My Beauty Hoard

Tom Ford Beauty Soleil Collection 2015 Cream and Powder Eye Color Naked Bronze

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 00:00:00 +0000

I love warm colours and Naked Bronze is right up my alley. I was a little disappointed that the cream eye shadow Spice is actually a repromote which I already own. You can check out my first review of it here.

Spice is a warm chestnut brown shade and the power shadow is a light gold/champagne topper shade. When they are paired together, something magical happens.

Spice over NARS eye primer

Powder Eye shadow over Spice

With the works

I have to say that the topper shade stays put on my lids without fall out which I am very pleased about. Nobody likes fall out, it just isn't sexy.

I have also taken to using the topper shades of all my cream and powder shades on my existing cream eye shadows. I get added dimension and find new looks, so fun.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Romance

Tom Ford Pink Sand on my cheeks

Taking to account how user friendly this shade is, I bet it is sold at the Tangs counter. You might have to find this online. Get it quick though.

SGD $85

USD $60

Ratings: 5 lipsticks

Project Swap: Gucci Face Sheer Blushing Powder 020 Coral Flower

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Sun, 07 Jun 2015 00:00:00 +0000

This pretty piece of makeup is brought to you courtesy of dear Lunaface. Thank you babe! I tell you every time dear Luna passes me one of her blush, my wallet is in danger because we have very similar tastes.

The black casing is hefty and luxe but somehow I'm not in love with the blocky casing.

Check out that pretty coral pink colour.

Useless blush applicator

My impressions of the Gucci Face Sheer Blushing Powder is that it lives up to its name. It applies sheer but can be layered for a more pigmented look. So it isn't easy to over do it. The powder is finely milled and blends well. Coral Flower is a pretty colour but easily dupable. Somehow it stops short of being something I would pick up on my own. I have come to the point where I am now very selective of what I buy. For that price, if I don't hear angels sing in my head when I apply this, I won't buy it.

USD $49

Addiction Powder Blush 06 Revenge and 14 Rose Bar

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 00:00:00 +0000

Here are my latest Addiction blush acquisitions. I had them for a few months now but didn't quite manage to write a review about them.

I love Addiction blushes because of their fine texture, easy to use formula and pretty colours. These new blushes do not disappoint. I had my eye on Rose Bar for ages for didn't get a chance to buy it while I was in Japan. I thank my sweet fellow enabler for hunting it down for me. Thanks babe! I already own the cheek polish in Revenge, I just wanted to see how different the powder blush version is from the liquid blush version.

I love how affordable the compact cases are and how easy they are to depot.

Rose Bar is a neutral warm rose that goes well with strong eye looks. It is not easy to over apply this blush. Revenge on the other hand needs a lighter hand. I choose to use my softest Hakuhodo blush brush to gently tap this on my cheeks.

Rose Bar on my cheeks

Revenge on my cheeks

Between the both Rose Bar gets a lot of use, I love how it goes with all my makeup.

3024 yen

Ratings: 5 lipsticks

Three Flash Performance Eyeliner Pencil 06 Eye Kon 07 Eye Doll 08 Eye On

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Mon, 01 Jun 2015 00:00:00 +0000

It has taken me a long time to write about these eye pencils because I have been fiddling with these for the longest time and found the best way to use them. I did not have much success the first time I used the Flash Performance Eyeliners. I bought 08 Eye On back in 2013, you can check out my initial review here. It still doesn't work as a eyeliner on me, Hello, oily lids here!

Left to right: 08, 07 and 06

06 Eye Con is a silver khaki shade. 07 is a golden brown shade. 08 is a multi shimmer black shade. These eye pencils have a soft nib and need to be sharpened all the time if you want a crisp sharp line. That being said, you can't exactly get a sharp line with this. But that not what this is good for. I use this as a base for my eye shadows. It was creamy and blended very well using the little blender that was attached on the opposite end of the pencil.

Here is how I use 08 Eye On with minimal smudging this time. After blending Eye On, I use a little of my Addiction eyeshadow in Crow over Eye On. To bulletproof it, I tightline with with Make up For Ever's Aqua Liner in black. My makeup stayed mostly intact with just slight at the end of my work day.

07 Eye Doll

Layered with Giorgio Armani's Eyes To Kill in No. 26 Carat Gold. I super love this combi!

06 Eye Kon

Layered with Giorgio Armani's Eyes To Kill in No.27 Oxidised Silver

Now that I know how to work these eye pencils, I am enjoying using these. I love the eye looks I have come up with. I find that for me they work best under eye shadow and my Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill eyeshadow make a lovely combination with these eye pencils. I still get some smudging but I can abide by it.

3000 yen

Ratings 3+ lipsticks

Tom Ford Beauty Soleil Collection 2015 Cream and Powder Eye Color Black Oyster

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Thu, 28 May 2015 00:00:00 +0000

If you are looking for a sexy sparkly smokey eye look, Black Oyster is it. The powder shadow is a sparkly silver shadow that is more or a topper shade than a true silver eye shadow. The cream shadow is a dark grey shadow with tiny silver shimmer.

For this eye look, I used my fingers to pick up the cream shadow and apply on my lids. I had to be careful not to pick up too much pigment because just a little is enough. I used my fingers to blend the cream shadow but I was hoping for a more opaque look. I'll try using a synthetic brush the next time to experiment.

I dabbed the silver powder shadow onto the inner to the middle of my lids. The powder shadow stayed intact without any fallout during application. I topped it off by tightlining my eyelids with my trusty waterproof eye liner.

I wore this out for my pole class, two sweaty hours. There was minor fall out when I went home and checked.

Left to right: Black Oyster and Midnight Sea

If you love sexy smokey look, I think Black Oyster will be right up your alley. I love that it is easy to use and the colours look stunning. I like my sparkles, so this is so my thing.

USD $60

Ratings: 5 lipsticks

This is the look I wore for my pole class.

Tom Ford Matte Lip Color in Pussycat

My OOTD

Being a kitty momma, I lean towards anything that reminds me of my cast. How can I not buy that pole top with Meow on it. Impossible!

Tom Ford Beauty Soleil Collection 2015 Cream and Powder Eye Color Midnight Sea

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Sun, 24 May 2015 00:00:00 +0000

I totally apologise that I am reviewing these are snail's pace but that is all I can spare at the moment. See all my beauteous loot in gorgeous bright sunshine. I am a contented woman on the makeup front. Nothing beats seeing the whole collection together.

Midnight Sea was the one that almost got away. I didn't order this one as I honestly have out grown teal shades, I really didn't know how often I would wear this. But the swatches got me and I regretted not getting it so when I had the chance to get it at the Tangs counter, I took it. My set is now complete.

Since I got my hands on Midnight Sea first, it was the first one I tried out. The little tub has two sections. One for the glittery powder eye shadow and another section for the cream eye shadow.

I don't understand why the powder eyeshadow looks like a silver baby blue in my swatches but it definitely looks more teal than this picture. The cream shadow is supposed to be the same colour as the Spring 2015 released cream shadow. It is a dark smokey brown taupe shade. It isn't very exciting on its own but once layered with the powder eye shadow, the effect is so pretty. It becomes a sparkly black/blue/teal shade. Me likes!

(Do check out Temptalia's swatches here)

Even though the SA advised me to use a synthetic brush to apply the cream shadows, I like using my fingers with these cream shadows. My fingers warm up the product and I feel that I can blend it much better than with a brush. I just need to be careful not to pick up too much product. Above, is a gentle wash of the cream shadow. Doesn't look very intimidating right?

Here is what happens when I layer the teal powder shadow over it, magic!

What I love about these cream shadows are their super blendability and how tenacious they are. They lasted the whole day on my oily lids. The sparkly powder shadow is glittery but not gritty. I did not get any fall out throughout the day. I love the combination of colours and I'm determined to try the cream shadow over other powder shades to see what happens. It is so exciting to experiment. It is gosh darn expensive but since when was Tom Ford ever cheap. If you wanted to splurge on some pretty shadows and a lover of all things sparkly, this would be it.

SGD $85

USD $60

Ratings: 5 lipsticks

Tom Ford Beauty Soleil Collection 2015 Cream Cheek Colour Pink Sand

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Mon, 18 May 2015 00:00:00 +0000

You probably notice by now that my posts are erratic. I must apologise for that, lately I feel like I'm getting kicked by life in the butt. I need time to get my life in order and get my mojo back. I will still post but not as regularly as I wish to.

Anyway I have really come to the point where enough is almost enough. I'm not really getting excited about new releases and I don't really see the need to get more makeup. I am being very selective of what I buy and will probably be like this for quite some time.

I however did break my ban for Tom Ford. The images of the cream and powder shadows called to me. The Eye and Cheek Compact called to me too (I missed out on last year's and have kicked myself ever since). I have to admit I splurged on this collection.

I pre ordered my items from Neiman Marcus. I regretted not getting Midnight Sea so when I heard that it was in the Singapore counter I made a very rare trip to Orchard Road for some retail therapy.

I did not intend to get Pink Sand but the counter swatches did me it. It was emollient and blended easily on my skin. The pink gold shade was too irresistible. It was a very satisfying shopping trip for me. Heh!

Without further ado, let's take a look at Pink Sand.

The creamy white and gold casing calls to me. Its sleek and oh so luxurious. It isn't easy for me to open this though but I don't mind one bit.

I would say that Pink Sand would look better on lighter to medium skin tones because it will show up better. On me, it is a light glowy golden pink flush. It lasts about 3 to 4 hours. I applied it under and over powder with no problem at all. It blends well and does not appear patchy at all. I would think it is more suited for dry to normal skin as it is more emollient in texture.It is a limited edition piece so get it quick while it is still available. $87 is too high a price to pay for a cream blush, I wasn't thinking honestly when I bought this.I was in a "get it now" mode where brain function is minimal.

SGD $87

USD $65

Ratings: 4 lipsticks

Here is my look for my shopping trip. I thought it would be fitting to wear a mostly Tom Ford look to go buy more Tom Ford. Heh.

Lady Snow trying to get me to quit playing with my makeup and pay some attention to her instead

Lips and Boys in Michael

Tom Ford Cream Eye Colour in Escapade and Three Flash Performance Eyeliner pencil in 06

I'm loving my new white dress with the embellished front. Trying darn hard not to squint when the sun is right in my eyes.

Giorgio Armani Eye Tints 09 Cold Copper, 10 Senso, 11 Rose Ashes and 12 Gold Ashes

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Sat, 09 May 2015 00:00:00 +0000

As promised, here are the rest of my Giorgio Armani eye tints. I call this my neutrals edition. It was so difficult to decide on which colours I like without having to test them out in the counters so I ended up with 4 of them. I shall let my swatches do the talking.

Left to right: Cold Copper, Senso, Rose Ashes and Gold Ashes

Cold Copper on my lids

Senso on the outer corner of my lids

Finished eye look with Cold Copper and Senso

Senso unblended

Rose Ashes on my lids

Super sparkly Gold Ashes on my inner lids and Senso on the outer lid

Of all these 4 shades I love Cold Copper which is a gold/brown shade and Senso which is a slight reddish brown shade best. They are a neutral lover's dream. Rose Ashes is unique with its flashes of pink. I don't really like Gold Ashes because it is very sparkly. I can't wear this on its own. Instead I dab it on the inner corner of my eye lids.

USD $38

Ratings: 4 lipsticks

Giorgio Armani Eye Tints 4 Emeraude and 7 Shadow

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Fri, 24 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000

It was only time before I got my hands on these eye tints. I totally love cream eye products. It was very unusual for me, instead of getting neutrals I went for Emeraude and Shadow. In fact the online swatches are totally irresistible.

Emeraude unblended

Emeraude blended

Completed eye look

These are very pigmented and come with a flocked applicator. I don't use the applicator because it gives way too much product. I use my eye shadow brush to pick up pigment and apply close to my lash line then blend upwards. They dry down very fast, so blend quickly. I have tried applying powdered eye shadow over these eye tints with great success. Emeraude gives my dark eye shadows an extra dimension. These are crease and smudge proof and they wear well on me the entire day.

Between Emeraude and Shadow I love Emeraude more. It is a complex blackened green, Shadow doesn't get much love from me because I was hoping for a taupey shade, instead it is a grey with lilac which doesn't sit so well with my skin tone.

I will be showing you the neutrals in the next post. Yup I went and ordered more the moment I tried these two. I can only say that the neutrals are so much easier to work with because they are lighter in shade.

In conclusion, the dark colours are gorgeous but may be little tricky to apply because they dry down really fast. I can't really blend it as much as I would like to unlike my Tom Ford cream shadows which are so easy to blend. That being said, they are totally smudge proof and crease proof which makes it a total yay for me.

USD $38

Ratings: Emeraude 4 lipsticks Shadow 3+ lipsticks

Addiction Lipstick 013 Desert Rose

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000

I really wanted to try an Addiction lipstick but the last time around while I was in Japan I think I was so overwhelmed by the other Addiction products that I could not decide which colour to get. I was probably afraid I would cart the whole store back home to Singapore with me.

So now that I was back in Singapore and I have ample time to do my research and choose I decided to get a easy o wear shade in Desert Rose. I am so lucky to have enablers who are willingly to feed my addiction for Addiction.

There are two finishes for the Addiction Lipstick range, P for pearl finish and S for sheer finish. Desert Rose is a sheer finish.

Addiction also has another line of lipstick called Lipstick Pure that features vivid colour. There are 8 shades.

That being said, I don't find the shade range incredibly exciting for me. There are altogether 13 shades available, however, I don't see any colours that is getting me hot and bothered if you know what I mean. Maybe Elvissa Dream or Super Woman.

The packaging is a no nonsense sleek black casing that clicks shut. In line with the entire make up range.

Desert Rose is a sheer medium warm rose shade that enlivens my face subtly. It is fast becoming my number choice lipstick to wear for work because it is work appropriate and matches well with my entire look. It is very natural looking and very wearable. Slap on and go kind of lipstick. It is emollient and moisturising with the right amount of slip. It is not particularly long lasting but it wears well and reapplies beautifully each time.

3024 yen

Ratings: 5 lipsticks

Tom Ford Lips and Boys 28 Cooper

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Wed, 08 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000

Here is my final review of the Tom Ford's Lips and Boys collection, Cooper.

Copper on the far left

Copper is a bright fuchsia pink shade. It can be amped up if you apply more.

Single application

Double application

Here is a comparison with Francesco. Honestly you don't need both. To my eyes, Copper is slightly more toned down as compared to Francesco.

Left to right: Francesco and Copper

Here are all my Lips and Boys.

Left to right: Francesco, Copper, Cary, Didier, James, Michael and Alejandro

Ratings: 4+ lipsticks

15th Wedding Anniversary

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000

I'm really sorry I haven't been writing but out of respect for the passing of our founding father Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, I decided to keep silent. I was too sad to post anything on my Instagram or here.

While we were celebrating our wedding anniversary we were also watching the news and hoping he would recover but it was no meant to be. Dear sir, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you have given to us.

Hubs decided that we would celebrate with a bigger bang this year since we were so busy that totally forgot to celebrate last year. We checked into Amara Sanctuary. Gorgeous villa but it was a pity about the service which didn't quite match up to the lovely place.

Other than having a day of alone couple time, we got DS to join us so we could enjoy his school vacation too. We wandered around Sentosa and did boy things.

We were at Fort Siloso to learn a little bit of our history and got to play two rounds of laser tag. It was fun to chase after DS and shoot at him.

Posing under an old school bus stop

We also hung around (get it???) at the Mega Zip and did an awesome zip line. I was very sure DS would chicken out but he bravely went through with it and enjoyed himself.

Tom Ford Lip and Boys Didier 48

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000

Here is Didier. I finally got my hands on him. If you can't get him though, don't worry because it is actually a repromote of Moroccan Rouge.

I find Didier to be a very wearable plum colour so don't let the initial look of Didier scare you away. Depending on the lip liner you use, it can either look natural (like what I'm wearing now) or intense.

USD $32

Ratings: 5 lipsticks

Project Swap: Becca Beach Tint Shimmer Souffle Raspberry Opal and Fig Opal

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Thu, 12 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000

I have been wanting to try these Shimmer Souffles for a long time. These guys have been in and out of my shopping cart but in the end I stopped short from buying them. You can imagine how happy I was that Lunaface passed them to me to play with. And you know what, most of the items to get to try from her stash ends up being on my shopping list.

(Information taken from the Becca website)

This lightweight formula packs four must-have qualities into one formula: a powder to add a pop of color, a stain to give staying power, an illuminating highlighter, and a cream to deliver a flawless finish. Water-resistant, each pot combines bestselling Beach Tint with a Shimmering Skin Perfector™ for effortlessly buildable, complexion-enhancing color, soothing hydration, and a youthful glow.

Sponge-like gel texture formulated with brown algae extract that helps hydrate, smooth and soften skin

Effortlessly buildable colour with a soft, lustrous finish
Hydrates and revives dull skin for a youthful glow
Scents correspond with individual Beach Tints
Water-resistant and oil-free, Paraben-, Sulfate- and Talc-free

Ingredients for

RASPBERRY/ OPAL: Mica, Isododecane, Isohexadecane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Silica, C13-15 Alkane, Octyldodecanol, Isopropyl Palmitate, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, C30-45 Alkyl Cetearyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Boron Nitride, Dimethicone/ Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer, Lauroyl Lysine, Alaria Esculenta Extract, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Tocotrienols, Tocopherol, Beta-Sitosterol, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Squalene, Caprylyl Methicone, Flavor (Aroma), Propylene Carbonate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol. May Contain/ Peut Contenir [+/-]: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, 77492, 77499), Carmine (CI 75470).

FIG/OPAL: Mica, Isododecane, Isohexadecane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Silica, C13-15 Alkane, Octyldodecanol, Isopropyl Palmitate, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, C30-45 Alkyl Cetearyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Boron Nitride, Dimethicone/ Vinyltrimethylsiloxysilicate Crosspolymer, Lauroyl Lysine, Alaria Esculenta Extract, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Tocotrienols, Tocopherol, Beta-Sitosterol, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Squalene, Caprylyl Methicone, Flavor (Aroma), Propylene Carbonate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol. May Contain/ Peut Contenir [+/-]: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, 77492, 77499), Carmine (CI 75470), Red 7 Lake (CI 15850).

Unlike the normal cream shadows, this has a almost bouncy gel like quality to it. The colours have a sheer tint to it. It take a a few swipes of colour before it shows up on my cheeks. They blend very well and stays on my cheeks for about close to 4 hours. It has a subtle fruity scent.

I don't use my fingers to apply this because I don't want to dip my fingers in the pot. Instead a I use my Koyudo BP 013 which has a small enough brush head to fit into the pot. I then blen this onto my cheeks.

Left to right: Raspberry and Fig

On my cheeks, Raspberry Opal

Fig Opal on my cheeks

Fig/Opal is a great contouring shade whereas Raspberry/Opal gives me a lovely gentle flush.

There are a total of 6 shades available.

Guava/Moonstone
Lychee/Opal
Watermelon/Moonstone
Raspberry/Opal
Papaya/Topaz
Fig/Opal

USD $27 5.2g

You know what, I'm itching to put all them in my shopping cart. I really like them. They just look so pretty to look at. Although they apply sheer, they can be layered on for a more obvious look.

Ratings: 4 lipsticks

Kiss Mat Chiffon UV Base N 02

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Sun, 08 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000

I got to share this piece of gem with you because I discovered it by luck. My dear friend KS asked me to buy this for her in Japan. I saw this at The Loft in Sapporo and didn't know which shade to get for her so I chose both shades in 01 (Natural Mat) and 02 (Mat Beige). KS didn't need to own two shades so she passed one back to me to try and I was so happy she did, it is a great drugstore primer.

You can read up on the limited information on the Kiss website here.

This comes in a plastic bottle that features a pump mechanism. I usually use about half a pump to cover my face.

It brightens up my face without making it white. It also mattifies my face, priming it for foundation. The one phrase I can use to describe this primer would be that "it plays well with others". It works well with all the foundations I own especially my Suqqu foundation which I initially had problems finding a primer for. Together with my Suqqu foundation, my base lasts the whole day with minimal touch ups. It does not have a silicone feel to it.

Kiss primer paired with Suqqu foundation

It retails for about 1600 yen as stated in the Kiss website but I can't be sure because I threw away my receipt. (So sorry) I don't remember spending a lot of money on this. For the price it is a great primer. I wish it had a higher SPF but beggars can't be choosers.

You can get this at Ichibankao but at a higher markup at 2550 yen.

I'll be getting my friends who are travelling to Japan to hunt for this for me. It is worth stocking up.

My dear Lunaface shares the same sentiments as me, you can read her review here. And guess what? KS initially found out about this primer through Lunaface's blog. What a small world. :)

Ratings: 5++ lipsticks

Tom Ford Lips and Boys 47 Cary

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000

I was literally jumping for joy when Ruby told me I could have Cary. As I mentioned before quite a few of the Lips and Boys are actually repromotes of existing shades. Cary happens to be Casablanca which Ruby has already, I gladly took him off her hands.

Cary is one of those work friendly shades for me. Dark enough for it not to wash me out but sedate enough so I won't get into trouble at work. Cary or Casablanca is a medium warm rose shade very much like Tom Ford's Lip Color Matte in Pussycat but without the shine and a tad lighter.

Centre swatch

Here are comparison swatches of (left to right) Cary, Indian Rose and Pussycat in different lighting.

Cary is a lip colour that I will get plenty of mileage from. Cary might not be flashy or sexy but he is stable, reliable and safe. We all need a guy like that in our lives.

To recap on the formula, it is a creamy satin that is opaque at one swipe. It is not the most moisturising lipstick but it does not dry my lips out. It wears comfortable and gives me about 3 to 4 hours of wear time.

Unfortunately you can't find this in Singapore anymore but you can order it online at Nordstrom.

USD $32

Ratings: 5 lipsticks

Cle De Peau Beaute Luminizing Face Enhancer 14 Delicate Pink

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Mon, 02 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000

This was an unexpected buy for me. I have not explored the realms of Cle De Peau because the price range scares me somehow. I know that if I fall in love with their products, it would be another slippery slope for me so I have been resisting.

I was at Haneda airport in Tokyo returning to Singapore and hubs gave me all his yen and told me to do whatever I wanted with it. Heh! Of course I headed for the cosmetics section. I saw Laduree, Jill Stuart and a couple of Japanese brands there but nothing caught my eye. I picked up some Shiseido lipsticks for my mom. I saw the CDP highlighters ad even though I really didn't need another one, I picked it up.

There are a total of 4 shades available.

11 - Pastel

12 - Gold

13 - Sand Beige

14 - Delicate Pink

I wanted to get gold because thats kind of like my default mode when it comes to makeup but the sweet Japanese SA recommended Delicate Pin as a more suitable highlighter for my complexion so I went with it.

When I came back I found out that dear Meryl from memosielle.com bought her Luminizing Face Enhancer at a huge discount from a Shiseido sale, my heart and wallet cried a little.

I totally love the very luxe suede-type brown pouch it comes in. The case is just gorgeous. Like a multi-faceted jewel and a good heft. Not cheap and plasticky. And you know what, the little brush that comes along actually does a great job, I rely on that to apply this highlighter,nothing else.

Check out the pretty shimmer.

It gives a honest to God lovely subtle glow that I am absolutely in love with. Not over the top at all.

I don't like the price tag, its USD $95. I threw my receipt away so I hope I managed to get it cheaper than that. It kinda pisses me off that I could have gotten it for a lot cheaper if I did my homework but....

I love this highlighter for its understated prowess at giving me a soft subtle glow. I am sure I can probably get a highlighter that does the same job for less but the gorgeous casing kinda makes up for it.

Ratings: 4 lipsticks

Suqqu Frame Fix Cream Foundation N 203

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Tue, 24 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000

I was not planning to buy anything from Suqqu during my Japan trip but not it seemed almost sacrilegious not to get anything. I was not interested in getting any of the eye shadow palettes or lipsticks since I was at the physical counter I might as well get myself shade matched and get their much raved about foundation to try. There are 5 types to choose from. The powder foundations (Frame Fix Lasting Foundation N and Dual Effect Powder Foundation), liquid foundation (Frame Fix Liquid Foundation N) and cream foundations (Frame Fix Cream Foundation N and Foundation). I did my homework. I read Bellyhead of Wondegondigo's review of the Frame Fix Cream Foundation and Linda of Silver Kis' World's review of the Frame Fix Liquid Foundation N. I really wanted to try the liquid version but after Linda's review I was quite hesitant. So I decided to try the cream version instead.

I was quite worried that I would not be able to find a match for my skin tone. There are altogether 6 shades available and I was matched to the darkest shade 203.

I have stayed away from cream foundations because I always have this notion that they would be heavy and thick. This is not the case. I use about 3/4 of a pea size amount as compared to the two pea size amount recommended on the website. It takes a little time for me to adjust the amount so that I get the coverage I want.

Application is a little tricky. I experimented with my different primers before finally settling on my ORBIS Sunscreen on Face Beauty Light or my new found love Kiss Matt Chiffon UV Whitening Base N in 02 (my new found love, thank you KS!!! I will review it soon). I found that silicon type primers did not work well with this foundation. I also experimented with the type of brush I used. My favourite would be the Shiseido budget makeup brush I bought during my Japan trip. It is gosh darn awesome. I dab the foundation in sections and apply with a dabbing motion.

The first few times of wear was not very impressive but after finding the right base, the right tool and the right setting powder (Make Up For Ever Pro Finish Multi-Use Powder Foundation) it was a wow for me.

Here is a comparison of the foundations I am currently using. From left to right: Suqqu in 203, Chanel Perfection Lumiere 40 , Chanel Perfection Lumiere Velvet 40 Beige, Make Up For Ever HD Foundation 120 Soft Sand (too light for me at the moment), Burberry Sheer Foundation 07 , Burberry Velvet Foundation 204.

Compared to my other foundations, this one provides the most coverage so I have to be careful how much I apply. I have many acne scars around my cheek area and this covers it without being mask-like. It is brightening without making me look white. However, after 4 hours a little shine does break through around my nose area and forehead.

With just Suqqu Frame Fix Foundation on my face

With the whole works

I love this foundation and I have been wearing this everyday for work for that polished look.

At 9504 yen, it is a mighty pricey foundation so it might not be something you want to order online if you don't know which shade will match you. It is tricky to apply but if you can find the right combination, it is worth the experimentation. It is marketed as a foundation that locks in moisture so for oily skinned people out there, it might not be one that you will find suitable.

It comes in a glass tub so isn't travel friendly. There is a plastic cap that covers the foundation, the tub that gets a little gunky around the edges after sometime so I have to clean it often. I can live with it.

It takes more time to apply so isn't something I can quickly slap and go. The extra seconds it takes to scoop out the right amount of foundation, then placing the plastic cap back onto the tub, cleaning the scoop then applying can add up when I am in a rush.

That being said, I am so glad I visited the counter and bought this, it is worth every hassle. This is one foundation I will keep going back to.

Ratings: 5++ lipsticks

Tom Ford Lips and Boys 19 James

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Sat, 21 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000

I bought James because of the name rather than because it was a shade I wanted to try. But I am happy I got it anyway because it is a lovely peach coral shade perfect for daily wear.

From what I gather from the Internet, James is repromoted shade called Twist of Fate. It is creamy and opaque with one swipe.

All my Lips and Boys together. From top to bottom: Alejandro, Francesco, Michael and James.

USD $32

Ratings: 5 lipsticks

Three 4D Eye Palette 09 Star Guitar

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000

When I headed for the Three counter at Shinjuku Isetan last December, the only things on my mind were the Flash Performance pencils. From the website (yup I did research before going to the counter) I did not see any eye shadows that really interested me.

While waiting for my turn to be served, the Star Guitar palette caught my eye (that plum!), the swatch of that plum beckoned me. The rest of the colours did not really appealed to me because to me, they looked just too cool toned. The plum persuaded me to stop thinking and just get it, which I did. Heh! I am glad I listened to that plum, what an interesting palette it is for me.

The casing of Three's 4D Eye Palettes are functional. I won't call it luxurious but it serves its purpose. It is nothing to crow about but it is sturdy which is all I can ask for. That little dual ended brush is quite good actually. I love the little nubbly brush end so cute yet useful.

The shadows are to be honest on the sheerer side as compared to the Addiction shadows I bought recently. Like all typical Japanese brand eye shadows, there is always a sparkly eye shadow included. I don't mind that at all. You know what, the colours just go so well together. And even though the shades are a tad sheerer than what I use, I don't mind. It shows up on my lids perfectly.

Here is how I used my Star Guitar palette.

First I applied a thin layer of my favourite eye primer, NARS Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base, then with my finger I blended the plum shade all over my lids close to the lash line.

Next I applied the pinky beige shade on my lids, blending in with the plum. I used the lightest shade on my brow bones.

I tapped the sparkly shade on the middle of my lids for a little shine. Finally topped it off with black eyeliner and some falsies.

What an unexpected find! This isn't my normal cup of tea because I tend to gravitate towards warmer tones. Star Guitar was surprisingly well suited for my skin tone and I am amazed by the blendability of the shades. The cream plum shade did not smudge or crease on me throughout its wear time. The shadows were soft and finely milled. I did not experience any fallout from the sparkly shade too. What is there not to love?

I read that the cream shade will eventually dry out but there are ways to get it to ti top condition Here is an ingenious way by Bellyhead from Wondegondigo. I hope I won't need to use this method anytime too soon.

6000 Yen.

Ratings: 4+ lipsticks

Tom Ford Lips and Boys 38 Alejandro

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Sun, 15 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000

Alejandro aka Slander in the regular lineup is a fuchsia red. It has a pearly finish. It is a gorgeous red in my opinion and wears really well.

USD $32

Ratings: 5 lipsticks

Happy Valentines Day everyone!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Sat, 14 Feb 2015 04:10:00 +0000

Happy Valentines everyone! I'm trying to work up the courage to wear this top for my pole class today since it is after all Valentines Day, let's see how that goes. Anyway I thought it would be a good idea to get Princess Precious to pose as a model. She had other ideas.

Never give your kitteh lacey things! They have an innate urge to destroy.

May your Valentines Day be filled with puppy dog kisses and kitteh cuddles.

Love Jacq.

Tom Ford Lips and Boys 23 Michael

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Thu, 12 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000

Here is the second Tom Ford Lips and Boys in my collection. Michael. Michael is a bright coral pink. It is a kind of colour which I find a tad difficult to wear. I can't just slap it on. Because of my skin tone, I find that I need to be properly made up before I look good with this shade.

It is supposed to be a frost finish but not to me. I feel that it has a satin finish with shimmers. Like Francesco, it is creamy and opaque in one swipe. I do have to prep my lips with lip balm before applying it. It is not the most moisturizing lip stick but it does not dry my lips out.

USD $32

Ratings: 4 lipsticks

Addiction Blush African Sunset, Romantic and Amazing

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000

I basically own every kind of Addiction blush formulation! I have the Cheek Sticks and Cheek Polishes and finally to top it off, the powdered blushes.

I had my heart set on getting Amazing because I think I lack a bright pop of pink blush in my collection. I was so disappointed when I discovered that Amazing was out of stock. So my first purchases were Romantic and African Sunset. But on my second trip there, I tried my luck by asking about Amazing, and they had it. I was thrilled.

Left to right: African Sunset, Romantic and Amazing

African Sunset and Romantic have a shimmery finish whereas Amazing is a matte shade. Let's talk about their pigmentation. I think these have the perfect pigmentation. Not too much, just enough to show up on your cheeks naturally. Any noob can wear these blushes. They are finely milled and blend well. They also stay put for about 4 to 5 hours. I haven't had the need to reapply these at all.

Amazing looks quite scary in the pan but isn't. It is a bright pop of cool pink. It has enough translucency to allow for your natural skintone to come through and yet show up on my cheeks. I wear my fotds out so I don't pile on my blushes. I hope you will be able to see the colour on my cheeks.

Amazing on my cheeks

Addiction shimmery blushes are one of the nicest! It imparts a lovely subtle glow without making you look like an oil slick. The shimmers are very fine. Romantic is a pretty baby pink shade that shows up on me.

Romantic on my cheeks

And finally African Sunset on my cheeks. It gives me a nice healthy glow.

I am loving these blushes. Soft and finely milled, they are of medium pigmentation which makes them very easy to apply and use. They blend well and last fairly long.

Addiction blushes come in their own black plastic casing. They are very easy to depot. Everytime I buy their compacts, I have a tendency to want to fill them all up which is the case here. I bought Compact Case II which can fill up to three blushes. There are so many pretty colours that it isn't too difficult to choose. The problem is limiting yourself to three.

2800 yen.

Ratings: 5 lipsticks

Tom Ford Lips and Boys 30 Francesco

noreply@blogger.com (Jacqueline) — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 00:00:00 +0000

You know how much of a lipstick hoarder I am right. I can't resist a good luxe lipstick for the life of me. Even though I was on the fence about my first Tom Ford lipstick Indian Rose (one I now reach out very often for a polished yet subtle look, hey one is entitled to change her opinion of things (blush) I couldn't help hyperventilating over the Lips and Boys collection. I think releasing mini lipsticks is such a great idea. I get more colours for less and don't have to ever worry about ever finishing a full sized one.

I had to wait and wait and wait some more before I could get my hands on these. They were selling these in Singapore for SGD $50 a piece (wait $50 for a mini sized lipstick???). I was stalking the Nordstrom website and when it was released, I decided to go for it and get a few. I figured since I was getting a few I could save a little on the exchange rate.

It was so hard deciding which Boys to order! After poring through the online swatches I narrowed my choices to these few.

I bought for myself James, Michael, Francesco and Alejandro. Cary and Didier are for dear Ruby from Miaka's Life and Loves. After seeing Cary and Didier in person, I'm kicking myself for not getting them too. By the way I just have to say that giving them boy names is brilliant.

Anyway in case you are unaware, some of these boys are actually repromoted of existing shades. The Raeviewer has information about them. In fact, James, Alejandro, Cary and Didier are repromotes of existing colours.

Left to right top to bottom: Francesco, Michael, James, Didier, Cary and Alejandro

Well, I am going to start with Francesco because he was the first one I picked to wear out. Before going into the swatches though, I thought I would let you see the full sized and the mini sized version for comparison purposes. The mini sized version USD $32 is 0.07 oz as compared to the full sized version USD $50 at 0.1 oz. The mini version sports the same look and feel. It is as luxe as the full sized version but way cuter and easier to carry around.

Francesco is a bright cool fuchsia that brightens up my face. I am in love with this colour and now I want Cooper too. How greedy can I be? Back to Francesco, he is creamy and opaque at one swipe. Even though he is opaque, he never felt heavy on my lips. It isn't the most moisturizing lipstick but it does not dry out my lips. It has enough slip to glide on easily on my lips.

I am not sure why but this time around my first impressions of these simply blew me away. I am happy to own each and every one of my boys and would gladly add more to my harem cough. At USD $32, it is the price of a full sized lipstick in many cases and even though my practical and logical mind says that it is way too much to pay for a tiny thing like this, I would gladly lay more of money to own more. How crazy is that? There is no explanations but I am head over heels over this boy.

They are disappearing soon so get them while you still can. At the moment I am hunting for Cary unsuccessfully at that. If anyone knows how I can get Cary, give me a holler.

Ratings: 5 lipsticks