Guerlain's Meteorites: Just Glow Already!

Rarely do I ever buy something because of its pretty packaging. 

(........somewhere out there, a fairy just dropped dead.......)

Okay, fine. That's a lie. I DO BUY PRODUCTS FOR THEIR PACKAGING. There. I said it. I like the bells and whistles okay?

I may well have been a cat in another life because I gravitate towards the shiny and the pretty. Which then explains why it doesn't come as a shock that I got myself one of Guerlain's BEAUTIFUL tins of glow power. Yup. I got me some Meteorites! 

A Tale of Two Balms: Dior Crème de Rose et Crème Abricot

It appears that I'm coming in late in the game, but my god- what a find! This sister pair of balms from Dior have been nothing but impressive, I'm kicking myself for not having used it before! Created back in the 1960s, these cult beauty products have been (so it appears) staples in the industry as super performers. 

Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer

The packaging is so full of sheen, say hello to my forehead!

I didn't want to go back to cream foundations initially. I had tried them in the past when I was at beauty school and all I remember from that experience was how greasy and cakey the cream foundation left my face. It also didn't set well without a generous pat of stage-grade powder. It was horrendous. So instead I went down the liquid route. It was all fine and dandy, I even found my colours after years of searching- but with all the new technologies and formulations available since my college days (and the relentless proclamations of Youtube sensation Wayne Goss) I found myself zooming in at the Kevyn Aucoin counter at SpaceNK last week and took the plunge. 

That dent was caused by use. Three times this week. I bought this pot on Monday. CRAZY.

I have read many reviews on Kevyn Aucoin's creme foundation, and most of them great (including Goss' of course!) and so I asked the consultant to try it out on me. She used a sponge (eek!) to blend it out which made me cringe a little bit but the finish was wonderful. It was sheer and light, not at all pancake-y, and the colour was spot on for my winter colour. The foundation also set like a dream. Even though I still get oily around the T-Zone from time to time during the colder months, she didn't have to set the foundation with powder. The cream really did live up to its name as a Sensual Skin Enhancer because despite the intense pigments and the super rich, almost concealer-like texture, it was virtually undetectable on the skin, giving an even finish. I was pleased with it. I didn't buy it right away, partly because I had already spent so much on Christmas shopping and also because the branch near St. Paul's didn't have my colour in stock. I thought maybe it was a sign that I should go away and pray over it first, which I did. I did some more Christmas shopping around Bond St. and with the compliments on my complexion getting to my head- I rushed to South Molton Street and purchased my pot (yes, they had it in stock! I needed that extra hour of deliberation.)

Believe it or not, this amount was actually more than enough!

The pot comes in a shiny and minimalist mahogany packaging, a touch that is so very 90s and very Aucoin- as does the rest of the range. Its no bigger than a lip balm pot but with small packages come big things. This little sucker packs 18 grams of pure, concentrated creamy goodness, super intense and super economical. You only need a tiny amount, with lots of emphasis on 'tiny'. You can either use it neat and really buff it in to blend- for this I apply it warmed up with my fingers and my Real Techniques buffing brush, or mix it with a bit of moisturiser and apply. I wouldn't really use a sponge unless I REALLY have to, but its not a last resort. After all, sponges do not absorb as much cream as they do liquids. I have even used this neat as a spot concealer. 

Overall, I am very happy that I went back to a second store to buy this baby. Since then, I have worn this foundation and received many compliments on the way it looks and the completely natural but flawless finish. I fear, I may have given my favourite liquid formulas a bit of a complex. They currently sit at the back of the drawer waiting for me to get over my Kevyn Aucoin high. 

The little pot of heavn retails for £38.00 and you can purchase it at SpaceNK in-store or online here. I wear shade Sx 11. 

Les Nudes: Chic in a Bottle

Call this the anti-nail revolution. In a time when everyone seems to go gaga over twinkles and spangly nail adornments, I for one, revel in the simple chic factor of the nude polish. It just seems to cleanse the palette y'know? And though I have nothing against nail-art and the DIY bells and whistles, I do believe that when all is said and done- a well manicured set of nude talons will remain timeless, effortless, and more importantly- FLATTERING. In varying times of the year, these colours remain in rotation (including my favourite dubonnet shades of wine and slick navy hues- I guess you can say I like my primary-ish varnishes...) and why not? Think about it. Not only does a well painted nude varnish make your fingers look slimline like delicate tapered candlesticks (trust me, in Filipino culture- that is the pinnacle of elegance), but it also sets off just about every outfit. It just goes with everything. Plus- it doesn't have to stay beige! There are so many wonderful nude shades out there to choose from to suit all skin tones. In fact, let me give you my favourite ones to date. These varnishes have all been tried and tested (and as soon as I finish the bottles- trust me, with these colours, I do- they will be repurchased, wholeheartedly.)

Liz Earle Strengthening Nail Colour in Quicksand- my current favourite 'flesh-tone' nude, and the most recent of the lot. Liz Earle's new nail colour range definitely does impress- with a beautiful, non-streaky formula (I swear, it evens out on its own!), fast drying to a beautiful sheen and a long lasting quality. The beauty of the collection is that it features classically chic colours, both fashionable and practical. This colour in particular is a standout for being ultra-flattering. 

Yves Saint Laurent No.22 Beige Leger- the first of the two YSL standouts, Beige Leger came out in the A/W13 collection along with the two other beiges. This one has a touch of pink to it, which, if you have a fair complexion- would be a fabulous equivalent to what Quicksand does for my tan. It's a soft, muted shell colour that gives enough throwback 60s vibes but also a current quality to it.

Essie Nail Polish in Chinchilly- BEAUTIFUL. This colour has to be the prettiest slate gray shade EVER. Essie never ceases to impress, and this colour is one I shall be keeping in my arsenal for the long run. Perfect for the autumn, it gives the nails a city-living edge- perfect for those who trek the concrete jungles everyday. I mean, those who choose to wear grey, choose to go chic. 

Chanel Le Vernis 505 Particulière- Probably my favourite shade from Chanel (and isn't the colour just so? C'est tout!), Particulière is a lovely minky taupe colour, the darkest of the crop, and provides for a nice change. Yes its in the beiges but its deeper colour offers a great alternative for those looking for a clean polished look but beyond the ivories and the pinks. Also, the idea of sporting rich beige talons is just so Chanel no? However, a note to the wise- make sure to team this one up with a STRONG topcoat (I recomment Dior's Gel Top Coat.) Chanel polishes are notorious for chipping easily. 

Yves Saint Laurent No. 39 Beige Gallery- My favourite shade of greige. If I had to choose, I prefer this one over Beige Leger just because it's grey hue gives it a bit more edge. It's almost a milky, softer version of Essie's Chinchilly but with a touch more cream. I do applaud YSL for keeping these colours, this one especially(!), permanent because nothing gets me going like a madman than brands discontinuing potential and already-cult faves. Furthermore, you gotta love the formula too- fast drying, true colour and dense pigments, and strong. 

Lancôme Vernis in Love in 220M Jolis Matins- Last but not the least is Lancôme's saving grace. This is to date, the best nude in the French pink category. It's the perfect shade of pink for a french manicure, but instead of the traditional translucent formulations, Lancome's Jolis Matins is slightly more opaque. The effect is then giving your nails a good base colour that's just a better version of your actual nail colour- especially when they're looking a little yellow after constant polish wear. I do prefer to paint a layer of mattifying topcoat in between coats to make sure it doesn't streak, but if you want to just go for one coat, it gives a nice effortless finish. Like freshly buffed seashells. This formulation is also near chip-resistant, or at least so far for me. I don't really use alot of Lancôme's products but this polish I would buy plenty times over.

What is your favourite nude nail colour?

All-Time Favourite Mascaras

Like most boys and girls, mascara was the first cosmetic product I ever bought. It was through this gateway piece that I segued into the wonderful world of make-up and to this day, I depend on it. It's a definite must in my make-up bag, and even if I don't have one on hand, I would always carry a little travel size tube in whichever bag I would use. For me, not only does it help frame my eyes, it also helps elongate it by opening up the outer corner of my lashes- getting a more feline, more lifted effect than just plain ol' big eyes. Whenever I'm tired or in need of a pick me up, a coat or two of my favourite mascara instantly lifts my mood and makes me feel like I can conquer the world (to scale of course, so really- just Peterborough...) one smizing flutter at a time. Over the years I have done extensive testing, tube after tube after tube, and I have finally collated my list of wundertubes that have come through with flying colours (all in black ofc.) From left to right, take a look at my elite list of lash heroes!

Le Labo: Iris 39

Yesterday I spent the afternoon treating myself around London- in hindsight, perhaps a little too much, but you only turn 24 once!. I celebrated my on Tuesday and since I usually hog the whole week, Wednesday became the designated shopping day. My sister also happened to be in town for a conference so she took me and my brother out for steak at Hawksmoor, which was AMAZING. Food baby from Regent Street all the way back home! How I wish afterwards that I did my cardio-shopping post-dinner!

I got a few other bits and bobs too though, resulting in what became a very indulgent day (this included a quick stop at Laduree in Covent Garden too!), but after a tough deliberation, I came to the conclusion that I wanted a new fragrance. It's been years since I actually bought one for myself, and buying perfume is one of those really intimate and personal experiences and so I decided to take my time (the better part of the afternoon actually!) to really stop and smell the roses, so to speak. I wanted something subtle, yet sensuous and earthy for the fall/winter season and so I went to my favourite London spot of all- Liberty's! The store houses one of the most comprehensive, lavish and elegant fragrance selection in the city, with some well-known and some more obscure and niche. Directionally, I went with the latter. I wanted something unusual and unexpected- definitely nothing too commercial either so ultimately, i went for Iris 39 from the renowned parfumers, Le Labo.

Blushing Beauty: Tom Ford Cheek Colours

It was like Christmas morning when I woke up today. That is, if Santa regularly rings the front door and asks for my dad's signature in return for the treasure parcels. Nevertheless, these beautiful, gilded chocolate compacts came and I went from groggy morning grump to wonderful and chirpy. I really should take a page out of Linda and say I won't get out of bed for less than $10,000, but since I don't have that kind of commanding power just yet, I shall settle for Tom Ford's premium beauty. 

Now, Tom has a selection of six cheek colours, and out of them I chose these three because they are the best colours that suit my colouring the best IMO. I obviously had to see them in person first, so after months and months of deliberation, I made the move and got the three that I wanted.

Bare Essentials: Let's Touch Base!

After years and YEARS of trying different foundations, *and much money down the drain*, I've narrowed my wardrobe down to these three. I'm still open to trying new ranges from different brands- in fact, I'm currently testing out Dior's and Benefit's selection of bases, (and with positive response!), but in the last year or so, I've realised that I always come back to one of these three foundations. They are about as go-to as it'll ever get for me, and it's been a painstaking ride getting to this point.

Of course like most people, I have a few skin issues at different times of the year. I have found that I can't stick to just one formulation for a long time because my skin changes throughout the year- be it down to moisture levels, dullness, oiliness- and these really are the main three that shape the way I approach my seasonal make-up routine.

Another major issue for me is colour. These three are by no means THE perfect match, but out of all that I have tried and tested thus far, these are the ones that provide the closest match to my skintone without requiring much modification by way of warming up or otherwise. It's also no surprise that these are not cheap. The price points on these items go from £20+.

Though self-service brands seem to be more aware of the need for colour diversity these days, and they still have a long way to go- I still prefer to look at the higher end of the spectrum, those who have the luxury to produce those in-between shades of various undertones, because there's a higher chance for me to find my colour range. I can understand why drugstore brands won't do that, because it is expensive. And so, it's not about snobbery at all from me, as I wish I could find a cheaper (or accessible and available) brand with great colours, but I don't mind spending that much more if it means getting a product that really suits me. Furthermore, these three are suitable to all skin types! For me, that's a MAJOR bonus because throughout year, my skin literally becomes ALL skin types. 

On that note, shall we begin? Let's talk base!

Bedside Favourites: Elizabeth Arden's Eight Hour® Cream Intensive Lip Repair Balm

Lip balms have the same effect to me as foundations, in a sense that- after going through so much leg work, as soon as I find the one (or at least a GREAT one), I stick to it for a very long time. There are so many kinds out on the market and really, where do you even begin? It is so tempting to just hoard and try them all, but after years of doing so and much money spent later- I've finally decided to just buy products that would actually address my skincare/beauty issues and not just because it looks like molten jelly and tastes like jam. 

In terms of lip care, it is pretty simple for me. I like something soothing, and a balm that really does give an intense surge of moisture on my lips. There are days (even weeks) where I actually forget to drink water, and so one can only imagine how dehydrated my skin gets periodically. I also hate having chapped lips, so really I should me paying more attention to my h20 levels, but sometimes...it's just easier to grab a bottle of diet coke or forget to drink anything. I know. Don't judge. 

After being a fan of Elizabeth Arden's Eight Hour Cream for many years, a friend of mine who works at the counter introduced me to the Intensive Repair Lip Balm. The original EHC's formula, though great, can be a little gloopy on the lips and when you're about to go to bed, you don't really want that feeling of products sitting on your skin. It's been a good couple of months since I've started using this wonderful product, and let me tell you- it has been on my bedside as a part of my bedtime ritual ever since. The consistency is thick and rich- almost like an ointment but it goes on like a dream. I would show you the inside but it looks like it's been poked a million times already! ^^

I have been applying this balm religiously, more times than I have ever said my bedtime prayers in my entire life. It goes on rich and balmy (duh!) but never overwhelming, and right away you feel the menthol working as it send your lips into this tingling frenzy.The balm contains many familiar moisturisers such as Shea Butter, Palm Tree Butter, Fatty Acids and Honey which altogether combined creates a smoothing balm that not only softens one's lips- but also smoothes it's texture. Kissable, in other words. It also contains Arnica Flower Oil to help heal chapped skin Salicylic Acid which helps to gently exfoliate, and Vitamins E which is a known anti-oxidant that helps prevent future damage. 

I use it mainly in the evening as I would most skin renewing and repair products, but if I feel like my lips need that extra help during the day, I would keep it in my bag to use when needed. It comes in a nice little screw-top tub that's small and discreet enough and doesn't take space. I also use it cheekily on my cuticles if they're looking a little dry (but then you can do that being that the Eight Hour Cream formula is a multi-tasker.) However, being that it is a tub, it is one of those dip-your-finger-in products so make sure to wash your hands or sanitise prior. 

It retails for £18 and you can get it at John Lewis or any major department store that carries Elizabeth Arden. 

What's your bedside lip care favourite?

LabSeries: Max LS Age-Less Face Cream and Overnight Renewal Serum (Review)

The men's skincare range was foreign territory and I had no clue where to begin. I hadn't ventured into it, not because it didn't appeal to me- it did, but it was mainly because of a debate on just how different it is to the usual skin care products you see on the market. I had once asked a consultant at a counter what the difference is between the normal ranges and the men's, and she told me that basically, apart from male-centric targeted products such as razor relief, tougher pre-shave exfoliants and so and so, these products just have less ingredients. Surely unless the laboratories and the market specify products by gender, these products should be suitable to (quite literally) all skin types? Whatever. Point is, I've always thought about it and I decided to finally go down this route out of curiosity.   For the more savvy beauty folks out there, I would love to hear some feedback on this by the way- but for now in my head I thought, men's skincare is as straight forward as they come.  

Enter LAB Series. I do come across this range on my regular beauty trips around wherever and so I'm familiar with the scope of brand.  Plus on the website it says 'High Tech. High Performance. Skincare for Men. Only'. Well alright then. I found a value travel pack in London that had both serum and face cream in it, and so on an impulse I went for it. It's formulated for all skin types, and right now, since my skin is having a dilemma on whether it wants to stay Combination or Dry, it was the ideal choice. I gave myself four weeks to try it out, all the while reserving judgement, and now the time has come for the verdict! Let me just give you some info from the brand itself regarding this range.

Max LS Age-Less Face Cream, £49.00 (50ml)
"Be Age-Less. Reclaim your younger looking skin. Powered by Sirtuin technology and the science of skin cell longevity, the Molecular Age-Less Complex in Max LS helps erase the signs of aging, in a highly advanced daily moisturizer."

Max LS Age-Less Overnight Renewal Serum, £43.00 (30ml)
"Reclaim your younger looking skin with this intense overnight renewal serum inspired by Sirtuin technology and containing the same Molecular Age-Less Complex as MAX LS Age-Less Face Cream."

So after four weeks, here's my verdict:

Cheating a Holiday Tan

Despite just being back from a holiday, the expected result of 40-degree weather isn't all that evident. Actually, truth be told, I hid under an umbrella the whole time. Why? I didn't want to catch too much of a tan that I would need to get a whole new foundation colour. Silly I know, but since from the neck down I am actually quite fair-ish...I figured I can always just cheat a natural looking glow if I did feel like sporting it. Also, it really was too hot for me not to hide from the sun. I'm not a big sun-worshipper but I like the solar effect, so this way- it's a win-win! So here it is- my instant, faux-glow to cheat that post-holiday warmth. I did get quite a few compliments at work today so that's that job done!

PRODUCTS:

YSL Le Teint de Touche Èclat in BD60

YSL Touche Èclat in 4.5

Chanel Les Beiges in 30

Bourjouis Poudre Brozante in 51

MAC Cheek Colour in Pinche Me

1. Buff in a bit of foundation from the centre of the face outwards.
2. Brighten under your eyes with a peachy-toned illuminating highlighter. Also dab on the bridge of the nose, a tad on the middle of the forehead and on the cupid's bow.
3. Sweep bronzer under the cheekbones, sides of the temples, down the nose and chin. Thin layers create a more subtle, natural effect.
4. I used the Chanel Les Beiges healthy glow powder on the apples of the cheeks- almost as a light blush colour.
5. Finally, sweep the slightest veil of a warm, pinky tone blush on the apples of the cheeks for that slightly hot, warmed up rush of colour.


Try it out for yourself! Happy bronzing!

Everyday Au Naturel

As a beauty post (or perhaps, on a technical point- male grooming) this will come as boring as you can imagine. A natural, neutral look- how easy and predictable! However, from a personal standpoint, it has taken me this long to finally come to terms with what works for me- now that I'm old and all. For guys who are in a more conservative line of work who like wearing make-up (like the one I have now), it's a little restrictive especially if you have such artistic spirit. I get that. 

However, this is the look that I tend to favour these days, not only because of the reasons above but also because its a universally flattering look. It helps build up to a fresh, bright complexion that during the winter season, is frankly hard to attain. I tend to have problems with enlarged pores and acne blemishes and so putting a lot of make-up on just tends to highlight those issues- so this look does not have too much highlighting involved.Or at least, not around the cheek area. I did only target the shimmer on the brow bone and inner eye corner to boost a bright-eyed effect. Colour wise, I chose a warm, peachy swatch that just gives a look of health given this time of year. The overall finish is more matte- with a touch of satin sheen. Finishing off the look, I thought I would bank on my recently fuller brows just by filling in the gaps and following it's natural shape. It's not Lily Collins (I wish) but I feel like it just adds a bit of polish to the overall finish. Tweeze any strays but don't get too carried away! Remember, we want young, full brows- nothing within the realms of Rylan and the Scouse Brow crew. 

PRODUCTS:

FACE: Chanel Perfection Lumière B60, YSL Touche Èclat in 4.5, Chanel Poudre Universalle in 40 Doré, Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage in SC6

EYES: Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Sin, MaxFactor 2000 Calorie Mascara in Black/Brown

CHEEKS: Bourjois Poudre Brozante in 51, Estée Lauder Pure Colour Blush in Peach Nuance, and a bit of Chanel Tweed Corail 20

BROWS: The Body Shop Brow Kit in no.3

LIPS: No.7 Perfect Lips Pencil in Nude 20, Estée Lauder Pure Colour Lipstick in Cafe Chic 77, and Vaseline Lip Balm in Rose

Hope you like it!

Love,

Christmas Spoils!

A few bits from this year's Christmas haul! Navy Flecked Jumper from Primark, Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty by Andrew Bolton, Fleur de Cerise box of treats from L'Occitane de Provence and the Real Techniques Core Brush Set by Pixiwoo's Samantha Chapman. Je suis une happy bunny! xo

Why So Pale? Ah, That's Not Your Colour.

I had quite an interesting day at work today, and a little frustrating at that. Two West Asian girls came to the store to look at some make-up and so naturally I went over to assist. They were about a shade and a smidge darker than me and I am more or less (not even kidding) in between Nicole Scherzinger and Jennifer Lopez- yes, deal with it. In any case, they came in search of the perfect foundation but they kept insisting on trying on the lightest shades we have, and I mean colours within the Aryan colour swatch. Apparently, everytime they go to a counter, the ladies would often give them a foundation that would look too dark for their liking. Fair enough, counter sales people aren't always the best points of consultation when it comes to cosmetics because- let's face it- they (WE) are there to sell. We've all seen the Snicker-bar-ladies haven't we? The point is, perhaps under the harsh fluorescent lighting of Boots and Superdrug they looked a little off-colour. Bearing that in mind, I try a couple of shades on this girl which looked good in daylight. I was happy with it, but ultimately hers was the decision that mattered. Lo and behold- it was still too dark. 'I want to look like, really pale! It's my natural colour you see. Let's try the lightest one you have', she says. Maybe she wanted the Kardashian glow? I go half a shade lighter again, just down the centre of the face and told them that they could use a darker shade around the outside to mimic a glowy, radiant look. Nope, still too dark! Argh! Aggravated, I grab the lightest shade in the spectrum, one that even Nicola Roberts would find still dark for her snowy complexion, and laid it on her cheek....

[Image from Penelope's Oasis]

...ding, ding, ding! Apparently we have found the right colour! Yes. Turns out, these girls were trying to go for Beyonce post-airbrush and lightening, a la L'Oreal True Match (right). At what point do I throw the retail apron off and say that actually, the shade they want made them look anemic and slightly a little Cullen-like? Customers are always right they say, but if I can help them avoid looking like this season's colour block trend, would that be stepping over the line or by principle, doing a good deed? 

I for one like looking tanned. In fact, because my arms and face are more sunkissed than the rest of my body, I have asked Tasha on more than one occasion to help me 'bronze' out so the colour looks even. In the winter I cannot help but be a little pale, but my Bourjois bronzing bar is always at an arm's reach just so I have a hint of colour to cut through the sunless chill. I've never wanted to look fairer than my skin's seasonal graduation, and I don't think I would ever want it so much to go as far as to hook an IV full of derma-bleach either. But maybe I'm just way happier and more content with my natural colouring than most people? I can understand the difficulty of finding make-up to suit my tone because I am neither White or Black or simply Beige. Perhaps this craze has rooted from the necessity to use what was available and make it work. I've read and heard stories of ethnic models having to look white a few decades back because there was no make-up for their demographic on the market at the time. There used to be a cosmetic range in the Philippines in the 90s that literally whitened and bleached the skin upon application. EEEK! Maybe it was acceptable then- but today? With all the current cosmetic technology available, the latest being No.7's skin gadget reader- on top of newer formulas and a vast colour swatch (even with premium ranges), some people still prefer a rather unnatural version of themselves which just  pales in comparison. I always remember my mum (who was born naturally fair- freckles and all, therefore it was only predictable that she won local beauty contests) saying that 'people all over the world-that is outside Asia- work hard to achieve your colour. Be proud of your golden tan!' and so I have been for the last decade. 

This new gadget takes photos of your skin and matches it with the correct shade of base. No more excuses! [Image from Elle UK]

For years I have noticed that there is a craze, a culture trait if you will, with Asians (Western, Eastern, Southeeastern...whatever) and being pale. I'm not marginalising as I am aware there are others who share the same twisted sense, but merely remarking on something that I grew up around. No need to deny it- it's a fact. Growing up in the Philippines, celebrities always strived to look as white as they could as a sign of elitism, wealth and status. Now that I think about it (I am a Classicist after all), this mentality has been around for absolute eons. The difference is, the descendants of Zeus and Boudicca have learnt to embrace the sun, while the daughters of the East- naturally burnished- have forsaken their sunkissed gleam. Hell, they may as well go the full monty and brush on some white lead. If you were born fair, there will always be a slot free for you to be a Muse of some sort at school or even at a pageant. I've always been in-between, a kind of mellow golden, so I've never received any bullying for it...and let me tell you. Some things people say if you are dark can be very hurtful. The Japanese and South Koreans are complete Anglophiles (ahem, Sailor Moon..) while some Western Asians worship the ground Aishwarya Rai walks on because she's fair, and most Filipino celebs go to extreme lengths as far as glutathione IV-drips just to help their skin achieve or retain an alabaster gradient. I never got why they are so crazy with looking more or less Caucasian when Europeans flock to the sun-worshipping continents to achieve the perfect tan. I can't imagine any of these people gracing the Olympic grounds and beaches of Rio in 2016. I remember the last time I went back home in 2006, there was commercial on TV featuring a famous singer advertising this dermatologist/plastic surgeon's products to 'enhance and embrace the real you'. Right. And I'm supposed to feel better about myself?

Unfortunately, I have found that with such people, common sense just isn't strong enough and there's just no way of truly convincing somebody whose mind is already set. It's sad really, especially in an age where everywhere you turn, there's some kind of self-beauty and self-esteem mantra screaming at you to love yourself- popstars and fashion magazines alike. But like weeds that never die, there are still some who exist to warp someone's perception of beauty. Beauty may only be skin deep, but when a person can't even embrace their own skin- how in the world is he/she supposed to reach a nirvana state of self-actualisation and appreciation? It's obviously a deeper issue than just trying to look like you're glowing, but if you really want to glow- glow from within (I know, it's corny but there you go). Make-up is only really there to enhance or to be creative. Feeling good inside always counts for more than what a foundation will ever do for one's self. Just look in the mirror- if you see that it's not the best colour for your skin tone, move on to the next. Don't try to make it work. It shouldn't work, it should just be. 

There. I'm going to get off of my soapbox now and take a breather. However, bear in mind that if I see any of you looking two-toned from chin to chest, you better be wearing a pair of Chanel pumps around your neck or I will go at you with a sponge. Take a cue from Miss Aguilera's Beautiful, and stop listening to your peers. If they want to look paler than they really are, let them.  It's their face and not yours. After all, no one will judge you if you look like your natural self. Compliments are much more likely to be heard, and not to mention- great pride in not looking like you're about to keel over from dehydration and a bad case of mistaken identity. 

Lots of love!

Chanel Vending Machines and Video Boys: Vogue's FNO '12

For Chynna's 18th birthday I decided to take her to FNO for a fun night in the town, and what eighteen year old would say no to cute male models, free cocktails and a chance to shop and rub shoulders with some of London's chicest? I wanted to get some nice beauty goods so tonight was a mix of running errands, a girl's night out and some serious stylegazing.

From a whimsical vending machines at the Chanel Beauty Pop Up to being complimented by some Made in Chelsea girl, all in all I think the birthday girl had a blast. However on my part, I had never felt more detached from this generation's pop culture. I was standing next to this guy who was actually Hugo from Chelsea (I don't watch the show but in the end he looked familiar) and I hadn't the slightest clue. Then while walking down Bond Street just outside Dolce & Gabbana, Chy spotted the dude from one of Rihanna's music videos (a.k.a Dudley O'Shaughnessy). Again, no clue- but he was cute and she was starstrucked so I asked to take a photo of them together. He was lovely and very sweet with fans so that was an extra bonus. I did scream like a little girl when I saw Alice Dellal and her fabulous icon of a mother from two feet away, strutting in sky high heels and nearly tipping on us. Another highlight was finally catching up the always chic Mademoiselle Poirot at the Liberty Scarf Room where we met the year before. It was a mini anniversary!

I went for the Provocante twinset of Allure Rouge Velvet and Le Vernis

...tokens in.. 

...et voila! the magical, albeit slightly creepy yet well-manicured hand comes out to pick it up.

She found love with Dudley..

We finished the night at the West End with Tash and Laura, with a Thai feast for a nightcap. Overall it was a good night. I didn't actually get into it as much as I did last year but it was still fun. We met some very interesting people, including the two guys who sat opposite us on the train. After some small talk over a McDonald's 'to eat or not to eat' sitch, we found out that they were directors who shoot promotional campaigns for hotels and the like. They had just come back from their latest job, shooting footage for a five star Moroccan fusion hotel in Marrakech where they also stayed, enjoying the great perks of the job. Unfortunately I didn't catch a name, but it was late and it went over my head. I think I might just dream the nights away with that beautiful male model bouncer from L.K. Bennett as tonight's leading man.

Hope you had fun last night!

Lots of love, and Happy Birthday to my baby sistah

W Magazine's Kate Moss: Sugar or Spice?

For their March Issue, W Magazine decided to split Kate Moss in half. A beautiful dichotomy of the Good and the Bad (..though perhaps Sultry and Ethereal are more appropriate) appears on the beautiful cover, shot by the wonderful Steven Klein. For the Vampy half, Klein captured a sensual and worldly Moss dressed in leather and lace (how poetic!) and adorned with a voluptuous burgundy pout. Flip that image and out comes a more ethereal, pure Kate- a vision in white and a face gleaming with an angelic sheen. It's almost quite ironic seeing Moss in a Vestal get-up considering the bad girl image she had carved for herself for years! But then again, being blissfully married and having a career that is still running at full steam can be just what the girl needs in her life for the moment. 

W's Editor Stefano Tonchi comments, "As I sat through the spring collections in New York, London, Milan, and Paris, I kept thinking about the dichotomy between 'good girls' and 'bad girls.' It's an old trope that the fashion world loves to recycle every few seasons [...] This season, however, the good girls seemed to constantly stray into bad-girl territory, and vice versa. Designers are too savvy to go for straightforward cliches, and what I found most interesting was the way in which they tweaked familiar archetypes."

I guess that definitely makes Kate the perfect candidate. What a beautiful and happy medium!

What do you think of the cover?

Beauty Haul: Winter Blues

Hello to you beauty-loving readers :) 

It's time again for another beauty haul post, and since I've bought a few items recently and it's been a while since my last post on make-up, I thought now's the perfect time to update. Especially since we are currently in the dead of winter, a time when we need the most care for our skin. It's cold and drying, and because the sun is rarely ever out, my complexion is in a rather complex state of sallowness and is in need of constant pepping. During the winter months, as with everybody else, my skin tone is lighter, therefore I always need to have a winter foundation alternative. It never really bothered me before but because I bought my NARS Sheer Glow Foundation last summer, of course it will look a bit more 'orange' around this season. And I'm not really bronzing as much either so, instead of trying to even out my darker complexion by bronzing head to toe, I decided to scope out some possibilities in the foundation area that would allow me to enjoy my lighter winter complexion. Along the way, I picked up a couple of extra bits and bobs to add to my stash. I like to rock dark blues and navys during winter, and although sometimes I look like a cross between Jenny Humphrey and Jared Leto, I tend to pull it off moreso than in the summer months. Plus I don't sweat eyeliner down my face. HUGE PLUS. 

So here are the things I purchased:

- Chanel Perfection Concealer in 40. I used to think that when it comes to under eye make-up, Touche Eclat was the shizzle. Often I find that light-reflecting concealers just look TOO white on my skin tone, and although there are more shades out there in the market, most of them still look a bit too pink. Not ideal for covering dark shadows. This concealer from Chanel was probably the priciest one I've purchased in a while, but it does the job to a T. It's light and it allows for building up product without looking caked on. The colour is more yellow-based so it's perfect for countering dark shadows and it lasts for a long time. It doesn't cake along the lines either so I don't look like I have tons of wrinkles unlike what other brands tend to do. 

-Bourjois Poudre Brozante in 51. It's the perfect, non-bank breaking matte bronzer out there in terms of drugstore make-up. The colour is great for most skin tones because it's not too orange or too 'bronzing'. It's subtle and can be used for light contouring as well as giving yourself a sun-kissed look while walking around the Northern climes. 

-Bourjois Bio Detox Foundation in 58. Oh my god. I have been singing praises of this foundation for weeks now! It's so good! The liquid formula is light and it gives a nice semi-matte finish that stays on for the whole day. The coverage is around...medium? but because it is so light and buildable, it is like applying fresh, smooth skin. It's not too beige as far as tone but its a good mix of yellow and orange, perfect for evening out my winter complexion. I find that if my skin looks particularly well on a certain day, I can just mix half a pump of this with my moisturiser and it makes for a great pep-up tinted one. 

-Bourjois Bio Detox Concealer in 3 Bronze to Dark. I find that my Chanel concealer works better with the foundation than this one. Maybe I just chose the wrong shade, but what I find with most drugstore brands, is that there is such a WIDE gap in terms of concealer shades. Maybe it is asking too much but I do expect that with the usual 'token' dark shade, that it would be fine. I haven't used it as much since I got it, partly because it is a shade darker than my foundation so maybe I'll save it for the summer when I'm darker. It works well when I mix it in with my moisturiser though for an everyday, light base if I'm just at home. 

-Bourjois Ombre Eyeshadow in Gris Eclat. There's a trend right? I guess I lingered too long in just one bay at Boots! I'm not biased about Bourjois at all, it just happened that most of the things I liked were from their line. This shadow is a nice shimmery, charcoal grey. Bog standard smokey colour but with a shimmery punch. 

-No7 Stay Perfect Nail Lacquer in Betty Blues. BEAUTIFUL shade of midnight blue with subtle flecks of glitter. A great alternative to black or red if you're a strict, dark vampy nail colour fan-which I am. I usually use a gold-flecked, clear top coat from Avon to get a midnight, starry sky effect. 

-Revlon Matte Eyeshadow in Blue Riviera. Again, it's a great alternative to the usual blacks and greys for smokey eyes, and its matte. How rare! Good matte shadows are almost unheard of in the field of drugstore cosmetics, and while it's hardly MAC-quality, Revlon's matte range is great for its price and efficient availability. They have a great range of colours to choose from as well. 

Just quickly going back to winter foundations, I actually had a browse around Harvey Nichols to sample a few choices. At the moment, both Chanel and Lancome have released new lines to cater for a wider range of skin tones and since I wasn't about to drop £30 odd quid on the spot at the counter, the ladies were kind enough to give me some sample pots. I told them I wanted to play around with it before I commit to a full bottle, and under my trusty skylight. Any good make-up artist will tell you to always test foundation under good daylight and the lights they have at counters are actually the worst, so keep that in mind. 

      

-Chanel Perfection Lumière Foundation in 50. Easily the best foundation I've tried and tested to date. I can't fault it. The tone is a perfect beige/tan and the finish is as light as a dream. The foundation gives a medium coverage but again, it's as light and unnoticeable as skin. Definitely buying a bottle once I get my pennies in order. 

-Lancôme Miracle Teint in #055. It's a little heavier than Chanel and the cover is from medium to full. Definitely one for a photo-heavy evening or event but for an everyday base, I thought it was too much. 

-Laura Mercier Oil-Free in Suntan Beige. It's quality is similar to Chanel's and so is the price actually. I thought it was a good balance of light to medium coverage, and the fact that it is oil-free means it's a perfect choice for oily to combination skin types like myself. 

...finally

-MAC ProLong Wear Foundation in NW35. This foundation has all the favourable qualities you can imagine. It's light, perfect for combination skin, has a semi-matte finish and is the most affordable out of all the high-street brands. It's another perfect choice. 

Overall, I can say that I am happy with this current roster of favourites. I'm not a snob when it comes to make-up, not really. Especially since I'm in no position to buy everything from Tom Ford, but when it comes to the very basic elements of my kit, I like to really test and try out good quality brands because they are priced as such for a reason. At the moment, I constantly find myself veering away from having a full-face of make-up and most of the time I just make sure that my overall complexion looks healthy and polished. So, instead of splurging on things like eyeshadows and lipsticks, which I hardly ever use now, I just invest in a good selection of bases and concealers which I use everyday. You have to pay for the good things in life you know? Or at least, when it comes to cosmetics, for me, this rule applies heavily. No pun intended :)

Lots of love!

Beauty Notes: Daily Essentials

I've never really written a Beauty post before, which is surprising considering how much of my loan I spend on products I primp my face with, so on that note, here is a little post on my daily essentials. 

My beauty regime has drastically changed over the three years that I've been in uni, partially thanks to some self-actualisation and a bit of major introspective reflection. Gone are the glittery days of my teenage years, way back when I could get away with silver glitter at 11am ready for Friday Mass at my Catholic Alma Mater. Right now, after years of trying to achieve my golden mean, I have finally managed to get the basics down and just keep to the bare minimum (but not so minimal it's pale and sickly!). Over the past couple of years, I realised that there was no way that I would get any employment post-University if I came out into the world looking like a gender-confused fashionista ingenue. Granted that I would love to look like that till I see the waning of my twenties, I decided to look at things from that perspective. My golden mean was a look that says 'grown-up and polished, but still with a bit of pizzazz', but every now and again I would let my inner Anna Piaggi out and throw caution in the air. Whenever that happens I just rationalise and say, "You're still a student! Make this year count and get it all out of your system!", so out comes the occasional smoky eye, or wine dark lips. And why not? Live a little! If there is a single artistic stroke in my body, I would confidently say that it would be the perfect, graphic MAC fluidline liner that I draw on my eyelids every morning. 

So here's my list of daily beauty essentials. Have a look and know that these come highly recommended!