Singapore’s entertainment and shopping haven celebrates fashion and the launch of the new Samsung Galaxy S4 with LTE with a traffic-stopping runway show right in the midst of Orchard Road. On 4th of May 2013, nearly 170 models swagger in style at the annual longest road catwalk as they showcased the latest Spring/Summer collections from local and international brands.

Clad in a combo of haute couture and street fashion, stunning models sweep the runway, while International model and host for the evening, Junita Simon parade in a stylish cut out shirt and blue camo hue.

Orchard Fashion Runway was participated by top brands: Fausto Puglisi, Victoria Beckham, Coach, J.Press, Robinsons, Marks & Spencer, Adolfo Dominguez, Maria Grachvogel and Blugirl.

Fausto Puglisi

Victoria Beckham

J. Press

Coach

Marks & Spencer

Robinsons

Adolfo Dominguez

My top fave are collections from Adolfo Domingez and Fausto Puglisi. The road turned runway is a perfect backdrop revealing the urban chic style.

The first part of the program where models sashay with the new Samsung Galaxy S4 with LTE could have been improved more. They only strut their wares and lined up in front of the Samsung guests seats while the rest of the spectators were left with wondering what was happening at the other end of the runway which lasts for about 15 minutes. This is the only good shot I was able to take, considering we were directly opposite the media guys. In light of, they exit to the end of the runway giving a brief viewing  satisfaction to the other end.

The sequence and choreography routine of the entire show needs to improve big time. Retail therapy and a preview to the fashion collection just gives even more reason to shop.

Looking forward to a more polish Fashion Steps Out 2014 next year!

Ladies, I have to let you in a secret. I’ve been keeping this for the last four months thinking that it might be too good to be true but I can’t hide it any longer. I’m excited to finally share the good news after keeping tabs of the changes it brought into my life. I’m positive that I made the right decision. I got a new Baby!

So without further ado, here’s my new baby, bestfriend for life, my holy grail (and I seriously recommend you try it to), the Clarisonic Mia2 Sonic Cleansing System.

No, this isn’t sponsored. I’m just happy to share with you  my latest discovery and hopefully it will help you out with your embarrassing skin problems too.

So what is this sorcery behind Clarisonic Mia? Does it really do magic tricks?

Well, to start with, I think I will be the perfect ambassador for the “late bloomer, no skin regimen” girl. I’d like to say that my night time skin regimen is pretty basic, soap wash and towel dry then sleep, that’s after wearing a full-day light to moderate coverage make-up. Hmm, you can also say that I’m too lazy to do beauty regimen at the end of the day, but I’m trying to change that now.

My skin type is oily since I can remember. So I skip on applying moisturiser, and toner makes my skin dry. I am cautious in experimenting with new products as I tend to break out easily. It is as if my zits will automatically rally if I try in anything new. I began noticing that my skin has become overly sensitive over the years. As much as I would love to try new products I am only limited to a few that won’t irritate my skin.

Until I discovered Clarisonic.

From the site, here’s a brief description:

Beautiful Skin Begins with Cleaner Skin

Traditional methods of cleansing don’t get your skin as clean as you’d think. Using Sonic Technology, Clarisonic’s patented micro-massage motion works within skin’s natural elasticity to gently remove the impurities traditional methods leave behind–leaving skin softer, smoother and more beautiful.

• Cleanses 6x better than with your hands alone in just 60 seconds
• Works with skin, not against it, to gently massage away impurities trapped within pores
• Prepares skin for better absorption of creams, serums and moisturizers
• Gentle enough to use 2x a day

What it is formulated to do:

It’s time to think beyond the washcloth and elevate cleansing to a sonic level. Clarisonic’s patented sonic technology gently removes the impurities traditional cleaning methods leave behind, cleansing six times better than your hands alone. In just 60 seconds, its sonic action removes impurities from pores so that creams, serums, and moisturizers are more effective. And with regular daily use you’ll notice a reduction in dry patches, oily areas, and blemishes.

Here are some of the features this revolutionary skincare tool delivers:

• 2 speeds for added cleansing customization
• Pulsing T-Timer for 60-second cleanse
• Improved user interface indicating speed and charge functions
• 2 year warranty

I didn’t think twice when I learned about this technology and what it can do to match my not so ideal skin care routine, I bought it after a week of reading reviews. It’s a bit pricey but thinking that it’s a lifetime investment, (yes, for my future, younger, looking skin! woohoo!) it’s definitely worth it. I don’t mean to sound superficial but who wouldn’t want beautiful skin and having the time of your life? Make life more stress free because we can.

What I like about Clarisonic MIA 2 is that I can use any liquid or foam-based facial cleanser (without beads) suitable with my skin type.

How to use:

• Prior to the first use, charge the Clarisonic handle for 24 hours.
• Remove eye makeup by hand. I use DHC Deep Cleansing oil.
• Wet your skin and the brush head with warm water.
• Liberally apply cleanser to your skin or to the brush head. I use Neutrogena Pure Mild Facial Cleanser, applied to my skin and pump a little to the brush head.
• Push the on/off button to turn your Clarisonic on and gently move the brush using a small circular motion, beginning on the forehead, then moving to the nose/chin area and the cheeks as the T-TIMER prompts.
• Pressing too hard will impede the motion of the brush and reduce its effectiveness.
• The outer brushes are designed to contain any residual mist from the brush oscillation, so be sure to hold the brush head flush to your skin.
• The Clarisonic handle is waterproof and may be used in the shower or bathtub.
• For best results, replace your Clarisonic brush head every 3-4 months.
• Get a separate brush head for each user.
• Using the Clarisonic to remove makeup may stain the bristles, but will not affect performance.
• If discoloration occurs, clean the brush head with soap and water.

pink secret weapon. nude face.

A fully charge Clarisonic Mia2 should last for a week or more. Recharge will at least take 12 hours. Battery life will depend on how many cycle times you use it. I’m using mine only at night time.

My first month with my new best friend was not pretty like many Clarisonic users. I experienced “purging” but my case was mild and tolerable. Purging is the process of removing impurities, usually resulting to breakouts, and I had little bumps all over my face. I believe this is because all the dirt that has been trapped inside don’t have any choice but to move up to the surface. This I think is the best part, because I can see that it’s doing it’s purpose well.

Here’s me two and a half months later. Taken during sunset at Bondi Beach. Right after a whole day of walking around Taronga Zoo. I haven’t changed clothe and my makeup was gone with a tinge of sweat. haha.

Disclaimer: While Clarisonic Mia2 works for me it might not be suitable for you. Check product reviews from other users. I still get pimples specially during my period, see my nude face above for reference, but breakouts are kept in minimal. My skin is smoother and shining literally. Clarisonic also helps with effectively treating chicken skin.

I bought this baby in Sephora in January at SGD215 but  on my last visit they already  made a price cut. If I may, I would have taken the 1st gen, Clarisonic MIA as I don’t normally switch on to different pulses.

Raoul, Erik and Christine’s complicated love story is complimented  by impressive musical score by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Dramatic scenes are cut to be the most spine-tingling performance.

The Phantom of the Opera is a heart-wrenching story of the mysterious, hideously disfigured Phantom who lives beneath the Paris Opera House, and his obsession with the young singer Christine. Disguised as the ‘Angel of Music’ he devotes himself to creating a new opera star, and winning her love from his rival Raoul, while exercising a reign of terror over the Opera House.

I can’t help but count the days. This has got to be one of my most-awaited musical production. Until then, I’ll keep playing The Music of the Night.

This event comes to Singapore for strictly limited season starting 16 July to 11 August 2013 at Grand Theatre, Mastercard Theaters at Marina Bay Sands.

Image Source

When I was younger, I made a list of things I want to achieve at some certain point in my life, like getting married and have my own place at the age of 30 and have children at 33. I definitely would want to see that list again and tick off which dreams I’m yet to fulfill or live at. But I think those papers where all gone by now.

Later on, when I started working, every first quarter of the year, I used to list things down on what I need to save for. This helps me focus on where to allocate certain budget or save up, say buying my first digital camera or replacing my old mobile phone. Those goals were only good for a month though as I tend to forget or change minds as months passed by.

This time will be different. I hope to keep tab of these goals every month. *cross-fingers*

January

Vacation in Philippines. I’m so looking forward to catching up with families & friends and hopefully some quick R&R trip to recharge.

Start with new investment.

February

My birthday month and looking forward to a long CNY holiday. I’m already itching on booking a solo trip if not for this expensive season. I’ve been good, I worked hard, I get stressed A LOT (hopefully not so obvious), and I believe I deserve a New iMac!

March

Ze husband’s birthday month. A baby would be a nice welcome and gift to our marriage. And for all those who are eager since the day we got married, yes, we are both ready by now, financially (hopefully) and emotionally(finally). A little more patience would be helpful, we’re working on it!

April

Finding a stable job. In this day and age, is there actually companies that you can retire to? Hopeful to find somewhere i can finally settle on for a few years or ’till retirement maybe.

May

Our new home turnover. Finally one of our first investment put into place. Looking forward to furnishing it.

June

Since work is unstable, and a growing family is the gameplan this year, must work on some passive income. Settle some more investments.

July

Get serious with business plans. So many ideas are lurking on amidst my cup of coffee, laptop and scratch pads. Need time to really dissect which one to start off .

August

Get a gym membership. Seriously. Some physical pampering needs to be in order.

September

Start early Christmas shopping. Say no to Last-minute bargain hunting.

October

Spring cleaning. Donate.

November

Self-enrichment. Enroll for a short course, upgrade skills. Get school certificates. On the sides, can learn something new like playing piano and violin.

December

I’ll probably cut off some vacation time in 2013 since majority of our budget will be allocated to new investments. But would be looking forward to some quick getaway for Christmas and Anniversary. Hopefully somewhere to experience White Christmas.

So that’s about it. I’m feeling overwhelmed already just reading this… but hopefully this will be a gratifying experience all the way. Bring it on 2013!

This is quite fun to do. Make yours too and share it below.

Have a Wonderful Holidays gorgeous.

A few weeks back, I jumped into the bandwagon and decided to started watching The Walking Dead Series. It was gruesome and twisted yet has the most amazing storyline in the history of TV.  Hands down, the production cast and crew are all genius. Needless to say, I am hooked.

Now if only February 10 comes fast, we can all find out what fate awaits on brothers, Merle and Daryl at  Woodbury. I was disappointed that Michonne left the Governor alive and that Andrea hasn’t come to her senses yet. More disturbing is the lives of Hershel, Carl, his baby sister and the rest now at stake with the arrival of new survivors.

This is going to be a long wait and my week isn’t complete until next year. You see I’m already crushing on Daryl, I hope he makes it alive till the end. Go Team Prison!

Until then, here’s a creative look of the Walking Dead Series statistics via an infograph of the National Post. See how the Zombie killing machines fair with their tools and dispatch.

The next episode’s title is The Suicide King. Any idea who will it be?

Since our new home will be ready for turnover a few months from now, I already started with sourcing inspirations on furnitures this early. Can’t decide though if we’ll go for vintage, minimalist or a modern look.

These wall decor art serves as accent pieces to define the atmosphere of  a home. Uplifting and unique elements bring individuality to each room. Sharing some interesting modern & vintage wall decor ideas I found online.

You can’t go wrong with this Black & White details. 

Love the harmony between the wood and paper butterflies.
Inspiration from DesignFabulous

This Umbra Wallflutter Nickel Dragonflies adds flair and freshness indoors.
Image from SpotsNThings

A modern take on House Rules

Abstract Wall Art from HomeDecorators

White Winter Tree Scene Wall Decor

Textured Blossom Wall Sculpture from Accents of Salado

Sailing Yachts Wall Decor

Friday Wall Mural by Ximena Escobar. Perfect for that chic & vintage look.

Dahlia Wall Sculpture by Dillypad

Gothic Iron Cast of this Barcelona Wall Grille
by Accents of Salado gives character to any room.

Today, countless brides are deviating from traditional weddings and amazingly wedding trends evolve faster than a runaway bride. Ever present are timeless & sophisticated pieces, while some pulls of creative ideas redefining modern and classical motif.

The convenience of online shopping saves the couple from a great deal of time and stress. Even  unique wedding bands are now available on the web and couple can choose from a wide collection of hand-crafted finest metals, delivered at their doorstep.

Custom-made diamond wedding and engagement rings are designed and hand-braided by the true craftmanship of  the talented Todd Alan. With secure online ordering options and free 30-day risk free return policy, Todd Alan is committed to your complete satisfaction.

No two rings are alike as they are made exclusively for the customer as they order. It creates a very distinctive style, as the artist braids round strands of precious metals and torch fuses the ends of the rings together. Any of the hand-braided rings available on the site can be fitted with a diamond. Also makes a perfect resetting idea on heirloom diamonds.

I am all for black & white pieces these days, and this makes me one happy, giddy, blessed girl.

Bidding farewell to October full of blissful things and new beginnings while welcoming another month with open arms. November never fails to marked momentous life events for so many years. I owe it to our Dear God and my guardian angel above, the little sister I lost so early, Honey.