but it's those wierd things that keeps the relationship exciting.

if this post made you at least smile, i'm glad. but if it was completely like ..."w.t.f..??" i apolgise. This just cracked me up, and is surely a moment to remember in our relationship.

:)

Sick + DIY exfoliator

2010-09-24T21:15:00.005-04:00

I'm missed a day ALREADY! hahaha. I came down with the cold. My brother gave everyone in my family his cold, so now were just a sick family. hahaha

I hate being sick. My throat hurts, my nose is stuffed, and now i'm coughing. It's difficult to sleep, and i'm blowing my nose every few minute! Interestingly enough, my boyfriend told me that there is a flu outbreak - and lot of people are sick - where i live.

here's a cute picture i found online

Since i'm sick, and feeling pretty much like _ _ _ _. I decided to give my face some therapy. I have ran out of exfoliators for a while now, and can never seem to remember to buy a new one. Is there any that anyone would like to recommend? I'm looking to try something new.

Anywas, my skin felt dull, and flakey, so i decided to make an exfoliator. Basically, i used sugar, honey, and a bit of water, & a pinch of lime juice.

Sugar - is good to exfoliate the dead skin, because of it's texture
Honey - is good at hydrating, and softening the skin
Lime - is a natural acid that exfoliates the skin
Water - is used to partially dilute the acid, so it won't be too harsh on the skin

(about 1:1 ratio for lime and water)

I just mixed it all together, to get a somewhat thick consistency (depends on your preference, a watery consistency is fine too) & rubbed it in circular motion all over my face, and rinsed. I make enough just for a one time use, because i don't believe in storing these.

My face feels soft, clean, smooth & it didn't cost me much. There are many DIY tutorials out there that you can also follow. They are nice when you don't have the product atm, and it's super cheap & effective.

Note: please excuse the laack of pictures. I'm too out of it to bother with the camera at the moment.

New Monitor

2010-09-21T21:11:00.004-04:00

Got a new monitor today. My old one couldn't keep up. The screen would turn off after i turn it on. It won't start working until 10 minutes. I know it's time for a new mointor - My old gateway one has served me well (probabably like 7-8 years) Since my dad got one for his home entertainment, but doesn't really need it, i exchanged it and paid a little more for myself. hahaha.

Welcome the Samsung SyncMaster 20" Widescreen LCD Monitor (B2030) - Black to the new family. The price is budget friendly, and i like the rounded edges. :D

At the moment, my boyfriend is hooking the tv tuner that he got from his laptop several years ago (but never used) so that i can have cable on my monitor. AWESOME! LOL. I'll even have a remote control !

Aside from this, i'm currently designing my room. Lots of new furniture, a whole new look. Can't wait to show you guys!

Take care, & thanks for still reading my blog

Mac Prolong Wear Concealer + Mac 252 Concealer Brush

2010-09-20T16:13:00.008-04:00

Yesterday, while i was at masonville to pick up something for my boyfriend, i decided to drop by Mac, since i haven't been there for ages! I was browsing around, and realized that they have launched a new line of products: the Prolong wear Concealer & Foundations

At the moment, i don't really need a foundation, but i did need a good under eye concealer! I have tried quite a few brands out there, but was never really satified. They were either to thick, cakey, dry, provide insuffient converage, OR disappeared after a few hours. The last concealer i picked up was the Mac Studio Finish Concealer, after seeing a few youtubers rave about it - but i found it was wayy to thick and cakey (especially for your delicate eyes), even though it provided excellent coverage.

So i thought, what the heck, i might as well give this Prolong Wear concealer a try, since i was in need of a better concealer for under eyes specifically (especially since school started , i might as well prepare myself).

This is the Concealer. I'm in NC20. it's $20.00 CAD. I would say this is Medium Coverage

More coverage then the MAC Select MoistureCoverage, less then the Mac Studio Finish

What really caught my eye was the fact that its in a bottle with a pump. I like that idea, because its very sanitary, but the downfall is you may be wasting more product.

What i like about it now that i've used it this morning is:

-how it blends very nicely into my skin
-it doesn't look cakey
-adequate coverage
-lasts about 6hrs +
-in a pump form
-the actually pump is pretty good, you should be able to control the amount coming out

What i don't like about this product is:
-the shade selection

In general, i find it difficult to find the right shade of concealer from Mac. I feel like there is a white cast after applying the concealer. I wish it had more of a salmon tone, but the next shade up from Nc20, is just way too dark.

Overall, i do like this concealer so far - i think if you have average undereye bags, this would be nice, but if you have really dark circles, you may want to try something else, as this would not be enough coverage. I like how my skin doesn't look cakey with this on.

The second item i got was the Mac 252 Concealer. For the longest time, i didn't want to buy a concealer brush, because i thought it's a waste, and i didn't think it would make much of a difference, but i was SOO proven WRONG!

All these years, i've been applying concealer with my ring finger, and i was never satisfied with the concealer, because it never completely covered my dark circles unless i packed it on - (hence, why i'm always on the search for a good conealer!) But when i was at MAC that day, I told the sales associate i wanted to buy a brush, and she recommend this brush to me.

The Mac 252 Large Shader brush, or Concealer brush

It will probbaly be the best and most useful brush i've ever invested my money into, because i ALWAYS use concealer - its like a necessity! PLUS, it's also an eyeshadow shader brush! Its multi functional!

The bristles are densed, and soft. They pick up and pack on all of the product. THe way i've been applying concealer before, was actually removing some of it with my ring finger! This brush is perfect for liquid concealers, because it's big enough that the hair will be partially wet and partially dry, making the application & blending very smooth. When the brush is completely drenched with concealer, you would actually be removing some of the concealer while blending! (which is why i didn't purchase the Mac 242)

I'm absolutely in love with this brush, it's worth every darn penny.

Moral of the story: a good concealer brush is just as, if not more important then a good concealer. It really makes all the difference!

$ Textbooks $

2010-09-18T21:31:00.005-04:00

Whenever the school year rolls around, i fear many things. First, the homework load, the lack of sleep, caffine, and the long travelling distance, but of all this, i dread buying textbooks the most.

Each year, textbooks always seem to add up. There are ALWAYS new editions of the SAME textbook being published and sold (all they do is really add a few new paragraphs on a few pages in the new addition) & sadly that's how they are making money off of us constantly. Even if your lucky to find that you don't need the new edition and manage to snatch yourself a used book at the used bookstore it's still very expensive!

Sadly this year, my university bookstore decided to buyout the "USED bookstore" and jacked up all the prices of used textbooks from that store. Hence, instead of having a range of low and high prices for the same book, they are now all the same jacked up price. The reason i say this is, because used books at that Bookstore is always 80-90$,(i rather get a nice pair of jeans) never below that.

BUT, here is the goodnews that's putting a smile on my face. I've been able to sell almost all of my last year books + one from my first year!!! YAY!! I was NOT ABLE to sell ANY of my textbooks from first year, because new editions all came out, so i was stuck with $800+ worth of books on my bookshelf collecting DUST! That'd like excess inventory that can not get sold. How sad :( But - i'm super lucky this year to have sold almost all my books from last year. After calculating, i will be making approx. $400 backs on my textbook! I just want to splurge it, but the sad truth is it's just there to fund part of my textbooks this year.

I sold my textbooks through kijiji ( an "ebay" that is local ) if anyone was wondering, it's awesome. Best tip i'd give is, make sure you update your ad after a while, and make sure u do it during the first week of school, because that's when a lot of students are searching high and low for books. Asking friends to pass the word around is also very helpful. Oh and definitely try to get to know upper year students in the same program, because chances are they will have textbooks that you'd want next year & being friends - you'll get nice hookups (but ofcourse don't be their friends for just that reason, hahah) Good luck selling your textbooks!

That's the highlight for today. I'm a happy student - for now.

Does anyone actualy collect their textbooks? I have a friend that does, and i thought it's the strangest thing yet.

Back in School, Future Posts & Updates!

2010-09-17T14:54:00.008-04:00

Have you started school yet? This was the first week of school for me! My schedule is pretty sweet. I have many 2-3 hour lectures, but i finish by 12.30 noon 3 of the 5days. Two days of the week i have night class - which i don't think i mind too much, because they tend to be shorter then expected! Only thing that's been making me depress all the money spent on textbooks! $800 on textbooks? SERIOUSLy??!!

As you may expect, with school in, my blog would be pretty dead, BUT i really want to stay in touch with friends that read my blog, SOooo i've thought it'd be neat to do the 360 day challenge! Instead of making it 360 days, i'm only going to do this for the school year which is roughly 8mos * 4w * 7d= 224 days. hahaha. What i will do is basically post a picture(s) about something that happen that day with a few comments i wanna make. It just makes blogging SO MUCH shorter, quickier and more frequent - which i think is great. THE downside to this is - there won't be too many beauty posts! They tend to take me more than an hour to write, and i just don't have that kind of time right now.

ALSO, the TRUTH is - i'm no longer as makeup addicted as i WAS. Honestly, i haven't bought make up in SUCH A LONG TIME. I'm quite proud of myself!! It doesn't turn me on the same way anymore! hahaha. So, needless to say that i won't have too many beauty related topics to write about for now. I will try to squeeze in a beauty related post once in a while though! HOWEVER, i've recently got a vanity! Once i finish setting it up and all, i will definitely post about it! so stay tune.

THE BAD news about not being make up obbsessed anymore - i've been CLOTHES obsessed??! I love PINK, BEIGE, LACE, and ruffles/friles clothing to the point that it's all i've been literally buying recently.

this i found at H&M, instantly fell in love at first sight. It comes in brown & white also.

the one of the left, i found at winners, and on the right at forever 21

Last week of summer, my bf and i also went to toronto to pick up this baby. One of the most gorgeous bag, i've been loving............ But no- it's not Mine. LOL don't be silly - the price tag on this bag is just crazy. I just had to take a picture of it! We went to pick this up for his mother. Shes one lucky lady :)

The inside felt so luxurious!

This is pretty much a random post, hahaha, but i hope it killed some of your time. Thanks for dropping by. Lastly, i have this picture to share with you. I was on a ferris wheel at the CNE. It looks beautifuL!(taken durign the last few weeks of my summer vacation)

Hi Chan, i've missed you :)

hey

2010-09-17T02:01:00.001-04:00

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Summer 2010 Part 1: Wedding

2010-08-30T21:10:00.000-04:00

Prepare yourself for a long post, with many many photos :)

It feels like forever since i've last blogged. I was gonna do a summer 2010 post a while ago, but i felt like ill wait until the end of august to accumulate all the photos i wanna share.

So let me start with the wedding that i attended. It was on August 7th, held at our city CourtHouse. I didn't arrive until 3pm for the wedding ceremony, because i had to work that day, so i missed out on the things that happened in the morning. I actually woke up at 5 in the morning that day to do my hair, because i knew i wouldn't have time to do it after work. I only had 2 hours ish to get ready, and i like to take my time.

I've already shared a few photos in previous posts, but here is more photos i'd like to share. So lemme start with the beauty/fashion part of this post.

this is a very pretty pair of earrings i found at le chateau. I really like them. I was surprised they were sterling silver hooks(usually they aren't), because i usually get ear infection otherwise!

i love love this braclet, it's really adorable. My boyfriend actually found this while we were in le chateau also. Super CUTEEE

This is a head band i got a long time ago at forever 21. It was cute, i thought i'd never use it, but i thought it go perfectly with the hairstyle i was going for

I've already posted this, but these are the pumps i was rocking. It was rather difficult to walk in at first because they were sooo high!

Moving onto Nails. I did my nails a few days prior, however i didn't let it completely dry so it got messed up. I was then too lazy to re-do it, so i just left it

For for makeup, i was going for a more subtle look. The quality of the picture below is a little bad, because i think my hands were shaking while we were in the car. I used all my favourite products basically. On my lips is Way to Love by Mac, with Shisedio lipliner in perfect rouge (i believe). On my eyes, is Satin Taupe (best mac eyeshadow ever made), naked lunch, and black tied, with hand written. The lahses i used were by NYX (if you take a look at my "Holy Grail ProductS" post, you'll see it). On my cheeks, i believe i had on Nars Deep Throat.

Lastly, here are some FOTDS while i was in the car ;)

the hairstyle i was going for was curly hair to the side. I also put the headband to the same side, because it gave me that extra poof & i thought it made it a little bit more formal. I was a little upset, because i thinned out my hair major time a month earlier, so my hair wasn't as volumous as i would have liked.

That ends the beauty/fashion part of this post. Now, lemme move onto the wedding itself! Like i said, it was at the City CourtHouse. Here is a beautiful photo taken by the professional photographer of that day: Zaheer Molu (Amazing photographer!) of where the ceremony was held. The weather was perfect!

Family and close relatives were seated in the front & I had front row seat! :D so i was able to get some good shots. This is a closer shot of where the bride and groom will stands with the Priest.

Althought i've been to a few white-style weddings this is the first time i've watched the whole "walking down the alsie and saying of the vows" (mainly because i always seem to miss it!) Here's the bride and groom saying their vows. It was very emotional for the bride. She started to get teary while struggling to utter her vows. I thought i was going to start crying as well! This is after 8 years of datting! All i can say is finally!

Here is an even better shot taken by the photographer

the cute flower girl and boy

Following the vows, was the reception, where appetizers & drinks were served. I actually didn't photograph the place at all or take any pictures outside. I was starving to death at that point, because i haven't eaten all day, and i woke up at 6 for work! So basically all i could think about was food at that point. They had sushi, and curry chicken, & deep fried shrimp were a few of the appetizers served on a skewer. Eventually we got bored hanging out outside, so we went into the CourtHouse to look around.

I've actually never been there before, but there are actual JAIL cells at the bottom floor. The purpose of those jail cells were to hold prisioners, until their court trial (which is held on the upper floor). My boyfriend told me it's haunted, and apparently the ghosts come out to play at 3am. I was a little nosy, so i googled it and apparently an innocent man was sentenced to death there. GOOD thing I left the party before 3 am. LOL

The bride and grooms wanted to take photographs in there (PRETTY CRAZY!). It gave me a really strange feeling, knowing that someone has basically live in there before, innocent or guilty. Here is a cropped out photo of the jail cell taken professionally by the photographer of this wedding. I cropped out the bride and groom.

A few minutes before 6, everyone started to make their way for dinner. We were lucky to see the decor before everyone else, and i thought it was very pretty! i love the background where the brides& groom (with their brides maid and best men) sat.

I love how the center piece of each table was a chandiler. It was very pretty & unique. It was the first time i saw that done, usually there are flowers. I was also happy to find that we had one of the best table to be seated :)

It was also very cute to find that we each had our name tags with our nicknames. I kept ours. We also got M&Ms in black and white as wedding favours, fresh from the factory! They even had pictures of their faces printed on it. So cute!

This was our dinner. Dinner wasn't as i expected. It was below average. This is the only complaint i would have about the whole night. The vegetables that they served us were OLD! and the steak was too soft and it didn't taste good. We had an option of Steak or Veggie Pad Thai as the main dish prior to attending the wedding.

Lobster Soup (very creamy! not my cup of tea, but some may love it)

Steak

There was also Salmon, but i didn't take a picture of it.

Dessert! it was yummi

There was a "hollywood & red carpet" area, where guests can take photographs. Here is my favourite.

my boyfriend and i. We matched to the T! LOL

Us girls being silly but cute

they got rid of the red carpet by this time, because it was after dinner.

& it was a huge surprise to bump into a highschool friend from like years ago! It was so random! Look at how pale i am next to her...sighh

The rest of the night consisted of dancing & drinking like freaks. It was really fun, because the guests weren't shy to go a crazy, so it made dancing really enjoyable.

First dance of the night Bride and Groom. LOVE THIS PHOTOGRAPH. They had dry ice for this part. absolutely amazing

Overall, the wedding was amazing. I love how multicultural it was, with the bride wearing 3 different cultural dress. From the traditional Ao Dai (vietnam) in the morning, to the White wedding dress (for the ceremony) to the Sari (at night). It really sparkes ideas for me when i imagine how i'd like my wedding to be in the future.

I'll end this post with a beautiful picture of the newly wed, taken by their photographer Zaheer Zmolou

Notice Once again, the professional photographs were taking by Zaheer Zmolou. I love his photography. He did an amazing job.

Hello Blogspot

2010-08-12T20:40:00.005-04:00

I know i've said this serveral times before, but I'm really am making an effort( very sad one) to blog more often. I guess i've just got a blog block right now, if that makes any sense.

Today, i'm rather bored, so i decided to make a short post to update on what's been going on.

Last saturday, i went to a wedding. It was amazing - my dress begs to think differently. I got drinks spilled all over it 3 times that night. I guess the 2nd time wasn't enough. But other then also having aching feets, it was a beautiful wedding. i really love attending weddings, because your becoming a part of a very memorable event in someone's life (but also, because you get to dress up and all that fun stuff ofcourse) I'll have updates on that ...sometime later.

in the meantime, i'll share these pictures

The bride was so cute, she used everyone's nickname. My boyfriend told her to use my blogspot user name. She forgot the x - in xbbkay, but it's all cool - drew it in myself

Here is a picture of my hair - i did it at home

& here is a picture of my makeup

i also dyed my hair dark for the wedding, if you haven't noticed. i do love it :) BEST WAY to hide damaged, fried up hair

I also went to the beach about 2 weeks ago, and got sick afterwards. First of all, the night after the beach, my body ached all over - i guess i'm really that out of shape! Two nights later, i got very cold in bed. I was so cold, i had two blankets, long pants, a sweater & socks on - but that didn't help at all. I shivered the whole night. The next morning, i felt awful - i couldn't even get out of bed. I went to the washroom to brush my teeth, and couldn't even do that. I lost my balance, and my vision was blur - it was pretty scary. But all in all, i'm fine now. I just have a very stubborn cough that refuse to go away. That won't stop me from going to the beach though ;)

Here is us before leaving the beach. The waves were strong that day, maybe that's why i got sick.

I think i'll end it there.

How have you been?

What are your plans for the end of the summer? Tell me about it! HMm...I'm thinking of doing my passport, so i can go to the states before the summer ends. :)

Last Call - Giveaway

2010-08-09T17:15:00.003-04:00

This giveaway has been running for far much longer then i intended~ my apologies! i've been neglecting blogspot for quite some time. You may have noticed with my lack on posts. I'm just enjoying my summer- but I hope to come back..sometime soon!

Anywas, i think it's about time i end this giveaway.

My Giveaway will officially end on

August 10th - 12:01 AM Eastern Time

That is approximately a little more then 6 hours from the time i posted this!

If you haven't joined yet, there is still a chance (click the link on my sidebar)

And lastly, I just want to Thank EVERYONE who has joined. I'm a little overwhemled by the amount of entries that i got! It's going to take me foreverrrrrrrrrrrrr to excel this. I will need to find a day to sit down and go through it all.

OH YEAH! - Winner will be announced in about a week!

My Holy Grail of Products

2010-07-23T17:52:00.008-04:00

hey all ~

I've been quite busy hence the shortage of posts. I hope i can blog a little bit more often, but we'll see how that turns out. A lot has happened this month. It finally hit me the school year is just around the corner, as i did my course registration this month. I've always hated that part of summer, especially now that i know i have 2 to 3 night classes in a week. I'm not really looking forward to it, as they are 3 hour lectures, and i don't have clue how i'm going to survive. I have my fingers crossed, hoping that the Professors would have sympathy and end the lecture at 2 1/2 hours.

So anywas, enough of my rambling, I've decided to do this post to share with you guys products that I:

- really love
- that i use over and over
- that has proven to work with my skin

I will try to cover as much different products as i could, but as this IS my "HOLY GRAIL" there isn't that many.

Before i go on, i just want to tag anyone that reads this post- (if you haven't already done a post like this) to also do one yourself. I think we all would like to know what products really works for everyone! just leave a link to your post in the comment box, so we all can check it out! thanks~~

okay. so moving on...

SKIN CARE PRODUCTS

CLEANSER - LANEIGE PROFESSIONAL MULTI MAKEUP CLEANSER

I've raved enough about this product in a few posts back. I loved it so much i bought the full size tube after using the trial size. In short - this is a cleanser/makeup remover & somewhat exfoliator(there are mirco beads) all in one. It really works for me, and i love the way it makes my skin feels. My skin feels soft, hydrated and especially polished. The amazing factor is that it lasts for days & it does not dry out my skin at all. The only downfall is, its not too amazing as a makeup remover. It does pretty well at removing eye makeup, however, i still need to use a toner to remove foundation. You can read my full review HERE

EXFOLIATOR - CLEAN AND CLEAR IN SHOWER FACIAL

I love the function and concept of this product. I can exfoliate my face while i'm in the shower. The way it works in the shower is- the steam open up your pores making it easier and more effective for this product to throughly cleanse and exfoliate your skin. You will experience a cooling sensation. I like this product, because of it's thick consistency of beads (personal taste- i won't recommend it, if you have sensitive skin). It will hurt if you rub it with a lot of force, however i like it, because i know it's really removing dead skincells off my face. It leaves my skin soft, polished, and not dried out. I've went through 4 of these tubes. No other drug store brand exfoliator has come close to this product.

MAKEUP REMOVER - LANCOME BIFACIL EYE MAKEUP REMOVER

The first time i've used it, i wasn't used to the "oil" in this product. Many products try to give you that squeeky clean feel after removing the products off your face, however this one begs to differ. Instead, it leaves this slightly oily residue behind. The good thing about this product is that it completely removes every lick of makeup off my eyes, in one easy wipe without tugging on my eye. This is what really differentiate this product from others - it allows you to remover makeup properly with the least amount of pressure that can trigger fine lines. After a few usage, i've grown fond and used to this slightly oily residue left behind. I wipe that away from a clean towel, and my skin is completely dry. By far the best eye makeup remover i've used. This is sooo expensive though!

OTHERS- BIO OIL

Now, many of you may have heard of this product. I've had it for many years now, when it first came to Canada. I'm actually almost done my bottle, it lasted forEVER. I don't use this product for what it claims (or ance scars), instead i use it as a eye makeup remover, because it's oil based just like the LANCOME BIFACIL. It works just as effectively as the LANCOME BIFACIL, however it's a bit more of a hassel. Doesn't sting my eyes at all. i'd probably get another botttle when it's on sale :)

MAKEUP PRODUCTS

EYESHADOW PRIMER - URBAN DECAY PRIMER POTION

I'm sure we've all heard of this product, so I won't write too much. It prevents creasing, and makes my eyeshadow last all day long.

FACE POWDER MAKEUPFOREVER HD POWDER

I've never liked to use compact powder, and i don't really like to use powder overall. However, i have to say this translucent powder is awesome. I haven't tried any other, but i like how it makes my skin feels like silk, and it sets my foundation beautifully. When my foundation is "too dewy" and i want a more matte finish, i dust this product over. It's phenominal & it doesn't make me look cakey. Did i mention it takes FOREVER to FINISH? I have the small jar, and i'm no where close to using it up.
I've reviewed this product a while back, you can take a look HERE

EYEBROWS MAC in TAUPE

I've always struggled with my eyebrows. I've tried a few powder ones, but the colour never matched my naturally black eyebrows. This is PERFECT if you have black eyebrows. It doesn't have a warm undertone, and it goes on beautifully and very easy to use. Lasts all day, and it makes my eyebrows look perfectly natural.

FALSE LASHES NYX in EL 112

this is how it looks on. I've used it in my AVATAR inspired EOTD

& another FOTD i did

love these lashes, not for their comfort but for it's style. It really brings out my eyes, without looking dramatic. It only looks dramatic when i look down, but when i look straight ahead, it looks very natural. It's hard to explain, but this is my favourite pair of lashes.

MASCARA NYX DOLL EYES

Heres how they do on my eyes

Mascara, and eyeliner are the two products that i don't believe in splurging on. I will probably never buy a high end mascara or eyeliner, because-i don't know, i just can't justify it! I think drugstore brands work just as great! This is definitely one that i recommend. My friend actually introduced me to this, and it's great. It works great on bottom lashes. It's really inexpensive as well.

LIPSTICK MAC WAY TO LOVE (LIMITED) + SHY GIRL (PERMANENT)

Swatches

Now this post would not be complete, if i didn't include lipsticks! You all know that i love lipsticks. MAC WAY TO LOVE, is my all time favourite. I'm sad that it's limited, i hope it will be repromoted. I'm saving what i have left of it. Shy girl is a beautiful coral colour. It pairs beautifully with MAC LOVE NECTAR lipglass.

Thanks for reading my blog, have a great day!

i Am Back!...

2010-07-14T15:47:00.010-04:00

Hello everyone!

1st- i have to say sorry for MIA. I've been too busy & lazy to blog >.< anyone that blogs would know that blogging takes quite a bit of time and effort! I think i have some catching up to do now!

2nd thing is - i've changed my layout. I don't know if you guys noticed. I've updated it a while ago, but i never made a blog post - so it might be new to you guys. I'm really feeling pink!

3rd announcement - this was bothering me all morning. I was at Mac the first day In the Groove collection was released, but i didn't purchase anything because i was with my parents, and i know what they have to say about me + makeup. So i walked passed it, thinking it'd still be there when i come back for it another day. AHHH** it wasn't! Stereo Rose is sold out all across Canada! - well according to the MA who was working there. I didn't think it would be sold out in a little city that i live it!! OMG --- **!!! URGHH. I could only hope for it to be soon repromoted. :)sighh * on the side note, i'm really proud of not purchasing any make up in a while.

5th - i got my hair cut a few weeks back. she litterally took off 5 pounds of hair. Now it's so light, and thin. I kind of miss my thick long hair. She kept the length, it's just less luscious. my bangs are kind of messed up. I do not like them at all. I think it makes me look werid. I just kept telling myself, hair grows back.

I haven't been taking pictures, so these are the only ones i've found

6th- I've recieved the pictures from the photoshoot. If you recall from a few post back, i've posted the unprofessional pictures. i have to say i'm rather disappointed. The photographer was a beginner, and i didn't expect much, but i expected better. Anywas, it wasn't my choice. I was just "props." LOL

I'll show you guys a few pictures though. I've re-photoshoped them because it looked like she didn't do much or anything. It just bothers me that she had 2 weeks to do them, yet they look like they were done on the last day. i was also disappointed because i thought she over-photoshopped the face. It looked a bit wayy too airbrushed, and i don't think i even recognized myself.

However, despite all of this, i thought she took some good shots.

this is my favourite shot - because the angle, and it looked the most like me

i like this shot, but that does not look like me. what happen to my lips?

another of my favourite

& a normal one

there are a few more, but i didn't like them at all. Overall, it was a good experience.

7th - i will be going to a wedding in august! i love weddings. I just finally got the shoes for the outfit. I thought i'd share with you what i'm wearing. My bf and i are sporting metallic grey. He initially got the suit in that colour - and i by no means- thought of matching him, but ended up getting a dress that's the exact same colour. I really love it.

the shoes and dress i got at this place. it's AWESOME & i really recommend it. I love this store. It's my favourite for dresses. I WISH they had it here! the name of the store still makes my laugh.

this is the dress i'm wearing. one sided strap, form fitting. really love it

please ignore my closet- it's a little messy & no, i never colour coordinate my clothes. It's hard enough for me to hang them all up.

i've decided on pink pumps! these are my barbie pink pumps. love the height. I'm really glad that i waited & took my time looking for these pumps. They are exactly everything i imagined- pink, and high with the opening toes, the plus side of it is that it has those grips at the bottom of the pump, so there is no way i can possibly trip. AND on top of that, i'm even more grateful that my bf is still taller then me when i have these on. Imagine how awkward it would be if he wasn't.

here i have 'em on. Please don't mind the carpet, i'm still in the process of cleaning. These are very comfortable. They have a thick layer of cushioning at the bottom so it feels very nice. It edges of the pump doesn't hug too tightly against my foot either, so it doesn't cause any irritation when i walk with them on.

one last thing - summer sale is on! get your shopping done now!

8th - i've been tagged! sorry for taking forever to do this!
thanks Tram for this award -

Rules:
1. Post who gave you this awarded
2. State 10 things that you like.
3. Give this award to 10 other bloggers and notify them with a comment.

10 things that I like:

1. i'v been liking BRIGHT colours for clothes, nail polishs..etc
2. absolutely adore hot and sour soup - i go to Mandarin(buffet) for this! sad, i know
3. i love lace, ruffles, pink, sparkly things
4. addicted to the smell of sesame oil. I LOVE the scent of it. Smells SOO GOOD
5. my favourite dessert has to be green tea icecream, or deep fried vanilla icecream
6. recently i'm in love with photoshop again. I just love making a picture vibrant with colours
7. i love the fact that i'm getting my bf to wear more fitted shirts. He looks like a sl*t, i love it.
8. skirts and dresses. i've been stocking up
9. the Louis Vuitton Trivoli PM - this has become a goal in my life. LOL
10. blogging and all the wonderful people that i've met on here

10 bloggers I tag:

Korean Sushi
Brutal Turtle
Lifeoftemptation
Swtess
PreciousXiang
danayoshimizu
{ e.motion in: motion; }
My Tiger Lily
babyydollie
DearDiaryComma/

And that wraps up my post. LONG huh? I'll try to update more often.

How To: Basic Black Smokey Eye

2010-06-28T18:10:00.023-04:00

For the longest time, i struggle to do the smokey eyes. I don't know exactly why, perhaps because black is a very intimidating shade and i find it rather difficult to work with sometimes. Since my eye lids are rather small when my eyes are open, i always found it awkward and hard to do the smokey eyes. Often times, i looked more punched out, so i often stayed away from doing the black smokey eyes.

But practice makes perfection! Today, i want to do a basic tutorial, for how i try to do the basic black smokey eyes. Everything i use in this tutorial are basic necessities, and i think any makeup collector would have something similar. The purpose of this is to allow everyone a chance to replicate this tutorial if they chose to do so. You really don't need anything fancy!

This tutorial is best suitable for people

- with small eyelids
- clubbing or any fancy evening events

This is the finish look:

For this tutorial , this is everything that i used:

4 brushes - left to right
1. small shader brush ( u can use any larger shader brush, i just use this because the palette is small and i need a small brush)
2. crease blending brush
3. angled brow brush (perferrably it to be stiff & thick)
4. large blending brush ( to blend the harsh edges)

i used the shimmery pearl eyeshadow in the stick (above ^) & the champagne colour in this palette(below) on top of it as well as the black eyeshadow in this palette

okay, so let's get started

This is my naked eye, with some minor makeup residue remaining

Step 1

:Apply eye liner

i use the pencil eyeliner and lined my eyes. For this part, you don't have to make it perfect. I also like to wing my liner at this point as well. I find that by doing this it helps me to create the perfect "smokey" eye shape later when i start blending in the crease. So i just take my pencil and line the end of my eye to the end of my eyebrows. This is the angle i want to "wing" my liner. Often times, when i don't do this, my eyes look droopy, because i tend to draw my liner too far out.

Step 2

:Wing your Liner

I use liquid eyeliner to wing my liner, because it's quick(no need to sharpen pencil) precise & no need to tug on the eyes! Using the LIQUID eyeliner, i start right at the outer corner of the eye, and flick directly up in the angle that I've already determined earlier. You should have something like this.

Now you may have noticed a sharp and awkward bent in your eyeliner. So you just want to smooth it out, but filling in the corner. & you should get something like this. Optional : After you've done all that, just go over your entire eye again with the eyeliner & your eye should look something like this.

Step 3

:Finding your Crease

First, to make it easier you want to raise your eyebrow as high as you can, then using the Angled Eyebrow Brush you will need to sort of poke it into the hallow areas above my eyes. (raising the eyebrows make the crease more visible) This is where your crease is. You just want to use that brush and sort of poke it around your eye so you get an idea of where your crease is. Once you've done that, pick up some black eyeshadow and lightly trace (by stroking) your crease using the same "poking method". I would say this is the hardest part. In the pictures, i exaggerated the poking to make my point. You don't want to poke it hard.

Step 4

:Trace your Crease
Trace your liner to approximately the middle of your eye. Do not connect the end of the line to your eyeliner. The eyeliner that we have previous drawn in, guides how far i should trace/draw my crease. It should look something like this.

Now, using the same angled brush you want to stroke the eyeshadow slightly above your eyeliner and line it to the "crease line" that you have just drawn. You should have something like this in the end.

Now, you just want to hold the brush vertically and brush towards the right. This just blends out the black, and soften the "V" shape & it should look like this.

Step 5

: Blend out the Eyeshadow

Using the crease blending brush now, you want to brush the black eyeshadow towards the inner corner of the eye & just slightly blend out the eyeshadow so the edges aren't so harsh. Smooth anything that you think is necessary. Do this in windshield swiping motion

This is how it may look in the end

Step 6

: Applying White Shadow

Now that you have everything basically "traced" out for you, you can easily apply the white eyeshadow. i apply it to the lid, and then the inner corner, and lower lash line. I used a shimmery pearl eyeshadow in a stick form with the champagne eyeshadow(from the palette) on top. You can use any colour. Shimmery eyeshadows compliment matte black eyeshadow very well. It gives you this extra "pop".

Step 7

: Darken and Perfect the crease

Go back in with the crease blending brush and darken the crease (with many layers of black eyeshadows! LOL) to your desire. All the previous blending has probably washed it away.

Step 8

: Blend out harsh edges

If necessary, just use a big blending brush and brush the edges to smooth out the harsh edges

Just re-apply your eyeliner, (water line) apply false lashes and your done!

FINISH

(without false lashes) False Lashes MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE!

With False Lashes:

I hope this helped! I find it sooo much easier using the angled brow brush then using a crease brush only. Its much easier for me. Use any colour your like. Good luck and have fun~

P.S. i'm so surprised how many followers i've gained. I'd like to say Hello to all of you and thanks for following! Don't be shy to leave a comment. I'd love to hear from you guys!

Currently Blush Obsessed

2010-06-23T13:28:00.008-04:00

Perhaps it's the weather, but lately, im always reaching for my blushes when i do my makeup. So in this post, i've decided to do a COTD - CHEEK of the Day-LOL(yes i just made that up) with my favourite blushes at the moment. I've posted about them before when i first got them, but i've only swatch it.

first off...

Nars Deep Throat - beautiful baby pink that can never be overdone. This must be the most beautiful pink blush i've ever seen. I love using this when i like to have a settle glow. The finish is sheen, which really gives you the glowly look. It's also very sheer, and needs to be packed on if you want it to pop. I had difficulty photographing this, even after packing it on.

Mac Hipness - i use this when i want my cheeks to be a bit more noticeable. You only need one layer of this. I find that if you pack it on, it looks a little too red. This colour is beautiful. The flash washed it out a bit, but in life it's a bit more reddish

they look basically identical in the photograph, but in reality, Hipness is more reddish/corally/bold, and Deep Throat is a sheer pink. Deep Throat is very natural.

Who else is obsessed with blushes?? Is there one that you absolutely LOVE? I've love to hear any suggestions, because i actually don't have too many blushes

How To: Achieve Flawless Looking Skin in minutes

2010-06-20T16:19:00.011-04:00

Hi all!

For the past few days, i've been thinking of doing this tutorial, but i've never gotten around to doing it, because i don't have the time. Whenever i get around to doing my makeup, it's already late evening, so i don't bother taking pictures because the lighting would just be terrible.

Today, while catching up with all my house chorse and what not, i decided to do this tutorial on how i try to achieve that flawless look. I know it's even more important especially in the summer!

Anywas, this tutorial is best suitable for:

-normal to combination skintype
-those with minor skin problem
-the summer season
-meant to be quick, simple, using minimal amount of products

First off, these are the face products i've used
-Laneige Balancing Emsulsion 2_EX moisuturizer (light lotion texture)
-Elizabeth Arden Intervene SPF15 Foundation in Soft Cameo
-MakeupForever HD Primer
-A double sided foundation/concealer brush i got from Winners
-Tarte Bare Concealer in 04

Step 1

: You want to moisturize (after cleansing). Wait until the skin is completely dry. I suggest using a light lotion or a moisturizer that won't make your skin shine in the summer/hot season.

Step 2

: Mix Foundation + Primer

This is what i often do. You can chose to do it in two different step, but i love combining primer and foundation. It's great if you find your foundation to be a tad heavy/thick/drying, because a primer will thin out the consistency, giving you a more sheer application. Its great if you don't need a lot of coverage & it saves time. I like to mix half the amount of foundation for primer. You can figure out how much primer you'd like to mix in, just remember, the more you add, the more sheer your foundation will turn out.

You can mix it with your foundation brush directly on your hand like such:

Step 3

: Apply the foundation onto your face

in the photo i've already done the step, & forgot to take a picture of it
I like to stroke the foundation in the directions specified on the left (using the bigger brush side) The strokes in pink are the commonly missed areas. It's also areas that are slightly discoloured. If you have dark eye circles, you want to make sure to get into that corner, as that is where shadow is often casted. I like to go lightly around the eye area as well, because my skin is slightly lighter there, and you can sometimes see my vains for some reason. Also the area where i pluck my eyebrows are also much lighter then my face. You just want to even out your skin tone.

Note You can always use the Stipping brush (Mac 189) for a flawless application & skip step #5, however i find the stipping brush time consuming to wash all the time, so i don't use it as often. Either way, the application looks great both way. I like to use this brush, because it's fast.

Step 4

Concealing Imperfection

Next, i like to conceal any imperfection that the foundation could not completely cover with the other side of the foundation brush(small brush side). If your foundation gives you the coverage you desire then you can skip this step. For me, i like to conceal my under eye circles, areas where my skin is slightly more red/darker & any blemishes that are still visible

The lines in pink are where i stroke my foundation and the strokes in yellow is the direction i blend in. I like to blend it in a LIGHT stroking motion and then patt it down.

Optional If your concealer is too light or too dark compared to your foundation, you can chose to PAT on a bit more foundation on those areas, to even out your skin tone.

Step 5

Pat the Foundation down

You may already be aware of this, but when you use this foundation brush to blend out the foundation, you may see some stroke lines. However, because i mixed primer with foundation earlier, my coverage is pretty sheer, so i don't see any streaks, but for people who do - What i like to do is using that same foundation brush ( the big side) and just pat it down. However this is my lazy way out. You are more then welcome to use a powder puff or one of these things. I have no clue what they are called.

If you have oily skin, then you can also set the foundation with powder. Personally, i don't like powders as it tends to make my face look cakey and overdone. I like the dewy finish that liquid foundation leaves so i tend to stop at this point.

Finish!

this is a photo after i fill in my brows

Now you can finish off with your regular makeup routine. If you are going to put on eyeshadow, i suggest doing that first, then going through with foundation, because the fallout will just smudge your flawless canvas. However, for the summer, i like to keep it simple.

Here are the makeup products i've used. This is a great everyday look.

Mac 109 brush
Mac Petticoat Mineralize skinfinish
Quo Angled Brush (to smudge out eyeliner)
Maybelline Unstoppable Liner
Gosh Eyeshadow - Love that Beige
Mac Brow Pencil in Taupe
NYX Roundlipstick in Tea Rose

Note Not pictured - Maybelline Define a Lash, & Drugstore eyelash curler

& this is the finish Look

Usually, i use a blush, but i recently purchased the Petticoat Mineralizer, so i used it in this tutorial. It will be repromoted in the next Mac collection - & i really recommend it. Swatches for it will follow another time ;)

Anywas, this is the way i often do my make up, & this is what works for me at the moment. There are tons of ways you can go about doing it, so alternate what works best for your skin. I hope my first tutorial was of some help. If you guys have any advice or suggestions, feel free to leave me a comment, i'd love to hear from ya'll. Take care & thanks for reading

P.S . DO YOU LOVE MAC's MINERALIZE SKIN FINISHES?

xbbkay's Giveaway Countdown pt.4

2010-06-20T01:30:00.001-04:00

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED

New items added: NYX Ultra Pearl Pigments & Nail polish

This giveaway includes:

-6 NYX Ultra Pearl Pigments in : Yellow Pearl, Grass Pearl, Very Pink Pearl, True Purple Pearl, Jade Pearl, Orange Zest Pearl
-NYX nail polish
-1 Pure Cosmetics 5 Colours Palette Eyeshadow in True Colours
-1 Pure Cosmetics Blush in Luxury
1 Dior Hydra Action Sample
1 Garnier Skin Naturals Moisturizer Sample
4 My Beauty Diary Sheet Mask in: 1 Cherry Bloosom Mask, 1 Red Wine Mask ,2 Black Pearl Mask
1 Beauty Rush - Appletini Body Double Mist by Victoria Secrets
1 Rose Body Lotion
1 set of Stila Lip Envy: Silk Shimmer Gloss

HOW TO ENTER

i know this is the long and boring part, but please read it.

The rules are simple:
1. Must be a Follower
2. Must be 18+ yrs old or receive consent from your guardian to enter
1. It is open internationally
3. If you win, you must reply to my email notification within 48 hours.

For ONE BASIC Entry :THIS IS an ENTRY TO WIN THE WHOLE ENTIRE GIVEAWAY, NOT JUST THE ITEM REVEALED! SO AS I REVEAL MORE ITEMS, PLEASE DO NOT FILL THIS OUT IF YOU HAVE PREVIOUSLY DONE SO.
1. Leave a comment stating " Please enter me! I wish to be treated like a princess"
2. Leave your email address
3. Answer "What do you enjoy reading about the most on blogs?"

FOR ADDITIONAL ENTRIES
1. Post a link with the Photo of the giveaway on the sidebar of your blog (+1)
2. Make a Blog POST about this giveaway with Link and Photo (+1)
3. AUTOMATICALLY Eligible, if you have left a comment on my blog before May 20th(+1)

FOR HIGH ACHIEVERS
1. Since i will be revealing a product every few days, you can also mention the new additional items in new blog posts. Effective only if you've already blog about this giveaway once (+2)

so if i end up posting 7 sets of items, and you mention with (Link + Photo) all the 7 sets of items in your new blog post, you can get up to 14 entries. Each posting must be made after each set of item is revealed, and before a new one item is revealed. You can not compile this, or wait until the very end. Please message me if you are unsure :)

For Those Whom have ALREADY ENTERED

-------------Entry FORM------------

" Please enter me! I wish to be treated like a princess!" (yes i did change this)
Email:
What do you enjoy reading about the most on blogs?: (yes, i changed this too)

(+1) Basic Entry
(+1) Lovely Commenter (Comment on my blog post before May20th)
Link: (please link the post that you've commented
(+1) Side Bar Link
Link: (please provide me with a link to your blog)
(+1) Blog Post
Link: (please provide me with a link to your blog)
(+2) High Achievers
Link: (please provide me with a link to your blog)

TOTAL ENTRY: please total your entries

---------------------------------------------------

Note: I will check everything

Winner will be chosen at random

once again, PLEASE ENTER TO THIS POST

Thank you!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Photoshoot Behind the Scenes & Photoshop

2010-06-18T19:05:00.000-04:00

Hi all!

A few days ago, i joined my friend in a fun photo shoot. She found a photographer through facebook and was interested in her work so she decided to book an appointment to take a few professional photographs. She called me to ask if i'd like to join her in a few shots, and have a "best friend" kind of photographs. I was excited, but a little nervous, because i never did anything like this before but in the end it was super fun.

She also did our make up, prior to the photoshoot. I've learned quite a few things, such as how flash photography/bright sunlight can really wash out the colour and reveal all your flawness, if you don't pack on the makeup! So i probbaly had like 6 pounds of makeup on me. My eyebrows were drawn in super dark as well. It looked like i had two burnt sauages on my forehead. LOL, but it turned out rather nice in photographs. It took us probably 4 hours to finish makeup and the photo shoot.

This is how my makeup looked that day

The picture looked a bit different from my usuals right? With all the professional photography i've seen, i was inspired to Photoshop once again. I've always loved photoshop and i've done tons of graphics on it for many years, but i've stopped for the longest time. However, i've never done anything like editing photographs professionally. I was so intrigued, i did a little research and tried it for myself. I'm offically a little obsessed with it <3 LOL. So i thought i'd share with you all, what i've learned.

But before i do that, i'd like to show you some unedited photos at the park

& now onto my photoshopping skills...ha ha ha..

prior to this day my bff and i went shopping. I got this dress at Marisa for $20.00 CAD. I thought it's super cute...i almost can't recognize myself in these photos..I guess it's mainly due to my eye makeup

These photos were taken by my bf, while we were walking around the park & photoshopped by yours truly. The actual professional photograhs taken that day, will be posted another time, as were still waiting for the photographer to finish editing it.

In these photos, i mainly played with the colour, lighting and contrast. In all of them, i blur the background to ensure more attention is on the foreground. I've also added the lighting flare to the photographs.

My bf likes to catch me off guard.

& lastly....<3 for my readers

thanks for reading! i'll be sure to share the photos from the photoshoot when i get them! <3 Take care!

Laneige Skincare Product review

2010-06-18T17:21:00.008-04:00

For the past two weeks, i've been using a few of Laneige products that i purchased in Toronto Chinatown. If you are interested in Laneige product, i know that you can find it at pacific mall & chinatown: Dragon city, main floor. Both of these locations are in toronto. If you know any other places that have Laneige, please kindly share, by leaving me a comment below. thanks~

I bought the big bottle, the two others were free samples recieved with my purchase.

I first found out about Laneige skincare product from a Youtube guru, Bubzbeauty. I thought this brand can not be found anywhere in Canada, and i thought it was just all hyped up, but at the same time i was very interested in trying it, because their packaging looks sooo pretty! yes - i'm quite a sucker for packaging. plus, the lovely, Song Hye Kyo models for that brand, so what more do i have to say?

While wondering around Chinatown, i happen to bump into Laneige, and decided to give it a try since the price range was definitely more affordable then i expected.

Before i go on with the review. I would just like to rank the items from favourite to least

Laneige Professional Makeup Remover Multi Cleanser (Rating 5/5) - Highly Recommended
Laneige Water Bank Cream 2_EX (Rating 4/5)
Laneige Balancing Emulsion 2_EX (Rating 3/5)

Laneige Balancing Emulsion 2_EX

for Combination to Oily skin type.

Snow Crystal Clear & Hydraded skin with Snow water science

Properties:
120 m / 4.1 fl.oz
lotion texture
glass bottle with pump
light citrus scent

Price: $35 CAD cash

Ingredients:water, dimethicone, butylene, glycol, alcohol, glyerin, cetyl ethylhexanoate, betaine, pentaerthrityl tetraethylhexanoate, water(himalaya snow water), musa sapientum(banana) fruit extract, vitis vinifera(grape) fruit extract, vitis vinifera (grape) fruit extract, citrus medica limonum(lemon) fruit extract, solanum lycopersicum (tomato) fruit/ leaf/stem extract, cetearyl alcohol, cyclopentasiloxane, glyeryl stearate, ....

The Pros
-leaves slight shine, but dries pretty matte
-easily spreads across the face
-absorbs into the skin well
-affordable
-convenient and sanitary
-softens the skin

The Cons
-does not provide any other benefits besides moisturizing
-thick, heavy bottle
-the lotion is a little too liquidity for my own personal liking
-does not have spf
-not moisturizing enough for me, perhapes because it's in a liquid form

Recommended For
-the summer
-those with normal, (maybe)combination, but definitely oily skintype

Repurchase? Probably not, i like it, but i don't love it. It doesn't have that wow factor, and I guess i much more perfer cream, or gel based moisturizer. But, the main reason i will not repurchase this is, because i've found a different Laneige cream i'm in LOVE with.

My Experience

This is an average moisturizer. I do like the formula, and i like how easily it spreads and blends into my skin. It reminds me of a My Beauty Diary Mask in a cream form. It smellls like it too! You really don't need a lot, one pump is more then enough for the entire face. After applying, my face is matte when it's completely dry. However, i feel it can be a bit more moisturizing. Nonetheless, it's perfect for the summer only. If you have very dry flaking skin, this would not work.

PDATE When i wrote this review, i thought this was a moisturizer, however i've been told that this product is used prior to a moisturizing to aid the moisturizer in absorbing into the skin. I will re-review this soon, with my new skin regime. Sorry for any misunderstanding!

Laneige Water Bank Cream 2_EX

for Combination skin type.

advanced Nano lipsome supplying cream for combination skin type

Properties:

thick clear gel texture
tube form
light citrus scent

The Pros
-goes on matte
-easily spreads across the face
-absorbs into the skin well
-convenient and sanitary
-texture is amazing!
-very moisturizing and makes skin feels smooth

The Cons

-doesn't have spf

Recommended for
-combination to normal skintype

Repurchase?YES! after trying to sample size, i definitely would like to get the full tube!

My Experience

What really amazed me about this moisturizer is the texture. It is a gel based moisturizer that has a thick consistency, similar to that of Smashbox Photofinish Primer, and it really does feel like one! It's gives my face a smooth canvas, and it's wonderful for applying foundation on. Not only that, i can feel the gel on my face, and i love how little i have to use. A pea size amount of this gel is enough for the entire face. It doesn't make my face feel greasy, or shiny, and it dries completely matte. If you get a chance to try this moisturizer, i really recommend it.

Laneige Professional Makeup Remover Multi Cleanser

for all skin type.

makeup removing, foam cleansing and micro scrubbing 3-in-1 effect provides soft and clean feeling after wash

Properties:

thick, pink cream, with micro scrubs
tube form
light florally scent

The Pros
-gentle and foams easily
-leaves skin feeling squeeky clean
-removes makeup pretty well
-DOES NOT DRY OUT FACE
-leaves skin feeling plump, moisturized and incredible smooth
-improved the texture of my skin
-leave my skin looking glowy and polished
-multi purpose, cleansing and removing makeup!

The Cons
-will sting eye if you use if you're not careful

minor florally scent, i personally like it.

Recommended For
-all skin type, this product is VERY gentle i'd say

Repurchase?:ABSOLUTELY! i'm HOOKED on this product. The past few days, my complexion has been amazing and i've been wondering what it was, and i've finally realized it was because this cleanser! I LOVE LOVE LOVE it. AND URGE you all to TRY IT!

My Experience

You all know, i love foam cleansers. This product comes out as a pink cream, with tiny micro beads for minor exfoliation. You would need approximately a bit more then a pea size for the entire face. I would massage this all over my face, until the mirco beads dissolves and turn into foam. I would then continue to massage in circular motion for approximately one minute and then rinse it off. Instantely, you should feel how soft your skin has become, and how wonderfully polished & moisturized it is. The effect last for days & the best part is, it doesn't dry out my skin at all! I love using it at night and waking up with wonderful skin. With constant usage, my complexion is awesome everyday!

As for removing makeup, this product does pretty good removing face products like foundation. I had literally 6 pounds of foundation on my face for a photoshoot and this product removed it all, PLUS the dark heavy eyeshadow and MAC Fluid in black track! However, it does sting the eyes if you used this to remove eye makeup. I just close my eyes tight to ensure that, that won't happen. You may still need to use eye makeup remover for waterproof makeup. I do not use waterproof makeup, so i'm not sure.

This cleanser is completely different from all the cleansers that i've tried, and i'm completely in love with it. It cleanse, it removes makeup and it also lightly exfoliate! 3 in 1. I LOVE how soft, moisturized, polished and plump it makes my skin feels. The best part is it doesn't dry out my skin. I have tried so many cleansers, and many of them have dried out my skin, even after claiming how gentle it is. If you were looking to try something from laneige, this is a product i REALLY recommend.

Readers Discretion: Althought i sound insanely happy about these products, i am by no means affilated with the company or recieving any benenfit. My reviews are my honest opinion and products are purchased by myself.

Overall, i hoped this review helped you guys out! Thanks for reading

How is YOUR summer?

2010-06-10T22:49:00.001-04:00

hi all! how are you today?

I realized it's been a while since I've done a personal blog post, so i thought i'd share what i've been up to the past month, all in one post. There will be quite a bit of pictures, but who doesn't love pictures right?

Two weeks ago, i went out of the city with a best friend who i've grown up with, my brother&his gf, & my bf to do some outlet shopping, as well as visit my bff. I'm actually dress shopping, because i'll be going to a wedding this summer <3 super excited ! Most of the day consisted of shopping, and eating.

We even had fine dinning for lunch at Baton Rouge-that has lobster in almost all their dishes! We didn't expect it to be so expensive, but it was be too embarrassing to walk out after getting seated. LOL. Definitely go there if you want to have lobster and steak. However, we were just there for some lunch, not some lobster feast! I would like to go back there for lobster someday though!

excuse the food, i remembered to take pictures in the middle of eating. LOL. Their fries are soooooooo good. And the lobster pasta was delicious!

I didn't take much pictures, because we were all busy shopping, and i can never remember to take pictures.

Anywho, my last stop was dinner with my bff, whom met up with us. I haven't seen her in months, and i miss her very much. She's been working too much - workaholic, so i haven't had the chance to talk to her much! anywas, i was in the city to do some shopping, but she didn't have anything she needed to get, so we just did dinner at a Chinese resturant. I can't remember exactly what it was called, but it was decent. i think i much rather have her cook for me, because i know she is amazing - plus she loves cooking. WHAT more to ask. a BFF who loves to cook!

Anh & Cindy, otherwise known as lifeoftemptation i LOVE her

There are a few more photos of us, but she has them on her camera. God, i really need a hair cut. My hair is out of controL! haha

the girls, the boys refused to take a picture. :S

That wraps up that day.

So during the last few weeks, the weather here was fab! it was very hot, and sunny, but lately it's been glommy and chilly - weird.

we decided to go Go-Karting @ East park. It was still pretty empty, but for some reason when we went go-karting there was lots of people.

The track isn't very big, but it was fun. We all raced each other, but i ended up losing. I'm hoping to go to the Go-Karting place somewhere in kitchener this summer. Bff said that it's very big.

no comment. LOL

That day, we were also in the mini "arcade", but it was so sad, half the machines were busted. My friend actually made a comment, "Is EVERYTHING broken in here?!!" I think the guy was a little embarassed, and the girl working there was laughing her ass out. By the end, our tickets were only enough for us to redeem some candies. haha

Followed by Mini Golfing at Glen Park (i think that's what it's called) I haven't been to this golf course yet, it was actually very pretty inside. We all got bitten by mosquitos though. LOL

me & my bff that i grew up with

mybaby golfing.

while we were leaving, we saw ducks. LOL how cute, they were taking a family walk.

by the time we were finished golfing, it was already 7ish, and we were all starving, so we decided to have a sushi buffet at Wonder Sushi. I love it there! All the side dishes were cooked to perfection! I can't wait to return.

bf doesn't like fish, but surprisingly, he liked this one..:/ that's when i know it's GOOD, because i have the PICKiEST boyfriend ever.

i love the scallop. it was so delicious. It was my first time trying this. I'm a big seafood fan. Squids, lobsters, shrimp, scallop, crabs = LOVE

i'd have to say the sushi was okay with me. Nothing extrodinary, however, i have a friend would claim this the best sushi place in my city.

& it's quite sad to say this, but the thing i looked forward to the most was the Green Tea icecream. OMG. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE LOVE LOVE Green Tea Icecream. I want an icecream maker just to make that. LOL.

below is mango, greentea, and mocha. This is not my bowl of icecream. I only ate green tea.

Aside from eating out, and going out, i have also had the opprotunity to do a few makeup looks for my girls. I won't be able to post the other one, because my friend does not like to have her face on the internet. However, i am able to share with you a makeup look i did on my bff, after we came back from sephora.

we were in sephora for hours, and this is what she got. She LOVES Dior, and apparently this is the new palette, because she does't have it, and she owns all of the ones that have been released. It's a beautiful palette, purple and pink is always pretty!

On her EyesI used the middle shade in the inner corner and inner lid. I then used the pink shade all over her lide, and the purple above the crease. Lastly i used the dark charcol colour in the crease. I did not use the grey shade.

On her face i believe i used my foundation on her, the Elizbeth Arden in Soft Cameo. It a tad shade ligght, however worked beautifully on her.

On her cheeks i used the makeupforever HD blush in shade 07. Suitted well on her tan skin.

On her lips: sorry girls, i can't recall. It's a while back now. I tend to mix shade as well, so i really can't remember what i put on her lips.

I made her eyes a little more dramatic than i usually would on someone else, because she has monolids, so when she opens her eyes, most of the time you will not be able to see much of the eyeshadow. I'm thinking of doing a pic-torial fof doing eye make up for monolids and such. It will depend on how motivated and determined i am. LOL

And this is the end of the post. i hope you enjoyed reading my post, take care and don't forget to tell me how your summer is going!

NYX Round Lipstick Lip Swatch + FOTD

2010-06-05T17:06:00.001-04:00

*WARNING- PICTURE HEAVY

you will be viewing a ton of pictures of me, please do not read on if you don't like these types of posts.

I've just posted the review + hand swatch of the NYX round lipstick (you can check it out ~~HERE~~), but the colours don't really mean much if i don't do a lip swatch. Instead of zooming into my lips,(i think my lips look funny) i decided to just show you guys the entire FOTD, so you can see how the colours show up on me and my skin tone. Btw, i'm fairly pale.

I will go in order of Favourite to Least Favourite These pictures were taken all on the same day. It was a little crazy...

Also, if you are curious as to what is on my face, all i did was a basic smokey eye with the Pure Cosmetics Eyeshadow quad in Deluxe Grey On my cheeks, i have on Nars Deep Throat You may not be able to see it, because i applied very little and my camera's flash washed it out.

First - NYX Narcissus

This is definitely a fun colour. My absolute FAVOURITE shade from what i got!

If you have MAC Gaga, i would say they belong in the same family of pink. Gaga has a more purple under tone with lustre finish, and Narcissus is a hot bubblegummie pink and much more vibrant/bright with a Mac amplified lipstick finish. I found Gaga made me look a bit washed out, because it was a tad too pale and sheer, whereas Narcissus really shows up. If u love Gaga and don't mind getting a little bit more attention, give Narcissus a try.

Second - NYX FIG

If you can't pull off red lipstick, give this a try

This is just a very pretty colour that will go with any eye look. I'm not even sure how to exactly describe it. It's like a muted red on my lips with more of a deep pink under tone, but when swatched on my arm, it appears as a warm peachy coral colour. It's a bit more redish compared to Tea Rose. Definitely a very pretty colour.

Third - Tea Rose

your everyday colour

This colour is very subtle. It's almost like my natural lip colour, only more peachy and slightly pink. I think this is what makes this colour different from all the lipsticks i own. It's not really exactly pink, but it looks gorgeous. It's a very chic and cute colour. It'd make any look, look innocent. Overall, a great everyday colour for people who are a bit more conservative. I think it's appropriate for office wear.

Fourth - Louisiana

for all you girls that love RED!

right photo is after i blotted my lips. I found it a bit more wearable then.

okay, so this colour isn't exactly red, but it's such a HOT pink, that it comes off as a bright red colour with pink undertone. I would say this colour reminds me of berries. This colour is definitely something new for me. I don't have a colour this "red" and it's very bold. Personally, i think that people with prretty lip shapes pull off red well. This colour is so so for me, because i thinkt it looks a bit funny on my lips. I think others would have a better experience.

To compromise i blotted my lips a little, to tone down the shade. I found it a bit more wearable for me then.

Fifth- Circe

a nude colour for bold eyes

i've been into nudes lately, so thats what i've been picking up lately. I thought this colour matched my skin tone a little too well. With this one, i realized i have to use lip pencil, because the colour bleed a little around my lips. It also emphasized the darker skintone around the area of my lips. With this, i would need to apply a bit more foundation around that area prior to applying this lipstick. Also, i found this lipstick made my lips look even fatter. Strange....So overall this lipstick is..so-so for me at the moment. I dont love it, but i don't hate it.

Sixth- Thalia

a brownish, purply plumish undertone

this colour, i kind of regret purchasing. I got this colour, because i read some of the rave on it, however, it didn't work out too well for me. I thought it was rather dark for my liking. The slightly dark purple undertone made me look awkward. I'm still thinking of how i can make this work. In the meantime, this isn't my colour.

Last Words: All of these were applied with a light hand and one layer is ALL YOU NEED. Seriously! I hope this helped you guys in picking out the colours. I love these lipsticks, and will surely purchase more!

What is your favourite NYX colours? I love to hear recommendations for my next purchase! Thanks for reading and take care!

NYX Round Lipstick Swatches + Review

2010-06-05T16:46:00.001-04:00

hello everyonenee!!

today, i'm super happy and excited to swatch and review these awesome NYX Round Lipstick. I must be the last person to try these! I just recently got them in the mail, (i can't purchase these where i'm from) and i'm loving these! The hype and rave about these lipsticks are true!

After much research i've ordered 6 of the lipsticks i thought were popular and pretty.

(left to right)
Circe, Thalia, Tea Rose, Louisiana, Fig, Narcissus

they are colour coded at the bottom, which i find a neat idea, because it's easier to find the colour, especially if you have tons of lipsticks.

Circe, Thalia, Tea Rose, Louisiana, Fig, Narcissus

this is how heavenly it looks....O.O

and a close up of the lipsticks in two different lighting
Louisiana, Fig, Narcissus --Narcissus,Fig,Louisiana

Circe, Thalia, Tea Rose, --Thalia,Tea Rose,Circe

Thalia, Tea Rose,Louisiana, Fig, Narcissus. I swatched these with a light hand, and they came out SUPER pigmented.

i accidently forgot Circe. LOL

Review

Pros
- these are super pigmented. The finish is creamy, opague like Mac Amplified lipsticks finishes (applies on like amplified, but looks like lustre!LOVE THIS) & they do not dry out my lips
- will cover very pigmented lips
- very affordable
- comes in 144 shades, i'm sure there is something you'll love!

Cons
- may stain lips
- not easily accessible for me
- some colours may "bleed" so you might want to use a lipliner.

Others
-they are scented. It smells very sweet, and girly . I actually like the way they smell, so it doesn't bother me.

Overall, i look forward to purchasing some more. I actually really LOVe the formula of these lipsticks. I love Mac, and i love Mac lipsticks, but they tend to dry out my lips, and most of the time they don't cover my pigmented lips very well unless i use a lip pencil, or layer on a ton of layers. With these lipsticks, ONE layer is more then enough. I really love them, can you feel my excitement?

Absolutely the BEST DRUGSTORE lipsticks i've tried.

Recommendations Top favs in order

1. Narcissus -a bright cool tone bubblegummie pink
2. Tea Rose -natural pink for everyday
3. Fig -peachy lip colour that gives a little pop. Less dramatic then Narcissus, but more noticable then Tea Rose
4. Louisiana - bright hot pink with red undertone

Skip:
Thalia - didn't work out with me. I got this because people said they loved it, but i found the brownish-purple undertone made me look awkward

Undecided:
Circe - i don't know how i feel about this shade, i kind of match my skin tone a little too well?

for lip swatches click here

xbbkay's Giveaway Countdown pt.3

2010-06-04T20:10:00.001-04:00

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED

Hi all!

today, i decided to reveal the set of items #3

If you read my previous post, you know i bought a few things from pure cosmetics. I decided to purchase some of their make up for this this giveaway. All items new, never swatched, in box.

As of this moment, this is the entire giveaway:
please use the photo below if you wish to go for extra entries

Set of Items #3 now revealed

Pure Cosmetics 5 Colours Palette Eyeshadow in True Colours
Pure Cosmetics Blush in Luxury

a close up

RECAP

Set of items # 2 Revealed:

1 Dior Hydra Action Sample
1 Garnier Skin Naturals Moisturizer Sample

4 My Beauty Diary Sheet Mask in:
1 Cherry Bloosom
1 Red Wine Mask
2 Black Pearl Mask - my absolute favourite at the moment! (will reviewing this sooN!)

1 Beauty Rush - Appletini Body Double Mist by Victoria Secrets
(FACT: i never knew LaSenza (canada) was owned by Victoria Secrets..O.O)
1 Rose Body Lotion

Set of Items #1 previously revealed

1 set of Stila Lip Envy: Silk Shimmer Gloss

HOW TO ENTER

For Those Whom have ALREADY ENTERED

-------------Entry FORM------------

TOTAL ENTRY: please total your entries

---------------------------------------------------

Note: I will check everything

Winner will be chosen at random

once again, PLEASE ENTER TO THIS POST

Thank you!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

If you would like, you can check out my previous posts on the giveaway

xbbkay's Giveaway Countdown pt.1
xbbkay's Giveaway Countdown pt.2

stay tunned, as i have several more items i will be revealing!

Mac To the Beach Collection

2010-06-03T15:32:00.001-04:00

Mac- To the Beach collection has been released for weeks now, but I haven't gotten the chance to check it out. The other day, my friend wanted to go to the mall to pick up a sunscreen, so i decided to go with her and we droppped by Mac.

I knew what i wanted, and that is Hipness Blush. I believe this was released before in another collection, but this was wayy before i got into makeup, so i'm not sure. It's a beautiful bright corally pink. i've been really loving this shade of pink for blushes lately.

a finger swatch. I love this colour. it's gorgeous. If you can only get one item from the collection, i recommend this. Hipness Looks a little corally hmm?

This is a lipglass in Splashing, beautiful colour. All the lipglass colours are pretty from this collection, but this one stood out to me the most!

Here i have
Splashing l/g, ~~Nars Deep Throat~~, & Hipness .

On the side note, I thought that Hipness looked like Nars Deep Throat while i was swatching it, so i decided to swatch them side by side, and i realized i was wrong. Even though the colours look completely different in the compact, for some reason i thought they were similar when i swatched it...

Here they are side by side again for your comparison.

Nars Deep Throat, shows up as a true baby pink with a subtle gold sheen finish. Mac Hipness is a brighter pink, that looks a bit coral-ish when swatched on my arm.

Here is a picture without flash. Depending on the lighting, they could look similar.

with flash
Left(Mac Hipness) Right (Nars Deep Throat)

without flash
Left(Mac Hipness) Right (Nars Deep Throat)

Both colours are beautiful, nontheless. Both are my current favs.

One item i thought i would HAVE TO GET, is the Marine Life Highighter, but i thought about it for a while, and realized that i don't have much use for it. I just really wanted it, because it looked so beautiful in the packaging. Then, while i was reading reviews, i realized that the "picture" will fade away, so that kind of turned me off, & pretty much stoppped me from getting it. This is how it looks like if you guys were wondering..

Does anyone have this? How do you like it?

Did you guys get anything from this collection? What was your favourite? I'd love to hear about it!

Nars Deep Throat&Belle de Jour, MakeUpForever HD Blush, Pure Cosmetics swatches

2010-06-03T12:28:00.001-04:00

Hi girlies!

This is going to be an overdue post. I intended to swatch these a while back, but i have been busy lately. I've noticed that I've been blogging only on rainy days! It's raining SO hard outside right now!

Any was, Sephora has finally opened in my area, and I'm super happy! I went there to return some skincare products that didn't work out for me and obtained a store credit. I ended up using that to splurge! :) I've always been a little hesitant in doing hauls, just because--- but I've been getting feed backs from readers that enjoy hauls and swatches, so I'll try to do a bit more of that!

So I've been hearing a lot about Nars Orgasm. I'm a little slow when it comes to trying the popular items, and Sephora is a 2 hours drive away from where i live, so i never really got a chance to try it. The other day while i was Sephora, i swatched it, but i wasn't as overly impressed. Instead, Nars Deep Throat looked amazing & i knew i had to have it!

This is my first nars blush-called Deep Throat I LOVE their names. LOL. It's a beautiful baby pink with gold reflects. Perfect for the natural pinky flush & looks amazingly flattering on fair skin. The pigmentation is incredible, my only complaint would be the packaging. It can get dirty quick, but fairly easy to clean. This is definately my favourite blush at the moment. I really recommend this blush!

I've also been looking for a nudish colour lipstick, that doesn't make me look sick. I was also curious to try out Nars product, so i decided to try their one lipstick. This one is called Belle De Jour and it can come off a bit too "orangie" but I have very pigmented lips so it doesn't come out like the picture i've swatched. I love the formula of the lipstick, because it doesn't dry out my lips, and i love the luster finish!

here is a swatch, i may do a lip swatch some time later

i also decided to try the New MakeupForever HD blush in shade 07. This comes out like a mousse, and it blends fairly nicely. I use my fingers to blend this out. You need very very very little. There is approximately 10 other shades, but i found this the most wearable for me. I imagine this would be suitable for the summer, because creamy blushes tend to give off a more natural look. My only complaint about this product is the pump. It wasn't very easy to control the amount pumped, so some product get wasted. This blush should last forever.

on the left, is a sheer swatch, on the right is a more thicker swatch of the product

I was also browsing around Sears, a department store--and at the Shiseido counter, i found Pure Cosmetics on sale. I decided to pick some up. The packaging is similar to Nars, and can get dirty easily if your fingers aren't clean. The pigmentation is incredible, and the product is very soft. I was a little disappointed that they didn't have many shades left to chose from. I've also picked up a few of their items for the giveaway, so look out for that!

I realized that i don't really have white and grey eye shadows, so i decided to try this one. It's called Deluxe Grey

& here is a swatch

These are the blushes. I really like them, they are just so soft and pigmented!

this is Cyclamen & it has shimmering reflects.

This is Brownie & it may be a little too light if your are tan.

a swatch on my arm. bottom is Cyclamen & top is Brownie

i believe Pure Cosmetics is not sold in the US. They are quite expensive if you get them at the regular price. However, i believe they are liquidating, so if you happen to see this line, take advantage of the sale, because the product is definitely high quality!

This about wraps up my post. You may be able to tell that i've been blush-obsessed! I also have some other stuff i want to swatch and tell you guys about, but i'll save that for another post! Take care, <3 & thank you for reading!

Super Kawaii Nail Art

2010-05-30T19:30:00.000-04:00

Hii everyoneeeeeeeeeeee!!

i'm super excited to show you what i've done with my nails. It's been MONTHS and MONTHS since i've done my nails. It just takes too much time and effort, PLUS i run out of ideas. The other day, i was a little bored, so i decided to play with my icing nail polish while i was watching a movie at home. Since i started on it so late, i didn't finish it. So i basically walked around with my left hand finish, and my right hand all bare! LOL that seems to be my signature now, because i've been doing it a lot! So basically, i didn't finish my right hand until last night?? This is what i've came up with:

argg..i really dislike blogger upload, the quality of the picture decrease so much!

Here is a picture of better quality: reminds me a bit of easter??! haha

These are the two thumbs. (left, right) Each nail had a different yet similar and uniform design

this is my right hand. it was hard to draw on this one, because i'm right handed, but i actually like the designs on this one much more. With the exception of the yellow one, which i'm a tad lazy to re-do ;) i'm not sure if you can recognize it, but it's actually a butterfly at the top of my yellow coloured fingernail. :D

this is my left hand. I worked on this hand first. My personal favourite is the first finger with the "daisy" flowers.

& here is a photo of my set of nails. I feel pretty proud. I spent a lot more time on these, then usual. I've been wearing solid colours lately, so it's nice to see a little something going on my fingernails!

In case you guys were wondering..these are the polishes i've used. Completely inexpensive, and it does the work!

Surprisingly, i don't have a nude nail polish. i found this at home somewhere and just decided to try it out! The icing nail polishes i've gotten recently. The thickness of the nail polish is AWESOME for nail art. I love it. Especially the yellow. I completely fell in love while using it. A thin consistency does not achieve the same look, because the colour tends to "bleed" so you won't get the bold look when you're doing something like "dotting" designs. If you are interested, i've swatched the icing nail polish in this post. Click Here

Also, i actually forgot the include the sparkling nail polish i used for the glittery strokes. I've used it quite a bit of time, if you check my nail link, you will see it. It's called NAIL DECO

Also, i thought i'd share what i use for the designs. Sorry, i didn't clean it yet. The one on the left, i used to make the flower designs and the small dotting. The large one is for the large dots. The one on the left i actually purchased as a set on ebay, for approx $5.00 CAD. It was a set of 12ish Nail brush, very inexpensive. However, i dont really use any of them, except this one. The one on the right, was actually given to me by a good friend of my parents. She knows i love to do my nails, and she owned a nail salon herself, so she gave me this to try out.

I hope you guys enjoyed this post! I just came back from Toronto. I went with my parents, because they wanted to get some grocery in Chinatown (fyi. it's cheaper there). I also happen to find something there, which i'm dying to try out now, so i'll make sure to update on that! I have so much more to blog about, but i'm getting a little...lazyy??! haha. Lots of things have been happening, GOOD THINGS of course. I'll slowly update i guess!

Oh YES..thank you for all whom have joined the giveaway, and hello to all my new followers! My next update will be in roughly 5 days ish? i hope you guys will like it! Also, I'm looking forward to hearing from ya'll! Take care, and until next time ;)

xbbkay's Giveaway Countdown Pt.2

2010-05-27T15:12:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone!

How are you all doing today? The past few days have been awesomely hot where i'm from, but it's been super humid also. THe BEST time for the beach! I can't wait to hit the beaches this summer!! In the meantime, i'm dying from the heat at night! It's SOO difficult to sleep, i can't fall asleep until 3ish in the morning! urghhH!

ANyWHOOO. it's that time again! i didn't intend on waiting so long to do the next update for my giveaway, but im still waiting for some stuff to come in :D If you are confused as to what i'm talking about, please read the first part my giveaway post HERE for details on how it works!! then come back here.

As this is also my first time hosting a giveaway, i realized some of my rules were a little flawed and not detailed enough. Some minor changes were made. I hope everything is clear now :D

OKAYY, so let's get down to business.

TADA

-------------------This is all the items revealed SO FAR..more to come!

(anyone know why the quality of the pictures decrease so much when uploaded on blogger?)

here's a better quality picture

note: Please use the photo below if you wish to go for extra entries

Set of items # 2 Revealed:

1 Dior Hydra Action Sample
1 Garnier Skin Naturals Moisturizer Sample

4 My Beauty Diary Sheet Mask in:
1 Cherry Bloosom
1 Red Wine Mask
2 Black Pearl Mask - my absolute favourite at the moment! (will reviewing this sooN!)

I absolutely LOVE sheet masks! if you have never tried them before, i strongly urge you to do so. It's the greatest luxury in your own home :D The only problem for me is hunting them down!! I have to get these out of the city, yet i always come back for more, so yes - i'm quite addicted!

1 Beauty Rush - Appletini Body Double Mist by Victoria Secrets
(FACT: i never knew LaSenza (canada) was owned by Victoria Secrets..O.O)
1 Rose Body Lotion

Recap Set of Items #1 previously revealed

1 Stila Lip Envy: Silk Shimmer Gloss

HOW TO ENTER

For Those Whom have ALREADY ENTERED

-------------Entry FORM------------

TOTAL ENTRY: please total your entries

---------------------------------------------------

Note: I will check everything

Winner will be chosen at random

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Stay tuned for future postings! I hope you guys join and Thank You so much for all your lovely comments & once again Thank You for following my blog!

Please make all your entries to this post. Thank you !

edit:

More items have been revealed, CLICK HERE to view. PLEASE ENTER in the MOST RECENT GIVEAWAY POST!

FOTD Emerald Green

2010-05-22T19:32:00.004-04:00

Hi All!

I realize the last few posts i've made were reviews. Unless you've been looking to try out the products that i've reviewed, it was just a bunch of yapping. hhaha, but I intend to make my blog a little bit more resourceful so it must be done! Sometimes i do want to update, but then i don't really know what to write about? My goal is to update a bit more often, which explains why i already have like 9 posts this month!. That's pretty amazing for me! i usualyl just do a post a week or so. For some reason, i don't feel like blogging these days~ I've been slow at replying to comments as well, but i'll get back to them asap!

I dont know how it's like where you live, but where i am right now, it's not rainning, but it's super gloomy, and humid. My friend is actually in niagara falls right now, boohoo. She must be disappointed to see this kind of weather. The next few days should be a lot better though! I will be going to visit my bff, as well as do some shopping next week, so i'm super excited about that.

So let's move on nowww..

Here is todays FOTD. This is a bit of a re-do. The shades are a little much. It's definately not made for everyone. But still fun to do. Reminds me of St.Patties day. O.O

The Product List
Eyes
Urban Decay Primer Potion
Gorgeous Gold e/s inner corner
One Off e/s middle lid
Teal Pigment outter corner
Knight Divine crease
Black Tide deepen crease
Taupe eyebrows pencil
NYX Doll Eyes Mascara
QUO lashes in 801

Face
Mac Select Cover Concealer in NC20
Physician Formula Organic Wear in Light Organics
Nars Deep Throat Blush

Lips
Mac Archetype

The Full Look

I Hope you guys like this look. What colours would you guys like to see next?

P.S. I just want to say thank you to those who have entered the giveaway, and those that continue to read my blog. <3 I'll slowly post the other items as i finish my hunt for them. LOL.

xbbkay's Giveaway Countdown

2010-05-20T23:33:00.001-04:00

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED

Hi all! If you recall, i mentioned holding a giveaway a month ago or so? Well, here it is! So this giveaway is a little bit different from your average giveaway for two reasons. One, i want it to be different and unique, two, i haven't completely finish putting this giveaway together.

This is to say, THANK YOU to all my followers who have been reading and commenting on my blog. I love you guys! I never imagine to even get ONE follower, and i'm just so amazed and surprised with reaching 100+. Thank you <3 Your comments mean lots to me

So the way this giveaway's going to work is:

1. I'm going to reveal an item every few days, so there will an be ongoing surprise! I do not know how many items there will be in total, and as of now, i'm not sure when the deadline will be. However, i will update on the deadline when i reveal all the items in the giveaway!

2.To say a special thanks to those whom have been commenting on my blog, you are automatically entitled to ONE additional entry(regardless # of comments), upon entering this giveaway. This is for the lovely people that spare the time to leave me a comment all along.

Valid for any existing blog post comments made before i posted this giveaway! (before May 20th)

3. Since there will be a series of Posts as i reveal each product, please enter to this post ONLY

FIRST ITEM Revealed:

Brand new, in box, never swatched

1.Stila Lip Envy: Silk Shimmer Gloss

Please Use the Photo below if you decided to Go for Extra Entries

I have a set for myself, and these are the swatches i made with MY set

The rules are simple:
1. Must be a Follower
2. Must be 18+ yrs old or receive consent from your guardian to enter
1. It is open internationally
3. If you win, you must reply to my email notification within 48 hours.

For ONE BASIC Entry :THIS IS an ENTRY TO WIN THE WHOLE ENTIRE GIVEAWAY, NOT JUST THE ITEM REVEALED! SO AS I REVEAL MORE ITEMS, PLEASE DO NOT FILL THIS OUT IF YOU HAVE PREVIOUSLY DONE SO.
1. Leave a comment stating " i love free stuff "
2. Leave your email address
3. Tell me something completely random or interesting about yourself
1. Leave a comment stating " Please enter me! I wish to be treated like a princess"
2. Leave your email address
3. Answer "What do you enjoy reading about the most on blogs?"

FOR ADDITIONAL ENTRIES
1. Post a link with the Photo of the giveaway on the sidebar of your blog (+1)
2. Make a Blog POST about this giveaway with Link and Photo (+1)
3. AUTOMATICALLY Eligible, if you have left a comment on my blog (+1)

FOR HIGH ACHIEVERS

1. Since i will be revealing a product every few days, you can also mention the new additional items in new blog posts. Effective only if you've already blog about this giveaway once (+2)

so if i end up posting 7 sets of items, and you mention with (Link + Photo) all the 7 sets of items in your new blog post, you can get up to 14 entries. Each posting must be made after each set of item is revealed, and before a new one item is revealed. You can not compile this, or wait until the very end. Please message me if you are unsure :)

For Those Whom have ALREADY ENTERED

- You can blog about the updated set of items (please read For High Achiever Sect. (+2)
- You can add a photo and link to the giveaway on the sidebar if you haven't done so already (+1)

- You are not required to update the photo on your sidebar. You may if you wish

Please use this form as it would make my life a lot easier later :)

-----------------------FORM------------------------
" Please enter me! I wish to be treated like a princess!" (yes i did change this)
Email:
What do you enjoy reading about the most on blogs?: (yes, i changed this too)

(+1) Basic Entry
(+1) Lovely Commenter (Comment on my blog post before May20th)
Link: (please link the post that you've commented
(+1) Side Bar Link
Link: (please provide me with a link to your blog)
(+1) Blog Post
Link: (please provide me with a link to your blog)
(+2) High Achievers
Link: (please provide me with a link to your blog)

TOTAL ENTRY: please total your entries

---------------------------------------------------
Note: I will check everything

Stay tuned for future postings! I hope you guys join and Thank You so much for all your lovely comments. I love to read them and it really means a lot to me!

GOOD LUCK

<3 Take care

P.S

WHOOOPIES

Forgot to mention, winner will be chosen at random ;)

More items have been revealed, CLICK HERE to view. PLEASE ENTER in the MOST RECENT GIVEAWAY POST!

Philosophy Hope in a Jar Moisturizer

2010-05-17T17:38:00.000-04:00

Philosophy: Hope in a Jar
for dry, sensitive skin
Philosophy: you can't change the weather, but you can change your moisturizer

Claims: hope in a jar for dry or sensitive skin is a treatment moisturizer that soothes and comforts even the more irritated or sensitive skin. hope in a jar for dry, sensitive skin help relieve dryness and helps improve the natural moisture balance, soothing and comforting the skin. due to its immediate comfort and moisturizing benefits even the most traumatized skin or thin, dry skin benefits from this antioxidant-rich treatment cream.

Properties:
Amount: 1oz - 38.4 g
Bottle: Jar type
Texture: thick, white, cream
Scent: medicated and personally unpleasant

Price: $36.00 CAD & $24.99 Sale @ Winners
Ingredients: water (aqua), glycerin, oryza sativa (rice) bran oil, c12-15 alkyl benzoate, glyceryl stearate, peg-100 stearate, octyldodecanol, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, lecithin, tocopheryl acetate, retinyl palmitate, arachidyl propionate, ethyl linoleate, ethyl linolenate, citric acid, lavandula angustifolia (lavender) oil, salvia officinalis (sage) oil, triethanolamine, diazolidinyl urea, phenoxyethanol, methylparaben, propylparaben.
How to Use: apply to a clean, dry, face. product will absorb instantly. do not re-apply. discontinue use if irritation occurs. avoid contact with eyes.

The Pros
-thick and creamy, suitable for dry skin in the winter
-provides adequate moisture

The Cons
-personally, the scent is unpleasant
-leaves a greasy shine, that feels sticky
-unhygienic and inconvenient in a jar form
-takes a while to absorb into the skin

Recommended For
-those with dry skin & looking for a winter moisturizer
-people who don't mind the scent
-those who don't mind the shine left behind
-those who like thick, creamy moisturizers that you can feel

Stay Away if
-you have oily skin, this would only make it more oily
-if you intend to wear this alone, because it leaves a greasy shine. You can always use a powder to eliminate this problem, but if you were to use this alone, i personally wouldn't recommend it.

Repurchase?: No. The reason i chose this moisturizer in the first place, was because i caught it on sale, and it claimed to be suitable for dry skin, but i personally hate the greasy, shine that it leaves. The scent bothers me, and it did little for my dry patches during the winter. I've also mistaken it for the original Hope in a Jar moisturizer that have been raved. They are definitely not the same thing!

My Experience: During the winter, my skin needs a thick creamy moisturizers, because my cheeks often get dry patches. I've used this product for probably a good 6 months now

here's a snapshot of how the cream looks. excuse the fingernail, i painted my nails sky blue ^.^

What i do love about this moisturizer is that it did help with some of the mild dryness i've expereience near the jawline and lower cheeks. It also aid in the dry patches, however, did not get rid of them. When i'm refering to dry patches, i'm talking about dried skin that is flaking & slightly pink.

it takes a while to blend in

The drawback of this product is that it's simply not suitable for me. This moisturizer leaves my skin greasy, and shiny. When i feel my face, it feels a little sticky. Personally, i perfer thick creams in the winter, but with a matte finish.

Overall: I liked this cream, because it was thick, and it did help a bit with my dry skin, but i'm disappointed in the "finish" of the product. On the side note, the thick sticky finish made a really good base for my foundation in the winter, because my foundation was slightly dry, so they were a good balance. I compromised by using foundation and a little bit of powder to offset the shine. I would NOT wear this moisturizer on it's own though.

P.S. You may be wondering why i would do a review on a product i do not recommend. I don't recommend this product, because it doesn't meet my perference. I feel a negative review is just as important as a positive review. It'd help you know what to you steer clear of. PLUS, what may not work for me, may end up working for you.

Right now, i'm actually testing out the HOPE in a JAR original Formula sold at Sephora, I'll update on that one when i get a chance! I've heard LOTS of good things about it.

Shiseido White Lucent Moisturizer Review

2010-05-16T18:59:00.000-04:00

Hi all! ~ and welcome new followers!

If you have been following my blog since forever, you may have remembered that I've reviewed this product before. However, i felt the need to re-review this product, as my previous review wasn't adequate and sadly poorly written. It was one of my first blog posts when i have just joined the blogging community so i was quite unfamiliar with everything. I'm also re-reviewing this product, because recently I've been asked by friends about what moisturizer I've used and would recommend, hence, i think i would be updating more about skincare products from now on. Trust me, I've used TONS to battle against ACNE!

So without further a-dooo...(I've always wanted to use that word! hehe)

Shiseido White Lucent - Brightening Protective Moisturizer - SPF 16

Claims: A daytime moisturizer that provides exceptional whitening benefit and protection to the skin as it contains sunscreen agents which prevent the skin from the damages of UVA and UVB. This light weight moisturizer contains reflecting molecules that brighten the skin tone instantly and create a translucent barrier on the skin which helps the foundation staying on so the moisturizer can also be used as makeup base.

Properties:

Amount: 75 ML
Sun Protection: SPF 16
Texture: Lotion; yellow
Scent: gentle, pleasant, sweet
Bottle: without a pump

Ingredients: Octinoxate 7.4% W/W, Avobenzone 2.0% W/W
Price: $80 CAD (roughly - i can not find this on the shiseido site anymore)
How to Use: Smooth over face prior to sun exposure and after using cleanser and softener in the morning

The Pros

-instantly brightens the skin temporarily
-light weighted and non greasy
-quickly absorbs into the skin
-smells pleasant
-covers pores **

The Cons
-provides minimal moisturizing
-unhygienic = does not have a pump
-minimal sun protection
-brightening effect does not last and will not permanent change complexion
-expensive

Recommended For:

- looking to instantly brighten your complexion
- those with oily
- those who do not have dry skin, and are looking for minimal moisturizing
- suitable for summer and hot weather

Repurchase: only in the cream form, definitely not in the lotion form as it is not suitable for my skin type.

My Experience

I've had this moisturizer for approximately over a year now, and i should be finished with it this summer. This product would last for a good 6 months, if you use it faithfully, however, I did not use this product during the winter, so i have 1/3 of the amount remaining.

What i love about this product is that it does what it claims. It truly brightens my face instantly, without leaving a greasy shine and a more even out complexion. I'm quite fond to the scent as well. This light weighted LOTION is great for the hot summer days, as it's not cream based, rather liquidity and will provide minimal moisture. I did not realize this, as i tried to use this product during the winter, and it did nothing for my dry skin and has only emphasized my dry patches! HOWEVER, there is a cream form of this product, that I may have to look into as it'd be more suitable for the dry, cold weather.

The surprising thing about this product is that it hide my pores! i have black head on my nose, and i think the brightening effect really camouflage my blackheads and leave my skin looking pore less. It's pretty incredible, and definitely one of the biggest PROS of this product for me.

i don't want to blind anyone with my pores, so click on the link if you're interested. i know a lot of people suffer from pore problems, so i thought I'd share my secret. Goes to show, my skin is no where near perfect!Click to View

The biggest drawback about this product is the price. This must be the most expensive moisturizer that I've used, and although i do love it, i am uncertain about repurchasing this product. It also does not gradually change your complexion, and the brightening effect is only visible when you apply the product. The other big drawback about this product is that it doesn't come with a pump! I can't believe a product like this does not have one! It's just unsanitary, and inconvenient!

The strange thing about this product is that when I rub my face, a thin layer of the product would come off. I think that the "concentration" that creates the brightening effect does not get absorbed by the skin, rather only stays on the surface. Hence, the brightening effect is only temporary. However, this is my guess entirely, so don't take my word for it. It does not bother me though. I thought I'd just share that fact.

Overall, I do like this product. I love this product for all the pros that I've already pointed out, but i only wish it was a bit more moisturizing. Therefore I will most likely check out the cream-form of this product when i finish with this one.

leaving you guys with a photo almost a year back, where i have the moisturizer on, with Smooth Verge Mineralizer

Note: always check with the Sales Associate if you can get a sample of the product before purchasing!

I hope this review was helpful for those who are on a hunt for the perfect moisturizer. Feel free to leave a comment on my review structure. I'd love to hear from y'all. Take care <3

FOTD Rust

2010-05-13T20:43:00.005-04:00

This is a look i did after acquring some NYX eyeshadows. I have never used NYX shadows before, but there was one called RUST, which i thought was very pretty. It inspired me to do this look.

Products Used
Eyes
Urban Decay Primer Potion
Bare Study Paint Point lid
Naked Lunch e/s over p/p
Handwritten e/s in the crease and above
NYX Rust e/s deep in the crease
Rimmel Exaggerate Liner
Maybelline Stiletto Liquid Liner
Quo Lashes in 801

Lips
Maybelline Pink Please l/s
Mac Love Nectar l/g

Faces
Elizabeth Arden Foundation in Soft Cameo 06
Mac Select Cover Concealer in NC20
Physician Formula Organic Wear in Light Organics
Mac Smooth Verge Mineralizer
Mocha blush

The Full Look:

P.S . i'm currently going back to the old FOTD to fix it up. I've just updated two FOTD.

Here are the links if you are interested ;)

First Valentines Look look and my Avatar Inspired Look EOTD

FOTD Hello Spring pt.2

2010-05-09T21:52:00.011-04:00

Hii everyone!

i decided that i'm gonna do a series of spring/summerish looks, because i've been feeling colourful lately. I haven't played with my makeup ever since school ended, because i broke out like crazy, and my skin was healing. I still have a ton of blemishes and it's been making me soo sad, so i don't bother with any make up. URGH, i don't know if anyone else feels like this, but when my skin sucks, i feel a little emo. LOL

Edit: Click Here for the first "hello spring" FOTD

Anywas, today i decided to do my makeup, because it's mother's day! HAPPY MOTHERS DAY everyone :D PLUS the weather is so beautiful!!! i can see the sun setting now, and the light is hitting my bedroom window. It's so gorgeous. I miss this kind of weather. For the past few days it's been raining nonstop so the weather was very gloomy and gross. I hate ittt!!

Okayy...so let me stop my blabbing and show you the EOTD

I don't know if you guys have noticed, but i'm changing the format of my FOTD. This is the way it's gonna look from now onn..I'm still going back to the old FOTD and fix it up

The Product list
Eyes
Mac Rated R e/s (lid)
Mac Sunset B e/s (crease)
Fuchsia Pigment e/s (crease-on top of Venus)
Mac Harvest Straw e/s (wash above crease)

Mac Taupe Eyebrow Pencil
Rimmel Exaggerate Liner
Revlon Beyond Natural Lashes in 91149 Short Natural

Face

Elizabeth Arden Intervene SPF 15 in Soft Cameo Foundation
Mac Select Cover Concealer in NC20
Physician Formula Organic Wear in Light Organics
Mac Smooth Verge Mineralizer
Faces #4 Blush

Lips
Shiseido Smoothing Lip Pencil in Perfect Rouge
Mac Victorian l/s
Mac Virgin Kiss l/g

There are swatches of the eyshadows on its own.

(top left)Rated R , (topright)Harvest Straw, (bottom right)Fuchsia Pigment, (bottom left)Sunset B

^swatches: -------------------------------------Fuchsia, Sunset B, Rated R, Harvest Straw

I got a chance to test out the new powder compact i got from

Physician Formula

Quick Review: I'm actually so surprised with this powder. My face feels moisturized, smooth, and it doesn't look cakey at all! The coverage is not amazing, but it's good for setting foundation. I'm really impressed by how it makes my skin feels. It's not that dry, powder feel that i normally get from other powders. I was thinking of returning this, but i think i'll keep it around as a face powder.

Revlon Lashes

Quick Review: These must be the MOST natural lashes i've ever used. The hair is super fine, and soft. It's almost like touching your real lashes. I love the cross lashes, but i'm disappointed that they are flatter then the average lashes i'm use to. Maybe it'd look better if you curl your lashes when you put these on, HOWEVER, i never liked to curl my lashes or apply mascara after i put on false lashes. For me, false lashes should already be curled, plus, i like to curl my own lashes before i put on falsies. I wish they were a little bit more noticeable. The hair is thinner then the ones i've tried before, so i guess that's why. If you like dramatic lashes, you might wanna skip these. They are very comfortable though. I love how light they feel on my eyes.

Overall, this look is very pink! very cute, and simple. I enjoyed doing this FOTD. You can use any pink and yellow eyeshadow you like.

I had some fun with the camera. These pictures were taken in my room. My curtains are pink, so the colouring is a little more reddish/pink then usual. I usually take pictures in the washroom where the lighting is very bright and white?

P.S

gotta love Victorian lipstick!

I hope you enjoyed, and thanks for reading ;)

take care <3 and once again, Happy Mothers DAY!

P.S.S - i reposted this, because my comment thing was messed up

Intense Debate?!

2010-05-08T16:02:00.000-04:00

I just installed Intense Debate onto blogger and now just testing it.

For those who are unfamiliar with this, it is a widget that enables you to reply to your comments on your blogspot. I found out about this from the lovely Erynn. If you've like to know more about this program, check out her review on her blog

testing testing...

P.S...hmmm..i'm still messing with it. Apparently my comment link disappeared :/ I have to click on the title of the post to see the comments...

Icing Nail Polish

2010-05-07T17:54:00.000-04:00

hi girlies!

i'm staying in bed pretty much all day today, because im feeling sick. I just don't have the energy or mindset to do anything today. The weather isn't helping that much either. I look outside, and its's dark, gloomy, wet and cold. I despise this kind of weather the most, it just makes me soo URGHHH. haha.

Anywas, i thought i'd do some swatches of these nail polishes that i've gotten almost a month ago now. The colours really caught my eyes when i saw these. They are PERFECT for the spring and summer season! just look at these colours. How can you resist them? Btw, i got these at Icing, at the mall. It might be found only in Canada. I never heard of them in the states.

Here is the set of nail polishes. There is a total of 5 super pretty pastel colours (which i love!)

Amount in each bottle: 12 ml or 0.40fl
Price: $16.00 CAD

now i'm just gonna do a swatch for em each one by one. i wish these nail polishes were named it's be much easier. but anywhoo..

here is the yellow one. I thought this was the most difficult to use. It streaked quite a bit. this was how bad it looked:

here it is with 2 layers. much much better. Love the glossy finish

yay! for yellow. this is the first time i had yellow nail polish on. i do love it

here is the gorgeous baby blue. Reminds me of the pretty skies on a hot summer day without clouds. this was one of the best to apply within the set. Little to no streaking, or is it just me?

this is the pretty pink. it's more cooled tone i'd say. it almost looks like there is a purple under tone? This was the easiest to apply. No streaking, and only needed one layer.

now i have a pretty pastel orange? i love this colour. i painted it on my toe-ies

it was the 2nd more difficult to apply, after the yellow. It streaked quite a bit, and def need a second layer. but this was the colour that made me want this nail polish set.

moving alongg...this is the last pretty colour. It's like a grass green. very bright. i really like this colour. It applied on very well.

Now after all these photos, i'll give you guys a quick run down about these babies

Pros
- very pretty colours
- glossy finish
- dries quickly
- last about a week before it starts fading
- very opaque colours
- affordable set

Cons
- the yellow and orange colour streaks a lot
- might need to apply more then one layer
- difficult to find

Note: some of the formula is thicker then the other. i dont know if this is a good or bad thing. It might be a con when u layer it, because it starts to look thick and gross.

also, i found the streaking problem can be minimized if you just load your brush up with the nail polish and work fast.

Recommendation: i do love this set. Despite it streaking the colours make up for it and i can't demand a whole lot with that price tag. The size is great for me, because i never finish a whole bottle anywas. these colours are gorgeous and they are great for the summer season. if you don't feel comfortable using them on your fingers, i really recommend applying them on your toes. It will make your shoes pop!

Just to add to this post. I'd thought i share with you guys what i often do. When i have a nail polish that streaks a lot, not opaque enough, or just blah. i often layer it with another nail polish. Often times i use a more shimmer, but sheen nail polish as the top layer to hide the streak or what not.

Here is what i did with the blue nail polish:

have fun playing with your nail polishes ladies! take care. I see lightning.. . O.O it's gonna be a stormy night

<3 take care and thanks for reading

April's Cheap Beauty Findings

2010-05-06T15:18:00.000-04:00

hi all!

i haven't been feeling like blogging for a past few days, because i just feel so blah. My skin is still recovering from the exam break out. So i haven't been feeling like playing with make up.

i'm back to share with you guys the cheap beauty products that i found over the past month? Sometimes i don't know if i should make a seperate post for each products, but i think i'd be too lazy for that. So that's the reason i'm gonna have a "cheap beauty findings" post every month or so to share the products that i've accumulated.

So rexall had a sale for NYX (25%). THey usually have this sale once in a while, so if you are interested, wait up for the sale. I took the opprotunity to get some eyeshadows. It's the first time i tried 'em and here are the colours i've picked up. I'm surprised that i don't have a white eyeshadow at all, so i decided to pick up one from NYX.

Price:$5.76 after sale
Inital Review
-shadows are soft, pigmented, and easily blendable
-you would need a primer for long-wear
-some of them come off a bit chalky (ie. White, Cool blue)
-there will be a bit of fallout, so make sure you patt on the colour

My favourite is "Rust" (last one). It has the best finish. Non-chalky, and satin finish - reminds me of Artifact painpot in an eyeshadow form.

Initally, i wanted to get some lipsticks from NYX, but sadly Rexall, didn't have them. They only had the sparkly line or something. I can't recall, but all the listpcisk were shimmer and frost.

Next up, Shoppers Drug Mart was having a sale for Physicans Formula. (50%) I have never tried anything from this product line before, so i decided to check it out. Im actually on a hunt for a bronzer at the moment, so i decided to try this product.

From what i know, this product line is very eco friendly. it claims to be 100% natural. And even the packaging is eco conscious. it claims that its 93% less plastic than traditional powder compact of comparable size. I thought that was very neat

Here is how it looks on the size. It's "3 layers"

This is how it looks inside. The colours are very settle, and pretty. Good for people with fair to pale skin. It would not show up on people with darker skintone. There is however another compact for darker skintone

This is the flipside to the compact. You will find a brush, with a mirror. The mirror is horrible however.

And finnally, the swatches! The shade is still a bit light from what i see. I might go back to exchange for a darker colour, i'm not sure yet.

Price: 10.99 after sale
Inital Review
-from swatching it, the powder feels OH-SO-SMOOTH/SOFT and almost moisturizing. It definitely doesn't feel like your normal powder, which i like.
-the highlight colour is a bit too shimmery for me
-the middle colour matches my skintone perfect
-would be good for a face powder

I'll try to do a full review another time with a FOTD

Next up are these lashes. I've been hearing about Revlon Lashes. These were also on sale for 30% or 25% i think at Rexall. The Quo lashes were 40% off at Shoppers. So i believe they were about $4-5 a pair. I still think it's expensive, but definately better then the original prices of $7-10. I havent had the chance to use them yet, but will let you guys know when i do. In the meantime, if you're interested make sure u check out the sale.

These are some baby nail polishes i picked up from Icing. I think that's what the store is called. They have quite a bit of nail polishes. I tried these the other day, and i'm quite surprised. They are very bold and vibrant. I love it

Here is when i used it. I layered it with an OPI nailpolish. So it has a pink tint to it. Else you would see how orangie coral it is.

Next, here i have this awesome brush from Quo. I've tried the Quo eyeshadow brushes before, and they were OKAY. I picked up a very tiny one which i've posted about in my NYX pigment post a long time ago. i didn't think i'd try their brushes again, but something MADE ME get this one. First it's because QUO has the 40% sale. They are having their NEW set of brushes with a new look (BLACK handle- which looks WAYY BETTER) but with a BIGGER price tag too btw. So i guess they are trying to clear their inventory of these old ones. I saw this one and fell in love once i touched it.

I think you can find this only at Shoppers Drug Mart though

Btw, i did use it once, that's why you see the pinkish colour at the tip of the brush

Price: $9.00 after sale before tax
Inital Review
-super soft
-perfect size for my face
-brush is dense and full

A more in depth review will come shortly, because i'm LOVING this brush. However, i haven't washed it yet, so i'll let you know when i have more time to test this baby out.

PHEW*** i'm done! hahaha. I hope you enjoyed reading, take care. and ENJOY the nice weather!

P.S. is it just me or is blogspot kindda slow these days? Is everyone having exams or somethinG?

yay! school's OUT

2010-05-01T20:45:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone..!

i'm excited and super happy to say that summer has offical started for me! I hope you guys still remember me? After 3 weeks of serving time in a cubical at the library, i am now released! I guess you can say it's like a resurrection! LOL. I miss my BED so much during this month. Today is the first day of summer for me, and i slept until 1. It really sucks when you finish on the last day of exams, and everyone is finished a week before you :(

stress + coffee + lack of sleep + nonstop studying = an ugly mess

I have been soooooooo busy!! I didn't have time for ANYTHING. Everything was pushed aside until now. I didn't even bother with my birthday. Which is the sad part :( and i just felt like..blah.

I thought i'd share with you guys what happen on my "birthday"

My

cute cousin

dropped a gift off at my house a week before my birthday. I wasn't home the entire day because i was studying at school. When i came homme that night i found a cute little package on my bed. I thought for a second, "this must be someone else". Then when i saw my name on it, i was just like. O.O . I almost forgot my birthday was coming by. She's so cute. I didn't open it until my birthday. Here's the beautiful package:

I love the packaging. IT's soooooo girly and pretty!

This is her wonderful card. It talks when you open it. LOL.

I opened it on my birthday and this is what was insidee!! AHH..isn't it SOOO CUTE??! It's a necklace/ braclet rack! i love it. I wish i can find a dress like that TOO! :( I loveeeee herrr!

So that night, my mommi came home, and i asked her if she know what day it was. She gave me the "hmph" looked and smiled. She asked me earlier what i wanted for my birthday but i told her i don't know. I asked her to surprise me and that's what she did

She saw this gift set at the mall, and thought it was nice, so that's what she got me: she knows i love make up.. :D

This is what a friend of mine gave me from school. It's so adorable. I have to repace the keychain my bf gave me now. haha THought the thought of seeing a real live mouse would scare me shitless. ahaha

okay...nooww...you guys might be asking what my

boyfriend

did. haha. Well let's just say...i'll explain it with pictures

The story is like this. After recieving that package from my cousin, i complained to my boyfriend how come he doesn't wrap my gifts. How much he doesn't make cards for me. I really like handmade cards. I keep all the cards that my friends have given me. He told me with LOTS of confidence that his packaging would TOP my cousins. Now...let my show you his card and gift..haaha

.
.
.

you can probably tell that he failed. ...miserably. He told me it was so hard, and that he didn't have all the proper tools to make a beautiful card. I rolled my eyes ofcourse. LOL However, i still thought it was very cute. He spent the say doing this at my house while i was at school studying.

And this is the sad part. My brother and him were anticipating for me to open this gift. I was clueless, and i told him if he gave me a DVD i'm gonna kick him. haha

:( you can imagine how sad i was when i opened this. O.O

He wrote a ton of messages on stikcy notes and placed them at various places in my house and made me run all around to look for my gift. In the end it was in my bedroom underneath my bed. I should've known better..and this is my REAl gift

Say hello to my baby netbook. I love it. I love him more :) i'm only lucky princess.

I still have the seal on it. I'm not removing it until i recieve my netbook sleeve. i plan on getting this one. :D Something girly, and pretty.

Overall, despite not being able to celebrate my birthday or even having cake, i was very happy to find i have the cuttest friends in the world. I love them. Thank you for everything. I plan to celebrate my birthday in a few days. :) In the meantime, i'm catching up on life. haha

Thanks for reading, and good night

Circle Lens?!

2010-04-14T18:27:00.000-04:00

Hello my lovely bloggers,

As some of you may already know, i shouldn't be blogging, but i just finished an exam today and i feel drained. a 4hour business case exam is NOT cool. I dare not drink coffee this morning, fearing that i'd need a washroom break during that exam.!

Anywasss...>!! since i'm slacking right now i thought i'd make a quick post. I've been looking into circle lens for the past few days, or months. I have never tried them before, even though i've known about them ages ago when they started getting popular. I guess i'm slow getting on the bandwagon, but i'm looking for some lens recommendation. Who else better to ask then the lovely bloggers here who know a WAY more then me about them.

I'm looking for something somewhat natural, yet noticeable, but i'd like to hear from you guys before i make any purchases. I'd appericate it if you guys give me some recommendations.

What brands do you guys use?

What's your favourite?

Is it comfortable?

Do you guys buy the ones with prescriptions?

How long do you keep em until you throw them out?

How long do you wear em for?

Thank YOU for recommendations, and droppping by

<3

It's Offical

2010-04-08T09:08:00.000-04:00

.......i'm leaving blogspot

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.
.
.
.

for a while......haha

Exams are around the corner, and all my finals are 40-50%, so i need to start studying like madness. LOL. Sucks for me, i'm sure i'll still be lurking oon blogspot, and catching up on all your updates, and replying to commments. Yes, i love to reply to comments. I think most bloggers love to get comments from their wonderful readers. Anywas...

My first exam starts on April 14, ( my daddi's birthday)
My second exam starts on April 21, ( MY BIRTHDAY)
Last exam is on April 30, ( the last day of exams)

I have in total 5 exams.................*bangs head against the wall

yEAH, i'm feeling pretty..shitty right now. But what can i do. You'll all know what i'll be doing for my birthday. LOL

Anyone else have exams? How do you study with them. Do you have time to play?

Credits

When i return, i plan on having a giveaway, (i was gonna do it this month, but i'm wayyyy tooo busy) in celebration of several things:

for almost reaching 100 Followers
my birthday, bcos i feel giving
and finishing exams
marking the beginning of summer

I'm still thinking of what's going in it, but look out for it! <3

but, perhaps you guys can help me out.

Rank these items (1 for highly addicted, and 7 for minimal satisfaction)

- eyeshadows
- false lashes/liners/mascara
- blushes
- lippies
- body and bath products
- skincare
- others:_____________

Thanks to everyone who takes the time to read my blog,
Good Luck, and take care

<3 Anh

FOTD- Hello Spring

2010-04-04T12:40:00.004-04:00

Here is the full look:

Do you see that shimmer on my cheek? It's the pretty SMooth Verge Mineralize SKinfinish. I love it for highlighting. It makes a difference when you take photos! LOVES
^^ those lashes were giving me a hard time. MAINLY bcos they were like flat, and it wouldn't bend to the shape of the eyelid.
^^ i'm loving the lipstick also. It's much more brighter in life. ITs just my camera. But none the less BEAUTIFUL coral colour.

YUP. i hope you like this FOTD. I had fun doing it. And i LOVE spring. Mainly bcos i was born in that season. LOL.

Have a wonderful day, i will be off studying once again :( BOO@!

EDIT i was reformating this post, and i've accidently deleted my list of products used. I can't retrieve it, and i do not remember what i used since it's been almost a year now. ahh!

LUSH products + Stila

2010-03-30T22:52:00.000-04:00

On tuesday, boyfriend took me to LUSH ( a store selling bath, and beauty products), because i was bugging him about going. I have been seeing LUSH bath bomb hauls on so many blogs, and i was so intrigued by how colourful, funky, and cool it looks that i had to go find out what was the big deal.

So i didn't know that there was actually a LUSH where i lived. In fact, i just found out the day before i went. I always thought the store sound familiar, but for some reason i just didn't think it was in canada. So i looked it up, i realized it was actually in the MALL! so i was quite overjoyed and surprised, because Canada always seem to be slow to get the good stuff!

Anywas, so when i got there, the nice Sales Associate showed me around, and showed me alot of the products that they sell and how it exactly worked. She had bowls of water, and everything, and showed me how the bubbles bars made bubbles, and how the bath bombs worked. IT WAS SOO COOL!. They totally revolutionlized the concept of taking a shower/bath. All the products are designed to enhance your bathing/showering experience. It's suppose to make you feel luxurious, and just PRINCESSY!

So for the first time there, i was quite overwhelmed by all the products. You will definitely be sniffing a lot. i sniffed up some powder out of carelessness, and it was like sniffing crack! ( not that i ever did ahem*). Anywas, I decided to skip on the bath bombs, (EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE SOO COOL!), because i don't take baths. BUt i might have to start taking baths, because of this product. Anywas, before i show you what i got, i wanted to show you the baggies!

This is the main bage

the smaller bag (carrying one product each) inside the main bage

the back of the two products i got. i thought this was cute

So this is what i got:

This is how the products look like:

(Sugar scrub on left, and Dorothy Bubble Bar on right)

another shot of the dorothy, bcos the colours are pretty. LOL

1. DOROTHY BUBBLE BAR (limited edition)

Price: $5.95CAD
Smell: i'm not good with describing scent, so i told bf to sniff it and he said it smells ROSeY. LOL

How to Use:it's makes bubbles!WHO DOESN't LOVE BUBBLES? All you gotta do it crush it up in your hands, and let the water run through it. This will make the particles dissolve and bubble up like crazy. The water will turn blueeeee!

i aint gonna lie, i got this one cos it was limited edition, and there were only prob 10 left, so it must've been popular. hehe

The second item that i got, is the

2. Sugar Scrub (GREEN ONE)

Price: $4.95CAD
Smell: kinda herbal to me. BF said it smells like asian soap bars. O.O

How To Use: She showed me how it worked, and you basically just take a piece of the bar, and crush it up in your hands (to small bits) then scrub it on your skin. It will lather, and when you wash it off, you skin feels amazingly smooth. This was the main reason i wanted to try it. I hope it delivers the same result on the body.

I can't wait to try it out. I will certainly do a review when i get the chance. I'm sure i'll be taking advantage of these since finals are around the corner.

One of the item that i didn't get, but i thought was SOO COOL. LOL was the
Sex in the Shower Emotibomb

suppose to be a hand grabbing a butt the SA said. BF thinks otherwise. USe your imaginaion. LOL

Basically, you start the shower. Turn the water hot, and get some steam going. Then later get into the tub, and place this piece at the bottom, FACING you. The steam and hot water will work to "activate" this bar. It would start releasing steam/vapours, and this very nice scent. PERFECT for couples who want to set the mood, and get a little steamy..ahem..LOL. DEFinaitly ask the Sales Associate to show u how it works, bcos it's so awesome.

-----------

The next thing i want to show you guys are these awesome Stila Lipglosses that i found at Winners. OMG they are SOOO AWESOME, and it was such a bargin. These are my FIRST stila items.

( i don't see names on them, so i guess they aren't named???)

The swatches look funny, bcos the brush was still stiff. After a few use, i'm sure it would loosen up and be fine :)

STILA Lip Envy

Price: $9.99 CAD
Inital Review:

1. pigmentation is INCREDIBLE (better then dazzleglass from MAC in my opinion)
2. not sticky
3. smells like candy

i think i'm gonna love these.

EDIT: i wore them today (baby pink one), and i think these are hands down better than MAC dazzle glass, in terms of formula. I LOVE the fact that it's NOT STICKY at all, and the colour PACKS a PUNCH. i had soup, and my lips still looked STAINED from the lipgloss! i love this one in particular bcos it has no shimmer what so ever. so it gives ur lip this very natural look once it fades a bit.

______________________________

P.S. Is there any LUSH products that you guys absolutely LOVE? i can't wait to try the products!

i already know that i will definately go back to try the:

Ocean Sea Salt (exfoliator, body and face)
BIG SHAMPOO (shampoo)

and that is everyhing........for now. hehe

Thanks for reading my blog! have yourself a wonderful day!

Watson: Bird's Nest Mask

2010-03-27T18:30:00.008-04:00

Hello my lovelies!

Today, i want to tell you about this wonderful mask that my friend gave me. She is actually from China, and goes to school here in Canada. She brought boxes of mask with her, and have generously offered me one to try, and i'm sold.

I've seen actress use masks in those chinese drama, but never thought twice about it. I dont know why i felt the urge to try it one day, so i ofcourse asked my chinese friends.

This is the one that i got to try out:

Watson's Bird Nest Mask

(Watson is the name of the store- my friend described it as the "asian sephora")

Mask Sheets: Are like linen sheets(that are very soft and comfortable) cut to fit your face. They are soaked in a "solution" that's design to penetrate into your skin and give you all that good stuff it claims.

I can't read the back, bcos it's in chinese, so i just googled it, and this is what it says:

What it claims: "For centuries, bird’s nest has been recognized as one of the most valuable beauty supplement. With its nourishing power, Watsons Bird’s Nest Facial Mask leaves your skin silky smooth, with natural radiance."

Benefits:
1. Maintain skins youth glow and fairness
2. Energizes skin to enhance natural resilience and preserve vitality of skin

Amount: 30 ML (that's A LOT!)

Direction:
1. gentle place mask over your cleansed face
2. Leave for 15-20 mins and then remove
3. Gently massage any remaining fluid into your skin
4. No need to rinse
5. Discard mask after use
6. Use 2-3 times per week for best results

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Algae Extract, Aloe Bergael, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Witch Hazel Extract, Extensin N-200, Trehalose, Natrosol 250, Phenoxyethanol, Caffeine, Methylpareben, Sodium Hyaluronate, Pearl Extract, Bird's Nest Extract, Allantoin, Dispotassium Glycyrihizate, Disodium EDTA, Birdnest HB45328

Caution:
Avoid contact with eyes. Rinse immediately with water if it comes in contact.
Do not apply on burned or damaged skin
If irritation occurs, stop use and consult a doctor if necessary

Storage:
Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight

WHERE to Purchase: WATSON, if u live in China, Online (ie.Ebay) if you live else where.

PRICE: I'm not exactly sure. The last time i checked on ebay, one seller sold ONE for 2.50. A box of 6pcs, is around $12-15 from what i've seen online.

How it looks like

this is how it looks like after opening. As you can see there is plenty of the jel-like solution. The sheet was completely drenched. it's neatly folded. A little tricky to open, but the sheet seemed sturdy, so it didn't rip or anything. There is also another layer on the mask, which you later remove after placing the mask on your face. it was so wet and slipperY!

now i might kill myself for posting this online, but today i feel brave. Hence, i hope this doesn't scare you too much..

BEWARE

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.
.
.
.
.
.

you end up looking freaky like this. hehehe. I"d hate to imagine myself bald. Hhahaha
............YEAH, i have no clue what to do with that dangling piece underneath the eye. so i just folded it like such

If you want to get a little more fancy, cut some cucumbers and place them on your eye. Lay down and enjoy some nice music. I had the mask on for about an hour. It was still very wet after 20 minutes, so i figured there wouldn't be any harm to keep it on, while i was on the phone. It completely dried in a hour btw. SO this BABY is SOAKED UP GOOD. :D

The Pros
1. SIGNIFICANTLY reduced/eliminated the dry spots that were flaking on my cheeks
2. my skin felt super moisturized, soft and plumped
3. the sheet is durable and thicker then i imaged ( i don't expect it will tear)
4. the sheet fits my face pretty well, might be big for people with smaller face
5. the sheet is DRENCHED in the essence!( It takes prob an hour to completely dry)
6. cooling sensation
8. Convenient
9. the red patches on my face has lessen and my skin tone looked a lot more even

The Cons
1. Left this weird slightly sticky residue (didn't really bother me though)
2. Slight burning sensation during the first 5ish minute
3. does not whiten (at least not noticeable to me)
4. Softening effect last prob 24 hours. But face remains hydrated for about 2-3 days for me (but has got ridden of the dry patches!)
5. rather pricey for people who don't live in asian countries (12+ for 6pc)
6. not easily accessible and difficult to find for me

On the Side: the smell was..okay? bf said it smells like wet naps. hehe

My Experience

The first thing i should make clear is: If you're looking for something that would dramatically whiten your skintone, this is not it. In fact, i'm not sure if i even see a difference afterwards.

Now that i have made that clear, i do have to say that if you have DRY, FLAKY skin, this thing would be your BESTEST FRIEND. I SWEAR, no cream/ moisturizer, can ever deliver this kind of result in an hour & less . I have been suffering from super dried out skin in random areas on my face. I believe it's due the dry, harsh weather, and all the crap i've been over stressing my skin with. I truly regretted it, and it was so hard to get my face moisted again.

It's a pain because when i go to apply foundation, or powder. NO MATTER how thick of a moisturizer i use, or wonderfully i blended it in, my skin looks cakey and just GROSS WITH foundation. Which goes to say, if your skin is moisturized and soft it really makes a difference when you apply make up

I LOVE this facial mask for that reason. I know that MANY facial sheet mask from asia are wonderful at moisturizing skin as well. This is the only one that i've tried, and i LOVE IT Words can't explain how much i love it.

Would i recommend?

DEFINATELY! It's a great to treat yourself, when you're overworked and stressed! i was super excited to tell everyone about this. I've already ordered a box of different masks to try out. i'm just dying to get my package now. I will definitely update on more MASKS in the future. My next order should be here in 2 weeks latest

If you are curious, i actually ordered a box of the My Beauty Diary Mask online. From all the research that i've done, they are one of the most popular one made in taiwan i believe.

Why DOES the packaging look SOO CUTEE??!

:D

HOPE You enjoyed! If you have any mask that you LOVE, please recommend me some.

THANKS for reading!

FOTD Bronz-ie Eyes

2010-03-26T19:00:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone!

it's been a while since i've uploaded any FOTD. I've been having skin issue, mainly bcos i was stressed out. So my skin re-enacted WWI and broke out like crazy, so it really stopped me from using much make up. ATM it's just recovering, so i'll probably have a few up soon. I can't wait to play with the stuff i've gotten recently!

This was a look i did one night, i went out with boyfriend. I forgot what we did that night, but i decided to play with my eyeshadows, since i haven't been using them

I've been really loving browns, and neutral shades, so this is the results:

I thought my blends were pretty good, but i don't know what went happening. My camera sucks. but i give it credit for still functioning after all the abusing i do :)

WHat i used:

Eyes:

Patina - base
Embark - crease
Sketch - deepen the crease
Naked Lunch - highlight
and
~~Stack 2! - middle lid and inner corner~~
from the Spring Forecast collection, the peachy/coral base shade
(check out my review on this HERE)
OOOPS i LIED, after looking at the photo again, im pretty sure i used COCOMOTION PIGMENT instead i apologise, the stack 2! ive used in a diff look >.<
Maybelline Stiletto Liquid Liner
Define a Lash mascara (pink)

Lips:

Hmm, since this is a while ago, i can't really recall what i used on my lips, but any nude and soft pink colour would look wonderful

Here is the complete look:

LOL my deformed peace sign. Sorry, i had an asian moment. hehe

I think i'll build a neutral palette now. I'm really in love with browns, and corals. AHH..Is there ones that you guys would reccommend?

Saint Patties 2010

2010-03-25T22:59:00.000-04:00

i'm on a blogroll today! it's been a while since i've updated more than once a week..i tend to write a bit lengthy posts when i update once a week, but what do you guys prefer? short quick frequent updates? or just longer once a week kindda thing? hehe

Anywas, this year, i COMPLETELY FORGOT ABOUT ST.PATRICKS DAY!

i know i know..

you must be thinking...

"........soo?? what's the deal??"

well it wasn't a big deal when i was in elementary school, or even high school. It wasn't really a holiday back then, because no one celebrated it. It was like any other day, and i guess it just isn't the THING for "kids". Anyone else felt like this?

But

St.PATTY's day is one of the most exciting day at my University, On St.Patty's day, the buses are full, downtown is full, classes are empty, and the night is long and good.

MAINLY bcos

a) it's an excuse to get drunk at 8.30 in the morning,
b) it gives you an excuse to skip class
c) DRESS-up in ridiculously and sometimes uber cute green clothing, jewels, leggings..etc,
d) MOST important PARTY like you never

I guess...St.Patties is a "BIG KIDS" holiday....don't you agree?

I happen to live in the center of that all. My area can be named the 2nd downtown of the city. Mainly because all my neighbours, and basically my entire neighbourhood are students, attending the college right NEXT DOOR

So YEP, nothing seems to surprise me anymore when i see how crazy students can get. Quite frankly, i feel embarrassed to be a student, when i witness some of the things i do.

Here are some paparazzi pictures i took of how hardcore things can get, ESPECIALLY when the weather is friggin gorgeous

This is a small section of the mess

oh and the cops?? ahh, that's nothing in my area. That day i counted 5 cop cars, 5 police officers walking around, and an ambulance. sadly, nothing i haven't seen before.

However, even after of that, i wish i had remembered to dress up. It would've been fun ;/ I had a date with lovely philosophy essay later on that day. Life can be so sad sometimes...

Aveeno Positively Radiant Makeup Remover Cleanser

2010-03-25T22:32:00.001-04:00

Hello all my lovely bloggers!

I have been slacking. I had this review typed up a while back, but never go around to finishing it. So, since i seem to be having quite a bit of time on my hand atm,i thought i'd catch up on some product reviews!

I was looking for a makeup remover, since i've ran out of the lancome bifical one (WHICH I LOVE) but thought i should see what else is around before going back to it. the Lancome is rather pricy..HMmm, and makeup remover is something i use almost everyday!

SO i was at rexall ( a Canadian drug store ) and decided to give aveeno a try. I know that aveeno is known to be gentle and geared towards sensitive skin, so i thought it'd be suitable.

Aveeno Positively Radiant Makeup Remover Cleanser

Claim: "Gently dissolves makeup and impurities to leave your skin clean and refreshed without over-drying. This foaming cleanser, with moisture-rich Soy extract, leaves your skin soft, smooth and radiant. Oil-free, soap-free and noncomedogenic, this cleanser is gentle enough for everyday use, even on sensitive skin"

Price: 12ish bucks (sry, don't quite rem)

What i have to say about it: this cleanser has definitely impressed me, and i am currently hooked on it. I really love it, and i may have to repurchase

Quick jots:

THE PROS:

-lather easily
-gentle to use around and on the eye area
-not as over drying (read on to know what i'm talking about)
-does leave my skin radiant, clean and polished
-my skin feels soft and smooth like silk
-comes in a pump & good size
-affordable
-smells nice
-skin does not feel "squeaky" (personal preference)

THE CONS

-only sufficiently removes makeup (will not remove All (but most) of your mascara/liner, and especially something "strong" as Mac Fluid Line in black track)

My experience:

i have been using it for a little about a month now, and i do really like this cleanser. I love the fact that its a foam, because i personally love foam cleansers. It makes cleansing feel effortlessly. It smells nice and i love how my skin does not feel dried out after i have used it. I have pretty sensitive skin, especially in the winter season, and it dries out very easily, but this cleanser is quite gentle. At the beginning it didn't dry my skin.

A shot of the product:
THIS is ONE full PUMP (i usually use 3/4 of a pump for entire face)

However, i don't know if it's my skin and all the other products i've been using, but recently this makeupremover made my skin experience a bit of drying after i use it, especially when i use it more than once a day. Though, I think it might be the other exfoliating products i've been using in combination at the period. But overall, nothing a little moisturizing can't fix

When i finish, my skin feels so radiant and it feels like soft to touch. i couldn't stop touching my face the first few times i used it. Though the effect seems to decrease with repeatative usage? What really surprised and impressed me was that it's very gentle to use around the eye area.

Sometimes i refrain from rubbing the products by the eye area, because i'm afraid it will sting, but this cleanser was very eye-friendly. You don't need to use a lot of pressure, just gentle circular motion is enough to get it going. It removed all of my eyeshadow, but not all of the mascara. It did well in removing most of my foundation.

Overall:

i'm use to using a eye makeup remover like the Lancome bifical eye makeup remover before i cleanse. So this isn't a big problem with me. I actually didn't expect it to remove any of my eye makeup at all, but it did very well with removing my eyeshadow and liner. Though, you will still see traces of your mascara with this product.

Recommendation:

i would recommend this for people who wear minimal makeup. It does a decent job in removing make up. Or if you don't mind cleansing your face in two step, you might like this product. If you are looking for a one-step cleanser that removes everything (especially heavy, long lasting, water proof make up), this might not be it

Last words: i like this cleanser, it's one of the best drugstore cleanser, that i have tried, and i was very surprised and impressed. Other than the fact that my skin feels a little dried out after using it recently i would probably repurchase.

Compared to the last foam cleanser that i have used, Estee Lauder Combination Skin , this one is a lot thinner in consistency, but Aveeno beats it hands down, with how beautiful it makes my skin glow after using. The best part is that it's affordable. I usually go through my cleansers very fast (used 2x a day) so price is pretty key.

Mac Liberty of London

2010-03-19T21:26:00.000-04:00

Hi all!

Just a quick update on the new Mac Launch, Liberty of London collection with one of the prettiest packaging this year.

I was able to go to Mac this week to check out this collection, shortly after i realized it was released. I completely FORGOT about it, but thanks to blogspot, and the wonderful bloggers, i realized that it was launched. I was WORRIED that i was late, and that things were sold out, but surprisingly everything was still there? Perhapes the previous launches from MAC made everyone broke. hehe

So the packing is actually White and i thought it was so referring and pretty. Mac should release more WHITE packaging, AS MUCH as i love the black packaging, WHITE is so girly and pretty. Perhapes PINK would be cute as well. But anywas, i'll just show you guys the pictures, instead of yapping on

MAC GIVE ME LIBERTY OF LONDON

i only got two lippies. The rest of the things, though very nicely packaged, didn't really stand out to me. i was disappointed in the eyeshadows, because it was not as pigmented when i swatched it. The colours were okay.

If there is something that i'd recommend getting are the lipsticks and maybe the lipglass. The colours are very bold, very bright, and very spring If you are into nude, and natural colours, you might stay away. There is ONE nude colour, but for me it made me look washed out. Petals and Peacock is a pretty bright hot pink, but i didn't get this one, because i've been getting too many of this shade.

So i came home with this:

Fashion Scoop (look below) Ever Hip and Blooming Lovely

Look blah right?? i don't know why the colours look so blah in the pictures. Maybe it's my camera...But check out temptalia for better swatches

http://www.temptalia.com/mac-give-me-liberty-of-london-lipstick-reviews-photos-swatches

I also picked up a Dazzleglass from the TOO FABULOUS collection.

MAC TOO FABULOUS ( DAZZLEGLASS )

Most of the colours in this collection were very sheer, and light. Nothing bold from what i recall, and most of the colours were within the same shade/tone. Would look nice on nude colour lipsticks

What i got: Fashion Scoop

LOVE it. CREAMY, MOISTURIZING and NON-SHIMMER.

Last Words

That is all for now. If you get a chance, check out the collection. I'd say the packaging is the only hype for this collection. the colours weren't anything FABulous. Nice to get something if you love the packaging. I happen to be in love with PURPLE & CORALS lipsticks, hence what i got.

Thanks for reading, and take care!

P.S. I just want to wish a GOOD FRIEND of mine, babyydollie@blogspot HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Its on MARCH 20th! AND i know she will be reading this post, so i had to make sure to slip this in. Wish i can be there, but nonetheless, hope you have an awesome birthday. <3 u

I thought you would enjoy this:

....Studying + Eating = /

2010-03-13T19:34:00.000-05:00

hi all!

So this is just a short quick update on my random life..

i'm just finished an exam this morning, at 10.00, and i slept 4.5 hours last night.It's not 7.36 pm, and i'm cray tired. My eyes are so tempted to closing, but i can not sleep, because my family is having a party at he moment.

So what have i been up to these days?

i realized that i have gained probably 10 pounds ever since i started dating my bf. Notice how i blame it on him! hahaha, but i truly believe that he is the true curplit! My goal for this year is to lose that weight, so i started to go back to the gym. On monday, i went to the school gym we have. It's very nice and big, i shouldve taken a picture. When i went on the cardio machine, i realized how unfit i was, because within 5 minutes, i felt tired, dizzy, and just thought i was gonna barf and past out! LOL. it's so sad, i was so disappointed in my self, but perhapes i was taking it too extreme for the first time back on the machine after almos a year of not working out! Let's just say it's a combinaion of the both. hehe.

So yes, i realized that dieting is insanely difficult.

FIRST OF ALL.

my biggest obsticle to my bf. He always spoil me with food, and ask if i want to eat anything. I told him countless times that i was on a diet, but he would always ask me "hunni, you want food? fries? bbt? icecream??!" haha....NOW you might understand why things have turned out the way it did. WE always go out to eat, just because london is so boring, and everything seems to involve FOOD!

2nd -

food is so irresistible, i love food. it's so yummmy and FRIES are so hard to resist. WHAT food, you ABSOLUTELY can't resist??!!

3rd -

school does not work with my diet! i wake up early, but don't have time to eat breakfast. i stay up late, so sometimes i need to eat something late, bcos i won' sleep until 1-2. IT BUGS ME when i'm working intesnsly with an empty stomach. My eating habit is no where near stable. It's at he most random time during the day and it always changes. sometimes i'm starving to death, and other imes i'm bloated to death. AHAHA

4th -

i feel like i never have time to work out. i wake up,i go to to school, i study, do hmwk and i sleep. weekends, i just want to relax if i can, but other times i prob have to study bcos i usually have exams on saturday.

That is all i can think of right now but those are the main things.

So my goal now is to:

1. go to the gym more, and make use of my tuition! (it was included)
2. no more pops, or junk food
3. not eating afer 6.ish
4. eat out less! byebye pasta, byebye wings, byebye icecream, you will always have a place in my heart. hehe

SUMMER IS APPROACHING! it's time for workout resolutions!! anyone else in on this?

What do you guys usually do at the gym??

my favourite machine is the :

i'm personally, not a runner. i rather do any cardio other running. I don' know. anyone else feel this way? NONEtheless, running is a great workout, i just feel like it'd make my legs big. hee

i love doing weights as well. i use the dumb bells and those flat cushioned stands to do stetches and "work outs" to help out things like love handles! they are quite helpful and they DO WORK! believe me. SIMPLE things WORK!

the only sad part is, i 've gained i back!...:(

If you want something done, you just gotta do it. Be motivated, and if your not, get motivated. What inspires you??

I know she does:

Lee Hyori:

so i'm aware she may not have the hottest bod out there, but i think she's sexy in every way. If i were a guy, i think i'd be drooling right now. hhaha

Anywass, that will be it for my "quick" update.

I wish you guys all luck in whatever you hope to accomplish. let it be work, school, life goals... etc. jus believe in yourself, and the sky's the limit :) ENDLESS world of possibility

<3 Anh

Pink and Purple NOTD

2010-03-07T17:09:00.000-05:00

hi everyone!

today, i decided to do my nails. My nail was starting to chip and what not, so i thought i paint it before it looks more disgusting. haha..

i was in the mood to use purple today, but i didnt have that many other colours, so i just used pink. Pink and purple always look great together!

Here is the final look:

Here is what i used:

And here are some more pictures!

Highly intoxicated

2010-03-01T13:06:00.000-05:00

i have never been so dependant on coffee in my life, but for the past 4 days, i have been living off coffee, and sleeping less then 5 hours a night.

what i discovered was to stay away from medium sized cup cffee. Apparently my body just can't handle it. I always had a small just to keep myself awake in times of need, but the other day i decided to man in up wwith a medium. Later on the day, i felt so alert, and strangly very nervous and just...wierd. It was like my heart was beating at 913898123 times a second. that'd teach me. LOL

i really dont understand why some people drink it everyday. I really don't like the taste, it's never something i'm craving to drink. I much more perfer a nice fruit shake. Advocado, strawberry or coconut is always at the top of my list especially if BF makes it, bcos it's sooooooooooooooooooo good. hahah

If youve been to a vietnamese resturant you would know what i'm talking about ;)

Anyone live off coffee?

at this rate, i might get addicted. I'm already starting to fall in love with ice coffee.

despite all that i have said about coffee, Coffee Bubble Tea is LOVE HIGHLY RECCOMENDED by moi :D

YumMMmm

besides drinking coffee, i really can't find an alternative to keep myself awake. How do you guys do it??!

P.S. sorry for my lack of replies, i will surely answer them once i get my 8 hours of sleep :D

Cheap Beauty Findings

2010-02-25T15:45:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone :)

I'm not suppose to be blogging right now, but i sooooooo don't wanna read my stats textbook. I have an essay due next week, a business presentation to give, as well as a business law exxam..AHHH......so i don't think i'll be doing any FOTD anytime soon, because i wo'nt be sleeping! haha

Anywas, for the past two weeks, fate has brought make up and i together, even though i intended to stay away.

So i'm here with just a short, dinky post, somewhat of a haul on some findings.

I was at shoppers drug mart the other day and met these babbies

Pink Shimmer & Sugar Plum

A swatch:
Sugar Plum & Pink Shimmer

Quick Review:

The lipstick colour look gorgeous in the tube, and when swatched, but it was a whole new different story on the lips. I'm not too impressed with the packaging either. It's very plastic-y, and it feels cheap. I know it's drugstore lipsticks, but c'mon... i expect better. It has a bit of a scent also, but i find this c'mon among drugstore lipsticks now. It doesn't bother me too much. Other than that, these lipsticks are okay. It was on sale for $5.88

Is there any drugstore lippies brands/colour that anyone really love?? I'm currently in a lipstick phase, and i can't justify splurging on Mac lippies.

The only drugstore lipstick that i really love, and always go back to using is Maybelline Pink Please

* * *

Next, i was at rexall the other day. Rexall in Canada, is another shoppers drugs mart kind of store, and they carry different brands of cosmetics compared to shoppers. I'm not sure where exactly PURE cosmetics is offered around the world, but they are liquidating from Rexall. All the products are now 75% off.

Here is a swatch

OKAY. i tried to look for a name, but apparently PURE does not name there products..HMM...

Quick Review:

Lipglosses retailed at 16.50 ish. Is now $4.00. So i seized the opprotunity to pick up a few. The pigmentation are quite sheer. They smell great (like berries and what not) but ofcousse they don't taste like it. LOL. ..AHEM..**...

THey do have some very pretty shades, but these were the only ones i could get that were STILL SEALED. It was quite a shame, because some of the pink shades were gorgeous, but people touched and swatched it, so i wwas a bit disgusted. :/

Overall. majorly discounted lipgloss, so i was happy. I'm excited to use the purple shade. :D

* * *

Lastly, i was in Chinatown last weekend, and randomly found some MAC. I got all excited as you can imagine. They sold the product at almost half the retail price. I picked up a pigment for $15 CAD, and a lipglass for $10. You can now imagine me walking out the shop with the goofy-est smile on my face :D Item are BRAND NEW, but they were limited in the range of MAC products. They had lipglass, a few blushes, and a good supply of pigments.

I came out with Mutiny, a limited edition released in some collection i can not recall. I really regretted not picking it up then, and i was super happy to have find this.

The 2nd item is a lipglass called She loves Candy released from the Hello Kitty collection. Also another collectiion i truly regret!

So now you guys must be thinking..........how do you know it's authentic? Well i wasn't too sure when i was there either, but it looked pretty damn real. So i took my chance, and came home with it. I compared the pigment (Mutiny) and the other pigments that i have, and the packaging looks exactly the same. Now i'm not too sure about the actual pigment inside. From what i recall, this is what the Mutiny shade loooks like. If anyone has this pigment, please confirm this.

Here is a swatch:
Mutiny and She Loves Candy

gorgeous colour isn't it? i love it. I can't wait to do a look with it.

And this is all for my cheap beauty findings. As you may have noticed, they are mainly all lip products. teehee. Now i'm off to reading my boring old textbook, and getting ready to battle the next few dreadful days of my life.

Thank you for visiting my blog, have yourself a wonderful Thursday evening.

P.S

Random Question:

What is your favourite accessory? Earrings, Necklaces, or Braclets?