♥akisalove♥

Jet setting bride

2010-02-16T09:26:00.001+11:00

Pic from New York Weddings

This is my final post before I head off overseas for wedding 1 of 3 (with a possible encore in 2011!)

Once I’m back early March, you can bet there will be domestic bliss (like negotiating space in the wardrobe, bathroom & shoe cabinet).

Many of you have asked for wedding photos, so I’ll see what I can do. I’m very photo shy on blog world (if you haven’t figured it out by now) and not really sure how the photos are going to be done at this wedding..

I won’t be doing the multi-colour dress changing routine. And no, I won’t be wearing any Chinese wedding outfits either. In fact I’ll be carrying 2 ivory/white dresses as carry-on luggage on the plane!

See you when I get back & thanks for your words of encouragement~

Korean actress Kim Hee-Sun & husband

Brush Review: Nars Small Domed Eye Brush #14

2010-02-15T07:11:00.000+11:00

NARS Small Domed Eye Brush #14
(Not to be confused with Small Domed Brush #12)

Recommended for

Applying intense shadow swiftly with no mess.
Great for rich hues (like NARS eyeshadows) or dark smokey shades
Intended for small eyelids or at the crease.
If you have deeper eye lids, you're better off with NAR's Wide Contour Brush
Ability to make the most intense shadows look like they were meant to be sheer & smooth.

Dupeability

This is a very densely packed domed brush made with 70% squirrel hair, 30% goat hair.
A close match is Laura Mercier's Eye Crease Brush

How badly do I need this brush?

I've had this since 2006 & I always look to it when applying rich hues (eg. sky blue, black, navy, silver)
For other small eyelids on a budget, sponge tips can also be used, but make sure you prime your eyes well to ensure it blends well.
For the small-lidded brush snob, you won't regret splurging on this one.

Limited availability online & in Australia

Review: Frederic Fekkai Technician Color Care Conditioner

2010-02-14T06:36:00.001+11:00

Frederic Fekkai Technician Color Care Conditioner

What they say...

Rich intensive conditioner that helps repair dry, damaged, chemically treated and over-processed hair
Formulated with emollients and botanic extracts such as apricot, avocado, calendula and carrot to help restore moisture, softness and shine.

My experience...

I bought this not for its colour care (since I only have highlights), but to try out a Fekkai product for the first time.
Smells a little like strawberry flavoured bubble gum!
It delivered on its promise to increase shine, but not moisture or softness on dry hair.
Although chemical damage is different to heat damage, I expected noticeable improvement in hydration but it didn't do much for me.

It might be because..

I have thick wavy hair.. Perhaps this might work for others (like fine hair?) I can't say for sure.
If any of you have had a better experience with this product, leave me a comment! I'd be interested to know (including your hair condition).

This review was sponsored by TheBeautyClub.com.au but it's no longer stocked there or StrawberryNet. Available at MeccaCosmetica in Australia.

My Wedding Skin Routine

2010-02-13T06:59:00.000+11:00

This is me, but doesn't look like me with the wedding makeup trial,
so I can safely post this on my blog, heehee
Look how wavy my hair is.

My wedding skin routine

Aside from many other products in my current routine, I can safely proclaim these made my skin turnaround into what it is today. My skin is still not as perfect as I would have liked (with stress from work), but it's much better now than a few months ago.

Here's a selection of what's in my beauty routine that I truly believe made a difference.

Spot treatment & prevention

Mario Badescu Buffering Lotion - for acne that's beneath the skin surface
Mario Badescu Drying Lotion - for surface acne. Most effective on acne that has been squeezed.

Skin care & recovery

Olay Pro X starter protocol kit (Launches on 18 Feb 2010)
Perricone MD tinted moisturiser. I have given up on foundation.
3 different masks weekly Chanel Purifying Cream Mask to remove impurities & brighten skin, Biotherm Hydra-Detoxifying Mask to detox skin & Sheet Masks for hydration.
Exfoliate weekly. I use Clinique's Mens Scrub as I have stubborn blackheads.
pH Advantage Vitamin A Polypeptide Lotion - increases elasticity & heals scars
La Prairie Anti Aging Longevity Serum - smoothes fine lines & regenerates skin.

Cleansing Routine

Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil - this is capable of removing the notorious Majolica Majorca lash expander mascara!
Dermalogica special cleansing gel - gentle foam, gentle on skin. I'm on my 3rd pump size.
Chanel Blanc Essential Nanolotion - This is not a must have, but I believe the alcohol content cleans up all residue & reduces breakouts caused by residue.

Diet

I didn't go on a diet.. *guilty* I just increased exercise (from nil to 2 times a week), green tea and fruit intake. Stopped eating chilli, cake and lollies 1 month before wedding to avoid sugar & chilli -related breakouts. I'm such a lazy bride, hahahaha...

p.s. This is such a belated post on my skin routine, ever since I got tagged by Ena from ShanghaineseDumpling!! I was switching products a lot, and disappointed with you-know-which-ones... so I didn't feel like featuring my skin routine until now~

Wedding Kit Checklist + Unhelpful Airline Operator

2010-02-12T16:24:00.004+11:00

Wedding update:

Just been told by the airline operator that my wedding gown in suit-bag will be counted as my single carry-on luggage allowance & that NOTHING can be done out of policy to make my wedding trip any easier.

Singapore Airlines, you have totally killed my mood on a Friday afternoon – my happiest time of the week.

Now that I have to think about downsizing, I thought I’d drown my sorrows & type up my makeup list (so it’s both a packing checklist) and also to share it with you.

You can tune out now if the idea of browsing through a makeup & skincare checklist looks like gobble-di-goop… I won’t blame you. .This checklist is therapy for me to get over the incident with the unhelpful airline operator.

My therapy starts from here onwards. And since I'm typing this (at work) just goes to show my memory ain't too bad with my products!!

* * * * * * * * * * *

Wedding makeup kit

FACE

Full Size
- Shu Uemura Pro Concealer
- L’Oreal Studio Secrets Resurfacing Primer
Transferred to travel container:
- La Mer Loose Powder (Translucent) – haven’t figured out how, but I will try.
- Shu Uemura Face Architect Remodelling Cream Foundation (Shade 764)
- Shu Uemura Base Control (Silver)

EYES
- Guerlain Eyeshadow Palette (Bal de Nuit)
- Bare Escentuals Eyelid Primer
- PA Lashes in Soothing Beauty
- Shu Uemura eyebrow pencil (stone gray)
- Shiseido Integrate eyebrow palette
- Bourjois Liquid Eyeliner (thick tip)
- Shiseido Integrate Liquid Eyeliner (thin tip)
- MUFE Aqua Eyes Pencil 0L
- Shu Uemura Eyelash curler
- Majolica Majorca Lash Expander Frame Plus Mascara.

LIPS
- MAC lip pencil
- Estee Lauder Pure Color Crystal Lipstick (Cherry Blossom)
- Dr Lipp Nipple Cream
Leave out
- Any other lipglosses. Go natural or use the same lipstick.

CHEEKS
- YSL Y Collector Palette
- Becca Blush (Sylph)
- Shu Uemura Glow On Blush (M Amber 86) – contouring
Transfer to travel size
- Stila Convertible Colour (Lillium) – cream blush.

BRIDESMAID
- PA Lashes in Soothing Beauty
- Dior 5 shadow palette (Petal Shine) since the dress is silver/purple

SKINCARE

Bring full size & leave behind if push comes to shove (between wedding dress & skincare items)
- Half-jar of Olay Pro X night cream
- Half-bottle Olay Pro X anti-aging lotion (day)

- Nelsons acne gel

- Pantene Deep Fortifying Shampoo & Conditioner (leave the rest to sister-in-law)

Transferred to travel size
- Dior Snow Sunscreen SPF 50

- Perricone MD tinted moisturiser
- Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel
- Chanel Purifying Cream Mask
- Shu Uemura cleansing oil
- Sample size of Shiseido Bio Performance eye cream (from Jess!)
- Sample size of La Prairie Anti Aging Longevity Serum
- Sample size of Korres body butter (from Shop n Chomp!)

I feel a little better now after seeing most skincare items in the "travel size" list.

Bum TLC recipe vs. Butt Facial - which sounds better?

2010-02-12T09:22:00.006+11:00

If you've been following my blog since it started, I did a post in April 2009 trialling a "Butt Facial" I read about. I used what I had at the time (it was an expensive routine for cheeks of another kind), but the results were so worth it!

A few days ago, a reader left this comment below & shared her version of the 'Butt Facial' - with more affordable yet effective products. I couldn't help sharing it with you~

Enjoy the read. Whether you prefer to call this a Butt Facial or a Bum TLC recipe, you have to give it ago~

* * * * * * * * * * *

Comment from Laura on my 'Butt Facial' post:

Love this entry!! :D I am finishing up the butt facial as we speak. It's awesome and you can definitely sense the difference. I've been snowed in this whole week and have been doing extensive home-spa treatments to pass time by while everyone is off work and school.

Here is the BUM TLC recipe I recommend (along with full bath):

Bubble Bath, Cleanse & Scrub

Wash your bum with a warm wash cloth
Draw bubble bath and soak your entire body in there
Use an exfoliating scrub to get rid of pores and blackheads (I used the rest of my Clean and Clear Blackheads Acne Facial Cleaner)
Rinse off, then lather up entire body with bar soap (I used some fancy hotel brand from my sister) and using bath gloves, soap and massage yourself all over... save the bum (the BEST) for last! :o) doing so gets rid of dead skin and makes your bum soft and cheeky.

Mask

Rinse off again and apply facial mask. I used the Pure Detox Clay Mask with seaweed, salt and black clay which is a body mask from the Body Shop (hey, the bum IS a part of your body)
Wait about 15-20 mins or longer... but warning, the bum will fire up while the mask is on. Make sure you wrap it (I made a mini skirt around my bum with clear wrap) for its full effects
Rinse rinse rinse everything away... =) you will be amazed at the effects.

Moisturise

At the end of the butt facial session, I like to put some lotion on it and lay on my bed with my bum fully exposed - no underwear or pants. Now, all I need is someone to massage it for me.
Thanks for posting this! The bum does a lot of hard/dirty work everyday and definitely deserves some TLC.

Thank you Laura for sharing this "recipe" with us~

Review: Perricone MD Tinted Moisturiser SPF 15

2010-02-12T06:01:00.000+11:00

Perricone MD Tinted Moisturiser SPF 15
Available in Light, Medium & Dark

This is no ordinary tinted moisturiser, as it contains..

Non-chemical SPF
Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA), a powerful antioxidant that promotes healthy cell function, boosts radiance & minimises enlarged pores and surface imperfections.
Vitamin C Ester, a powerful form of skin-compatible Vitamin C. It helps protect the skin from damage by free radicals, reducing lines, wrinkles and discoloration and driving an improvement in skin tone and texture.
DMAE, provides both long-lasting and instant "anti-aging" benefits to your skin and body.

What's the coverage like?

Very sheer.
Dewy, radiant finish. The glow it gives your skin lasts all day.
Recommend using paste-like concealers with this product (not cream)

Recommended for..

Anyone that wants their skin to look like "a natural but better you" and let skin recover & breathe, unlike foundations.
Those that are unimpressed by the hype of BB creams.

Here's a morning vs. night photo (I use "Light")
The colour looks different since I didn't touch up with loose powder AT ALL..
The velvet finish is thanks to La Prairie Loose Powder (Translucent)

Be confident to reveal your skin underneath this sheer texture & it will reward you for letting it breathe. My skin has recovered a lot since I gave up foundation (I use foundation once a fortnight now.)

Image credit: TheBeautyClub.com.au

Review ~ Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion (Body)

2010-02-11T05:34:00.000+11:00

Aveeno
Daily Moisturizing Lotion

This is a "quiet achiever" kind of body moisturizer. Does its job without the hooha.

What sets it apart from the rest

Contains natural oatmeal
Clinically proven to moisturize for a full 24 hours
Non-comedogenic
Non greasy
Fragrance free

Recommended for...

Those that like a consistency that's richer than body milk, absorbs quickly & doesn't leave any residue.
Sensitive, dry skin.
You can wear your clothes straight away.

Do I reaaaallly need this?

It comes in a pump, is less than $17 in Australia. Skin friendly & value for money.
Available at most pharmacies

This product was purchased at my own expense.

Review ~ Pantene Deep Fortifying Collection

2010-02-10T06:34:00.004+11:00

Pantene Deep Fortifying Collection
Rekindle that old flame (with the hair care aisle that is..)

It's been many years since I used supermarket hair care. With too many choices & the risk of disappointment (many became my makeup brush cleaners), I ventured out into salon haircare... then after the mortgage (equally crushing as the GFC), I ventured onto Korean & Japanese haircare.

If you've experienced the same & feeling jaded in the supermarket aisle, Pantene's new collection will rekindle that old flame you once had with the supermarket hair care aisle.

The Collection

3 step regimen for repairing damaged hair & achieving smooth slippery hair
Improved formula featuring their latest Precision Blend Technology.
Claims to reduce hair fall due to breakage

The Shampoo: Gently cleanses hair & shields hair from future damage

The Conditioner: Moisturising without weighing hair down.

The Treatment: Better than Pantene's 3-minute miracle treatment, my natural waves come alive with this. (curling tools & GHD feeling neglected lately...). Since the Conditioner is gentle, I use this twice a week.

Do I need all three?

If you want to walk away with only one product, go for the Deep Fortifying Treatment.
But my hair is one happy camper with all three.
Shampoo & conditioner retail for $7.69 AUD each, treatment is $6.99 AUD.

Great for those who want high performing hair care without the price tag, so you can afford to buy silly things like.. a new nail shade you don't need, or yet another lipstick of the same shade you always buy (heehee)

These products were sent to me for review & my happy locks are very thankful for it~

Review ~ Mason Perason Detangling Comb

2010-02-09T06:04:00.001+11:00

Mason Pearson Detangling Comb
Where have you been all my life???

A little bit about Mason Pearson (for those with goldfish memories)

A British brand that has been around since 1885
Famous for their boar bristle hair brushes - it's like Rolls Royce bristles for your hair
Famous for THIS detangling comb too

What sets this comb apart from the rest..

Made by hand using traditional techniques
Smooth tapered teeth & rounded tips which glide smoothly along hair
Made in Switzerland (unlike most other things these days..)

Don't judge a comb by its cover.. this is a must have for anyone that hates untangling hair (or have been known cut it off in frustration like I have)

Combing my long thick wavy hair is total breeze with no tangling (I have a regular trim & use conditioner)
For $28.95 AUD (at David Jones) or $26 USD, it seems a lot for a comb, but you save a whole lotta hair that might otherwise have fallen from detangling.
Not all of us can afford their boar bristle brushes, but this is an affordable entry into the Rolls Royce of brushes.

This product was sent to me for my review, but even if it wasn't so, I'd totally get my hands on one of these~

Review ~ QV Skin Lotion (Repair)

2010-02-08T05:54:00.000+11:00

QV Skin Lotion (Repair)
This brand is one of Australian equivalent to Cetaphil.

What sets it apart from the rest...

pH balanced
low-irritant formulation, free from fragrance, colour, lanolin and propylene glycol
Light formulation, yet very hydrating

Suitable for everyone, but particularly for..

Dry, scaly skin, winter itch, ichthyosis, xerosis, and dermatitis. 
Relief of symptoms of atopic eczema and psoriasis. 
Infants and the elderly.
For normal / slightly sensitive skin, this is better used in winter as it's surprisingly rich for such a light formulation.

Do I reaaaalllly need this?

If you have any skin conditions & want a reliable moisturiser that repairs and soothes skin.
Try the smallest size & go from there~ Comes in 3 sizes (250ml bottle , 500ml pump pack,  1L pump pack).

Brush Review ~ Shu Uemura Cheek Brush #20

2010-02-07T11:00:00.000+11:00

Shu Uemura Natural Brush #20
For cheeks / highlighter

Made with Pony hair, this brush is ideal for powder face color application. The soft, flexible bristles are best for sharply defined cheeks and precise, delicate shading. Also suitable for applying face powder.

Recommended for

Delicate application of powder blush or highlighter
Those that want the sensation of applying blush like water colours
Made with Pony hair, the bristles are soft, flexible & precise in application.

Dupeability

Utowa's Cheek Brush #230 is similar in terms of shape & texture, but Shu Uemura's is more densely packed.
For a cheaper version, try Sephora's flat blush brush

How badly do I need this brush?

For the budget conscious, Sephora's brush (above) is just as effective.
For the brush snob, the shape of the blush brush for you depends on your bone structure.
This shape is recommended for those that apply blush no more than the size of... a dumpling (hmm that was an odd analogy).. basically the outer apples, without contouring.
Texture wise it's simply d.i.v.i.n.e.

Brush Review ~ Nars Push Liner #2

2010-02-06T07:00:00.000+11:00

NARS Push Liner

Recommended for

Applying precise shadow liner
Not recommended for cream/gel liner as the bristles are not densely packed or stiff enough (It got clumpy & I ended up with series of dots, instead of a precise line)
Can be used to apply smokey eyeshadow (using the flat side)

Dupeability

Lots. Stila, MAC and many others have excellent flat/push liners.

How badly do I need this brush?

I've had this since 2001 & this brush has lost its lustre. Stray hairs, stained bristles.
Althought it can be used to apply eyeshadow from the flat-side, you get better results using other brushes for eye shadow application.
Unless makeup brushes are tax deductible for you, this brush can be skipped.

Shu Uemura Showdown - Powder vs. Liquid Illuminator

2010-02-05T06:15:00.000+11:00

In my quest for the perfect wedding makeup kit, I would visit the Shu Uemura counters often & pretend it's my first time searching for wedding makeup.

Each time they would recommend me something different. Different blushes, different illuminators. I believed them all & bought whatever they recommended, hahaha.. total sucker.

But now I've been using them for a while, I'm able to give you a true comparison & help you decide which is for you (instead of buying everything like I did).. I may not be bridezilla, but I did find myself obsessing over the perfect makeup.

Shu Uemura's Illuminator Showdown - Powder vs. Liquid

Contestant #1: Powder
Glow On Blush P Peach 42

Contestant #2: Liquid
Base control (silver)
(Click to view swatch)

Now don't be alarmed..
It's still me under all these inscriptions!

Although the flash is more concentrated on the right, you can still see a difference.

My verdict

P Peach 42 = if you want to fake a rather convincingly natural glow.
Silver Base Control = totally wow guests on your wedding day~
It even deflects light away from dark circles!

Review ~ Olay Professional Pro-X Anti-Ageing Starter Protocol Kitr

2010-02-04T06:04:00.002+11:00

Olay Professional Pro-X
Anti-Ageing Starter Protocol Kit

Sold out in 17 minutes in the United States
and just 7 minutes in China!

What's in the kit...

Age Protection Lotion SPF 15: Day cream that boosts skin's antioxidant power.
Wrinkle Smoothing Cream: Night cream that smooths uneven texture & strengthens skin's surface with moisture.
Eye Restoration Complex: For day & night. Improves dark circles & reduces puffiness and crow's feet.

Recommended for..

Those with first signs of aging
Dry skin, or normal skin exposed to dry conditions
Those who want high-performing skincare without hurting the budget (eg. my wedding)

This product won't hurt your snob status as...

The day cream is deceptively effective. At first glance (or pump) I thought it was just another "wannabe high end" product, but this is the first cream I've tried in 5 years that didn't cause my makeup to go blotchy after 8 hours in the office. See it for yourself in my photo.

The night cream totally put that dreaded Shu Uemura night cream to shame. This one instantly made my skin plump, smooth by day two & ready to face another day of intense staring at the monitor. Doesn't clog pores.

The eye cream is soothing & hydrating. But not rich enough if you have mature skin. I have permanent dark circles, so I didn't notice any major improvements (no eye cream has for that matter).

RRP: AUD $99.99
To avoid missing out when it launches February 18 2010 in Australia, pre-order yours here

* * * * * * * *

Taken 13 hours after application.
On a 33 degree summer day.
After 8 hours glued to the monitor..
and a hot bowl of noodle soup for dinner..
And... no... blotching!!
Click to enlarge if you insist on viewing at my pores close up.

Other products used for my typical office makeup
Perricone MD tinted moisturiser - Light
NYX nude eye palette (swatches coming soon!)
Shu Uemura Glow On Blush - P Peach 42 highlighter
Shu Uemura Eyebrow Pencil - Stone Grey
Estee Lauder Turbo Lash Mascara
Stila Convertible Color - Lillium
La Prairie Translucent Powder #1

This kit was sent to me as part of the PRIMPED VIP Club

When I grow up, I want to age gracefully like....

2010-02-03T06:56:00.000+11:00

Maggie Cheung (張曼玉)

Born in 1964, that makes her 46 years old this year~

Aside from being blessed with a great bone structure that doesn't encourage wrinkles,
here's a few other things I noticed that make a HUGE difference & subtracts years through makeup.

Let's skip this heavily photoshopped pic below & onto the real stuff.

[Image source]

Here she is last week at the Dior's Spring Summer 2010 show in Paris.

Hair. Voluminuous.
Skin. Radiant.
Subtle peach cheeks.
Eyebrows. Full & thick!
Lotsa Lotsa Black Mascara that gives oomph.
Eyes lined & terracotta/rose lips.
Smoothing product for dry coarse hair.

Below is a similar look in September 2009,
with intensified eyes & what must be her favourite lippie shade!

Now although NUDE is going to be hottest trend this season, the older one gets, the more pink-based nudes one must stick to..

Because this is what happens when you go too nude..

"So apply a bolder lip!" I hear you say..
Make that lips AND eyes..
otherwise it looks a little unbalanced with older eyes that tend to look weary.

Although this last pic is from 2007 (compared to the above shots in 2009/2010),
this is what happens when you put everything together~

Voila~ Magic!

Who do you aspire to when it comes to aging gracefully?

Note to self: At 40, I can still wear lotsa black - just need to add some kick to my lippie collection!!

Brush Review ~ Stila Retractable Powder Brush #31

2010-02-02T07:00:00.001+11:00

Stila Retractable Powder Brush #31

Recommended for

Those that like to travel light yet carry high end brushes
Suitable for loose powder & powder foundation
You can have your cake & eat it too, as packing this in your suitcase means there's still room for other full sized brushes

Dupeability

There are many affordable retractable powder brushes in the market, with variations on texture and shape (eg. kabuki, stipling).
Sephora, Too Faced, Cover FX (Retractable Stipling brush)

How badly do I need this brush?

For the budget conscious, try EcoTools 's Retractable Kabuki Brush.
For the brush snob, this is a reliable brush that feels just as soft as the full sized brush (without the tapered cut)

Brush Review ~ Stila Under Eye Concealer Brush #2

2010-02-01T08:00:00.000+11:00

Stila Under Eye Concealer Brush #2
(Long or short handle)

Recommended for

Blending cream concealer under the eyes
Those that don't like using their fingers under their eyes

Dupeability

Laura Mercier's Secret Camouflage Brush is similar for its precise shape.
Most other concealer brushes have a flat side.

How badly do I need this brush?

For the budget conscious, use your fingers to lightly tap concealer (just like eye cream), and finish blotting with a good triangle sponge.
For the brush snob, a flat-style concealer brush is more effective in building coverage.

Wedding Makeup Practice #8 (Statement eyes)

2010-01-31T04:00:00.000+11:00

Thanks so much for all your feedback on my Wedding Makeup Attempts!!

Most of you voted pink over peach, and Jamilla suggested I accentuate the eyes more.
I've listened & today's look is with the Guerlain palette #407 (Bal de Nuit) again, this time with intensified eyes..

I always forget to do something.. and today it was under-eye concealer, but it's not too bad given I'm already wearing 3 layers of Shu Uemura foundation.

Today's blush was applied in 3 layers:

1) Pink cream blush before loose powder - Stila Convertible Color (Lillium)
2) Peach highlighter - YSL Y Palette Collector
3) Soft pink blush - Becca Blush (Sylph)

Base makeup was applied in 7 steps

1) Apply resurfacing primer
2) Apply first layer of cream foundation & blot with a sponge.
3) Apply liquid illuminator under the eyes, upper cheeks, temples, forehead & first half of nose.
4) Apply 2nd layer of foundation & blot with a sponge.
5) Apply 3rd layer of foundation.
6) Spray water mist on the sponge & seal all layers by blotting with the damp sponge.
7) Press loose powder into skin & gently sweep excess

This might be my last practice attempt before I fly on 17 February~
I think this look is it!

Thanks everyone for your help with my DIY wedding makeup trials~

Review & Swatches ~ L'Oreal Studio Secrets Professional Eyeshadows

2010-01-30T06:24:00.000+11:00

L'Oreal Studio Secrets Professional Eye Intensifer
This post includes a review, swatches & EOTD! Feeling generous today.

If you're a makeup snob (like me), this won't hurt your snob status, as it is...

High quality, blends well, applies smoothly like high end shadows (except without the price tag)
Comes in 18 shades, ranging from natural "mother of pearl" style shimmer, to intense matte and satin shades.
RRP $19.95 in Australia. Not dirt cheap, but not enough to go on a hunger strike.

Recommended for..

Those that like shimmery eyeshadow
Single shadows are convenient when you're just searching for "That Colour", or looking for new shades to spice up your collection.
Anyone who needs help in selecting eyeshadow shades to suit their eye colour.

The shades are matched to your eye colour...

But I ignored them, and bought only the shades that I wanted to add to my collection.
#283 (Medium Brown), #284 (Rose Brown) for blue eyes, and #630 (Gold) for dark eyes.

If you're confused like I was on the difference between #284 and #283,
you can see the difference in the swatch below with flash.

I ALMOST bought #581 (Dark Brown) for Dark Eyes, but held back as my Guerlain palette already has that shade..

The applicator had a contoured handle, which made it super easy to use on one side,
but a bit awkward on the opposite side..

EOTD with #630 (Gold), #284 (Rose Brown) and
Guerlain Palette #407 Bal de Nuit (Pearl & Dark Brown)

The shimmer is noticeable & reasonably sophisticated.
In the snob spectrum, the texture is smoother than Lunasol, but not as refined as Guerlain/Dior.

Other key products used..
PA lashes - #01 Soothing Beauty
Shu Uemura Face Architect Cream Foundation #764 - ahh the magic of 3 layers...
RMK Irresistable Lips - #13 Shiny Beige
La Prairie Loose Powder - Translucent #1 (Thanks Jess, I love it!)

Brush Review ~ Stila Powder Brush #8 (Long)

2010-01-29T07:00:00.001+11:00

Stila Powder Brush #8
(Long handle)

Recommended for

Those that like to pat loose powder into the skin before buffing. Apply powder to the flat side & press into skin.
Finish by sweeping the bristles for an even finish.
No mess application.
Luxuriously soft

Dupeability

There are many other great powder brushes out there, but few are tapered that will let you both press & buff powder.

How badly do I need this brush?

For the budget conscious, you can achieve an even finish with most powder brushes.
For the brush snob, this dual purpose brush replaces the need for a powder puff & feels luxurious on skin.

Brush Review ~ Shu Uemura Synthetic Brush 10

2010-01-28T07:00:00.000+11:00

Shu Uemura Synthetic Brush #10
(Eye Gradation)

Recommended for

Most eyeshadow textures (powder, cream, liquid. Not pigment)
Can be doubled as a concealer brush.
Tapping technique - as seen in my all-time-favourite beauty channel JungSaemMool.
Sheer / smooth finish. Not recommended for intense looks.

Dupeability

A peer to MAC brush 231
Yet to see a cheaper dupe.

How badly do I need this brush?

Whether you get the MAC or Shu Uemura version, this is a staple eyeshadow gradation brush for those who like to apply eyeshadow delicately that's flawlessly blended.
I used this for most of my bridal makeup practice attempts.

Available at
In Store: Shu Uemura counters ($35USD)
Online: Strawberrynet ($37 USD) & TheBeautyClub.com.au ($39 AUD)

Naughty Strawberrynet has priced it above retail!
Totally busted by Akisa.

Brush Review ~ MAC 208 Angled Brow Brush

2010-01-27T08:03:00.002+11:00

MAC 208 Angled Brow Brush

Recommended for

Anyone that defines their brows (maybe except for people like Agyness Deyn)
Fills & defines eyebrows precisely.
It's a multi-purpose brush that can also apply gel eyeliner, line under the eyes, or precise eyeshadow application (eg. Claudia's Vic Beckham tutorial - A MUST SEE!!!)

Dupeability

Most cosmetic brands produce angled brushes.
I've had this brush since 2002!! That's EIGHT YEARS~ and it's still in excellent condition. No fallouts, no strays.

How badly do I need this brush?

Given this brush has lasted me eight years, this brush is definitely worth it for both the budget conscious & brush snob.
You won't need to replace it if you look after it. I've worked out that my cost-per-use is now down to 0.01 cents per application & declining. Peanuts.

Brush Review ~ MAC 222 Tapered Brush

2010-01-26T08:40:00.001+11:00

MAC 222 Tapered Brush

Recommended for

The tapered end makes it effortless to blend & contour (it's so easy that sometimes I get carried away & need to re-apply shadow)
Extremely soft, natural fibres. A high-end kinda soft.
Can be used apply pigment or eyeshadow, but to keep the brush clean for blending I don't use it to apply colour.

Dupeability

Other blending brushes will do the job too.

How badly do I need this brush?

For the budget conscious, medium priced brands will do just as good a job.
For the brush snob, this is an idiot-proof blending brush that's superior in softness.

Brush Review ~ MAC 190 Foundation Brush

2010-01-25T20:05:00.007+11:00

At long last... with a public holiday tomorrow I've finally had time to get around to my brush reviews!! Hope you like these series~

MAC 190 Foundation Brush

Recommended for

Thick coverage foundation (eg. cream foundation, heavy coverage liquid foundation)
Builds coverage pronto, flawlessly
Those who want to splurge once & save money on sponges in the long run.

Dupeability

I've tried Armani & Prescriptive foundation brushes so far, and neither of them compare to this. From memory, Bobbi Brown would be the closest comparison but I don't have it.

How badly do I need this brush?

For the budget conscious, stick to sponges as this brush doesn't necessarily produce better results than a good sponge.
For the makeup enthusiast, this brush is a staple item that can also be used to apply powder highlighter or blend cream blush.