Positively Nice

Kelly Rowland Bronze Turquoise Makeup - Recreation from Pixiewoo

2012-02-01T20:54:00.000+08:00

I am very excited to share this Face of the Day with you, because this has been roughly the makeup that I have had on for the past 1 week of Chinese New Year.

I basically went everywhere with the Chanel Spring 2012 Collection, and have got tonnes and tonnes of compliments that it looks pretty. And really, to me, the best part of the compliment is that, I didn't really do much to my face!

I think it really has been a long way since the time I piled on truckloads of makeup and went through a phase when people told me that they truly prefer the natural me. What that means to me, is that my makeup skills are not good enough. hahaha.

But I had taken them in the positive light, persisted with using makeup, with the determination to sharpen my skills. So it is heartening to receive compliments now, that tells me my skills are good enough.

So yes, I was inspired today by PixiewooMadness, a Youtube channel, and I quickly ran in and recreated it an hour ago. Here I am, ready with pictures. But before mine, let me just share the video link below:

Alright, short video, ain't it?

Now, my turn. =DDD

FOTD - Recreation from Pixiewoo, of Kelly Rowland Bronze Turquoise Makeup

I think the first thing you may notice would be the lip colour. I did not use a pink lilac lip colour because I actually forgotten. LOL, I didn't refer back while doing it.

And I really wanted to try the Chanel Rogue Coco that I bought. I only have 3, but I've never used any of them, for over a year already. So yes, I think it's really time that I try to polish them down. I have been living mostly on the 4 M.A.C lipsticks from Liberty of London.

Yep, so let's get into what was used:

Clockwise from bottom left corner: Dr Jart Black Label BB Cream, Canmake Eyelash Curler, Sonia Kashuk Travel Pouch of brushes, Chanel Blush de Horizon, Chanel Ombre Spring 2012, Q-tips, Bourjois Turquoise Eye Pencil, Make Up For Ever Waterproof Smoky Lash Mascara, Maybelline Gel Liner, SANA Loose Powder, Natio Lip Balm, and Rogue Coco in Legende.

(From left to right) EcoTools Mini Kabuki Brush, EcoTools Eye Blender Brush, Maybelline Eye Gel pencil brush, Sonia Kashuk (SK) Slanted Eyeliner Brush, SK Blender Brush, SK Eye Shading Brush, SK Angled Cheek Brush

Chanel Rogue Coco in 11 - Legende

This lip colour is a soft rose pink which tends to the red side, and is extremely, extremely wearable for me! It definitely reminds me of Viva Glam Cyndi, here. It was recommended by the man who created the new range of Rogue Cocos back then, here.

I read through my past post again, and Legende is actually described as a "penultimate pink", that "works well for almost everybody", and is also "Vanessa Paradis's favourite".

A couple of shots more for close-ups and a mini tutorial:

I used the lipstick itself and went all over. It is actually more sheer than I expected, but a really wearable, everyday colour nevertheless. Quality of Rogue de Coco is really good, as expected. Extremely light, not oily, not sticky, and totally doesn't comes off on my drinking mug, yet it seems to last forever, through eating... ...

Sob, yes, I do have fine lines under my eyes due to years of contact lens wearing.

I realise that with ultra light makeup, my eyes seem to look a lot bigger! Especially with a bright coloured undereye liner, like this turquoise, my eyes look bigger.

For this part,
- use the Sonia Kashuk Eye Shader brush to apply the light brown colour (bottom left of palette) all over the lids, up to the crease.
- use the SK Dome Blending brush to apply the darkest colour inside the crease.
- use the clean EcoTools blending brush to blend out the dark colour in the crease.
- I tapped a teeny bit of the pink colour on the palette and go through a second round of blending inside the crease.

(before that, I actually used a highlighter creme eyeshadow to highlight my brow bone and the inner corners of my eyes, so you can see that highlight at the inner corners)

This view shows my eyeliner and eyebrows better.

After doing the eyeshadow, I lined the top lash line thinly with Maybelline Gel Liner, put on the Make Up Forever Mascara, and then lined the lower lash line with Bourjois Turquoise. Almost done!

Next part is my favourite, I simply use the leftover pigments from the Maybelline brush, to shade in my brows!

I realise that by using a shading brush, I can better control the strokes, and actually come out with nicer brows.

Last but not least, is the blush!

Aside from the awesome colours and sheen in the Chanel Blush de Horizon, I made a new discovery today, that is, the Sonia Kashuk Angled Blush Brush is really good!

The angled brush really makes the Chanel brush feels like crap. haha. And it is better than the EcoTools, in my opinion.

I think due to type of bristles, the SK brush picked up more powder, and can stipple very well! Due to the angle, it can also pop the blush nicely onto the apple of my cheeks, yet leave a two-finger space between the blush colour and my eyes, and also, between the blush colour and my nose.

And all that is left is for me to stipple the blush, so that the lines blend out very nicely.

I only used the EcoTools Kabuki blush to remove colour from one side to balance it out. But with the Chanel brush, I have to use the Kabuki brush to blend out the lines as well.

Alright, that's all for today.

Yours truly,
Jyoan
PosiNice

Positively Nice Dresser

2012-01-26T17:00:00.000+08:00

This is more to document my life, and to add a bit more to my profile.

And also done to satisfy my desire to showcase what's in the "bag".

******

Little story first (you can skip this until the next row of asterisks):

I've always had a bit of a reporter-freak in me, which explains the blog. And then there is also a part of me that's busybody, or to put it nicely, I am super curious.

Ever since Urban by The Straits Times started, eons ago, I have been watching that last page on "What's Inside A Celebrity's Bag". I find that it really satisfies this craving to know more, and that it's basically just fun knowing what other people do on a day-to-day basis.

I am quite a fan of those blog posts and videos that show how people store their cosmetics, what people carry in their daily makeup bag, or in luggage/travel toiletries pack. It's just super fun looking at pictures of all those, and so I thought, I'd just do one myself.

Not sure how many people it will interest, but yeah, more of just a fun post I have been wanting to do.

******

This is it!

The first one below, is pretty much my entire dresser. That red curtain you see in the background, is covering the mirror, because Chinese have the belief that the bed should not be reflected in the mirror. So yes, basically, from this angle, I am seating on my bed (even though I do have a dresser cushion seat underneath).

In the bottom right corner, is the air-con controller. I think that may be familiar for some of you.

This is the entire dresser.

And next, I am moving on to the black box behind the air-con controller.

It is a jewelry organizer that I got from Popular. You can find this in some other book stores too.

It is rather costly, and I hesitated a lot to buy this, though I knew the moment I saw this that I need something like it on my dresser. When I take you through the box, I believe you will be convinced. =P

It's very useful, and comes in 4 levels. Each level is compartmentalised differently from the previous one.

This first level you see below, is the jewelry part, where the ring holder is. The ring holder is on the right hand column, and takes up half the square. While the left hand column is divided equally into two, and in the front quarter, I put my watch and my necklace (the ones you see in most of my pictures).

Yes, I do only have one dress watch that I wear all the time (and two sports watches). Unlike makeup, watches are not things I hoard and change as and when I like. I feel they are a symbol of loyalty, trust, and lasting relation, because they tell time.

In the above picture, you will see that hot pink comb on the top right corner, and a black clamshell clip that I grab on bad hair days.

Then below, is the second layer, which is divided into 4 equal quarters. There's nothing much there yet. Right now, I place a couple of earrings that I got over the last half year.

The pearl one on the left, was bought from Phuket Gem Store, and the coloured one on the right is actually origami cranes made from Japanese kimono material, from Tokon Kozai if I am not wrong (the store at Citylink Mall selling Japanese kimono material stuff).

They are pretty, but I am one who switches earrings to match my everyday dressing. I tend to choose a earring that matches me and my lifestyle, and wear it forever.

Unfortunately, I lost my rose gold-plated ring ones (you may have spotted it in older pictures) while snorkeling in Phuket, and so all you see in my recent photos are those of dangling pearls, which I bought as replacement. (For the sharp eyed, the one left is actually stucked into my ring holder in the picture above.)

The next photo is that of the third layer, which is divided into one half, and two quarters. Really nothing much, and I just placed my old contact lens cases in there, with the rubber bands, because I didn't know where else to put them, for emergency purposes.

LOL, and yes, I like to keep the silica gel sachets.

Alright, and down to the forth and last level, that's where the square is not divided, and I can put longer things inside.

So you see there, bottom right, is my Garnier BB Eye Roll-On, and next to it is a Lipice Lipcolour stick, silica gel sachet behind. Then there is the black box with some designs on it. That's a bobby pin case from Sasa. It has a mirror inside, and maybe I will blog about it one day.

For those really curious, you can get nice, pretty, cute bobby pin cases very easily nowadays. I think I saw one at Watsons, and I believe Sasa stills has a couple of designs. I myself bought another case of pins because the box was just too nice. Not the same one, I got another in a tin case.

Yup, and so I keep the bobby pins packet outside. I only keep a handful of used pins in the black case.

And there is that hot pink blob there, which is a fashion ring I bought for a retro themed party back in August last year. Obviously, I wore it once and that's it.

Haha, but if you notice, I do like hot pink quite a lot.

And for those wondering, I do use the Garnier BB Eye Roll-On even though I blogged about it before, saying that I wasn't sure if it works. Kind of just reach for it, because I don't want to waste the entire tube. And I guess, it does helps dark eye circles a teeny bit. I still pat over it with my BB Cream to make it more opaque.

That's all for the wonderful black box! Really love it. How it conceals my items, and gives me convenience, and organization to everyday items.

Moving aside from the box, is my tray of daily skincare products.

In the extreme right, there is that Apple iPad2 mirror I blogged about. Then it is the Dr. Jart Black Label. I am almost through my first tube, after over a year.

There is Rexona at the back, followed by two cute bubble head bottles of White, that I got from Daiso. Going to review it soon.

Besides them, there is Eversoft sunscreen SPF 35. I am almost done with that tube too, hence the clip on it.

Behind that, is my ICM Rose Water, which I use as toner at night.

In front of it, that little pot there, is Skin Doctors White cream. Pretty good stuff. But not yet reviewed as well.

Then there is the Am+Pm Skincare by Naruko Taiwan Niu-Er, which I blogged about last month.

Finally, that stick behind Am+Pm, is the Badger Tinted Lipbalm that I blogged about too. Really lousy product in terms of a lip balm. But yeah, don't really want to waste it, so it's there where I can reach for. I don't. I go to my handbag and take out the Burt's Bees.

So that's all in that little tray. I try to keep my products to this one little tray, so that I really finish everything before changing, and keep my dresser clutter-free. Got the tray from Daiso too. They have really nice, multi-coloured trays, in all shape and sizes you can possibly imagine.

I just took transparent because that's my favourite "colour".

Lastly, there is this sponge beside the tray, on which I put some larger stuff that doesn't fits in.

At the back, my Laneige Professional Makeup Remover. I swear by this and I blogged about it. =)

The other orange and yellow pump bottle is a body moisturizer which I hardly use. In front of it, is the Make Up Store pot of lipbalm, which I use as lip treatment. I do touch it every now and then, for dry lips, air-con protection, and dry elbows. Wonderful product, that never goes down, wonder when I will need to repurchase.

Then there is the obvious clock. Expensive clock from supermarket, but it is digital, has light, and satisfies my huge curiosity to know time down to the date and temperature.

Behind all of these, is actually my tub of Nature Republic Loose Powder, which I have also blogged about and swear by. Get loads and loads of compliments when this is on my face.

That little thing beside my lipbalm is just a fallout keychain that I don't want to throw.

On the left foreground, is my container of travel size toiletries that I brought to Phuket and couldn't finish. So I thought I would leave it out till I have the mood to use it up and blog about it.

That hot pink you see again, in the background is none other than my tissue holder, so I don't go scrambling for tissue when my makeup goes wrong.

The green bag behind the tissue is my little dustbin for toiletries rubbish.

The tissue and dustbin are not part of my dresser. They are sitting on the TV console beside my dresser. So basically above it, is a wall-mount television set, which I've never used so far.

******

That's it. A really long post, but I have so much to say. Hope the pictures didn't bore you. There is still my dresser drawer, which I think is too much for this post. Will leave it to another time! =D

I hope you've enjoyed a tour of my dresser, and if you do have a post on your dresser, or your makeup storage, or bathroom top with all your skincare, do post a link! =) I love these genre of post, being the curious blogger that I am. Look forward to your response!

Yours truly,
Jyoan
PosiNice

There's Fix, and it's Cheap - Plastic Shopping Bag Hooks For Doors

2012-01-26T04:08:00.002+08:00

Just want to share with you something that I find really cool.

Not to mention how cheap they are. =D There's a fix, and it's cheap.

Plastic Shopping Bag Hooks For Doors, 4 pcs

Available: Daiso, $2

Volume: This one that I chose came in 4. But there are others of different sizes, slightly different shapes, colours, etc, and some come in 2s only.

Star Properties: Can be hooked over any door that is of the right thickness.

Now, before you ask if I've become an aunty, telling the world about some plastic bag hook, nonono. I did buy these to hook plastic bags for my garbage, but it didn't end up that way. If it did, it wouldn't appear on my blog. LOL. So what did I use it for? Please read on.

Packaging
It's really good. Came like that, with the hooks on a card, and the card with all the descriptions. The hooks were taped down, and this entire card was in a clear plastic.

I have never seen a Japanese product that is packaged poorly, so yes, even though this is only $2, it was as good as any other Japanese product.

How I really use them?
Slot them onto the top of my cupboard, as seen below, and tadaa! There goes all my clothes!

I have this habit of hanging up whatever I want to wear for the next day since young, because that was what my mum did for me in all my uniform years, up until I entered college, and she didn't know what to choose for me anymore.

My mum never used these hooks of course, as the cupboards in the house are not built-in, and are empty on top, so one can actually store stuff on the roof of the cupboards, and also hang hangers directly from the roof.

But if you have floor to ceiling built-in cupboards like mine now, and need space to hang stuff, whatever stuff, necklaces, hats, coats, etc, then you'd find these Japanese hooks useful. =D

Is that all?
No. Now, you can see all four of the hooks facing out. But actually, they can be turned in, and the doors would still close up. This way, you can hang things on the inside as well. (I know that on the inside, I can just buy those stick-on row of hooks, but I need more than just a row of 4 or 5 hooks. Way too little.)

I will show you what I hang on the other side of the cupboard, then it would really be wow! How useful are plastic bag hooks! =DDD

I have been cracking my head for some 3 months, over how I can continue my clothe hanging habit with this kind of stupid built-in cupboards. Until one day I decided to remove these hooks from my kitchen (because I ended up not hanging plastic bags on them as it is just too dirty hanging garbage by my cabinets), and this idea just popped up!

Cost
Only 50 cents each. Amazing.

Plus, they come in hot pink, sky blue, bright green. I was initially perplexed as to which colour I should choose, and what design. Eventually settled on a personal lucky colour - yellow. haha.

Short post. That's all. =)

Yours truly,
Jyoan
PosiNice

Lush - Northern Lights

2012-01-25T14:54:00.000+08:00

Today is the day that a lot of Singaporeans would be returning to school/work after the long CNY weekend. And I wish all of you a smooth and fruitful day!

Anyway, what's a new day without a great bath?

After a month of trying out one of my Lush product, I am ready to talk about it.

Lush - Northern Lights

Available: Lush Store@Wisma Atria, $110/kg

Volume: 0.170 kg,

Star Properties: Great colour and fragrance

Packaging
These bar soaps from Lush are traditionally wrapped in a thin piece of paper, as below. They are chopped off from the big blocks of soap you will see in the shop, into smaller blocks of varying sizes. They are then weighed, and a price tag pasted on, as seen below.

It is quite an interesting concept, as compared to the other body shops in Singapore, from Crabtree & Evelyn, to The Body Shop, L'occitane, etc, where soap bars are typically mass manufactured, with exactly the same size and mass, and therefore all costs the same.

At Lush, bar soaps are never exactly the same. And you are free to choose the smaller pieces or large ones.

Apparently, this one I have is rather large, and I chose it because I wanted to grab something that would fit nicely into my hand. While I were there, there were two smaller ones, about $12. One of them looks like half the size of mine, rectangular, at 2cm high, the other one was more of a cube, same height as mine, but a cube instead of rectangular.

Cost
I thought this was quite a pinch. In fact, I only bought this bar soap on my 3rd trip to Lush.

The first time I went, I told myself that I would not get a bar soap because it is so opaque, and none of the ingredients lists said there is glycerin.

There are other flavours, like Honey, Polar Ice, etc. But just none of them are translucent.

They are made mostly from oil of some sort.

But I saw lots of people getting one of these unique soap bars, and on my 3rd trip, I couldn't help but follow the crowd.

Does it actually feels good?
To be honest, NO.

I think Lush bar soap feels exactly like every other non-glycerin-based bar soap. Which means, it makes my skin itch. I am still using it, because it's so costly, and after a while, I did get a bit more used to it.

But I still find it drying as with every other opaque soap on the market that I've ever tried before.

It smells good though.
Yup, I kind of like the fragrance. And when I left it in my cupboard for a couple of weeks, it filled my cupboard with the nice smell. =)

It looks fantastic!
I think it looks really great, and it brightens up my bathroom, and my mood whenever I take a shower. BUT, that means, it has LOADS of artificial colouring. The highlighter colour comes off on my skin everytime I use it.

So for those who know you're sensitive to colourings, I advise not to buy these bar soaps. Or maybe, go for a more natural one, like the Honey.

I like this: 3/5
I will not repurchase Lush bar soaps. Expensive and irritates my skin. This soap redeemed itself because of the colour and fragrance.

I feel really bad that my first review of something from the first Lush store in Singapore (in 20 years), have to be quite bad.

But yeah, I will quickly go and try the rest, and I do, do, do hope I will love something!

A picture from my CNY Day 2 dinner:

Yours truly,
Jyoan
PosiNice

Chanel Spring 2012

2012-01-23T16:27:00.001+08:00

I was really pleasantly surprised by the quality of the Chanel.

Being exposed to the non-counter Western brands, like Make Up For Ever, Smashbox, and Urban Decay, before I have the ability to experience traditional counter brands, made me like bright colours, high luminescence, high pigmentation, a lot more than classics.

But after just once of using everything Chanel on my face, I suddenly understand why the classics stays, and will probably remain.

Eye Quad

Just when I thought MUFE is really No.1, I come across something else that works even better. The quality of the powder in the Chanel's eye quad is really amazing!

They come off extremely pigmented, so that I didn't need to fill up the Q-tip to give me enough colour. I have this counting rule to keep track of the amount of powder I take, and for Chanel, I only counted to 8, and I thought, oh, looks like more than enough.

For many other palettes, I tend to go up to 20-30 counts.

The most amazing part of Chanel is that powder is so fine it makes my eye lid look airbrushed! My goodness, because this is the first time I didn't need to blend.

I did my entire eye using just the Q-tips, no brushes. And I didn't use my fingers to blend. It is just this wonderful, and time-saving.

All of a sudden, full eye makeup is so effortless, not daunting, and so time-saving.

As for the colours, I'd have to say, it is extremely well-matched. The dark shader colour is more of brown, but came off lighter than I expected, yet does not make me look dusty like many, many other brown palettes.

The champagne brown is more of a skin colour which I used to fill in the crease and blend the dark shade with the highlight.

The pink goes all over the inner lid and the glitter one goes onto the brow bones and inner corner.

Chanel Blush de Horizon

Another amazing, amazing product. I have seen lots of swatches of this, and to be honest, they did change my very first impression of it, such that I was apprehensive right before buying. The swatches made it look too pearlescent for me. I wanted something more matte as Sugarbomb is already pearly.

However, when I really used it, it came out oh-so-neutral-pink/coral, so classic matte.

I didn't swirl all over or up down, I used the Chanel brush provided and simply sweep horizontally along the lines. I didn't go back and forth, but instead lifted my brush each time, to always go left to right.

This way, I got a pink that was warm and look like it comes out from yellow tone skin.

Last but not least, the blush brush that came together is good! I got all the colour on that places that I want it. And I had excellent control of it because of the relative stiffness of the brush, and flatness, unlike normal EcoTools or Sonia Kashuk brushes, that are fatter.

Really like how Blush de Horizon pays off the colour, and is very buildable. This is actually still very light when seen under stronger lights, after about 10 swipes. Looking at the picture, I realise it somehow has a gradient. Could be the way I apply, could be really due to the many colour strips.

Eyeliner

This is the most waterproof liner I have got in my stash. Simply amazing. I tried it twice on my hand, and after a day of activity and bathing, it just doesn't comes off.

Grenat is also a very wonder maroon that makes my eyes look natural, and therefore naturally large!

Can't see much eyeliner here. But notice how soft and gradated the eyeshadows are. I didn't have to blend purposefully to achieve this!

Lip Pencil

I bought this because the staying power of it is excellent. After I wipe off the lipgloss with tissue, this thing stays.

Lipgloss

I didn't buy any of the Spring collection glosses, but I used instead a colour called Candy Glow by Chanel that I got previous. It is an Aqualumiere. And needless to say, an Aqualumiere is good all over the world.

I like the way the brush gives such a fantastic control over exactly where I want the gloss to be.

Chanel's gloss is also strangely warm on the lips, feel like a snuggly blanket, highly pigmented, yet at the same time not thick, not sticky at all, and doesn't streaks.

Precision brush, high coverage.

Overall, I am very impressed and convinced by Chanel, maybe because I am still new to it, as compared to others. Of all the blogs, I have seen those that look like eternal fans of Chanel, and others who are already jaded. But me, I will just let myself enjoy this while I really still enjoy this now, and give myself chances to explore in future.

What was used:

Once again, PositivelyNice wishes you a fortune-filled Lunar New Year! =)

Consolation paper bag for the price paid.

Yours truly,

Jyoan

PosiNice

Chanel Le Vernis in June

2012-01-22T14:18:00.000+08:00

I am probably the 23567th person caught gripping the Chanel Le Vernis for Spring 2012 like that. So, this is not a review, but more of an update on Chinese New Year.

But I have my own story to Le Vernis in June.

I think most of us have some sort of innate justification to why we buy certain things, no matter how ridiculous it may seem to others, and mine, is simply because I am born in June.

When I first heard of the three Chanel for Spring colours, I just couldn't believe Chanel made a nail polish for me! Yes, it feels like it's being made for me, even though I know there are millions of people born in June. It is just that special.

On top of that, it comes in a colour, tone, and shade that I personally like. I like light colours, and I like milky shades. The softness of April, May, and June just touches me the way Spring does.

Furthermore, peach is a tone that looks like it can go well with yellow skin tones.

So that's is, I've just got to try.

I didn't get May, and I don't intend to, because it looks too cool for me. I tried to buy April, but it was out of stock at the counter I went to, and I didn't go and look over Singapore for it.

******

On a review point of view, however, I still don't like the Chanel paint as much, no matter how gorgeous their colours truly are. I already have hair line cuts on my nails, the morning after application because it can't dry fast enough, partly due to the fact that this needs 2-3 coatings. While OPI is very monotone, and counter brands are highly multi-toned, I really prefer the paints being smooth and flawless to colour.

Nevertheless, this is a colour that is neutral enough to be worn to work, so hurray, I can keep using it.

haha, I was looking at my nail polish collection yesterday while packing for CNY, and I realise how many weird M.A.C paints I have, and that I will never use them. I know what a waste that is. And I have actually resolved to only buy if I can use frequently, and have been sticking to my resolve.

******

Anyhow, HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR TO ALL OF YOU!

May the Dragon year be wonderful and fruitful for all.

Yours truly,

Jyoan

PosiNice

PS: Will post the Face of Chanel Spring 2012 after I take my CNY shots!

Happy Early CNY + Updates

2012-01-21T02:54:00.001+08:00

I am in one of those mixed feelings right now. I am looking forward to CNY because really, this is the first year I am going to have reunion dinner with another family, and I am so going to test the Chanel Spring Collection over the course of all my CNY visits. I have already bought CNY clothes, albeit being last minute shopping. But on the other hand, I haven't cleaned my house. =( LOL.

I am pretty sure most of you have, and yes, that's great!

As for the time being, I am very busy with work everyday. Even without assignments/deadlines, I will be busy reading to stay updated. Sometimes, I wonder why I don't really let myself rest. =PP

But really, I haven't forgotten to use my skincare and once-in-a-while makeup. And this post is more to credit recent discoveries.

Alright, while I've posted about the Beauty Blender, raving about how good it is at putting on foundations and blush, I have also been trying out another way that I read about on My Women Stuff, here.

You see, the thing about sponges is that they absorb products, especially liquid/cream ones. And so I did mention how reluctant I was to use the Beauty Blender for my sunscreen because I think sunscreen is too costly to waste on a sponge.

So guess what, I decided to apply what MWS says about all this application matters.

I started using my finger tips for sunscreen. AND because I had been lazy to keep washing the Beauty Blender, I actually decided to use my fingers for pretty much everything else, including the Bourjois Gel foundation and my Dr. Jart BB Cream.

And GOSH, couldn't help wow-ing at how good it all goes on.

One thing I MUST emphasize on, is really how much BB Cream I am saving because I use the tapping method. I had been using fingers to apply all my BB life, but in the traditional way that I apply moisturizer, like up-up-up and left-right-left-right for the forehead. But with the traditional method, I have to squeeze a full pea size of product.

HOWEVER, with finger-tapping piano-playing method, I found out that pea size is too much! It is like I am done applying but there is still product, so how?

As a result, I have now cut down my cream volume to a mere half of that pea size. Goodness gracious. And I find that cutting down not only is saving on product, but really, less is more.

With the finger-tap method, I can make so little go all the way round and still look absolutely flawless (thanks to Dr. Jart), AND ALSO dewey and natural. Absolutely fantastic. I think I've really grown a lot over the years from thinking that more is more (I don't use foundation, but I do put quite a lot of loose powder, and I REALLY love to PILE on eyeshadows), to realising that like what all those Taiwanese makeup artists say, all we need is to have a super thin layer, as that's what red carpet stars do.

I just suddenly realise how true everything is. All the information falling into place, finger-tapping method, ultra-thin layer... ...
---

Last but not least, I have been busy catching up with emilynoel83's Youtube Channel.
Her latest is on all-star eye products,

I think it's really amazing that time passes this fast. When I discovered her, I was also starting off this blog. And now, everything has transformed. She was, and still is one of favourite Youtuber. Really one of those I have been following ever since. I actually dropped a couple of top Youtubers from the 2008 time... but she remains.

I think her recent videos are really worth sitting through, very much improved from last time. And I am sure you will find a title you like if you are into makeup too. =D

And so, that's about it. Thank you so much for being here. The Rabbit Year is going to be up in two days' time, so all the very best for your Dragon year, and goodbye!

Yours truly,
Jyoan
PosiNice

2012-01-09T15:58:00.001+08:00

Finally, I can find NYX in Singapore!

I stumbled upon this little shop at 313@Somerset about two months ago, stocking lots of NYX products. And having heard so much about this brand from Youtube, I decided to get a few items to try. Other than the Jumbo Pencil which a lot of people swear by, I picked up a lipstick which look great from its ingredients.

So here is my first item from NYX:

NYX Lipstick in LSS 620 Paris

Available: 313@Somerset, little shop outside Trattoria Italian Pizza

Volume: 4g

Star Properties: Slightly more like a lipbalm, containing Bees wax, carnuaba wax, and candelilla wax, as first 3 ingredients.

Colour
This isn't a colour that exactly suits me, but I bought it because I like the name so much, Paris. It is a Twilight Lavender that is lighter in shade, and more pink. And it is on the cold tone, mauve side.

Twilight lavender
— Color coordinates —
Hex triplet		#`8A496B`
RGB^B	(r, g, b)	(138, 73, 107)
HSV	(h, s, v)	(297°, 48%, 96^[22]%)
Source		Crayola
B: Normalized to [0–255] (byte)

Taken from Wikipedia, here.

Feel
As expected, this is not drying, and really feel more like a lip balm than normal lipsticks. However, also as expected, due to the higher wax content, this lipstick is less pigmented, and I normally use it by swiping the entire lipstick over my lips instead of using a lip brush, just to get more colour out of it.

Look
This is what it looks like after getting enough product on.

I have been reaching for this often enough recently. But I don't feel that this is a Holy Grail lipstick because I should have chosen a colour that suits me instead of by name. I think this particular is too cold for me, and stands out too much, yet in a way that dulls my face.

Overall, I like it: 3.5/5
I think NYX lipstick is good, I don't mind getting another one if I need a new colour. But this colour does not suits me. Haha, so I advise readers out there, don't buy a lipstick because of the name! =PPP

Burt's Bees Replenishing Lip Balm in Pomengranate

2012-01-08T16:50:00.000+08:00

I am finally on this famous lip balm! About 2 years ago, I compiled a list of top 5 lip balms after reading blog and forum reviews. And this is one of them. But I only bought this when Sephora came, bringing Burt's Bees products into Singapore. Yet, it is only in the last half year that I actually unsealed this tube and started using it. LOL, because I have too many lip balms waiting to be used.

But I am glad to say that it is still great, and I am ready to put it on the blog! =D

Burt's Bees Replenishing Lip Balm in Pomengranate

Available: Sephora, ~$13

Star Properties: Organic, soothing, nourishing, hydrating, slightly tinted.

Packaging
It's the same as many others you probably already own. Just that I really like how the cap is red! =D

Tinted and Moisturizing
This is the No.1 reason why I like this over every other lip balm I've ever used!

It is not only tinted, but exceptionally moisturizing! To the point, I use this as my lipstick cum lipgloss.

The pomengranate flavour is a life-saver, when I want to look refreshed first thing in the morning, and not pale and washed out. Especially after putting on sunscreen, I will look a lot more white, as if I have no eyes and lips. And I'd put this lip balm on, tadaa! Instant perk up. =D

Thus far, I keep reaching for Burt's Bees, and ignoring my other lip balms even though I've opened them. I just find them not as good.

I LOVE THIS: 6/5
This is not the cheapest of lip balms out there, but the perks actually makes up the value for the higher price paid.

Biore Makeup Remover Cleansing Gel

2012-01-08T16:13:00.000+08:00

I finally bought the pink colour Biore makeup remover for eyes and lips, after reading a lot of review about it. And I've also tried the blue one for face. But does anybody knows about the green one?

Yes, the green gel one! =D

Biore Makeup Remover Cleansing Gel

Available: Fairprice, pharmacies

Volume: 170g (that's quite a lot of product)

Star Properties: As seen below, oil-free, thoroughly cleanses without sticky feeling, contains moisturizing agent that makes skin feel smooth without any tightness.

Instructions and ingredients: As below. I think the ingredients list is rather short and simple.

Packaging
haha, I'd have to admit, at slightly over $10 for about 2.5 months worth of product, the packaging isn't absolutely pretty and good. But it will suffice.

However, dispense is good and compatible with the gel. I can easily control how much to squeeze, and the gel is solid enough to not drip when I stop squeezing.

Dissolving Power
I think this gel dissolves most of my makeup very well. Normally, I am only left with my mascara. My sunscreen and other powders are all gone.

Irritation
Besides this gel not being able to dissolve waterproof mascaras and some eyeliners, it will also sting my eyes quite a bit. So I do recommend coupling this gel with a designated eye makeup remover.

After use feel
Great! Surprisingly, this gel does not leaves my skin feeling taut or dry.

Cost
This gel is considered one of the less pricey ones as compared to cleansing oils that I prefer.

I like this: 3.5/5
I think this is a very good cheap, everyday makeup remover, for sunscreen. I would use it when I don't have very good mascaras or eyeliner on. Which means, normal days, when I only use loose powder and a bit of gloss and/or blush.

But I would still stick to my cleansing oil when I have fuller eye makeup on. Otherwise, I will have to couple this gel with the Biore eye makeup remover.

Coconut Oil for Makeup Remover!

2012-01-02T18:48:00.004+08:00

So I was in Phuket, Thailand for my December holiday's trip, and I made this interesting discovery, that other than Extra Virgin Olive Oil for makeup removing, Extra Virgin Coconut Oil works miraculously too!

I am not someone who puts on makeup everyday, so when it comes to outdoor activities, all the more will I not use makeup. That means, when I packed my luggage to sunny tropical island, Phuket, where I know I will be island-hopping and sweating enough, on top of being in and out, and in and out of the sea, I totally skipped makeup, and so makeup remover.

But there came this day that I went to Phuket FantaSea, which is the most indoor activity that I did over there, I got a chance to makeup as a Thai princess for photos. And then I realised I didn't bring makeup remover, and it was a bit late to go out of the hotel and find one when I was back at the hotel.

It just so happened I bought a bottle of coconut oil from my supermarket explore in the day, with the intention to use coconut oil as hair oil, because my hair was dry from sea water and sun. Then the idea came, tadaa! If Extra Virgin Olive Oil can be used to remove makeup, then why not Extra Virgin Coconut Oil?

Koconae Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil

Available: Tops and Central Food Hall@Phuket Town (I do believe coconut can be found in Singapore, but Organic, and Extra Virgin at the same time, perhaps it will have to be purchased in Thailand, India, or online.)

Volume: 100mL

Star Properties: To make hair shine, can be eaten before meals, used for salad dressings, cooking, face moisturizer for glowing skin.

haha, if you've ever been to places like Thailand and India, you'd realise that coconut oil is like the Asian form of super-magic oil, as olive oil is to Greek and Italian's favourite.

Packaging
This brand has various volumes of Organic EV Coconut Oil, and the packaging range from this 100mL botlle, to a larger bottle of similar shape, and the kind of jar that you scoop out jam and mayonnaise from.

They are all made of good, hard, transparent plastic, with aluminium screw caps that is tight. It didn't leak when I brought the bottle back in my luggage. =D

Purity
As it claims, this very pure, with great coconut smell. LOVE.

Thailand is big on coconut skincare and haircare, so you can find all sorts of coconut oil-based products even at the airport. But during my trip, this is the only brand that has organic extra virgin one. The rest are mixed with other chemicals. But for shampoo, I do think chemical are needed, especially alkaline surfactants, so it really depends on your needs.

I chose this brand for purity because I wanted to try eating it and using it for cooking too.

Effectiveness
It was to my total amazement that this coconut oil works better than olive oil at makeup removing! It is definitely way better than the MUJI Mild Cleansing Oil.

I can't say if it is because of the higher purity or not, but it works. Perfect solvent for all the makeup.

Will not emulsify
The only con of using pure oils, is that they do not come with emulsifiers. Meaning, you will find slightly challenge in washing it off your face, because these pure oils simply do not dissolve in water.

But, since I already have the habit of double cleansing with my cleanser, I am glad to say that even with a very mild organic face milk that I brought for this trip, I managed to clean the oil off, whilst leaving enough of it on my face as a natural moisturizer! Perfect con, actually... Since according to the Thais, coconut oil is great for face, soothing, healing and all.

And last but not least, thought I'd greet everyone a Happy New Year here, with Sawadee-kap! =DDD

This was the photo-taking for which they helped me to put makeup on, and I had to wash off with the coconut oil.

Cost
It's highly affordable! Especially if you're a tourist in Thailand... ...

I love coconut oil for makeup removing: 4.8/5!
Given the inconvenience to get this in Singapore, plus my laziness because I want something that emulsifies, I probably will not repurchase it as a makeup remover. But just to let you know, it is worth a try using any oil you can find when you need a makeup remover urgently overseas.

I am still high on Laneige Refreshing Cleansing Oil. =)

Yours truly,
PosiNice

Behold the Beauty Blender!

2012-01-01T17:53:00.001+08:00

Happy New Year to All!

In this new year, may Heavens blessed all of you, such that all your resolutions can be fulfilled!

I have decided to start of New Year's day blogging with a great product find from the last of 2011. And that is, the much raved Beauty Blender.

I am quite sure many of you have already seen this pretty hot pink tear drop blob of sponge on so many other blogs. But for someone like me, who finds it troublesome to order from online, and also finds the Beauty Blender a tad costly, it is not surprising that I wait till it lands in Singapore, at long last, before I decide whether to buy or not.

Beauty Blender

Available: Takashimaya B1 Gift section, BHG Bugis ALT Store section

Volume: 1 blender, 1 blender cleanser

Star Properties: Modernises the way you make up.

Directions to use: As below.

There is very clear instructions on how to use it,
- wet it --> towel dry with kitchen paper towel
- use it --> put your product on the fat bum of the blender, BOUNCE all over your face.
- cleanse it --> squeeze a pump or two of the cleanser, rub it into the blender sponge
- wash it --> put it under running water as you continue rubbing out the cosmetics till clean. Air dry.

I thought I don't really need this beauty blender as I don't use foundations at all. I use my trusted Dr Jart BB Cream as a base, because I need to conceal a bit of dark eye circles and light blemishes once in a while. And also because I find it strange putting loose powder on my bare face, with just moisturizer.

To be honest, I actually wanted to use it to apply blush because the teacher in Nu Ren Wo Zui Da says that using a bouncy sponge to apply blusher will make it stick, look sheer, and extremely natural. (He used a simple egg shape bouncy sponge, those that you can get at Daiso for $2.)

I went out to look for sponges, those similar to Beauty Blender, like Sephora's Sasa... ... all in excitement to compare them. And then I saw Beauty Blender, and I thought, since it's so raved about, can I then use it to apply my blush?

Packaging
All Beauty Blenders are nicely packed in a box like the one in the first photo. There is the round box that comes with 3 Blenders too.

How I Use It
Even though I wanted to use it for blush, I thought, hey, why not I try it with my BB Cream, since I've read that it's for blending foundation, especially liquid ones, then I guess, BB Cream is not all that much different from a liquid foundation right? It's also liquid. LOL.

And tadaa! I don't regret trying. This is the Blender, with my BB Cream on the bottom.

Looks

After bouncing it all over my face, I look like that:

I have never gotten my BB Cream on so well-blended before!

I always use my fingers, because I believe they are better blenders than brushes, and I don't like normal sponges because they are poorly shaped, on top of absorbing too much product.

But I never thought this Beauty Blender would do a better job than fingers!

Natural/Sheer
I feel that due to the way it can make so little product go all the way over my face, so sheer, so thinly, it makes my face feel and look ultra natural.

I've had times that my friends could tell I was wearing some foundation of sorts because of poor blending. But look at this! I was immediate in love with Beauty Blender.

******
I even tried it with less BB Cream than you see, like a bean size, instead of a pea size, and my face still feels well-primed/covered, no parts missed out, yet I know the cream is there.

Now for my initial purpose - To apply blusher using a sponge:

Blush Look

This first picture is of the shape that Beauty Blender gives, which is a very nice round at the cheeks. All I did was smile, and literally punch the sponge on the apples of my cheeks, and I just pulled the sponge up to achieve this.

And this is after I blended. I used the bum of the sponge to bounce all over the boundaries of the blush, so I don't get one line ringing in my blush. It's like how you can use a clean kabuki brush to blend out the boundary of the blush area.

Can see that Beauty Blender picks up a good amount of blush, and this was actually achieved with just one try! Good for an amateur like me.

And on my left cheeks, I use my normal blush brush.

I only got a fraction of the colour that Beauty Blender gives. And when I pull it up to my ears, I don't get as consistent an effect.

The shape is also not as nice as the rounded one.

This is my left cheeks after using brush to blend out the boundaries.

I really must exclaimed OMG at the blended effect. I think I finally understand first hand what some Youtube Beauty Gurus mean by - the one rule, only rule, best rule for makeup, is BLEND BLEND BLEND!

The difference between Beauty Blender Blush and Brush Blush was so great that I had to use my Beauty Blender to touch up my left cheeks so that I don't go out uneven!

And so, this is the final look for that day. (I was wearing my new USS T-shirt. =DD)

Feels great to really have literally "light" makeup, because I was going on a walking-outing, don't want to sweat and risk smudging my makeup. Light is always great for days you know are hot and humid.

Cost
I still think this is costly. LOL. But I guess, it does reflect the quality of makeup you can get with a higher cost. It can make an amateur look a little more pro at the art.

I am hooked on using Beauty Blender to apply my BB Cream and blush now, but I refrain from using it for my tinted sunscreen, because it absorbs way too much product, as with sponges. Sunscreen must be applied in proper dosage to be effective, and I normally two finger lengths of my Eversoft one, so I am not for wasting precious sunscreen and compromising on sun protection effect, by patting it out with a sponge.

I love this: 6/5!
The best beauty discovery for me in 2011, but too late to make a Best of 2011 list. If I can maintain my usage of it throughout 2012, then it will probably be Best of 2012!

Yours truly,
PosiNice

Bourjois Blush Sculpting Duo Effect in 05 Warm Pink/ Golden Skintone

2011-12-31T17:10:00.003+08:00

Hi Everyone!

Unlike many other blogs, I don't have a blogging thing that I can really say is the best of or worst of 2011, because I have been largely absent online this year.

However, it had been an extremely fulfilling year, with countless discoveries and self-discoveries in my offline life, that have helped me to grow intensively.

It could be due to the offline growth that is seeing me change preferences when it comes to things like skincare procedures and makeup, and I hope this will go well with you, and help you as you grow up too.

haha, somehow I find it different when I blog from a growing up girl point of view, because there were a lot of things that I couldn't do, and still, there are things that I am just not at that stage yet. Funny phase to be in, and so I ask for your understanding and pardon if I write anything you find simply silly.

As we come to the end, I just want to share one last thing that I feel should go up this year, and that is, as the title says,

Bourjois Blush Sculpting Duo Effect in 05 Warm Pink/ Golden Skintone

Available: BHG (got mine from Century Square), Watsons Raffles City (SG does not have Bourjois counter all over the island)

Volume: 6g (which is about the size of a L'oreal blush Delice, standard, not big)

Star Properties: A play on light and shadow to highlight the contour of the face.

Packaging
Great packaging, that was what attracted me to try this out. The counter staff told me this pairing by Bourjois would be limited while stocks lasts. She was quite honest that this is more like a gimmick, as Bourjois would still keep their blushes in the familiar round with vintage around-the-world prints on the casing.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE windows for blushes, as compared to irritating blush cases designs that are not transparent. =P It makes my entire colour choosing a lot more efficient.

Each good plastic case comes cling-wrapped (but has been peeled open by me), with a click open design, with instructions and information printed on the under side.

It also comes with a brush, and mirror as with the old-style round blushes that Bourjois is famous for.

But I think the mirror is so much bigger. LOL.

I am very into squarish cases, mirrors in cases, and click-open designs.

However, I did not say yes at first sight to this.

Blush Powder Texture
The powder texture is pretty good when I swiped it with my finger. (Which cannot be compared to brands like Dior, which is feel-ably softer.) It is better than a general drugstore brand like L'oreal Blush Delice, Majolica Majorca.

I think as it is as its price says, above long-know drugstore brands in Singapore, but will not be equal to counter brand.

Pigmentation
It is not those that you go wow about how so little goes such a long way. In fact, on every occasion that I used this, I needed to swipe my brush at least 20 times.

Actually, 20 times with my Make Up Store brush, and at least 30 with my EcoTools one (which picks up very very little pigments, no matter which brand you use it on).

However, I bought because my finger actually managed to get a decent amount that I could swatch. I can see clearly what the colour is when I swatched, both for the matte shade, and the highlighter shade.

Colour
The beautiful colour was what actually made me decide to buy. It is exactly as it claims, a wonderful warm pink, slightly golden, great for an NC22-25 skin (I think NC 30 would find this a bit light). Great colour for Singapore's weather all year round.

It is simply, the kind of coral nude that will go with any random lip/eye colour. Colour is quite the same as Kamayaki Cheeks in Passion that I wrote about, but teeny weeny bit more orange, while Kamayaki Passion is teeny weeny more pink.

Here's the look with this lightly brushed on:

Other things on my face are, SANA Loose Powder, Coleurs Lipstick, Nvey Eco Lipgloss, Majolica Majorca Eyeshadow Quad (Brown), Make Up Store Eye Shadow Single, KOJI Springheart Pencil Liner (Black), Sasa Superdolly mascara, Empro Brow Pencil.

The Highlighter
It does not really works, in my opinion. I've tried to make it work a handful of times by now, but I find the highlighter in Kamayaki Cheeks and Benefit Sugarbomb still more effective.

This was when I used it for a wedding dinner makeup, and I did the nude look but with heavier blush:

Other things on my face are, Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum Gel Foundation in 02, M.A.C Ever Hip Lipstick, Urban Decay Primer Potion in Sin, Silkygirl Eyeshadow-6 palette, Empro Liquid Liner, Make Up For Ever Waterproof Mascara, Empro Brow Pencil.

So maybe because of the lower pigmentation, as mentioned earlier, this highligher/blush really needs to be used a lot more heavily that if say, I use Kamayaki, or Majolica, or M.A.C.

It is like Sugarbomb, which I use A LOT, just to get a bit of pink.

Doesn't means it's not good, because Sugarbomb provides a combination like no other, I must say that this Bourjois also provides a shade that I don't previously own, but I really like on my skin colour.

Brush
This brush is rubbish, just like the one in the Bourjois round case. This is why I had to use my own brushes. I do like to use the brush that comes with it if provided.

This is with the whiter lighting, as in my first pic, BUT, it is the same day, that I used it very heavily.

Perfume
As with all other famous Bourjois items, this comes scented. And yes! The scent is a big, big plus, because it is very pleasant. For those who are sensitive to perfumes, you will need to test Bourjois items on yourself. But if you've already used a Bourjois item well before, this shouldn't be a problem!

Cost
As I always do with Bourjois, I still do think Bourjois is costly.

Overall,
I like this: 4/5
Not bad, I am a bit hook on this right now because of the shade. haha. I do kind of love and hate this at the same time.
In terms of pigmentation/colour-payoff, which translates into ease and time taken to putting on, it is quite wasting my time.
If you're the highlighter person, you will like this. If you prefer an all-in-one, mixed for you luminescence, then this will waste your time trying to get enough highlight too.
I will not repurchase though because I do want to find another one of this shade with better pigmentation, and use that instead. And hopefully, by the time I hit pan with this, I would have found the other brand.

am+pm skincare Super Hydra Skin Wakeup Pack by Taiwan Nie-Er Laoshi

2011-12-30T00:30:00.000+08:00

I think it is finally time to review this product after using it for a month now, and exhausting some 1/3 of the tube.

Nuruko is a skincare line manufactured exclusively for Singapore, by Taiwan Niu-Er Laoshi, a popular skincare expert who appears frequently on Nu Ren Wo Zui Da.

am+pm skincare is the line that carries the water-range of Naruko skincare if I am not mistaken, and you may go to naruko.com.tw for more information or to purchase online, even though this may be found in Watsons Singapore.

LOL, and I just realised that the little cross on the packaging means plus, and it therefore means morning (am) + night (pm)! haha, silly me. I kept thinking what ampm meant until now.

am+pm skincare Super Hydra Skin Wakeup Pack by Taiwan Nie-Er Laoshi

Available: Watsons, ~$34

Volume: 50g (can last an estimated 3-4 months if using a large pea-size, once a day)

Star Properties: Instantly calm and comfort dehydrated complexion by boosting hydration that enhances skin's self-defense and self-repair system.

Suitable for: All skin types, especially dry and dehydrated skins.

Ingredients:
This product uses purified water and sodium hyaluronate as its top 2, or rather base ingredients. And I also see other ingredients that look good like niacinamid, and loads of extracts.
The holder is long, so I split the ingredients list into 3 photographs below.

Packaging
I expected to remove a slim pump bottle from the tube, but no. haha, instead, I got a tube, much like glue.

But after using this everyday, I have gotten use to it, and I realise that this tube is specially designed so that you can not only control the amount of product you squeeze out, but you can also control it very precisely. It is nothing like squeezing toothpaste out of the big opening.

I think its surgical style white and red also makes it looks clean and safe to use.

Ease of Use/Dispense
As mentioned, I can dispense as I like. For me, it is a large pea-size dose each morning.

Directions
According to the instructions, it is recommended that this be used on clean face in the mornings, as its name says, it is a "wakeup pack".

However, it is also recommended that this be used anytime during the day that you find your skin dry, even in an office. The English translation is not as detailed, but for those who can read the Chinese directions, you will realise that this is supposed to be a super gel. It's everyday, anytime, anyone, sure effective.

How I Use It
So for me, I decided that since I bought the Konjac sponge, and I read that a celebrity does not use soap, but instead exfoliates her skin every morning with a soft towel soaked in just boiled water, I will adapt her method.

I soak my sponge in hot water from the shower, exfoliate my face by going in circles all over, pat my face dry, and apply am+pm immediately, without toner.

I will massage my face as I get am+pm to absorb into the skin.

Immediate Results
As can be seen below, there is actually no immediate visible result. To be honest, as far as I've played with testers, I find that those things with immediate results are either filled with silicones or are exfoliants, like carbomer or sea salt.

But I was pleasantly surprised by the mint smell in this gel, and it reminds me so much of something like L'oreal Men Expert Hydra series.

LOL, yes yes, I do test men's product out of curiosity. And on a side note, I must say that the Hydra Boost series, which is the orange one, has great facial wash! I've checked the ingredients, and they are great, such that I think girls can use them too, especially girls with oily skin. Oh well, I have dry sensitive skin, and I found no harm using that too. =D

So back on track, the instant result is that this perks me up because of the mint.

Texture
This feels like a gel, even though that's not what the manufacturers call it. I'd say it is not thin enough to be a serum.

Moreover, the Chinese directions does says that this can be used as a powerful water-retaining sleeping cool pack. (As I was typing the last line, I realise I can try keeping this in the fridge... ... LOL.)
Results

I documented my journey weekly but I didn't do the 4th week though. =P But my face is still in all the FOTDs... ... So don't worry, I didn't suffer any allergies from this.

The first one is the comparison between the first two weeks.

I actually had a bit of pop-ups, which I don't know how to sooth, because even my facialist has been complaining to me for more than a year about why I have thsee tiny pops. She attributes it to makeup... ...

By the second week, I already felt the effects of am+pm, because my skin was A LOT more bouncy, filled up, tender, and my laugh lines were gone!

That was when I was so tempted to post. However, I thought that the mini pops are not really gone, so I should try to give it a month and see if hyaluronic acid helps.

And this is the comparison between the 2nd week and 3rd week.

This is my first time using hyaluronic acid (HA) product. Previously, I have read about how other girls rave big time about it, and I have been checking out drugstore products, because I don't want to splurge on any high-end brand with HA, since it sounds so strong, and bad for my sensitive skin.

However, the drugstore products don't use HA in purer forms. It is always mixed with other funny ingredients that I don't like. So it was like dream come true when I saw how mild and soothing am+pm is.

Anyway, to move on, this is the Day 1 vs end of 3rd week.

I find that this product really lives up to its claims that it will boost skin repair! My skintone is more evened out. I find that the pores look smaller, or maybe it's the pops... ... I know it's hard to see from pictures, but when I look at myself closely in the mirror, lol, I start to find more faults than readers can from the pictures.

Needless to say, the bounce, tenderness, and gone laugh lines are still in effect. Which is really what I am happy about, because if you have laugh lines, you will understand how worrying. =PP Have to prevent them from becoming permanent wrinkles, and be very, very careful about using too many layers of products, especially with makeup.

On a side note, I am currently on a either BB Cream or Sunscreen, no two together, skin diet. And I've always only been using loose powder. But even with fine loose powder, I must not over puff, lest the powder sinks into the lines. I am not for silicone primers, which are instant fillers.

Cost
I orginally thought that this am+pm is really quite a pinch to buy. And trust me, I hesitated so much, it was about 2 months after I saw Naruko in Watsons that I decided I need to take the plunge, because I used up my moisturizer and toner. Hence, why not?

But right now, I have no regrets, and I do want to repurchase this.

I absolutely feel that just this single tube can replace everything else in your morning routine. And night too! (But I am using my night routine to test whitening product, so it is water/hydration for day, whitening for night.)

So yes, if one pea size of am+pm can replace all my cleanser, toner, moisturizer, skin repair serum, then for $34, why not? It makes every Positively Nice moneysense. =)))

I love it: 5/5
I think this is better than Pomengranate Beauty line because that range has too many bottles of things that you need to purchase. And I finally found a gel/serum that can fight laugh lines, other than Jericho Dead Sea Mineral Serum, that is more expensive.

By the way, if I am not wrong, the ingredients lists for the other products in am+pm line are actually 95% similar. I did a quick scan, and the top line is the same. I didn't read to the bottom though. So if you're wondering what to buy, like I was, I suggest, pick up a day-time moisturiser, and you can use it for your night routine too. It won't make much of a difference. Probably just a matter of thickness. No need to put the entire range on your dresser.

Universal Studios Singapore Part 5

2011-12-29T14:01:00.000+08:00

Some places are just so enjoyable and pretty that one can't stop taking pictures of it.

Like da ROlleR COasteR!

Okay, basically, Singapore has a lack of roller coasters, especially high and exciting ones.

Furthermore, Singaporeans are rather concerned about safety, so sometimes even when in other countries, a Singaporean may choose not to take a ride due to lack of safety precautions.

So imagine how great it is to have USS, providing us with secured rides!

And then I caught the life characters again! =DDD So pretty, I wish I can try on their costumes.

Break time at the Galactica cafe.

So blue. I love lava lamps!

Weird windows?

TRON-like designs.

And on to another show! The Steven Spielberg one, that's called LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

ALL my memories.

Looks like a real set.

You'd think the world will always be as peaceful until you see the next part.

Lots of fire acts at USS.

And the finale! Go in to know what it is!

Something more peaceful now, it's the streets of New York, and reminder of Beatles' time.

OOOLALAA, the ship! Thank heavens for the clouds. =D

And couldn't help shooting the clouds again.

Look how amazing this is! A true blue ZEBRA crossing!

Madagascar Zone.

Water ride!

Unfortunately, I couldn't get a still shot of what's inside the water ride, so you'd have to see for yourself!

ooogahhoogah! The penguins.

haha, fat penguins are always cute.

They look so much friendlier from the side.

Alex the Lion.

Baboon.

Hippo!

Thank you all for watching us!

Castle again. We were so tired by then, we just needed a place to rest.

And this is totally the best thing that happened for the entire trip!

Puss in Boots hugged me! And he/she actually hugged me soooo hard.

And I am glad we made a trip back to the castle, because there is a show brewing!

And I took all these while waiting for showtime.

I like the vintage feel.

The 4-leaf clover is said to bring good luck.

A British street?

Had time to climb on the carriage before sunset!

LOVE THIS FLASK TO THE MAX!

It is refillable for a small sum at any drink outlet selling this water. Mine is strawberry blended ice which is extraordinarily wonderful after a long day, and sometimes hot weather.

You can keep this goblet, and use it at your work desk!

And yes, other than reminding everyone that this last Donkey Show is one of the best, very interactive and amazing, and that you must leave some time for this, I am happy to conclude, this is the end. =D

Thank you for going through with me all the wonderful moments of USS, and I hope you can experience it for yourself too!

Yours truly,
PosiNice

Universal Studios Singapore Part 4

2011-12-29T03:21:00.000+08:00

It was tiring having the whole day out at USS, walking, running, going for rides, kind of constantly felt a little hungry. It is also tiring shooting the pictures, but I was doing it for the sake of enjoying this hobby, adding great shots to my collection. And then, I'd have to say, it can be draining tidying all these up and writing the post! haha.

But yes, we are reaching the end.

We had our $10 meal at the Jurassic Park foodcourt. I ate laksa, which was great! In fact, I think it's much better than many Katong Laksa claims outside, and it deserves a mention in ieatishootipost, the Singapore food blog. =D

Then my friends and I were full, so we decided no more exciting rides, lest we throw up. As such, it was a unanimous decision to go for this slow one, where I got a great shot of the other side of Resorts World Sentosa.

The first time I went to RWS was for Victoria Secret back in this post. And I only saw RWS from the front.

Nice having palm trees on either side of what feels like a sunset walkway.

Ahh, the guards of the pyramids.

haha, another life character that I didn't get the chance to pose with!

Now on the ride, I felt kind of cute to be on something that moves like a train. It reminds me of my childhood days, Choo Merah at the Singapore Zoo. I believe that red and green trains are still there, but probably upgraded. =)

Dynamite!

All the war communication equipment.

I don't understand why I am still so fascinated by these after so many years. LOL. Universal has a way to revoke childhood.

Cobra,.. ...

Crocodile.

And I was even intrigued by an old lamp.

Funny wooden structures that I had too little time to understand.

The famous and mysterious mummy tomb.

And the awe at how rides are built.

It's pretty Far Far Away castle again!

Our cute gate staff.

And yes! I got a pose with life character! They are really, really enthusiastic about taking the picture with you, so don't be afraid, see one, grab one. They will happily pose and smile so that your pictures are great and album worthy!

Alright, end of the Egyptian parts, moving on to Safari next!

Yours truly,

PosiNice

China Glaze 685: Passion

2011-12-29T01:28:00.000+08:00

Is passion red? Apparently, China Glaze does not thinks so. =)

China Glaze 685: Passion

Available: Sephora

Volume: 14 mL

Star properties: Contains silver luster

Packaging
Not much difference from OPI, in my opinion.

Brush
China Glaze's brush is rounded, not the flat type that OPI has. And I find it not so good.

Streaky
Not sure if it's because of round brush or what, but this paint is very streaky.

Fast Dry
I think the speed at which it dries is good enough.

Colour
The colour is great! I did it for a wedding that I had to attend, and I wore vermillion toga long dress that day.

I love it: 4.5/5
I still think OPI is the best because my OPIs don't streak. This is my first China Glaze ever, but I don't see the fuss about it at all. I have no idea why girls the world over are liking it so much. LOL, but that's just me.

Till now, in terms of paint quality, even Chanel doesn't beats OPI. I would say MAC polishes are a great fight, but inconsistent. Chanel is a lot lighter, and chips a lot.

OPI is super non-chip. I must admit though, the Chanel provides more dimensions to a colour. It is never so much just pink pink or purple purple. OPI is quite one dimensional, and pretty much only comes in luster and matte, and now cracked.

I think I don't really want to try paints anymore, because I am quite disappointed in that nothing really beats OPI, other than Rimmel Lycra Pro which I see on the same level. Nowadays, I don't go gaga over paints from different brands, I just buy OPI when I see them on sale.

******
That said, if you mean to get more colours at low budget, I'd recommend Rimmel Lycra Pro, Elianto, SkinFood, and Revlon. Together, these 4 brands give quite a comprehensive and extensive range of colours, and type of colours, all at standard market price. =D If you want acceptable paint, just don't waste money on $3-4 ones.

Personally, I am on a slow buy, low buy, not more than a handful of bottles a year mode, so I don't mind investing in OPI. LOL, I got 6 bottles of Elianto at one go, back then. That was the testing, and high-buy period.

Best Non-beauty Item of 2011 + FOTD - Simple for Work

2011-12-28T22:07:00.000+08:00

I actually started out wanting to just do a simplest look possible, but I realise noobie me was so successful at it that I had to camwhore, and *ahhem* pardon me, but need show off my blogging best buddy - Sony HX9V.

After reading Paris B's post on her Canon DSLR (do read the comments under her post, because they are really cute and informative. haha.), I thought I need to credit my little black box here, because in the sometimes lonely world of blogging (because I don't know anyone in real life who shares this same interest as me), it is my best companion, sharing the memories, the good times and the bad.

High-end compacts are so immensely understated, as no matter how good they are, no matter how much manufacturers push and push the limits of compacts, they can't seem to outdo the big brother DSLRs.

It is an understatement because while you can easily pack punch into DSLRs, and people don't mind the bulk and/or weight, creators the world over have to crack their brains to pack punch into compacts and mind the bulk and weight! It is an art in itself, the masterpieces and Science babies of camera manufacturers.

=P Yes, I was seriously camwhoring. But that's because this camera just can't help taking great pictures this easily! It's *click *click *click, and you get something good, no regrets.

Anyway, I'm not saying DSLR is not good. It definitely has greater capacity. haha, but one has got to know one's own photography character, and get a best fit buddy cam, which I posted about way back in 2010 here. And for someone who enjoys the shooting part more still, HX9V is kind of buddy. =DD

And that was when I realised that I've got matching nails to my lipstick!!! hahaha, great!

Apart from portraits, all the beautiful photos of scenaries you see in my USS posts are from this black buddy.

Okay, move on to the FOTD before I show the final shots of camwhoring. I basically did this because I was feeling the lethargy of all the Christmas play, and from my week-long vacation. Yes, like many will know, vacations are actually tiring though psychologically fulfilling.

The idea was to get simple, good and fast. So all I did was work with an eye quad, and my nude makeup.

I used to go for strong colours, but now, after starting work, I realise I do want to have days that are really just normal, and I don't want to stand out so much, because I am not walking on Orchard Road, where the whole world is dressed well, and one generally needs more to look unique.

Nude is really great for making the "I am normal" look.

The items are used are the standard ones from my stash:
- Majolica Majorca Eye Quad in PK 383 Pink for eyeshadow
- Maybelline Gel Liner for eye liner and shading my brows (haha, yes, use the remaining black pigments to shade in the brows is really great! Less wastage, strong, lasting colour.
- Bourjois Blush Sculpting Duo Effect in 05 Warm Pink/Golden Skintone for cheeks
- M.A.C Liberty of London Cremesheen in Ever Hip for lips
- Benefit Sugarbomb swept lightling over nose, T-zone and chin to highlight

I realise that because the gel liner applicator is a brush, I could actually shade in my brows better! I have always been adversed to using brush and eyeshadow or powdered brow colours because I thought it's difficult. Hmmm, I think I may experiment brushing in my brows more often, instead of sticking stubbornly to brow pencils.

haha, sweeping sugarbomb over to highlight was a surprisingly good last minute decision that I made.

I used Sugarbomb on my eyelids the other day, and it gave an instant perk to my eyes, because Sugarbomb is inherently multi-coloured and high luster finish. It makes things pop!

I use the Sugarbomb brush so much that all I needed to do was use leftover powder for eyelids or for highlighting! No need to dip in the blush.

Alright, last one,

Anyone uses gel liner on their brows too? Anyone using Sugarbomb as highlighter? Anyone happy with great compacts?

haha, I actually haven't really talked about MM eye quads though I own so many. And the Bourjois Duo Effect is slightly new, salesperson says the duo-packaging is limited too... ... So you may want to check it out.

Yours truly,
PosiNice

Universal Studios Singapore Part 3

2011-12-28T13:55:00.000+08:00

I am on to my favourite place for photography in USS!

That's the palace of Far Far Away land from the movie Shrek.

For people like me who don't travel all over the world looking at Ancient castles somewhere in Europe, I think this is the prettiest castle ever. It reminds me of Venetian Macau, like a fairy tale come true.

This sky was great then, and it makes this picture of the moat absolutely stunning.

And then there's the ubiquitous gift store.

Another picture that I find so amazing because the sky was beautiful!

This sunflower is found at the top of the entrance to the main show in the castle.

The part that I like that USS makes effort to do up every knook and cranny. This lamps and photograph is on the wall of the queue place for the main show.

"f" is for Far Far Away? LOL.

I personally like observing the lightings are any place. This is the chandelier for the castle. It's not candles... Too bad.

Then there's the Water Show at Jurassic Park, which you should check the timings and time yourself just nice to go in, so no time is waste.

I basically toured the place in the order of my pictures, which I HIGHLY recommend, i.e., go at opening time, rush for all the rides possible, the Galactica, the Mummy Tomb, then go to the shows, which is Shrek Main Show, then go in for Water Show at Noon. And it would just nice for lunch!

I am only posting selected photos so I don't give away the secrets too much. =PPP Though I believe you can go to youtube for full shows.

I find the Water Show very 4D, and a unique experience to have, especially when Singaporeans never had such kind of acts for all its years of tourism.

This could be your first of this kind, and it's definitely first for me! Not sure if there are similar shows overseas.

The pretty protagonist soaked, and climbing for safety. =P

And there goes! Singaporeans ought to see this (because explosives, including firecrackers are banned unless licensed to use).

The thank-you!

More of the girl. LOL.

I'll stop at this show. Next up, more rides!

Yours truly,
PosiNice

Universal Studios Singapore Part 2

2011-12-27T14:22:00.000+08:00

Hi World! I hope all of you have had a wonderful Christmas and Boxing Day.

Before I go back to raving and ranting about products, I thought I should finish up the USS series while I still have time. So here goes. =D

I think I had been really lucky that the weather looked like this:

This is the place where a Monster Rock LIVE show is played at fixed times. The Monsters inside are really cute!

But the clouds eventually left, and it was sunny but not burning from noon till evening. =D

I was amazed at this hat shop because it's the first time I see such a great variety of good quality hats hanging outside, all free to try and photographed! The staff didn't stop anyone from photography.

I really liked this stretch of road in USS, because it smells of Britain. A lot of architecture here reflects that in the colonial buildings that you may see outside USS (a good number of colonial buildings built during the British Rule are being preserved).

I find all these very nostalgic, especially when I know such designs had been part of Singapore's history.

And there is the London Cab.

SMRT (the one with signature white cab in Singapore) has just stopped operating London cabs. We used to have white coloured taxis of similar design to this running on the streets.

And this statue absolutely reminds me of the statues at Raffles Place.

This is the cutest drinks stand I came across! And the staff happily stood still and faced me when she saw my camera. What a great sport!

The famous Transformers ride entrance.

I was laughing out loud at how the easy one says HUMAN.

But not to worry, the Transformers rides are both very, very safe and therefore, doesn't feels as scary as you can possibly imagine.

Unless you are aware that you have personal health concerns, most people should do fine in both rides. In general, if you know you like rides, rest assured both will feel just fine, and you may want a second round, like me!

If you know you generally cannot take rides, then just try the easier one first, lest you regret, because they are all unlimited free entry with the ticket.

Then there is the Jurassic Park! My childhood favourite.

Dinosaurs!

I love the colours on this Pteranodon.

65 million years in making.

I will stop here, and take you to another land in the next part!

Yours truly,
PosiNice

Random Muse

2011-12-19T01:00:00.000+08:00

I am so happy that my brother says the Konjac sponge is great!

I blogged about the Konjac sponge that is was mentioned on Nu Ren Wo Zui Da, a Taiwanese beauty program, and I also noted how its popularity is big enough for Sasa to import quite a few varieties of the sponge. Little did I know that Watsons has it too!

I reckon, not every Watsons has it yet, because I was shopping with my brother when I saw this sponge all "dumped" into the promotion basket that Watsons has (those baskets which sell tiny items at a handful of dollars).

I picked up one of the sponges because it was all black, and realise that this is a charcoal Konjac sponge! I didn't see any charcoal sponge in Sasa, they were all lighter flavours or original.

I immediately signalled to my brother to take a look, and he just asked me, "so you mean if I use this, my face will be better?" I replied that I have been using mine for two weeks, and I think it has helped, albeit along with my AMPM, I think. (LOL, I've been talking about this, but I need conclusive evidence before posting, other than me just simply liking the feel.)

And then he bought.

It's $6.90, the same as my cucumber Konjac, so I'm glad he finds it effective so far!

******
Strangely, I found that Konjac sponge has already been in Singapore since about 1 year ago, and I found this from amongst my basket of unused products:

This is smaller than my cucumber sponge, and is more expensive!!

aLT is located at The Heeren (not sure if it's still there, but it's really expensive), but I realised that it has shifted its presence to BHG. All personal care products that are displayed at BHG (Bugis, Century Square) are stamped with an aLT pricetag. Strangely, the price seems very much lower at BHG.

(Rant: And because of this takeover, BHG does not carries my Sunkiller Kiss Me Sun Lotion SPF50 PA+++, anymore! Please, please, do inform if you see Sunkiller in Singapore. TIA!)

******
Before I tried sponge some silicon pad scrub thing from Daiso, I was using this to wash my face:

I bought because it looked so nice, and it does feels absolutely soft, like an ideal Kabuki brush. It promises that the superfine hair strands will clean your face well.

I have no yet blogged about it, because I don't find it that special.

I have yet to try if it can be used as a Kabuki brush or blush brush. haha. If it works well, I'll post.

The smaller one, called Whip Splash, is for brush the eyes. And this makes it even more like the two brushes are for makeup and not face washing!

See what a pretty fluff ball it is? =D

I will be in Phuket till Christmas day, kind of sad, because I can't blog everyday, which was kind of like my mission this holidays - to blog everyday and finish up my staggling pile of items for reviews!

Till then, see you!

I hope you enjoy the last week up to Christmas, Happy Shopping, and if there's nothing to read, I have a lot in the archives! =D So happy reading too, and hope to sharing of views from you. =)

Yours truly,
PosiNice

MUJI Liquid Eyeliner (Slim Marker Type) in Black

2011-12-18T17:06:00.000+08:00

MUJI, to me is a Japanese version of our provision shop, selling everything from beddings, clothes, pots and pans, tidbits and drinks, to skincare and cosmetics. Its Mild Cleansing Oil for makeup remover is quite well-known in the online beauty community, and myself has also blogged about it before, here.

I made a mini haul at MUJI, in fact two, during this Christmas period. In the second one, I finally decided to try out a couple of makeup items. I've yet to try their skincare sets, because the ingredients lists aren't tempting enough.

And one of them is the MUJI Liquid Eyeliner, which I tested to be quite good, so I decided to buy. I have been using this a handful of times now, ever since I got it. And I am ready to review it!

MUJI Liquid Eyeliner (Slim Marker Type) in Black

Available: MUJI, $13.90

Star Properties: Made in Japan (if you prefer Japan-made products)

Ingredients: As below.

Packaging
MUJI's products are as usual, packed in transparent plastic with the sticky on the underside. I think it's a good enough packaging for me, and I actually prefer this method as it is easy to remove as compared to something like Maybelline's method of cling wrapping their pencils.

It is also more environmentally friendly than packing with nice boxes like Empro's (really nice, but really on the expensive side). MUJI's method allows for all instructions to be printed on a slip of paper and slotted in, and if you're really interested, you may keep that slip of paper easily (because I do like to keep instructions, and I find those hard cardboard rather difficult to store, don't really know how best to keep).

Tip
I will be honest and say that though I like the looks of this pencil and find holding an ink tube with Japanese words on it pretty cool, this tip is really not the best that I have come across.

You can see that it is quite rounded, and not sharp and pointy, as compared to the Empro one (which is RM48.80, kind of double the price).

This less than sharp tip essentially means that you're not going to draw extra fine line or have sharp winged-tips, as seen in my pictures below.

However, the tip is thin enoguh, and in fact just nice to draw a nice line right your lashes. So there is no need to go over twice or thrice, to get a thick enough line, which I find is the problem with using too small tips. The more I go back and forth, the more jagged the line will be as compared to if I just do it one shot over, and get it right the first time.

This tip size actually still makes really, really nice winged-tips. =D

Smudge-proof
MUJI's eyeliner is less liquid than Empro's, and this is the part I like about it - I will not get print marks on in my crease when I open my eyes. I can immediately open, and MUJI's eyeliner stays smudgeproof. This is a great plus point for people with tapered double eyelids like mine, for which any eyeliner will print in my crease area if I put too much, including Maybelline's gel liner.

Due to the just right diameter of the tip, such that I need only to draw once over, I don't accumulate too much ink on the inner corners of my eyelids, so no ink smudges onto my crease.

The outer corner of my eyes are always good and fine because they work like normal double eyelids, my my lids don't fold down onto the lash line.

Water-ok
It doesn't immediately dissolves and smudge like nobody's business when you pour water on this eyeliner. But just don't rub, as this can easily be rubbed and thus washed off with water only.

Colour
I find the black pretty intense like most liquid eyeliners. Pencil eyeliners always seem to be slightly less intense (but very buildable nevertheless).

Cost
I think this is a standard drugstore price, definitely in the affordable range. But as with most other liquid eyeliners, I still think I will not recommend it to absolute beginners, as there is the cheaper Koji Springheart eye pencil, which is superb.

But for those who are ready to do winged-tips, yes! I think this is a great liquid liner as apart from Empro, which is expensive and in Malaysia, I honestly do not use other liquid liners. Everything else that I've tried all ended up in a storage bag, and not yet worthy of time and effort for a blog post.

I love this: 4.5/5
Personally, I tear too easily, from spicy food, from touching movie scenes, so I need a waterproof eyeliner. My lids are not so much oily as teary, such that I am actually quite fine if an eyeliner is not smudgeproof. So I deduct points for this not being fully waterproof.

I think this is a great one-swipe, cost-effective everyday liner, because it looks very black alone, on a plain face. But I would still reach for Springheart eyepencil on a non-occasion, rushing or grocery day, because that is waterproof.

Universal Studios Singapore - Part 1

2011-12-17T15:56:00.001+08:00

Obviously, this is not a post about any cosmetic or skincare product, but it is still going to be Positively Nice, and beautiful, as with everything else here. =) =P =D

Why? Because it is about Singapore's arguable largest tourist attraction right now - Universal Studios Singapore (USS) by Resorts World Sentosa. And the much anticipated Transformers 3D ride has just officially opened doors on December 3, 2011!

Just with this, for Singaporeans who haven't been to USS, what are you waiting for? For tourists, this is a must-go!

I truly think that just with this ride alone, it is my ticket price. Plus, there is still the walk that you can take, pictures, I even saw a bride doing her wedding photography there!

******

I must say, from the moment I stepped out from the escalator into the place where the ticket booths are, I already felt surreal. It's as though I've just arrived in the US, or anywhere BUT Singapore.

Our streets are so distinctive that other than Tech Parks in India and China, I don't think I can find anywhere else with the same urban design. As such, USS stands out incredibly in the daily life of normal Singaporean like myself.

Unfortunately, the photos I have of that famous big blue Universal Studios Globe consists of all my friends, whose privacy I have the responsibility to protect, so I shall not post. But there it is, in the corner, that blue globe. There's smoke from dry ice ALL OVER the globe, and it makes pictures really pretty.

Take your first pic here!

******

First thing I noticed when I stepped in was the beautiful pavement and architecture, that makes it look like olden Europe.

And then I saw IT. It's Po the Panda from Kungfu Panda!

I didn't get an individual picture with this because there was already a substantial queue of about 20 people, and USS staff will close the queue for photo-taking.

Yes, so when you see a life-size character, run, I mean, not run, just walk faster, and get a place in the queue. Queues fill up very fast because there are always enough tourists to spot the character, and every one knows that if you are slow, others will take the place, and queue will be closed. Then you'd have to be content at taking a faraway shot like this.

I didn't see repeated characters along the way, even though the staff said they will appear regularly enough. I saw other characters though. =D

Plus, you don't want to wait at this area all day just to get a Po. So move on, and there are others for you. =)

It's a whole day's walk out there, so if you need a break, there are lots of stands like this around:

Not everyone is like this, the stands change with the themes as you walk along, which is really fascinating for me!

If you need a seat and table for rest, there are lots of cafes and eateries spaced at strategic locations, like this:

Interesting to have a well-dressed theme-like personnel welcoming you.

Then there are mini souvenir stands, other than large shops.

I really heart <3 the colonial style buildings.

The pavement reminds me of Xing Guang Da Dao (Gallery of Stars) in Hong Kong!

The Betty Boop shop next.

The part that was a slight let-down is the less than stellar Christmas tree, as I was expecting USS's tree to be one of the very best in Singapore this year. I was mesmerized by the Gucci-like one in front of Paragon shopping centre, and if you're going down to Orchard Road, that is a must-must-must. =D

Alright, I think that's quite a bit of pictures. So I will leave the rest to next time. Stay tune for more on USS!

Yours truly,
PosiNice

PS: It's been a month since I went to USS, and every memory is still as clear as day. This is really a place that makes a great big getaway from everyday life (especially if you think yours is mundane), and a great replacement for Bali, Batam and the likes!

Living Life with Beauty and Sweets =D

2011-12-16T01:00:00.000+08:00

It's an iPad! No, it's an iPad 2. No! It's an iPad2 Mirror!

haha, I really find this product here extremely amazing. I mean, I know the greatest money-spinner is not the gadget itself, but its accessories. But now, it has come a point that iPad is so popular, even a mirror can be fashioned from it.

I couldn't resist buying this the second time I passed by that shop. It's $8.90 from Japan Home, located at East Point or Bedok Point.

It's kind of expensive for a mirror, and it's obviously eating from the brand, because one can get mirrors of this size from those shops under the MRT, and sometimes quite beautifully designed, for about $5.

However, I think it makes up for the price by coming in a proper box with bubble wrap, and hey, this makes it great for a mini Christmas gift!

Talk about the land of great imitation, and you really have to hand it to them.

Anyway, the main reason I bought is because it slides out this way and stands pretty on the dresser.

I have never seen a mirror so ingeniously made, and even the most creative mirror, which I found at MUJI, does not have this concept.

PS: I will do a post on all my mirrors one day. Haha, I really like things with mirrors on it. And I have all sorts of mirrors. The big ones are really expensive!

******
Next up, is a cute tea cup. Another great gift item that comes in a great box and a few colours to choose from!

I like to look at tea cups because I am a tea drinker. I don't exactly drink one cup a day, but it is something I go to when I feel stressed out. I have all sorts of flavours of tea at home. Plus, tea is a great health drink with flavour but no sugar!

I bought because this cup has a nice cover with a nice filter, and it's meant for Chinese tea, unless you like to buy English tea in leaf-form (which I don't). But I have a big bag of Long Jing Chinese tea at home, half gone, waiting to be finished.

A seemingly cheap cup actually has great instructions on it.

It's pink, and it's time for tea.

There are also brown, green and grey cups.

And it has a motivational, make-your-day message on the back! I didn't see this when I bought.

The filter is silicon, and great for withstanding heat.

******
And next up, is a magnetic bookmark in pink with a cute piglet.

I've always wanted to get a magnetic bookmark, because I read enough to always have a book in my bag. I'd read on public transport, and I don't like to keep worrying about my paper bookmarks falling out of the book and I keep trying to clam it down as I hold my book up for reading.

With this, I really can keep smiling and not drop the bookmark!

******
And there's the wrapping paper that's really nice, purplish blue with silver stars. It's sold at Japan Home, but they say it's Hallmark wrapping paper, at $1 each. I got two, to wrap my presents of course. =)

******
Lastly, it's a spectacles cleaner from Daiso. Weird to find this there, but I thought I'd give it a try.

I think lots of people I know seem to go through life in a pretty boring manner. And I've found it a pity, because there are so many things around us that can add colour to our lives, on top of the people and good deeds we see, we can also actively fill up life with great things that makes us smile.

I know Heavens exists because of the wonder I see. =)

Yours truly,
PosiNice

M.A.C Glitter & Ice Party + TIPS & My Musings

2011-12-16T00:35:00.000+08:00

I RSVP-ed for this because I thought I'd be quite free at this time of December. In addition, I've never been to any cosmetics event before, so just thought I'd give it a look, even though I know this is probably a gimmick to get more people to buy their X'mas Gift Sets.

I was quite surprised that they chose the Bugis outlet to do it, because it is extremely small. But towards the end, I found out that Bugis was chosen because it is the 9th M.A.C outlet in Singapore.

So there, you have the Christmas decoration at Bugis Junction. It's quite pretty, because the doorway there is open, and you could walk all the way in, then get a friend to take a picture for you. Haha, and it says "GO GAGA".

There is the really small outlet, and so, it was very packed, and it really dampened my mood to buy. That's why I like shopping at Sephora, it's HUGE (in Singaporean standard).

If you've been to Stage Cosmetics in Singapore, this outlet has taken over Stage Cosmetics, and I have no idea where Stage is now. I only entered once when they first opened, but other than the lipglosses, I didn't find anything that I can swoon over to. I don't own anything from Stage. It's probably too black and never caught my eye.

Let me recall the M.A.C outlets I've seen before... ... Bugis is 1, Sephora Ion 2, Link from Wisma to Taka 3, Tangs Vivo 4, Raffles City 5, Tangs Building 6, Tampines Mall 7, hmmm, can't remember the last two off-hand. But I have been to all the 7 listed here, and I like Sephora Ion and Tangs Building the most, because they are super spacious and have really great and friendly makeup artists.

There are a few outlets at which I find the MU artists have a bit of an attitude, and I'd rather not visit. They are Raffles City, Wisma-Taka, and Tangs Vivo. Tampines Mall's ones are more of just unhelpful as opposed to stuck up and unfriendly.

The makeup artists at Bugis today were kind of stuck up too, or maybe it was really just the crowds. They didn't want to answer my questions even though I am obviously looking and touching the products, and I have questions to ask. I was bare-faced, literally nothing on... ... so that I can try out products just in case. But other than that, I had my hair placed nicely, a proper dress and handbag, and my heels, perfect candidate for credit cards. LOL (I'll tell this joke about credit cards if I get a chance).

And so, this is Veno Lim above, telling us how the smokey eye look that the model has can be done in 20 minutes using all the items from the Glitter and Ice collection.

He mentioned things like the fluid foundation and gel liner in Blacktrack too.

I like how the model is so poised, and sits so upright. =D

Here are some tips I managed to pick up, as I really don't think he gave people much clue as to what to do!
- Place your hand further down the brush when you're using the blending brush on your eyeshadows

- You can actually use M.A.C 109 to buff the foundation instead of a normal foundation brush to paint it (those flat, slightly pointed ones)
I went to touch 109, and I thought it is a really cute brush. haha, like really cute. It looks like a bunny tail. Veno Lim used it to put a bit of blusher as well. More like to buff the blusher I guess.

- Get a retractable lip brush! Veno says that you can pack a lot of lip colour onto your brush, and simply click it back, so that you don't have to bring out the lipstick tube, as most dinner evening pouches are just not big enough.
This is something that I've never thought of, because I use a retractable lip brush from Sasa (and it's only $4), and I have the one from M.A.C too. But before going out, I always wipe clean my lip brush, and bring along my lipstick case. LOL.

Yup, I've only got these 3 tips. The rest of about using M.A.C products, especially the liquid foundation.

After the demonstration, I asked for the Coral Mini Lipglass set ($65) and the Nail Lacquer Mini ($35 if I remember correctly), but due to the long queue and second thought, plus frustration cos I couldn't get any sales assistant to tell me about the M.A.C Prep & Prime range, I left without buying. =(

Anyway, I thought I'd go back to Tangs Building or Sephora Ion to purchase if I really wanted to, because I have the Tangs cards, and I can accumulate points at Sephora. haha. This pretty much explains why I would only buy at Tangs, and not Isetan or Robinsons.

So anything about M.A.C you'd like to share? What's your story like?