DandelionDazzle

Clinique Bonus Time!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 10:10:00 +0000

Oh yeah!

It's March and I guess it is time for another Clinique Bonus Time!

For a minimum purchase of 4,500PHP, you get a mini 3 step system (number 3), a Moisture Surge which is good moisturizer for dry spots/skin, All About Eyes, an eye cream which I am dying to try and a mini Long Last Glosswear SPF 15 lipgloss. PLUS an absolutely delightful mini pouch!

The promo runs from March 12 to March 31 in Clinique counters in the Philippines.

The pouch is so cute I can't wait.

Jenica x

Want List Wednesday #7: Betsey Johnson for Sephora by OPI

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Knowing Betsey Johnson's designs, this collection screams fun, loud and pink!

This collaboration with Sephora by OPI includes seven full sized nail polishes, a six piece mini nail polish set, fun nail designs and trend tips.

Top Row L-R: Forever Wild, Pushing your Luck, Its My Pink!, Sparkling Personality
Bottom Row L-R: Alley Cat, Cartwheels on the Catwalk, XOX Betsey

The "Its My Pink!" color even smells like her newest fragrance Too Too! I really like pastel colors so I think I would choose Cartwheels on the Catwalk and XOX Betsey, but I want them all!

Here are the other ones included in the collection:

Sephora by OPI Betsey Johnson Mini Polish Set $24.50
Includes:

Son of a Gun (metallic charcoal) (mini kit exclusive)
Yellow My Name is Betsey (yellow) (mini kit exclusive)
Too Too Turq (turquoise) (mini kit exclusive)
Pushing Your Luck (red)
XOX Betsey (sandy nude)
Alley Cat (fuschia)

Sephora by OPI Betsey Johnson Trend Tips Designs $12
Includes:

Skull
Cheetah
Lips

Sephora by OPI Betsey Johnson Nail Designs $5
Includes:

Cherries
Lightning Bolts
Bow Patterns

So, who's excited like I am? I can't wait for its launch on March 1st! It will be available in Sephora and sephora.com.

Jenica x

Source: Musings of a Muse

High End vs. Low End: Blotting Papers

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:37:00 +0000

I KNOW THAT I HAVE BEEN MIA FOR 2 MONTHS. I am truly sorry for that, but don't worry I am back on track!

Its around midnight now while I'm writing this and I might probably finish this in the morning. I am currently downloading Glee songs on Tap Tap Glee that are included in the promo. It is for free so why not wait a little longer before going to sleep eh?

Anyway I have here another set of products to compare which are blotting papers. (just in case you did not already know from the title which has a very minuscule chance from happening)

The two brands that will go head to head are the Tatcha Japanese Blotting Papers and the very famous Clean and Clear Oil Blotting Sheets.

First of all, I know that they are made from different materials, one being made with paper and the other one with plastic.

Well, let's break it down one at a time.

Clean and Clear:

"Instantly remove excess oil. Won't smudge makeup. Softer than paper, these silky sheets leave your skin feeling refreshed by instantly removing excess oil and shine from your face, without smudging makeup or leaving behind powder."

My Thoughts:
It is cheaper compared to the other one as it costs only 110 PHP if I am not mistaken. Plus it does the job, takes the oil from my face completely but I find that I have to use another sheet given the oily face that I have. Well, if you have combination skin, this may do the work for you. It does not smudge makeup too.

Tatcha:

"All-natural leaflets which absorb excess oil without disturbing makeup for petal fresh skin anytime, anywhere. Will not steal moisture from the skin or disturb makeup. Powder-free. Fragrance-free. Pulp-free."

My Thoughts:
Well, this is quite expensive, it costs more than 500 PHP. It is handmade in Japan and it has gold flakes in it I thought that the gold flakes does not do anything about the oil, but I also thought that it made a great design! One thing that I noticed compared to the Clean and Clear one is that it is bigger in size and therefore more accommodating to oily skinned people like me. Another plus is that it is biodegradable as it is paper.

Tatcha Beauty Paper: Top
Clean and Clear Oil Control Film: Bottom

This is a picture of how it looks like after use. (I know it's gross) See how the Tatcha one has gold flakes on them?

Packaging-wise:

They both have flaps for closure but the main difference is that the Clean and Clear has a tape on the top so that the film will hold on to it and you don't have to pick it up and get double sheets. But the problem is, more than one film gets stuck on the tape, defeating the purpose of it anyways.

Overall, I think they are both great and it is just a matter of choice between your budget and the environment. Let's leave it at that.

Jenica x

Want List Wednesday #7: My Christmas Wishlist

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 23:00:00 +0000

I am so sorry for practically being nonexistent for more than a month. I have just been occupied with school and refocusing on my priorities.

Anyhoo, Christmas is just two weeks away and I think it is about time that I share with you what I want for Christmas. You can share yours too and I might find something good!

Beauty:

1. Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette

- I still don't have the first one and I already want the next! This feels like the most awaited sequel since Sherlock Holmes. It has a black color added to it for the smokey eye or to serve as a liner. Again, like with the release of the first which was I believe two years ago, it is sold out by the second. It is currently available at urbandecay.com

2. Clarisonic Mia 2

-Continuing on with the sequels, here is a better Clarisonic. It has a pulse timer to let you know that your 60 seconds is up and has 2 speeds to cater your needs. I've always wondered why the original Mia's price was lowered to $119, and this answers my question.

3. Clinique Better, Brighter Skin ($70 Value)

-This set is from Sephora. I have been experiencing post-acne spots and I thought this might help in achieving an even skin tone. This set is really a good value because it has a full size Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector plus a couple other items and a free bag.

Non-beauty:

Well, I only want one item. I have been really into the musical Wicked lately, even though I haven't seen it yet. I have watched countless videos on Youtube and I am endlessly listening to the soundtrack and I am hooked. So I wanted to read the original novel by Gregory Maguire.

Excited for Christmas! Although I might just get one item and that is the book. Well, its still nice to have a wishlist. What's on your wishlist?

Jenica x

Want List Wednesday # 6: Benefit's Hervana Blush

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:34:00 +0000

In line with Benefit Cosmetics's launch here in the Philippines which is next month btw, I have recently found out that they have a new blush coming out this February 2012! I know it is still too far from that date but you'll never know because of how fast time flies!

Without further ado, I introduce you to Hervana!

I would like to think of it as Sugarbomb's baby sister. It is also a combination of 4 colors namely shell, peach, rose and berry to create that heavenly flush of enlightenment as what Benefit describes it.

It is housed in a purple box with clouds and rays of the sun on it, along with a halo on top of the name! It also says good karma in the front so I guess this color will make you feel heavenly while applying it.

This will look great either applied together or individually.

Look at the promo! So cute!

Can't wait for February!

Jenica x

Sources: Makeup4All, Beaut.ie

Tag: What's Your Nail Style?

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:16:00 +0000

I haven't done a tag post in a while so I am happy that there is a new one out there! This tag is from ElleandBlair.com and you can view Elle's answers here.

Here are the questions and my answers too!

1. What’s your favorite nail polish company?
-OPI, because of the big brush and fun colors that they have.

2. Glitter or no glitter?
-No glitter, it's a pain to take off.

3. OPI or china glaze or Essie?
-Haven't tried China Glaze but I am still going with OPI here.

4. When do you start to take off your nail polish?
-When it starts to look bad, I don't mind a few chipped nails but if it already looks horrible I would repaint it.

5. What’s your favorite color on your nails?
- a light pink color (like OPI Pinking of You)

6. Darks or brights?
-brights.

7. What are you wearing on your nails right this moment?
-not wearing anything on my fingernails but I am wearing Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in Mudslide.

8. Matte nails—in or out?
- I haven't tried it personally but I love the matte look so I think it's in.

9. French manicures?
-Sure! I love them.

10. Favorite fall color?

-Teals or Nudes.

Here are the questions if you want to answer them too!

1. What’s your favorite nail polish company?

2. Glitter or no glitter?

3. OPI or china glaze or Essie?

4. When do you start to take off your nail polish?

5. What’s your favorite color on your nails?

6. Darks or brights?

7. What are you wearing on your nails right this moment?

8. Matte nails—in or out?

9. French manicures?

10. Favorite fall color?

Hope you enjoyed this!

Jenica x

A Non Make Up Post...

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 10:35:00 +0000

Happy long weekend! I am pretty much enjoying my little break from school. Its a nice feeling to have when you wake up and you are free from school obligations, well at least for a week.

it feels relaxing already just looking at it

Last night I was browsing through my Bloglovin account when I came across Fee from Makeup Savvy's post which was taken from Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog' post which you can view here. It is basically a post about questions on random things. I think of it as a tag but not quite because it really is not a tag.

I thought that I would like to answer those questions on here too!

1. Mood:
tired, hoping for a better day tomorrow

2. If you could dine (for free) anywhere in the world tonight, where would it be?
I would be very happy if I could go to Italy and eat pizza. I have no specific restaurant, but I am really craving for pizza and its for free anyway so why not?

3. Do you have any siblings?
Yes. A younger brother and sister.

4. If your pets could talk, what would they say about you?
The thing is, I don't have a pet but If I do (which is very unlikely because I am afraid of animals) my pet would probably say that I am not a good owner.

5. Which one do you follow most often, your heart or your head?
I would probably say that I follow my head more often.

6. What are three songs on your road trip playlist?
LMFAO-Party Rock Anthem
Cobra Starship- Good Girls Go Bad
Jennifer Lopez- Invading My Mind

7. Would you consider yourself renowned or famous for anything in particular?
Hmmm, I am trying to think about something but I guess nothing comes off my mind at the moment.

8. Your favorite place for dessert?
Starbucks.

9. Scariest movie you’ve ever seen?
I really hate scary movies because they don't let me sleep for a week and that's the minimum duration. The last movie I saw was The Grudge and I never saw anything else since then.

10. Weekly goals:
To Zumba at least twice a week before I get out of habit, to blog and to clean my room.

1. Mood:
2. If you could dine (for free) anywhere in the world tonight, where would it be?
3. Do you have any siblings?
4. If your pets could talk, what would they say about you?
5. Which one do you follow most often, your heart or your head?
6. What are three songs on your road trip playlist?
7. Would you consider yourself renowned or famous for anything in particular?
8. Your favorite place for dessert?
9. Scariest movie you’ve ever seen?
10. Weekly goals:

Feel free to post this also on your own blog or in the comments below!
Hope you are having a great weekend.

Jenica x

Benefit Cosmetics Opening Soon!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 13:45:00 +0000

Hey there Filipino readers!
I just subscribed to the Benefit Cosmetics Philippines mailing list and got the news that Benefit is opening on DECEMBER 15TH AT GREENBELT 5!!!

I am so excited for this as Benefit is one of my favorite brands!
The store will have all of the products that Benefit currently offers plus more because it includes a...

You can also subscribe to the mailing list, just send your name, email and contact details to facebookph@benefitcosmetics.com. It includes an electronic coupon to a free brow waxing! The coupon will be sent at a later date.

Not sure what products to get? Check out my post here.

Hope you are all excited as I am!

Jenica x

Blend With The Trend: The "No Makeup" Makeup Look

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 06:47:00 +0000

It is officially my sembreak! I'm so happy. I think my school might win the award for the most number of school days award. I feel like I am back on track after those seemingly endless nights of reviewing for final exams.

This fall season, I have heard and read that the "no makeup" makeup look is a big trend. It is basically a look with very minimal products on. Basically, the concept of this look is to achieve an even skintone, a gorgeous flush and a radiant finish. I also think that this would be perfect for those girls who hate wearing makeup or for those who just want to have a natural look. Its like your face, but better I would say. I feel that this look is very appropriate for school because of its subtlety.

Like in these pictures, we want to look polished and au naturale. Here are some of my thoughts on how to achieve this look and be a barely there beauty.

FACE
An even skin tone is the key to this look. Of course we don't want to look like we have a mask on. (unless it's Halloween)

1. Moisturize your skin- Especially if you have dry skin, dry patches would just be emphasized if you do not. It also makes the makeup apply smoother.
2. Try a tinted moisturizer or a BB cream if you have great skin, or for blemishes put on concealer first then the tinted moisturizer. Remember to blend the edges to avoid visible lines.

3. Use a cream or gel blush for a more natural finish. Apply with your fingers on the apple of the cheeks and then blend toward the temples.
4. Powder the areas that would be oily by midday but if you have dry skin, you can skip this step. However, in this humid weather of ours, I really would recommend putting on a dusting of powder.

EYES
Don't put shimmery eyeshadows or eyeliners because that is not the case in real life.
1. Eyeshadow- If you can, I would really just want to skip this step. However if you must, just apply an eyeshadow color that is a bit darker than your skintone to your crease to define it. Do it very very lightly.
2. Eyeliner- Again you can skip this step but if you like to do it, do tightlining. It is when you put the liner just on the very roots of the lashes. You can push the lashes up and put the liner on the inner rim or just put it in between the lashes.
3. Don't forget to curl your lashes for that more awake look.

4. Mascara- Put one or two coats and if you don't have a lash comb like I do, just run your fingers through the lashes to get rid of the clumps. You must remember to put it ever so slightly that people won't notice that you have mascara on but they will say that you have nice lashes.

LIPS

Don't even think about doing the whole lip liner, lipstick, lipgloss combo. You just want a subtle color that wouldn't make you look washed out. Think about tinted lip balms that are always good to have because you are moisturizing your lips while still having a good wash of color to your lips.

Now you can do the barely there beauty! Its nice to be back.

Jenica x

How Adorable! MAC and Miss Piggy Collection!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 15:37:00 +0000

I saw this on various blogs and I was so ecstatic about it because I love Miss Piggy!

Icon. Actress. Supermodel. Chanteuse. Muse. Frog-o-phile. Cinema and television superstar nonpareil. Generous glamour goddess that she is, Miss Piggy is sharing her beauty with the world via a limited-edition, online-exclusive, M·A·C collection for the eyes in celebration of her much anticipated return to the silver screen in Disney’s The Muppets, in theatres November 23. Say “oui” to Miss Piggy for M·A·C today!

It launches on November 14, 2011 online in the US and in select countries only.

Well it only has 3 products: an eyeshadow, a liquid liner, and false eyelashes. I thought it would be a bigger collection, but I guess not.

Here are the products:

Eyeshadow: Miss Piggy Pink ($15 US)

Penultimate Liner in Rapidblack ($17.50 US)

#36 Lashes ($15 US)

Would you be purchasing this collection? They are not very unique products so I guess some would be purchasing them just for the heck of it! :)

Jenica x

From: Temptalia

Want List Wednesday #5: Make Up Forever Holiday Collection 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 07:40:00 +0000

I never wanted a whole collection in months until this one came out. Well, most of the collection that is. You know Make Up Forever, it really isn't that cheap. The ones that I am going to show you are the ones that I am dying to get, how I wish. You can view the rest of the collection here, and btw, Sephora is the exclusive retailer of these products.

1. Wild & Chic Best of MAKE UP FOR EVER Kit

This products has six products in it which includes the bestselling ones. I personally got drawn into it because of the aqua creams and the HD powder. Nonetheless, these are their bestsellers and who doesn't want to try them? This retails for $55 and has 3 full size and 3 travel sized products.

2. Wild & Chic Aqua Cream Collection

OH. MY. GOSH.

Retails for $175, includes a blending brush and a black metal clutch.

That is all I can say. The picture says it all.

3.Wild & Chic Aqua Eyes Collection

This pencil eyeliners are claimed to withstand extreme weather, and are waterproof. I think this would be perfect for the humid weather here. This is a great way to try the eyeliners because it is much cheaper and has different colors. This one retails for $36.

So, what holiday collection do you like most?

Jenica x

September Favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 11:48:00 +0000

Hello everyone! It is now October and I haven't done a favorites post in a while as I have not acquired new stuff that much recently. One of these I purchased at the end of August, and the rest are what I already have.

Benefit Coralista

-As I said in a tag which you can see here, I had only one blush which was this one. In the back of my mind, I was imagining your thoughts. I mean, its obvious that this is my favorite one because this is the only one I have, but I wasn't wearing blush that much back then. It is during this month that I was constantly using it, almost everyday. So I guess, the favorite part here really, is putting on blush. Case closed.

Coralista with the brush I never use but still keep

This blush is a peachy pink color with gold shimmer in it. It doesn't have specks of glitter like what I had imagined when I purchased it last year so I was relieved. Not that a glitter infused blush is bad, it really is just a matter of preference. It really gives a natural flush to the cheeks and is pigmented. I would say that this blush is great for all skintones.

in direct sunlight in which you can see the shimmer

in natural light

heavy swatch on left; blended swatch on right

Revlon Colorburst in Rosy Nude

-This is the item that bought during the end of August. I really love this color that I wanted to make an August Favorite post but it really does not make sense since I practically bought it towards the end of the month. It is a pinky-brown color which is great for everyday wear. I find myself using it almost 5 days a week. Plus, it is in the Colorburst line which I really love because of the great pigmentation and affordable price.

i swear it does not look red but it kinda does here

lip swatch

again, does not look red in real life :)

MAC Studio Finish Concealer in NC35

look, I've hit pan! yay!

-I have to say that this product is really worth the money. I bought it during Christmas time last year, and I am still halfway through. This product truly justifies the phrase "A little goes a long way." I have blemishes like twice or thrice a month, acne scars and discolorations and this really helps it. It is a pot concealer so it is more on the thick side. It does not slide on your face throughout the day and keeps things that you want covered, covered. Well, it is still there but it covers so well that it brings it to minimum. I really recommend you to try this.

I hope you enjoy this and let me know what are your favorites this month!

Jenica x

Dazzle Review: NARS I Will Survive Set

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 14:04:00 +0000

Hello again everybody!

In my previous post I did a mini haul on the NARS products that I got. These are my first NARS products that is why I am so excited about them!

I got them from Nordstrom for $55 through House of Flair's preorder system since I cannot access Nordstrom locally.

Included in this value set are three products: NARS blush in Deep Throat, lipgloss in Deep Throat, which is exclusive to this set and Velvet Matte lip pencil in Sex Machine. I know, the names are a bit awkward. When you receive this set, you will see that it is housed in a NARS box. Inside, the products are safely situated in a black foam with a velvet material at the front. Now onto the review:

1. Deep Throat Blush

front part of packaging

back part of packaging

This products retails for $27 individually all year round. It has 4.8g of product which is too little of a product for its price in my opinion. Then again, I purchased the set because of this due to the fact that NARS blushes are really a cult favorite. I decided that I want to give it a chance.

Deep Throat is described as a peach color with shimmer by Sephora and a flirty, sheer peach by NARS. I would describe it as a blend of peach and pink with gold shimmer. I thought that it was going to be similar to Benefit Coralista, but Coralista has more coral blended into it than peach.

I don't know if you can tell that there are gold sparkles seen in the pan, but not to worry as this one does not really transfer to the face. It leaves a golden sheen that is very minimal but when it hits the light its very pretty. You don't have to pack the color as this blush is very pigmented. You need about 2 dips for each cheek and that is it. This blush lasted for about 5-6 hours on me with slight fading after about 4 hours, but the color that it gives you when it fades is like you are blushing from within.

left: heavy swatch, right: blended swatch

2. Deep Throat Lipgloss

The included lipgloss is specifically to this set only. The lipgloss color is a bit different from the blush because it has more pink to it than peach and it is slightly darker. It also has a golden sheen to it. It is not as sticky as a MAC lipglass and it definitely lasts longer. It has a semi-sheer formula, meaning the color still shows through. The application is also a breeze, its super smooth and it lasted on my lips for about 4 hours without eating nor drinking. It has 7g of product and retails for $24 individually.

3. Sex Machine Velvet Matte Lip Pencil

I never had a lip pencil, much more a jumbo one so I was excited about this one too. I did not know how it feels, how it applies etc.

This is a pink-mauve color. It really looks more brown than mauve in the packaging, but when you swatch and wear it, the mauve-y-ness shines through. Even though they say that this is a matte product, there is still glitters in it. I mean this is not glossy, but still it has glitters. Hence the Velvet part, perhaps.

NARS says that the Sex Machine Velvet Matte lip pencil has the application of a lipstick with the convenience of a pencil. They were right. It is a very convenient product because it is like putting crayon on you lips. You get a precise application too because it is a lip pencil but it feels like a lipstick. However, you can really tell that this product is expensive because for $24, you get 2.4g of product. Boom.

left: sex machine velvet matte lip pencil
right: deep throat lipgloss

bare lips

deep throat lipgloss

sex machine velvet matte lip pencil

Hope you enjoyed this post!

Jenica x

Pink Power: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 06:18:00 +0000

Its the 1st of October, which means Halloween is coming up which I am really excited about. Also, this month is dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness. It is a yearly international health campaign every October to increase awareness of breast cancer and raise funds for research. This campaign also provides information and support to the ones affected by breast cancer.

a pink ribbon is the international symbol for breast cancer awareness

As support for the campaign, one can wear a pink ribbon, wear a pink shirt or any pink item in general or buy pink products that will donate part of the profits for the cause.

Here are some products that will participate in this campaign:

1. Essie nail polish in Raise Awareness

- if you haven't got a pale pink polish in your collection or just want to add this pretty one to the bunch, this will surely make your nails look good while heping at the same time. Essie will be donating a portion of the profits to Living Beyond Breast Cancer.

2. Sonia Kashuk Proudly Pink Five-Piece Purse Brush Set

- this brush looks really cute because of the pink bristles plus its good for travel. 15% of the paid price will go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

3. EOS Strawberry Sorbet lip balm

- Of course, a pink sphere shaped balm wouldn't hurt. The lip balm brand has been making waves due to the cult following of the product. This is a good way to try it if you haven't. They will donate 5 % of the US sales to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. So, US shoppers, go ahead and purchase this one.

4. Bobbi Brown Pink Ribbon Collection High Shimmer Lip Gloss & Lip Color

-this one might set you back as it is more expensive than the other ones I found but you get a beautiful neutral pink lipstick and a shimmery pink lipgloss. It is Bobbi Brown, so I think these products will be worth the purchase. Bobbi Brown will donate $10 from each set to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

5. Conair The Power of Pink Collection

-the Conair online store has a whole collection of pink straighteners, blow dryers, rollers and more especially dedicated for Breast Cancer Awareness. Conair will donate a minimum of $100,000 to the Breast Cancer Reasearch Foundation based on the sales of Conair products. Every dollar of the item purchased will go to the cause.

6. Stila Girl Travel Palette Empowered In Pink

-this is an Ulta Exclusive palette. It includes four eyeshadows and convertible lip and cheek color. Proceeds will also go to the Breast Cancer Awarness Research Foundation.

Let us help in raising awareness for breast cancer and help in any way that we can.

Jenica x

Mini Beauty Haul

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 10:01:00 +0000

Im back with a haul! Well, a super mini haul, because I technically bought one item, well, I bought another item but its for my skincare so I thought it isn't that exciting, but its is a set so it has really more than one product in it. Did you get what I mean?

I'm sorry I have been MIA for a week, its just that this time is all about the completion of requirements for school. This may continue (the sporadic blogging) until the end of the semester in October so I am apologizing in advance.

Now, onto the haul.

I got this set from NARS, and it is called the "I Will Survive" Set.

It is a limited edition set which costs $55 and I got it from Nordstrom which is still available here. For local readers, I got it from House of Flair through the pre-order service that they have.

here are the products

It includes 3 products:
1.NARS Deep Throat blush

2.NARS Deep Throat lipgloss which is exclusive to this set, and

3.NARS Sex Machine Velvet Matte Lip Pencil.

I want to tell you that I am so excited about this purchase because these are my first NARS products! YAY!

I'll maybe do a review on this when I wear them a little bit longer.

Hope you enjoy this!

Jenica x

New Shows To Watch

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 04:02:00 +0000

The US shows that I have been watching just came back for their newest seasons. I am very excited for them because I have been waiting for months! Some of them are the usual: Gossip Girl, Glee, 90210, TVD, Grey's Anatomy, Parenthood etc. I have also been watching Pretty Little Liars that already had their mid-season finale, and The Lying Game. Now, there are a few new shows that launched and I want to share with you which ones I think is worth watching (in my opinion).

Take note that I am not into crime shows, or ones that have a scary plot (I hesitated on watching TVD at first because of the vampire thing).

Here we go:

1. The Secret Circle

This is a show based on the book of the same title by L.J. Smith, who also wrote The Vampire Diaries. Again, I had second thoughts of watching this because I am a self-admitted scaredy-cat. It is a story of a teenager named Cassie who moved to the fictional town of Chance Harbor, Washington after her mother's death. She discovers that she belongs to a family of witches, and I think that is how far I would go. I might give in to the temptation of adding spoilers if I go on.

I think it is a great show, and it is worth watching.

2. 2 Broke Girls

Honestly, I did not know the whole story of this one before watching it. I got interested because of the title. You know, its about broke people, so I was easily drawn to the show.

This is a sitcom of two girls, who are waitresses in a diner in Brooklyn. It stars Kat Dennings (isn't she familiar? I saw her profile and learned that she was in Raise Your Voice and Thor) who plays Max, from a poor working class family and Beth Behrs who plays Caroline, an heiress from the Upper Eat Side.

I thought it was interesting and funny. Let's see the next episodes.

3. New Girl

Yet another sitcom. This one stars Zooey Deschanel from 500 Days of Summer. Her character tries to move on from her recent breakup and moves in with 3 single guys. They try to help her learn about love, life and everything else. I haven't watched this one, but I watched the previews and think that this is a great show.

This next one is not yet aired, it soon will be on September 26th.

4. Hart of Dixie

This stars Rachel Bilson, from The OC, which is why I like to watch it in the first place. She plays Dr. Zoe Hart, a topnotch surgeon, who moves to Alabama when she inherits a local medical practice. E! Online says that this show is like the old WB shows. I mean I love Gilmore Girls so I think I will love this one too.

I am so happy that I have new show to watch again! I just hope that I can balance my studies and not get too glued into this shows.

Jenica x

Want List Wednesday #4: Bobbi Brown 20th Anniversary Lip Palette

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 10:16:00 +0000

Just finished my school day, it was tiring but not as much as yesterday. Anyhoo, I have another addition to my wishlist so I decided to include it here in my Want List Wednesday posts.

Drooling over the limited edition 20th Anniversary Lip Palette from Bobbi Brown. I really love Bobbi Brown's style of makeup. It is really about enhancing your features and not covering them up. I actually have one of her books called Teenage Beauty.

I have come across this palette from her new website/blog which you can click here. The palette includes the 10 original lipstick shades that she created back in 1991 (the year I was born, ~~if you wanna know~~), and for options, she included 10 more super bright, fun colors.

These are the colors:

1991 Colors: Salmon, Beige, Raisin, Brown, Rose, Pink, Orange. Blackberry, Burnt Red and Red. The 2011 Exclusive Colors: Coral Gables, Lady Ruba, Berry Punch, Hot Berry, Watermelon, Atomic Pink, Party Pink, Cosmic Lily, Pink Martini and Candied Red.

According to Bobbi, Lady Ruba, which is a neon orange hue, is inspired by her creative director who always seems to be a few steps ahead of everyone else when it comes to style.

The lipsticks are housed in a sleek black packaging with a mirror and "EST. 1991" on top. It also includes a lip brush which is very convenient for travel.

You can always pick out the neutral colors for daytime or for school/work, and then the bright ones for nights out. Or for a more creative approach, you can definitely mix and match the colors for a custom shade that suits your liking.

Can't wait to have this one! Maybe it will stay on my list as it has a $60 price tag. To be honest it really is a great deal because you get 20 colors total. You can get it here on their website now or on Bobbi Brown counters in October 2011.

Will you purchase it? Let me know!

Jenica x

What's In My Purse?

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 00:49:00 +0000

Hello everybody!

Hello Monday. School starts again and it is a gloomy day. I feel that its going to rain very hard later in the afternoon.

On a brighter note, I decided to do the "What's In My Purse" tag that has been going on for years now, I think. I don't usually carry a purse when I go out, for example to run errands and things like that, but yesterday I went to a birthday lunch so I decided to carry one along.

My bag is this light gray beige color from Clarks which was gifted.

a closer look of the detailing

back of the bag

here is a look of the messy inside

Now onto the contents:

here is the overview of what is inside

For a closer look:

From L-R: bobby pin, Revlon lipstick, Carmex lipbalm, a pen, hairbrush, brochure from Ellana makeup, a photo card from Penshoppe with Ed Westwick on it, and a small cloth for cleaning my cellphone screen

From L-R: a bunch of receipts and tickets, keys, umbrella, alcohol

a book, my coin purse, cellphone (I have 2 but I used the other one to take pictures) and a snack

Well, I guess that is it for my What's in my purse tag. Maybe I will do a "What's In My School Bag?" tag too. That would be fun.

Is your purse a lot like what mine look like?

Please do share!

Jenica x

And The Countdown Begins...

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 03:33:00 +0000

Its officially 100 days before Christmas!

YAY!

Aren't you all excited?!
I'm feeling the Christmas spirit already, even the malls feel it too! They already started playing their Christmas songs on repeat and displaying the decors that are for sale.

Well, first of all, Christmas is my favorite holiday. Aside from the gifts of course, I am excited for the family gatherings and Noche Buena-- I am especially excited for the ham because we only get to eat that once a year during this time.

Its the spirit of giving that makes this holiday a really wonderful one.

So, what are you excited about for Christmas?

Jenica x

Want List Wednesday #3: Benefit Cosmetics

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Hello everyone.
So I mentioned in a previous post that Benefit Cosmetics will be hitting the Philippine shores soon. In line with that, I wanted to share with you some of my most wanted things from the company.

1. POREfessional
-This is a primer that fills in your pores to make them look smaller. This is not however a pore minimizer, it is just a temporary remedy for those who have large pores.

2. ChaCha Tint
-Benefit's newest lip and cheek stain. It is in a coral hue. I blogged about this a few months ago, and I still haven't purchased it. I do have the Benetint, and Posietint, so this would complete the Benefit stains.

3.Sugarbomb
-This is a blush that has four colors in it. You can mix them together for a beautiful flush of color or opt for the individual ones if you like. It also looks so pretty in the box. I think this would be a good addition to my Coralista blush which I really love.

4. Brow Zings

-I usually just use an eyebrow pencil to fill in my brows, but I heard a lot of good things about this product so I would like to go out of my comfort zone and try this one.

5. Creaseless Cream Shadow
- This is a cream eyeshadow that lasts a very long time, perfect for the humid weather here. I still would wear a primer under this one just to be sure. I really would like to have RSVP which is I think the most famous color, and the newest one called Fahrenheit Fab.

6. They're Real Mascara

-The newest addition to the Benefit mascaras, this claims to be lengthening and separating. It has rubber bristles and additional bristles at the tip to help in the application.

Benefit Cosmetics Philippines has a Facebook Fan Page which you can click here.

Hope you have a wonderful Wednesday!

Jenica x

Benefit Cosmetics in the Philippines?!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 12:18:00 +0000

WOW.

I'm actually imagining what the counter would be like! I'm sure it would be just as fancy as this photo above.

I know I haven't posted a thing in almost a week and I apologize. I will try and post this coming days to make it up. :)

Anyhoo, I read in other blogs that Benefit Cosmetics is coming here in Manila. HOOOORAY!

There is no definite date yet, but you can check out their Facebook page here to get all the inside scoops of the brand.

As for my wishlist, I guess I'll be doing that in my Want List Wednesday next week. So excited!

Blend With The Trend: Polka Dots for Fall

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Say goodbye to stripes as polka dot is the new pattern for Fall 2011. This trend is seen all throughout the runway, including Marc Jacobs and Diane Von Furstenberg.

You can wear it anyway you like, be it all over or just an accent to an already beautiful ensemble. I personally like polka dots and wear it whenever I feel like it. Good thing that it is very in mode this fall.

Here are some tips on wearing this trend:

1. Wear it as a shirt/blouse. You can go big or small on the dots depending on what the occasion is or what you personally prefer. For those who are a little skeptical, you can opt for smaller polka dots. The fine dots will also be more appropriate for work or school.

I recommend:

Zara top which does not look like polka dots at first
Zara polka dot t shirt-this has more prominent dots

2. Wear it as a dress. You can totally look fabulous like Emma Watson or Taylor Swift while following the trend. It really shows your feminine and trendy side at the same time.

I recommend:

Forever 21 dress- this is made with a lightweight material so you can layer over it and it has small dots. This is perfect for a dinner at a fancy restaurant or an event that calls for something more dressy than a shirt and pants.
Forever 21Polka dot and lace dress- this combines the polka dot and the lace trend which is also in for fall.

3. Wear it as an accessory. Belts, jewelry, shoes and bags are in the more minimalistic side of carrying the trend.
I recommend:

Topshop Polka dot Peep Toe Sandals- It has a polka dot bow which adds a touch of glam to the outfit.
ASOS Polka Dot Skinny Belt- this can be worn around the waist to cinch it in while still wearing the polka dot trend.

Hope this helps a lot during the Fall fashion season.

Jenica x

CoverGirl Lip Perfection Lipcolor

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 04:49:00 +0000

This is the newest line of lipsticks from CoverGirl. It has 44 shades (yep, it really has that many), retails for $7 or 395PHP locally and has 3.5g of product.

I only got one color which is called Heavenly because my mall has a VERY limited range. There were like 6 colors on display.

CoverGirl Lip Perfection claims to give a vibrant, rich color, help smooth and perfect lips in 7 days through their silk moisturizers to help keep lips moist.

I must go ahead and say that this is a very good drugstore find.

Heavenly is a neutral pink with some shine on it. It has a very opaque coverage and with just one swipe, you can get the color payoff that you want.

The application is very smooth. It glides on easily and feels sort of like a lip balm to me. It is not drying but I think that it still does not replace the moisturizing powers of a lip balm. But if you are in a hurry, this product is very convenient.

It also has a slight vanilla scent to it, which I am not bothered about. If you are sensitive to scents, I suggest you try it on first before buying it.

I was surprised by the staying powers of this one. It did not fade after 3 hours of wear, but I ate noodles afterwards and it left a stain on my lips! This is great if you don't want to reapply very often because you still have a wash of color afterwards. I personally like lip stains, so this is a plus for me.

The packaging is really great too. Its a purple-gray shiny tube and the bottom has a color that resembles the color of the lipstick inside. This is a great way to determine which color you have without opening the tube.

In a pinch, I think this is a great product because of its great color payoff, non-drying factor and its good price.

More photos/swatches:

swatched with natural light

bare lips

with CoverGirl Lip Perfection in Heavenly

Want List Wednesday #2

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Its Wednesday again, so I guess it is time for another Want List Wednesday!

I really love matte finishes. I am not the one who loves the glitter or the shimmer in blushes etc, but I have them. I guess I like them, but they are not my favorite finish. So, in line with my fascination of Peggy Carter's lip look which I had a post on, this wednesday is about the NYX Soft Matte Lip Creams.

This is a perfect product to use, because its not a lipstick nor a lipgloss. It applies as a cream, but then it dries into a matte finish. It has 11 shades to choose from and retails for $6. It is packaged like a lipgloss tube, so I think that it applies much easier, resembling a lipgloss. I think this would be a matte girl's wish.

So, what is on your list?

Jenica x

Beauty Inspiration: Hayley Atwell as Peggy Carter

noreply@blogger.com (Jenica) — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 04:41:00 +0000

Ever since watching Captain America a few weeks ago, I became somewhat obsessed with the matte red lips that Hayley Atwell's character is wearing throughout the movie. It really looks great on her. I have been ditching my lipglosses for a while and sticking to lipsticks, but I don't do a red lip cause I feel that it's inappropriate for school so I stick to more of lip stains. This look would really be great for night outs or for a special event.

To recreate Peggy Carter's lip look:

First, you must have soft and moisturized lips. You don't want to have dry patches appearing. Exfoliate using a lip scrub, or you can just use a toothbrush. Afterwards, use a lip balm to keep your lips feeling soft and smooth.
Next is to choose your color. There are different types of reds and choose what is most appropriate for your skin tone.

Line your lips with a lip liner. This step is optional but it keeps the lipstick from bleeding and going out the edges of your lips

Apply your lipstick carefully, making sure that it is a precise application. Any mistake in application can be seen because it is a really bold color. Use a lip brush if you must.

The last step is to smile and have confidence! This will really make you look fabulous along with your fabulous lips!

And now you have Peggy Carter's lip look!
Hope that's helpful.

Jenica x