...faliaandamz

Advertorial: Qashrul Hidafi Photography

2012-02-29T02:18:00.000-08:00

Online Users

Impressed yet? With my current job, I don't mind being directed and for once be in front of the camera. Trust me, with a team to work on your make-up, styling, posing, you'll feel very Giselle, not that I need to intro who she is. On top of that, by looking at Qashrul’s pictures, I am positive that he can actually come out with absolutely stunning locations other than Botanic Garden and Haji Lane. Come on, the introduction video was shot on a yacht! His photographs make me slap myself for not paying attention to photography class in Poly.

Model: Amelie

Make-up Artist: Idah Freda

When he approached me last week, I was a little bit skeptical. There are so many fresh photography companies competing against each other that make it harder for newlyweds and ordinary people looking for photographers to capture their events or even portraits of themselves. The minute I see his work on his portfolio and facebook, I was more than confident to recommend Qashrul Hidafi Photography to my readers. Completely enamored with his work.

Model: Shillah Marlysha

Bridal outfit, accessories and make-up by Chantique The Bridal Gallery

In my opinion, what sets them apart is actually the extra mile they can offer you outside of the package you signed for. Any Tommy, Dil or Hairi can own a DSLR, claim a photographer and snap snap pictures of everybody.

I am no model, and I definitely want my photographer to make me feel comfortable when he’s capturing me on stills. He's offering me a full sponsorship this coming May or June and I'll blog on his service by then. Psyched! Can I go vintage, Qashrul?

Here's a list of models who used his work for their portfolio:
Miss Singapore World 2009 (Pilar Arlando)

Foreign models from Norway, England, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Netherlands etc.

Notable runway shows such as:

Ford Supermodels Of The World 2011 (Singapore)
Maybelline/Lo'real Hypercouture Runway
Toni & Guy Runway

Oh, his forte? Fashion Photography

Model: Marya

Make-up Artist: Ratnahwaty Rahman

Bridal outfit and accessories by De'Mure Weddings

Model: Syasya Ngari

Bridal outfit, accessories and make-up by Chantique The Bridal Gallery

Model: Nur Amira

Make Up Artist: Ratnahwaty Rahman

'About Qashrul Hidafi Photography:
"Capturing your beauty"
We offer professional photography packages for modelling portfolios and personal makeovers.
We also shoot weddings, engagements and events.'

Contact Qashrul Hidafi Photography:
SMS to: 9646 4047

Email address: qashrul@gmail.com
Facebook: Qashrul Hidafi Photography
Portfolio: http://www.qashrul.com

For a special discount (this one I like) exclusively for faliandamz readers, don't forget to mention or type 'faliaandamz.blogspot.com'.

It is a good idea to hire a photographer for your functions. Instead of looking at amateur snapshots, you'll look at beautiful pictures and you'll just recall a thing or two about that particular day. For all you models out there, make sure you have a good photographer for your portfolio.

To Qashrul, seriously? I'm just honoured when you introduced me to your world of photography. Thank you for giving me the trust to spread out your breathtaking job. Obviously, you're real passionate about your work. Shown right on the stills.

& if you have anything for me to blog about, leave me a comment, FB pm me or email me at sharifa_amalia@hotmail.com . We all can learn a thing or two. Sharing is lovely on faliaandamz.

ADVERTORIAL: SQeen

2012-02-25T22:55:00.000-08:00

Online Users

I’m not a huge fan of make-up and if you’re my good friend, you’d know because I only have VS pouch with me wherever I go with only foundation, pressed powder, eyeliner, mascara, blusher and a lipstick. Basics, just basics. In fact, I gave away my make-up to friends who came over or otherwise, all the unopened make-up all stashed into one drawer, not organized.

It’s a shame really.

No matter how my aunt had helped me with my disability (if it’s Glee, they will name it make-upbility) to make-up, I only managed to put on the barely there look. See my pictures, you’d have noticed. I love to keep it minimal but all of SQeen's work made me want to be all dolled up. Can you do it for me SQeen? I want the extensions and the amazing colours on my eyelids. Artistic!

'SQeen (Professional Makeup Artistry) was founded in December 2011 by the MUA herself and started out as a humble makeup brand that does small local businesses such as engagements and weddings for friends and families and also doing random photoshoots for portfolio building. Now, SQeen has developed into a more known brand doing makeup at a more professional level. At SQeen, makeup is our PASSION and your satisfaction is our PRIORITY.

SQeen specializes in makeup and hairstyling and offers services for engagement and bridal services to Makeovers, Portfolio building and all sorts of events; Birthday, Halloween, Prom and more.’

Here’s a shoutout to all you new models out there. Get your portfolio numbered because SQeen ocassionally does photoshoots. All you need to do is email them your full body and close up pictures, type down your name and contact number, hit send.

Drop an email at: sqeen.services@gmail.com for enquiries and bookings.

Makeup Artist: Sharifah Asheiqeen (SQeen)
Qualifications: Diploma in Professional Makeup Artistry
Certified by Cosmoprof Academy

I am looking forward to young talents because look at their work. Those are nowhere near amateur.

She does nail art too and I have my personal favourite- Geometrical shapes!

You should check out her blog for tutorials or a quick read about make-up tips. All on Asian (Malay) skin. That's hard to read from US make-up gurus. Oh & btw, SQeen provides attractive prices for their customers.

Contact SQeen

Email address: sqeen.services@gmail.com
Blogspot: http://sqeen.blogspot.com
Facebook: SQeen (Professional Makeup Artistry)
Twitter: SQeen MUA

To SQeen team, keep up the creative work. You create wonders!

& if you have anything for me to blog about, leave me a comment, FB pm me or email me at sharifa_amalia@hotmail.com . We all can learn a thing or two. Sharing is lovely on faliaandamz.

Plan-less Plan

2012-02-22T07:27:00.000-08:00

Online Users

I get super cranky with the MRT all the time, I'm sensitive with criticism, I don't know how to accessorize with a belt, I must learn not to end my sentence with a full stop before an exclamation mark, but to hell with all those. I have my issues but at the end of the day, I come to this blog to tell my story. Here goes...

It's one of those days when we just want to meet up but that's just it, a plan-less plan. I deserved a hat tip because I put my skills working before the man lost his mood.

He was the tourist and I was the self-proclaimed tour guide. Keep this venue in your 'must go list' too because we had a fantastic time minus all the mini squabbles.

Venue:
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Beanstro at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
Canal Level B2-20
Tel:
6688 7001
Opening Hours:
10am to 11pm, Sunday to Thursday
10am to 2am, Friday and Saturday
Halal Certified

Playing rich girl was way too easy on that day because I satisfied my craving. Settled on a $19, delicious and crunchy salad (forgot its name) with pinkish Tuna, potatoes and requested to dismiss the raw onion. Wanted another salad but realized the menu was different from our neighbourhood Coffee Bean. The whole menu was at not so economical prices but don't complain just yet.

The dining experience at the water edge took my breath away with the candle set in the center of our table and we were actually at the beautiful outdoor setting where you could actually see sampan ($10 ride) streaming down the indoor canal. Casual, yet it took your focus off the usual cafes in the malls and Arab Street.

Of course, Chanel. Just the picture and the brand was enough. I guess the bullet of Breakfast at Tiffany's from the To Do list left unstriked is achievable at Shoppes after all. Anyone wants to reenact the famous opening scene with me?

& if you want to skip dinner, not spend on anything and still enjoy the stroll by the bay, be at the Event Plaza outside for the 15 minutes Southeast Asia's largest light and water show for free. I spent the entire time trying to snap the pictures above.

Showtimes:
8pm, 9.30pm (Sunday to Thursday)
8pm, 9.30pm, 11pm (Friday and Saturday)

So you know where to go this weekend? I hope this post will inspire you too.

Featured Post: Fatin Atiqah

2012-02-19T09:59:00.000-08:00

Online Users

Navajo Print Sweater from Forever 21, Pleated Maxi Skirt from Riot Loco, Newlook's Turquoise Glitter Flats and Pouch by Charles & Keith.

I do envy Fatin Atiqah from inmyshawls, because she's able to carry tiny bags and satchels around. Me.? I can never step out of the house without unnecessary things like Zebra umbrella, Vicks, pen, plastic, emergency make-up kit, and more some some. I wonder what's inside her pouch because I don't think I can squeeze my mascara, iPhone and credit card inside.

If you hadn't realized, she's the child actress from K14 and obviously, a friend of mine. Yes, yes, she's in hijab now. Still beautiful, still fashionable, still Fatin just inHERshawls. The fashion blogger used to own a make-up blog but like she said in one of her post, her passion drifted. & when she asked me to feature her on faliaandamz, my reply was a straight 'YES' because I was honoured.! Come on, I'm no Xiaxue or Sofia and I don't get comments on the blog. I'm just someone who blogs and I could never get over the fact that she actually read my blog ever since I had a hiatus period. Like I said to my boyfriend, 'I didn't know she follows me. Honoured.!' Ok, maybe she didn't except for that one time but let me just claim my proud moment.

The focus of Fatin's outfit was on her sweater in bold colours and navajo print which added interest as a whole. This look fits perfectly into what to wear in winter but even when I'm currently occupied with my Spring search, I'd definitely shift my focus to this style. I said it before that if you're not too bold with strong colours, pair them with staples or nude. She brought out her colours by putting on must have black maxi and black shawl.

Here's more tips to score this look:

- For Western look, put on your very own navajo top with jeans and boots.
- Grab chunky bangles.
- Apply PINK lipstick if you want to achieve the 70's look.

I couldn't help but notice that she had the tendency to mismatch her bag and her top. Just like what I did to USS the last time.

I am all about wearing it simple and dress down, right.?

Even though I only received two pictures of her in my mailbox, I stole the picture above from her blog without her consent because this by far, my favorite look. Looking at the style above just made you want to wear hijab don't you.? No darling, please don't. Fatin, all the best for inmyshawls.! I hope my awesome readers can learn a thing or two from this post and you too.

If you want to be featured like Zetti and Fatin, drop me an email with at least two pictures of you and your outfit to sharifa_amalia@hotmail.com. Tell me where you got your outfit from, price range and that's it. Will look forward to share them with the rest. The best entry, wins something from me.!

Oh wait.! I also received another advertorial project like THIS. If you have something for me to blog, drop me an email or fb inbox me. After all, I share my lifestyle and all the good things I know on faliaandamz.

Hear from you soon, love.!

Never Take My Bourjois Away

2012-02-19T05:38:00.000-08:00

Online Users

On my previous post at faliaandamz.onsugar.com, I gave such a pleasing review on BOURJOIS healthy mix. Been using bottles and bottles of it and when I visited the drugstore to replenish my make-up stocks, the promoter said they stop producing Healthy Mix. NOOOO.! I didn't know how to react. Disbelief, angry, sad, all at the same time. I am not going to look for a perfect foundation again.!

Introducing Bourjois Flower Perfection. The BOURJOIS promoter told me it's the same as the healthy mix foundation. It's supposed to last up to 16 hours, hides blemishes, smoothes skin's texture, boost the complexion, making you look young for that 16 hours. Enriched with wild Azalea extract that are resistant to climates and used for cell-regenerating, protecting cell's youth.

As usual, I skipped reading what's on the bottle and tried it on myself. Here's what happened on my first application of no.55, Dark Beige:

- Three pumps using just my fingertips. I hate brushes and the sponge that came with it was useless to me. Mainly because I knew that the sponge would absorb the foundation more than spreading it on my face.
- Supposed to be full coverage but it lightened most of my scars and blemishes. I prefer it that way because I didn't want to look like a living doll. Let's save the smooth complexion for the wedding day.
- Flowery smell which I didn't normally fancy but it's almost the same as the healthy mix with apricot and apple smell, so I liked it instantly.
- My face was all white and dewy but it's only for awhile. Matte it out with my Pressed Powder in Beige Medium and I was absolutely impressed.!
- No, did not last me for 16 hours. Probably just 12 hours but like my previous foundation from the brand, I only touch up twice a day with the powder. FYI, I only had to buy my make-up once every two or three months. Save all the money for other expenses.

Overall, I love this foundation. Nothing new because I trust this brand. I used BOURJOIS for my basics so the result on my face was predictable. I hope this foundation works for you too. Packaging was better than the previous Healthy Mix. Used to be plastic but it's glass now. Slightly pricey, $38 per bottle but it's worth the money, especially when I could skip using concealer. Oh, best part, no more breakout.!

I'd love it if you drop me a comment or email to sharifa_amalia@hotmail.com for your very own review of any of your favourite make-up. Let me know your favourite online make-up guru too. Mine is of course, Lisa Eldridge. Yours.?

Candy Colours

2012-02-08T21:46:00.000-08:00

Megan floaty cape top in mint and Lexi tailor pants in black from. Belt from Dorothy Perkins. Mash bangles, Diva.

Apologies for the dirty mirror. I love candy colours and the fact that Spring (March, April and May) is near. Perhaps, I can pull out all my brights when the sun is shining. We don't have all the four seasons in this country, so let's just stick to the weather. Stores are selling according to trend and seasons, but it doesn't mean we have to follow suit. Go against the culture. Of course, do it right.
The pants are available on SALE at my very own blogshop,for $20. I only have them in Green and Electric Blue now. Lovely customers ordered black when it was first launched at $27.Love the sharp collar-like flap on the waist. It's almost like having peter pan collar on the pants, don't you think.?

Description on onLiqia: Yet another inspired by Topshop and ZARA. Floaty cape top as they call it. The chiffon material makes it weightless. With sleeves like that, you'll be protected from getting tan lines under the sun. Sheer. Advisable to wear a spaghetti strap tank top or a nude tube underneath. Tuck into high-waisted pants, umph!

I wore the sold out top just like that to my 2nd trip to USS. Did not regret wearing the top under the scorching sun with a pink ribbon pin to my hair. I used to tuck the floaty cape top into bandaged skirts too. Really versatile. Glad I got both mint and mustard. Easily became one of my favourite tops when it comes to colour blocking and wearing coloured candy. I had to wear my own clothes and when anybody asked, I could proudly say, my blogshop.! Looking forward to do my next shoot for the next collection. Need your support on that.

To Accept Life Unconditionally

2012-02-08T00:06:00.000-08:00

Before anybody mistook my blog as a fashion blog, I better post something else now. No, faliaandamz is not a fashion blog because I'm no expert. As much as I want to keep my posts in perfect English, anybody could spot grammatical errors. By the way, it''s pronounced as falia-and-amz. faliaandamz is nothing more than my life, an online diary, but I usually like it short and sweet. If I go lengthy like I used to, I'm either angry, bored or I'm just like some I know, tell a tale or two in 5000 words in an entry. Exactly why I'm a big fan of US bloggers. I want to read something that will inspire me, not read the whole conversation you can have in your mind and at the end of the day, it's just an entry of a trip to Sentosa. I have twitter and instagram to speak/show. Unfortunately, I limit the number of followers on twitter because I like it quiet there. When I have so much to say, others may take it too seriously, thus assume like the website you call Stomp. I can't go wrong with pictures, right? Follow me at instagram then. Much more friendly in there.

In January, we had our second trip to USS together, and our third trip to the theme park by itself. Three times, never enough. That's what I love about being in this relationship. A plan once a month would always be something more than the usual meet-up. It's a good escape from hectic life. It's almost as good as being in festive mood, but once a month. It's one of those days I could tie up loose ends.

Well, I failed to get him in front of the camera. I could control our dates, our phone conversations but I could never control his relationship with his camera. Slowly, his pictures were getting better. I had to tutor him on composition but I like the idea of him snapping photographs because his subject would always be me. Now I could be a model in my head. At least I'm not snapping pictures of me by myself at every moment and post it on insta, and have people look at my face, me and only me. I chuckled as I typed those sentences because it reminded me of a certain incident when I was so annoyed because I had to see self-obsessed pictures in the car, in the bathroom, same pose, same face, just at close intervals. See! When I'm annoyed I write a lot. Now you have to read 5000 words of ramblings because I just wasted 3 mins of your life reading no substance.

You just saw all the new things I did at USS. Always wanted to try the Pizza at Hollywood, the new Transformer ride which made me so happy, and I stalked Shrek and Fiona. I was like the kid in front looking at their huge mascots, star struck. Managed to capture my boyfriend on the roller coaster from the ground. He was pissed because I completely bailed on him. Rode on the death ride once, not going to do it again anytime soon.

'I decided, very early on, just to accept life unconditionally; I never expected it to do anything special for me, yet I seemed to accomplish far more than I had ever hoped. Most of the time it just happened to me without my ever seeking it.' - Audrey Hepburn

Thank You for reading (Feeling famous. I'm sorry I had to be annoying today. I'm just exhausted.).

Featured Post: Zetti's One-sided Wing Dress

2012-02-06T00:14:00.000-08:00

Thank you Zetti Nur'Atiqah for the email. I wish I could have a clearer picture because I absolutely love the black one sleeved wing dress on her. You'd see more of one sleeve dress in the market, you just need to find which is the right one for you. Some like it classy and will settle for toga, some like it dramatic and opt for the ones with wings like Zetti's.

Fun Fact: Do you know that one of the most popular wing dresses was created in 1888.? The dress was made for Ellen Terry, an actress to portray Lady Macbeth. The stage costume had 1000 beetle wings attached to the sleeves. Wing dress was popular in 1950s and 1960s.

Of course, we're talking about Zetti's sleeve dress now. She mentioned she bought both the gold necklace and the dress from Bugis. Now, that's a place to shop without ripping anything. No price mention but I'm pretty sure it didn't cost her that much. I like the idea of having a statement necklace across the neck to add a little detail. Here's where you can purchase your own necklace: http://www.indiesin.com.

The tunnel layer necklace ends right above/at chest area. Perfect for the dress!

Now that you know my secret place to shop, I want to know yours too. Come on, sharing is lovely! We are all ladies and we want to look good. A million thank you to those who sent in their pictures, I'll blog when I have the time. Unfortunately, I had to reject some of the emails. I believe in taking appropriate pictures. Send your pictures of your outfit to me at sharifa_amalia@hotmail.com. Tell me where you got your outfit from, price range and that's it! Will look forward to share them with the rest. I have another catch for my readers. The best email wins something from me!

Here's another shoutout to my very own blogshop, onLiqia! Yes, take this very day to get your 2nd item at 50% off.! That's less than $10. I am not kidding.! In the mood to celebrate onLiqia's birthday with everyone. Happy 1ST Birthday onLiqia.!

ADVERTORIAL: KATE SPADE

2012-01-25T01:33:00.000-08:00

I'm back with a piece of ad for you. I love Kate Spade so much the boyfriend gave me a Kate Spade bag for my birthday last year. So many out there selling replicas and authentic bags on Facebook and it's also risky to buy expensive bags online especially when there were fresh cases of fraud around and dishonest sellers. One tip, to make sure the particular seller is genuine, check to see if any of her offer is too good to be true and read the comments on her site. Love your money, shop safely. I'm here to introduce to you a trusty online authentic Kate Spade seller.

Here's a peek of what she offers:

Kate Spade Classic Noel Stevie
$290
Made of jacquard. Approx. 10" x 17' x 7". 17" double leather handles with 8 1/2" drop. Zip top closure with leather pull. Inside zip pocket. Multifunction pockets. Brass hardware.

Kate Spade Alphine Stevie Purple
$270
Made of nylon. Approx. 8 1/2" x 13" x 6 1/4". Approx. 16" straps with 8" drop. Top magnetic closure. Inside zip pocket. Multifunction pockets. Fabric lining. Gold hardware.

Kate Spade Woodblock Wallet
(MY PERSONAL FAVOURITE. ZEBRA PRINTS.!)
$170
Made of nylon. Approx. 7 1/2" x 4" Zip around closure. Inside zip pocket. 12 card slot holders. 2 slip pockets. One rear slip pocket. Leather lining. Gold tone hardware.

Oh, she sells the never out of trend Longchamp too.

Longchamp Cabas Purple
$150

Do note that the Longchamp Red Planetes is no longer available.

To purchase and for more enquiry about the bags, PM the seller at her FB page HERE.

Have fun shopping.! And if you have anything to say or to advertise, I'll be honoured to blog it for you. PM me on my Facebook (link below) or simply email your request to sharifa_amalia@hotmail.com.

2012-01-12T19:58:00.000-08:00

Shoes and bag from RUBI.

I had the $5 pair at Rubi and wore them on Tuesday. My friends were telling me about the $2 and $5 shoes at Rubi, a place where I would buy two shoes at once but they could only last me for about one or two months. Hopefully, this flowery pair could last longer because I never like closed shoes. NEVER.! I thought wearing such shoes made me look like a man and even bought beige sneakers from Topshop with scallops on it. Yes, scallops.! All in the attempt to satisfy my paranoia of looking like man in sneakers. Only wore them once, and that's it. Somehow wished the shoes would transform into a pair of scallop clogs or beige heels. Apparently, this pair at Rubi was found in mismatched floral prints and they annoyingly matched my sling. I could prepare for Spring in March but Singapore only had clothes that fit the season, not the weather. Pink, flowers, $5 for something I wouldn't wear often, GRAB.! I did not stare at my festive season SALE impulse purchases after all.

Oh, I received pictures of people in their daily outfits for me to blog. Thank you for emailing them but I'd appreciate if they could be more appropriate without all the cleavage and sexy pose on the bed. I mean it. Send all your great outfit of the day pictures to sharifa_amalia@hotmail.com .

Have a great weekend.!

2012 on a good note

2012-01-09T21:02:00.000-08:00

The festive mood disappeared as soon as we settled into hectic, bustling lives of our own be it school, work, family issues and the relationship drama. I refused to look back at anything from 2011 because every new year, I would put resolutions and more expectations and ended up with the same resolutions new year after new year, after new year. Embrace the present, dream of the future, aim to achieve it. That's all. Not easy but I used instagram (faliaandamz) for inspiration and motivation day after day. People I follow on insta inspired me so much, they constantly remind me that life is as beautiful as the pictures. Edited, like the mistakes you do to your life once upon a time.

Ended the good old 2011 with Wanie's 20th with baulu cake. I wondered how she managed to wipe out the magic candles, but she did.!

My 2012 already booked with list of things I would never complain of. Spending time with my Deksus and other 600 dikir barat performers and dancers at every Chingay practice, wearing sponsored shoes I'd never wear out but they helped all of us strut in the water.

Instagram made me perform such collage because instead of finding pictures to inspire me, I found myself staring at pictures with well-dressed men in bow ties, coats and expensive shoes. My boyfriend head down TOPMAN and I was impressed with what he had picked out. I had no clue he picked out the separates I suggested on our first trip to the store for a red carpet event. We dropped by a different outlet and I was impressed with what he picked out without me suggesting anything. Wear what you want, dear. Just don't turn up in leather tights.

Polka Dot top from Kiss Jane, brandless old jeans, black tote from Rubi.

My personal favourite last week was the polka dot top I bought and took me a week before I finally took the courage to adorn it. There's an 80% chance of bumping into another person wearing polka dots and most of them had the same colour combination of polka dots. I wore it to work anyway with no loud accessory except for a watch and a square ring. This top somehow compliment curvy figure like mine so I need not worry about all the extra bulge. Especially when I could fit into my old jeans, why not.? Staring at polka dots made me dizzy. I hated them, I wore them and I fell in love with them.

The Black Skirt

2012-01-03T00:10:00.000-08:00

Crop top $5 by COTTON ON on sale, black skirt and denim jacket from Bugis Street, mashed up bangles from Diva.

I wore this on New Year's Eve to Spa by Norfasarie and to countdown (before I changed at the venue itself). The thing about this ensemble, I just mix&matched separates and I didn't honestly think it would match. I had this narrow idea that those long skirts could only be worn tucked in or with a belt but if I didn't get so paranoid on that day, I wouldn't know that a tuck out crop top would go so well. I didn't know what to wear so I thought covering my whole body as well as my insecurities would be perfect. Once again, trying out to be the Olsens with the cute pocket on the basic top, but major fail. The pairing of the black skirt with the $5 top was just my excuse not to wear pants on that day even though I knew I'd have a hard time at countdown. The denim jacket was just another 'brilliant' idea to perk up the laid back look. Hey, it worked.! My boyfriend picked me up from spa and he went, 'Pakai lawa-lawa nak pergi mana.?' SCORE.!

Geometrical print button down and black skirt from Bugis Street, red wine belt $23 by Dorothy Perkins.

People told me that with curves like mine, I could never wear a long skirt with any belt around my waist or I'd look shorter and chubby. Long skirts were the soul mates of tall women with long perfect legs but disaster cloth to short women. Never believe what anybody say unless you experiment things yourself. No belt.? There.! No long skirt.? There.! With an outrageous geometrical print shirt with a collar I didn't quite like but it was ideal for days I had to be somewhere after a wedding or a formal event. One of my closest friend/best friend/movie friend, Suhailah told me she didn't know long skirts would work with my body type and height. There you go. It will not work once someone tell you after you wear them. Not before you wear them.

Perk up your Grey

2011-12-29T01:32:00.000-08:00

Grey pullover $39 from a certain blogshop, Dorothy Perkins' dark slim fit jeans, clogs $41 by m)phosis, butterfly necklace from DIVA, ring $4.90 from Cineleisure, bag $10 from RUBI.

Every time I tried to dress like Mary Kate and Ashley, I'd fail miserably. Like my previous post when I tried to dress like Kurt (Glee), I actually added straw hat to the look. It's a constant habit that I'd end up putting my own flavour into those outfits. It's better that way you know. We all have different body shapes. What looked good on them might not be extravagant on us. If you can't copy, make it your own. Like today, I had a statement necklace on over stripped down basic grey pullover to stand out from the gloomy weather. Here's to modifying Mary Kate's look into my own by pairing every day slim fit jeans and a dull pullover with a stand out necklace and prints on the bag.

Was attempting this look (below). I used to own Mary Kate and Ashley's lip gloss, it took me 3 years later to throw the empty packaging away.

Not on your nails

2011-12-27T20:18:00.000-08:00

I picked the tips up while I was the fashion co-ordinator at Diva Tamp One. I hate the theory facts about metals and accessories so I'm just going to share a few tips. You just need to know that most of the cheap metals you're wearing were made of copper. Copper would eventually turn your fingers green (discolouration) due to chemical reaction with the acids in your skin and the metal ring. Notice how your rings or even other metal accessories would darken after some time.? The right word to use would be 'tarnish'. Orangey, tarnish. Brown, throw away, cannot help you.! That's rust.

Tip #1: No contact with perfume and water. Yes, take off your rings when you want to wash your hands. This is not Baywatch, you do not need to swim with your accessories.

Tip #2:

Ring from DIVA.

Grab a clear nail polish or just your Top Coat and apply it on your accessories. I had been using SKIN FOOD's Nail Vita Top Coat on my nails and also on my accessories. Oh, the top coat could prevent the stones from dropping off too. I used to share that secret with my customers at Diva.

Anything with metal, just use the same trick. A friend just told me her gold havaianas' logo turned silver after a year. Gold plated perhaps. So I managed to salvage mine (Logo Metallic Light Golden) before I ended up with silver logo.

Tip #3: Rub the accessories with polishing cloth. Not every day.! I skip this step because if I'm already using the nail polish coat, I just need to remember to reapply depending on how often I wear those accessories.

Tip #4:

I have this accessories organizer at home from DIVA. Notice how I actually store my cheap accessories in ziplocs.? Seal those metals to keep the air out.! I don't believe in the beautiful earrings display or accessories hanger because there's such thing as oxidization. Unless you have a room with aircon switched on 24/7 like the stores at Diva, do not display them.

Man up.!

2011-12-25T23:09:00.000-08:00

MANGO's purple checkered shirt, dENiZEN's faded jeans, heart belt from TOPSHOP, straw hat by RUBI and bow tie from TOPMAN.

You won't see me in this ensemble unless I decided to turn you know, yar. While everyone was in their preppy school skirts and high stockings, we took the courage to MAN UP. It was absolute fun. Men really have interesting options to play around with.

I got this espadrilles from RUBI for the very occasion but it was held inside. Oh well. This pair matched my most other outfits as well. If you follow my Instagram, you'd have noticed.

GleekOut

2011-12-25T22:43:00.000-08:00

I love theme parties.? Do you.? I don't fancy traditional chalet gathering with only bbq and card games, in fact, the more activities, the better.

Gleek Out. I am going to show you how Deksus party.

This is my 3rd chalet with them and every year has a theme. The organizing committee chose Glee this time. Of course, Glee is an alien TV series to some of them so we were allowed to stereotype students and school with our outfits. Every guests love goodie bags and apparently little details play apart. I think Kak Ain was a perfectionist because she had posters on the wall which most of us did not notice but they all add-on to the classroom ambience. Planning makes everything right. I know that from Eid celebration with them. It doesn't matter how much time you were given to organize something. Just your little notebook, your army of helpers to delegate tasks with and lastly, your budget.

1. Design invites like the one above. Tasteful and professional looking invites set the mood to a party. If your invite is too plain and bleagh, you think anybody want to drop by? Ok they will drop by but will they even dress up.?

2. If you want your friends to wear according to your theme, take the extra mile to give them ideas. Google is an important portal. Use it to your advantage. This will give your guests time to pick out items for their outfits.

Bow tie from Topman. It was my boyfriend's.

3. Apart from logistics like when and where to pick up things and food, decorations and goodie bags were as important. The girl next door might be ohsogood at art. Get her help or simply print out from the internet. Everyone loves presents right.? Cheer your guests with something to bring home. Cupcakes, little badges or even sweets.

4. Entertain your guests. Fill up their time at the party or gathering with photo taking and games. Polaroids are so much loved now. Or you can perhaps use your digital camera and create your very own guestbook. You can even make some money. With every picture taken with the polaroid, they need to pay 50 cents. Make sure you have a good backdrop for the picture or nobody will ever want to pay you.

There you go.! Deksus and their boyfriends and husband. I like the way everyone dressed up. Such an effort with baseball jackets, suspenders, water bottles and bow ties. A few of us dressed up like Glee. I'm just going to show you two pictures or you can simply spot them from the polaroids above.

That's Rachel and Kurt. Of course, Kurt wasn't supposed to look that fierce. I failed.

Pictures from faliaandamz lens. Facebook for more pictures from the chalet. Click the thumbnail for the link to or scroll down to the bottom.

Nuptial

2011-12-15T23:52:00.000-08:00

Yep, I am still alive and kicking ass. That's not a good way to start blogging again. A whole lot happened; I quit my job, took my exams, hop onto this new job and ...

Anyway, my two friends got married and had a small affair for their wedding reception. Why it was something I would and hopefully they too would remember for the rest of their lives.? We made everything on our own. No Fatimah, no RH Bridal, no huge catering service. It was just us friends and bride groom families.

On the wedding eve, we made the wedding dias with our bare hands. No,actually SQeen and me did the decorating. The guys did the holding, climbing and cutting.

Photos from faliaandamz lens. You like the styling, make-up and henna, you can contact the talented make-up artist at her FB page, SQeen (Makeup, Hair, Nails & Henna). Psst, I put the jewel on the henna under her supervision. By the time I finished it, my eyes were tired.

All the bluff people told me

2011-10-09T11:56:00.000-07:00

Don't mind the wordy post but it feels right with all the words and no picture for this one. My boyfriend once told me that I hadn't even seen the real world yet. I must admit, I thought I did. I mean, I'm 21, probably a little more mature but hey, he reminded me that back then, it was almost perfect. The only problems I had was school and a few friends. This year, I read life a little clearer. I should bullet all the lies down because for all I know, the list goes on...

- I met a girl. Her excuses were 'family problem'. She told us that her dad beat her mum up so she couldn't come to work. All the time, her dad thought she came to work almost every day without an off day. Actually, she went out with her boyfriend all those time we thought she had family problem.

- Early this year, I knew a friend who told me all about her past boyfriend abused her and created practically a fluent story on how bad it was that she took less blame for it except that she was too, naive and possessive. Conversation at different timings became different each time it was told. Then I knew it was an exaggerated lie. On the other side, there were much more eye-witnesses pointing fingers at her. So now she regretted her past, spout nonsense to people as if she was the innocent one and so she kept haunting over and over again. The crazy contradicting fact, she claimed that everything was over. In fact, my friend wasn't abused. It was she who abused the other.

- I was close friends with another girl. Same age as the previous. Well, everyone sympathize her family issues. Like the one above, parents divorced, thrown out of house, shifted a lot from friend's to friend's, and mum converted to Christianity. Slowly, material became another issue when I started seeing her buying expensive stuff and God knows how she could afford. A whole lot of people warned me that she was a follower. That means, she would follow anybody for a reason only she knew. A little too childish but it's the truth from the number of incidence. Somehow, I got to know, she wasn't thrown out of the house, she ran home for the lamest reason you could think of. Best part was, she mentioned to a friend that her mum sembahyang hajat for her exams. Now, I thought the mum was a convert.? So story did not tally. Story-telling fail. I wonder what she told other friends especially when she spoke ill of another company and to that company, it was another story.

- I also knew someone, actually two people. Both had the same lie but for two different reasons. One, aunt hospitalized so she could not turn up for school. I was very young then and couldn't be bothered to think negative. On the same week, she was on a holiday with the same aunt. If I think about it now, her aunt really recovered that fast.! The other person did not turn up for work and gave the reason her grandma died. Suddenly, this time, I was pretty sure the very same grandma woke up from her grave and re-die again the next two months. Everyone knew she only had one grandma left. So how did she die two months ago, and died again later.? No death cert produced.

To sum up this post, I realized that all the while, I was always the one sympathizing anybody and then got cheated after that. I could get so much influenced that I fail to listen, infer, ask and think properly. Nobody is perfect, yes everybody knew that but I was pretty disappointed with such people in the bullets really do exist in this world. I thought life was all about the sexiest clothes, beautiful make-up, artistic pictures, smart people and it was all that bimbotic of me to think that way but all I could see was me thinking optimistic. I though everything was easy, even anybody can solve the most difficult problem. Don't even ask how I could think that way. Possibly been pampered too much by average luxury and the girl next door's life.

How would I know people could go to such extent of lying about their own parents.? How would I know people would go to further length to mention death of their own blood.? It was as if they were praying and hoping their family members to die. That's it isn't it.? If they die, you get to skip work and attend their funeral. Or in this case, say somebody died and hang out with boyfriend/girlfriend. How fair was it to tarnish reputation when those who witnessed it saw how the one who was accused was actually treated.? How far people would go to clear their name and rot the others'.?

Hey, I'm only 21. It gets tougher soon.

Customers are always right. OKAY.

2011-10-03T20:23:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: Beware of grammar errors.

There are two REGULAR customers at my part time workplace as a Junior Fashion Coordinator. When a late 20s lady stroll into a shop, I'll look at the watch. There.! It's 1pm and I'll find her browsing through the highly priced accessories, not saying a word to me, not even acknowledging me. She will come every day, browse every day and only buy twice a year. So far, she only bought one item this year and that was 6 months ago. I'm not exaggerating. The other is a 12 to 14-year-old girl who will annoy me every 3 minutes asking me questions like "What is this.?", "Do you have size XS.?" and she'll end up reserving the many items but will never turn up to pay for those items. Oh, there's another regular customer who'll buy a lot. At one time, she'll buy two bangles and two rings but never necklaces. She works upstairs at some shop and she'll come back during her break and she'll tell me how uncomfortable and how she suddenly change her mind and ask for an exchange. Yes, she exchange at every purchase. It's fine if you exchange once but this lady apparently spend a whole half an hour of her break time being fickle about her options, asking me how it looks on her, hog the mirror, buy then exchange the next time. So make that three regular customers I'm currently avoiding. I thought I'm suffering from these shoppers but my colleagues recently told me of their very own REGULAR ones. No wonder I'll see them hiding whenever the annoying customers step into the shop.

Well, I dealt with people who only come to the shop, look at the mirror and just go. There's also the kind who will walk one round with their phone on their ears and walk out. There're also the kind who'll ask for discounts like they're buying fish from the market. There are also students hogging a section and get excited at every piece but they are just window shopping. Don't laugh, we all do that as a customer. It's pretty much entertaining to see how people act when they're shopping. That's why the best people to serve are the people who have manners and they have at least worked at retail or f&b before. They'll never make our life hard.

I don't know I just blog the above because I suddenly thought of this toilet cleaner at a library. We always say "Kotor uh toilet ni. Cleaner tak cuci ke." Well, on that day, I overheard an aunty talking to her colleague "Macam mana orang ni semua kencing. Kita dah bersihkan, dia diri atas seat, air kencing merata-rata.!" Gross.! Before we blame anyone on the floor, think about what he or she went through in the process.

Anyway, I've uploaded an ORDER FORM on onliqia.blogspot.com for my beloved customers @onliqia to make their purchase. Have fun shopping there.! I can't wait for onLiqia MEN to launch.

Stay tune on onLiqia.blogspot.com

2011-09-30T23:35:00.000-07:00

Fall is here and so are we. We'll launch onLiqia MEN too. URL: onliqia.blogspot.com

Yes, I managed to coax him. My male model was busy on that day.

Personal favourite top...

From the exhausted team and the female model, Sofia...

Kepo-Kepo Raya

2011-09-29T22:46:00.000-07:00

It's pretty difficult to celebrate raya when I'm older (juggling shifts and school). I didn't follow my family to visitings that much this year due to my part-time job. On my off days, there were scheduled Raya outings with beloved friends. So far, this year's was well organized because there weren't any clashes.

Deksus's Vavavoom Raya with my dikir group was on the 17th. Well, Bubu and I organized the whole thing with the help of Kak Dya and Ifah. Oh, I ordered ah-mazing oreo choc cookies which made an impact coz they looked too cute to even bite. Winners for Vavavoom Handsome Man, Vavavoom Deksu Couple, Vavavoom Glamour Deksu and Vavavoom Kecoh Deksu got the chocolate lollies..

18th was Seribu Satu Malam with Kelana Purba (boyfriend's dikir group) and yes, most of us dressed up like Arabs.

Oh, I forgot the previous outing. Merpati Puteh's raya was on the 11th. Yep, his batch of dikir group under Kelana.

The last kopek raya celebration was Nyahz lepaknakmampos raya. I think these girls need no introduction if you had been following my blog since I was in the poly. 12 ladies in the same poly and same CCA with me.

So I had been celebrating with people close to my heart and almost everyone in the pictures of this entry has a place on my wall above the dashboard of my bed.

That's the last collage to share. We both had our rough patch through the years and this Raya was extra meaningful for us. One, we had more couple baju to match.!

To end this entry, just a simple Selamat Hari Raya (not too late.!) to all the readers, Facebook and Twitter friends out there.! Maaf, Zahir dan Batin.!

Straight from Vogue

2011-09-09T21:06:00.000-07:00

Uh... why the stores are leaning towards colourful pieces in fall.

To my ex-colleague

2011-08-03T02:50:00.000-07:00

"hi sharmin or sharmin's bf. i'd appreciate if u pay $42 to shop the soonest or this coming pay. it won't be nice when i have to pay that amount for the accessories with u. that $42 is almost worth my pay. so be responsible enough to leave on a good note. im done talking nicely to u or ur bf since he picks up the phone when sally called. im sure sally is done being nice too considering we hv to pay for u. if i dont get a reply from u, i will let manager know so she can do the neccessary perhaps talk to ur dad again. pay is coming up, make sure u pay the $42 coz that won't be fair if we folk out our own money and there u are letting people reap what u sow." -my not so nice sms to her.

Actually, I wanted to add in that sms, 'since your bf is always around with you even at your work hour, in which you claimed you were sick, dad hit mum, accident, send mum to hospital, I'm sure your bf can pay for all your debts.'

Once again, if you're not ready to work, please don't make other people work extra hours for you. & then, if you're 18 and so madly in love with your boyfriend, never ever let the boy control your life. He won't pay for what you're missing out, I tell you. When he leaves you because you're nothing but just doing what he wants you to do, you'll blame him for leaving you. Girl, don't blame him.! He's being immature like you are.

Birthday

2011-08-02T06:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated 16th Birthday Kencop.! No really, his name is actually Sufian. Well, we surprised him with a birthday cake from Prima Deli on the eve of Ramadhan and got ourselves a catch up session with his new longboard (which I can't play at all). Of course, it's always good time spent with Kakak, Mek, Net, Kencop, Ibu and Md Ridwan at the house porch eating pizza, chicken, garlic bread and a bottle of Pepsi.

I owe the kid a birthday gift & definitely needs to plan for Md. Ridwan's birthday as well. OMG.! Our 2nd year anniversary too. Again, 2 years.? Amalia, really.? 2 celebrations calls for 2 presents. Fortunately for me, he's giving me 'discount' as he calls it for me to get him only one thing. Dream on, to only get him cheap cheap good good Braun Buffel wallet. What to get for him ehk.? He got me a friggin Kate Spade tote bag which I absolutely adore so it's only fair for me to get him something practical, and with a price.

Now... where to go for our 2nd anniversary. 1st year was at USS. 2nd year...

Md. Ridwan, I'm giving you your one and only birthday clue and it's going to just keep you on your toes. By the way, I hate the idea of all three colours together.

OnLiqia

2011-07-26T18:05:00.000-07:00

Have you seen Cindy Yeo's blog ad.? I was obviously flattered by what she had written. Our (Afiqah and me) hardwork paid off afterall. We started knowing nuts about blogshop and we had our own set of fear. I mean, would people even want to buy from us.? Afterall, we don't come from the fashion industry but each and everyone of us, ladies, most definitely have a vision of our very own closet. Plus, the blogshop empire is expanding.

We're going to take a break for a moment because I'm shifting house in 2 weeks time and most of the stuff are in carton boxes. Unless it's pre-order, I'll be most happy to ship it to your house. I realized that different community has different needs. For example, my fellow Malay ladies kept asking me for Maxi, dresses with sleeves, clothes that don't make them look fat and the list goes on. For the Chinese, they basically want loose tops or tight fitting dresses. Well, I try to cater to everyone's needs.

Go on and pm us on our FACEBOOK and let us know what you're looking for. We'll do our very best to include the dress you're looking for in one of our collections.

Right now on onLiqia (Click on the picture to get to the site):