Indian Vanity Case

8 Happy ORANGE Products For Spring

2012-02-25T18:46:00.000+05:30

Orange is the color of Gluttony- one of the 7 deadly sins. The only sin I don't commit. Really.

Frank Sinatra thought it's the happiest color. He's right. I'd rather stare at orange juice than take Prozac; or lie on a shrink's couch talking about feelings.

I think it's the color of my school farewell party, because I wore orange silk pants & an orange spaghetti top (with a black coat & black slip-ons, of course!) But still, orange pants! I felt so hip & happening. I look at the photos now & think: "What the fudge were you thinking, you silly pumpkin?!!"

Since ORANGE is one of the 'IT' colors of the season, I picked out some orange make-up products you might like too:

Lipstick ~ INGLOT #278. A true orange lipstick.Will do a look with this sometime.
Nail Polish ~ Bourjois So Laque Tangerine Fatal (Swatched here)
Eyeshadows ~ Sleek Paraguaya Palette. Swatched here. LOTD here
Blush ~ Sleek Pan Tao (Swatched here)
Bronzer ~ MAC Refined Golden from To The Beach Collection. Because it's packed in orange & because a touch of bronzer compliments orange blush.
Lip Balm ~ Maybelline Lip Smooth Color & Care Mandarin. If orange lipstick is too daring for you, an orange tint lip balm is a juicy alternative.
Blush ~ Majolica Majorca Puff De Cheek in Apricot Macaron (Swatched here)
Blush ~ MAC Peaches (Swatched here). Scared of orange? Go peach.

HAPPY Spring, beauties!

Any Orange products you love?

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

I Heart Nude Nail Polish

2012-02-24T16:50:00.000+05:30

Nail Trend Spring 2012- NUDE. Basically, any nail polish that looks like foundation goes. I see nude nail polish & I immediately think about a pair of patent nude pumps. Both chic, both always wearable.

Picking the right nude for your skin tone: Pick a nude that will sort of blend in with the color of your fingers. Darker skin tone? Pick a nude with some brown in it. If you have a skin tone like mine or lighter, you can also pick a lighter nude than this one, but it has to have a pink undertone. This particular shade would work on darker skin tones too.

Just for fun, I randomly applied some heart baubles on top. Boy, these things are so tricky to apply.

Nude Nail Polish: Colorbar Nex Exclusive Nail Lacquer #66, Rs.150 [I don't know what 'Nex' means]

Chunky Heart Baubles: Bloop (Shown here)

Btw. hope you like the new blog look. I missed girly pink! And yes, I get bored easily ;)

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Chocolate Beauty Treats ~ The Body Shop Chocomania

2012-02-22T16:53:00.001+05:30

Though I don't go bananas over chocolates, The Body Shop Chocomania range had me at hel....press release. I couldn't wait to sniff them all! When I finally did, the smell was nothing like I expected. Nothing like Dairy Milk or Ferrero Rocher le sigh.

But I still got 2 products to try out- Body Scrub & Lip Butter.

The Body Shop Chocomania Body Scrub, Rs.760.75 ~ This smells like brownies. It is a fine sugar scrub, and the exfoliating beads aren't big like the ones in TBS Cocoa Body Scrub, but they're still sufficient for a good exfoliating experience. If you want to skip body lotion after a bath, this is perfect because the oils in it (Brazil nut oil & Soya Oil) don't wash off completely & give the skin a nice glowy sheen.

The Body Shop Chocomania Lip Butter, Rs.250.75 ~ What I'm about to say may be good news to some & bad bad news to some. It smells more like hazelnut than chocolate --- the one hazelnut in Ferrrero Rocher, which is good news me. It feels buttery smooth on my lips and prevents them from chapping. No, it does not taste sweet....yippee!

Prices: Got 12.50% off on both products.

Rating (both products): ♥♥♥♥♥ 4/5

To see the whole TBS Chocomania range, please go here

Hope you liked the pics. Yummies used- Kellogg's Coco Pops Coco Rocks :)

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Kareena Kapoor Eye Makeup : Bollywood Babes Make-up Series Preview

2012-02-21T16:33:00.000+05:30

Welcome to Bollywood Babes Makeup Series. I'll be doing some looks inspired by some of the most popular Bollywood actresses.

Kareena Kapoor's "soft smudged eye liner look" is the most requested celeb makeup. I don't really know which look exactly, so I just picked a photo for inspiration & also because she wears this particular look a lot.

She & I have very different eye shapes, hence the deep lid-making with an eyeshadow brush =D

Tutorial for this look is coming soon! I have to edit & put the pics together.

Bollywood Babes to come:

Katrina Kaif, Aishwarya Rai, Sonam Kapoor, Bipasha Basu, Vidya Balan.....and who else? Who wears good make-up these days?

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Dressing Room & Storage Ideas (Edited: More pics I forgot to add before)

2012-02-18T19:48:00.001+05:30

I want to turn my hodgepodge dressing room into my little clutter-free heaven this season (atm there are pillows & cushions on the floor, and shoes everywhere!) & I got some nice ideas while googling. I have a very small space to work with, so I can't afford to get/buy anything useless. The main theme will be white, I think, coz I already have a huge white closet so I'll have to work around it.

I'm not saying I want all of the stuff in the pics below, they're just for inspiration. Hope you'll pick out some useful ideas for yourselves too!

All photos courtesy Google Images

Me like this so much! A vanity table + jewelry & makeup storage

A space-saver this one. LOVE!

Mirror-cum-jewelry hanger. I guess it's easy to make something like this ourselves if we can handle a hammer

One of my favorite ideas for jewelry storage

A stand like that would be perfect for jewelry you reach for the most

This has a mirror on the door, I assume

For Nail Polishes!

These look kinda pointless, but cute for the bathroom esp if you don't want to keep so many products around the tub, like I do.

Miley Cyrus' Closet ~ The ladder-like shoe racks are brilliant. Copy-able idea that won't cost too much, don't you think? If the planks are wider, you can even display your handbags.

I like lighted shoe closets with doors

I love this plush chaise longue with drawers & look at that spacious cupboard!

I've given myself 4 months to complete the project, so wish me luck. You'll be the first ones to see the BEFORE & AFTER photos right here ;)

Anything you liked A LOT out of these fantastic ideas?

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

The Body Shop NUTRIGANICS DROPS OF YOUTH Product Photos & Prices

2012-02-17T17:57:00.000+05:30

Science, nature and technology join forces in the latest skincare offering from The Body Shop, with the launch of Nutriganics™ Drops of Youth. Utilising the very latest in plant stem cell technology to help combat first signs of ageing,

Nutriganics™ Drops of Youth is our certified organic alternative to anti-ageing potions. Drop by drop, Nutriganics™ Drops of Youth enhances surface skin renewal, the skin’s natural process of replacing the uppermost dead cells with the new ones beneath. Day by day, Nutriganics™ Drops of Youth reveals smoother, fresher and healthier looking skin. Shed your old skin and step into a new, revitalized you.

Nutriganics™ Drops of Youth can be used in combination with serum, or added to a moisturiser day or night to give a surge of hydration and kick start the cell repair process. Simply massage two to three drops into skin and allow the concentrate to sink in for a few seconds before applying your usual moisturiser or serum.

NATURE’S POWER, HARNESSED

Nutriganics™ Drops of Youth harnesses the power of plant stem cells harvested from criste-marine (Crithmum maritimum), which grows on the rocky Britanny coastline. Able to survive in the most demanding conditions, criste-marine thrives in dry and inhospitable environments, Sustaining itself by absorbing nutrients from the very air around it. Fortifying Nutriganics™ Drops of Youth is extract of beech bud, with its rich concentration of minerals, trace elements, enzymes and vitamins.

Nourishing, enriching and stimulating, Nutriganics Drops of Youth is a botanical powerhouse. As part of the Nutriganics range, a minimum of 98% of Nutriganics™ Drops of Youth ingredients are derived from natural origins. Silicone and paraben free, Nutriganics contains 20% organic ingredients to deliver natural beauty, naturally.

DID YOU KNOW?

NutriganicsTM Drops of Youth contains Community Fair Trade organic babassu oil from the COPPALJ co-operative in Maranhão, Brazil. Our trade has helped to empower the women of this collective by turning the traditionally female occupation of shelling and pressing Babassu nuts into a key source of income.

Its 150 members now have a greater say, and new standing and respect in their communities.

THREE STEPS TO SMOOTHER-LOOKING SKIN THE NUTRIGANICS WAY

Banish fine lines and reveal a fresher, younger you using Nutriganics, our certified organic range designed to help combat the first signs of ageing.

CLEANSE

Wash your face morning and night with Nutriganics™ Foaming Facial Wash to remove impurities, dirt and grime.

MOISTURISE

Follow with Nutriganics™ Smoothing Day Cream and Smoothing Night Cream for complete round-the-clock care.

TREAT

Apply Drops of Youth before your usual moisturiser or serum, as a supplement to your daily regime. Use Smoothing Serum when you need extra hydration and Smoothing Eye Cream for more targeted care. Nutriganics™ Smoothing Mask also makes a great weekly treat.

The Range:

Nutriganics™ Drops Of Youth

Our certified organic range has been created for the first signs of ageing. This innovative concentrate helps to enhance surface skin condition, leaving it looking smoother, fresher and healthier.

Helps enhance surface skin condition

Smoothes

Instantly moisturizing

99% of ingredients are of natural origin

Size: 30ml

Price: Rs. 1995

Nutriganics™ Softening Cleansing Gel

A gel-to-oil cleanser that works to effectively dissolve all traces of make-up including eye make-up and mascara.

Size: 100 ml

Price: Rs. 1295

Nutriganics™Reviving Floral Mask

A deep cleansing treat for the skin to help boost radiance, leaving skin silky soft and smooth.

Size: 100 ml

Price: Rs. 1245

Nutriganics™Smoothing Eye Cream

A gentle lightweight treatment to smooth and soften the delicate skin around the eye area. Helps reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Opthamologist tested.

Size: 100 ml

Price: Rs. 1090

Nutriganics™ Foaming Facial Wash

Gently wash away makeup and impurities with an instantly foaming facial cleanser that softens skin while leaving it looking healthy and revitalized and feeling clean and refreshed.

Size: 150 ml

Price: Rs. 935

Nutriganics™ Refreshing Floral Toner

Refreshes and soothes the skin without drying. Removes last traces of make-up and impurities. Prepares the skin to absorb your daily moisturiser.

Size: 200 ml

Price: Rs. 985

Nutriganics™ Smoothing Day Cream

A luxuriously rich moisturiser which quickly absorbs into skin. Clinically proven to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, improve skin's elasticity and tone, all whilst moisturising for up to 12 hours.

Size: 50 ml

Price: Rs. 1095

Nutriganics™ Smoothing Night Cream

Extra rich night cream melts into skin with no greasy after feel. Reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Clinically proven to improve skin's elasticity and tone, whilst moisturising for up to 12 hours.

Size: 50 ml

Price: Rs. 1195

Nutriganics™ Smoothing Serum

A light, moisturising serum to soften and revitalise the skin. Proven to smooth skin and improve suppleness.

Size: 15 ml

Price: Rs. 1350

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Pamper Yourself At Lakmé Salon Mumbai & Get Invited To Lakmé Fashion Week

2012-02-17T17:30:00.000+05:30

Lakmé Fashion Week has been the epitome of glitz and glamour since more than a decade. Lakmé Salon now gives YOU the opportunity to experience this glamorous occasion firsthand. Lakmé Salon will not only get you passes to Fashion Week, but will also make sure that you look like a million bucks!

Let our Lakmé Salon Experts work their magic on you, leaving you with perfectly primed up hands and feet. Indulge yourself by taking the package mentioned below by Lakmé Salon and receive an invite to Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2012. This is your chance to rub shoulders with the pioneers of the Indian Fashion Industry.

Pamper yourself with the Lakmé Salon LFW Nail Package that includes the following:

• Get a Peppermint, Free spirit or Pure defense manicure and pedicure

• Soft Caress Hand & foot Masque

• Get the Lakmé Absolute look with the Fast and Fabulous Nail Color service

Visit any Lakmé Salon or Studio in Mumbai and avail this offer to walk the red carpet at LFW.

** Offer Valid only for the first 200 customers that take any of the above services in Mumbai only**

**Offer Valid only from 16th February – 1st March 2012**

About Lakmé Lever

Lakmé Lever Pvt. Ltd (Lakmé Lever) is dedicated to the contemporary Indian woman’s exploration of the fine art of beauty. It operates India’s first and leading chain of Lakmé Studios and Salons that offer expert services in Hairstyling, Skin and Beauty care. The studios and salons offer a differentiated experience, delighting women by the expertise of their professionally trained hair designers, hair artists, skin experts and consultants, and now to men also

Lakmé Lever also operates Lakmé Academies in partnership with Pivot Point, USA, world leader in ‘beauty education’. Combining international cosmetics, hair and skin care technology with an in-depth understanding of the Indian woman’s needs, Lakmé Studios and Salons offer their customers a holistic ‘Beauty Sutra’ experience.

Lakmé Lever has a presence of 170 Lakmé Salons at premium locations in 40 cities.

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

BECCA Strawberry Beach Tint Review, Look & 1 Day 20% OFF Online Offer

2012-02-15T19:34:00.000+05:30

Allure magazine's favorite lip & cheek tint- BECCA Beach Tint, reminds me of water color paints with similar-looking tubes. Though I never paint anymore, I have a brand new box of the cuties just coz. How amazing would it be to be able to use those on our faces as well?! :)

BECCA Beach Tint is a beautifully blendable crème stain for cheeks and lips that suits all skin types. Kiss-proof and water-resistant, it dries to a perfect, streak-free, non-greasy and non-drying finish. Layer it under powder blushes, bronzers, lip balms, and lip-glosses for added intensity.

Key Attributes:
2-in-1 crème stain for cheeks and lips

Deliciously scented

Oil Free, Streak Free, and Water-Resistant

Contains anti-oxidant vitamin E

Preservative and paraben-free

Available in 7 shades: Strawberry (warm orange red), Peach (warm orange pink), Grapefruit (pale coral pink), Fig (tea rose pink), Watermelon (bright pink), Raspberry (deep berry pink), Guava (bright coral pink)

What I like about it: It's a cream formula, similar to an eye cream, so it doesn't stain my fingers or look blotchy if not blended quickly- two things which bother me when it comes to other gel formula lip & cheek stains. It's really easy to blend evenly. Though it looks subtle on my cheeks giving them a natural-looking flush, it can look opaque on my lips without drying them or emphasizing the lines. It really is water-resistant & lasts for hours- perfect for the beach & swimming pool. Packaging, of course, is undeniably cute, convenient & travel-friendly. What I like most about it? It smells like bubblegum!

What I don't like about it: Price is on the higher side. 25 EUR (Rs.1617) is steep for such a tiny thing (it's the same size as my ring finger). I guess one can justify that by saying, the little tube will last a really long time because you need very little product every time, since it's very pigmented.

Below I'm wearing Strawberry on my cheeks & lips. At first, I was kinda scared of the 'warm orange red' shade, but look.....

Price: 25 EUR (Rs.1617)

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4/5

BECCA is currently having an online offer on this particular Beach Tint in Strawberry, until tomorrow- 16th Feb '12. Get 20% Off by using this promo code: BBE20. If you're interested to buy it, head over to beccacosmetics.com now before the offer expires. They ship worldwide.

Find Becca Cosmetics on Facebook & Twitter

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Disclosure: Product sent by brand for consideration. Honest review, as always. Please visit my Disclosure Page for more information.

My Husband Did My Makeup :)

2012-02-13T11:30:00.001+05:30

There's a tag going on in YT called "My Husband/Boyfriend Does My Makeup", and I enjoyed watching a few of those videos. Since tomorrow is Valentine's Day, I thought it'd be fun to let Mr.CZ do my makeup & show you all. I tag all of you, I'd love to see how your men prettify you too! :)

Face products & liner on my waterline were done by myself- for obvious reasons. We were at it for no more than 15 minutes.

He said he'd use green eyeshadow, coz green is his favorite color, but he ended up using a teal blue one.

Products Used:

Eyes: Eyeshadow from BF 120 Palette, Bourjois Liner Feutre, Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara. Brows: Urban Decay Brow Box
Cheeks: Mac Fleur Power Blush, MAC Refined Golden Bronzing Powder
Lips: Bourjois Sweet Kiss Naturel Fuchsia Ardent

Earrings: Forever 21. Shown here

Eyes:
Me: Ok then, give me a "Sea Princess" or "Mermaid" look.
Mr.CZ: Okay. *Ready with eyeshadow brush* So how hard can I press the eyes? (LOL)
Me: Not so hard....just like painting. Make it darker on the outer part & lighter on the inside.

A minute later....

Mr.CZ: Oh my God! It's 'come' too much this side (inner corners)! How should I clean it?
Me: You can use your finger to blend (I felt lazy to go get the Q-tips, okay.)
Mr.CZ: You'll touch up afterwards, right?
Me: Yes, of course (I lied)

Blush: Is it just me, or does it look good this diffused?
Bronzer: He applied it near my jawline till.... very near the corners of my lips.

Lips:
Mr: CZ: I really can't do this. I won't be able to stay inside the lines.
Me: It'll be fine... Oh no! Don't press it (lipstick) so hard! It'll break!
Mr. CZ: You'll clean the smudges, right?
Me: Yes (I lied again)

Mr. CZ: Ok now enough. let me go watch the match (India Vs Australia)
Me: Okay. Oh, wait! You have to do my brows too! Use this (Urban Decay Brow Box). Just follow the outlines (Yes, I know I suck at guiding lol)
Mr.CZ: *Literally digs the powder with the brush* (look at it in the products pic above)
Me: Ahh....you don't need to dig it so hard!

Done!

Mr.CZ: I think I made the eyes too dark.
Me: But it doesn't look bad....right?
Mr.CZ: Err....You didn't clean up at all!

Except for a mascara mark on my nose bridge (right in the center there), I left everything as it was.

Heartfelt thanks to Mr.CZ for making this so much more than whimsical nonsense. I want him to know.... umm.... nah, I'll tell him tomorrow ;)

Enjoy your Valentine's Day everyone. We are doing something special, I guess. Dinner and all the cliché stuff. It's like, so... mandatory.

P.S: Please don't mind all the Do Not Copy in the pics. It's because my photos are being stolen from this blog & have been used in 3rd rate beauty academy ads, and also ended up in a newspaper, a magazine & a website. Those are the ones I know of. I would hate it if these, in particular, were stolen & misinterpreted.

I'll leave you with my favorite Whitney Houston song. I was so shocked to know of her sudden & tragic death yesterday. May her soul Rest in Peace.

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Urban Decay NAKED 2 Palette & How To Get It

2012-02-11T20:39:00.000+05:30

I watched Paranormal Activity & wanted to watch Paranormal Activity 2....and 3 & now wishing for a 4 too. Man, that's good stuff! Same with Urban Decay NAKED, I had to see the sequel - NAKED 2.

It's a Valentine's Day (Week?) present from Mr.CZ. God bless him & this day of... love (please excuse). I wouldn't have gotten it this soon otherwise, oh-no.

Naked 2 comes with a dual-ended Good Karma Shadow/Crease Brush & 0.11 oz Lip Junkie Lipgloss in Naked (pinky neutral). Review & Swatches will be posted after I've used everything enough. Hope you enjoy the pics for now.

Eyeshadows: Foxy, Half Baked, Bootycall, Chopper, Tease, Snakebite, Suspect, Pistol, Verve, YDK (What is this? 'You Don't Know'?), Busted, Blackout.

So this is how I got it from amazon.com, which doesn't ship makeup to India:

Shopandship.com! It's basically a courier company. You shop from websites in UK, US & China (that don't ship to India), get your purchase delivered to shopandship, and then they will deliver it to your address. So nice, right? Please visit the website to find out how to register & things like that.

Cost of NAKED 2:

From sephora.com thru amazon.com - Rs.2719 (US price: $50)

Shopandship shipping cost- Rs.1000 (they usually take Rs.600 for 1/2 kg), but Sephora packed the palette in a rather large box. Still worked out cheaper than Ebay at the time.

Total Shipping Time: I got it in 2 weeks.

Please Note: Some online websites don't ship to shopandship & other courier companies.

Shopandship DOESN'T ship perfumes & other flammable stuff. I also ordered Katy Perry Purr From but sadly it's still stuck in America =[

I came to know about this method from my hubby, coz he gets video games and stuff. He learned about it from his brother. Closeted shopaholics they both are.

P.S. This is based on my personal experience & I am happy with my first experience with Shop And Ship. Please use this info at your own discretion. I'm only telling you about another method to get what aren't available here.

Anyways, Sephora will be available in India this year, so maybe you won't have to resort to such measures ;)

Happy Weekend!

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

11 Favorites: Makeup, Skincare, Book & A Leopard and Lace Handbag

2012-02-09T19:29:00.001+05:30

I can't review everything I use & love, so some things worth talking about will be in my 'favorites' posts.

This time, I picked 11 favorite things:

The Body Shop Natrulift Firming Serum With Organic Pomegranate: My skin loves this stuff. It is light yellow & has a gel-like texture. My face soaks it up in a jiffy. It makes my face feel firm, plump, and hydrated without feeling heavy or oily. It smells like pomegranate, of course, which I love. Now I get why it's a TBS Best Seller. Price- Rs.1555 for 30 ml.

Pond's Smooth Pores Pore Tightening Facial Foam: Have giant pores? Try this. It makes my face so smooth and clean! It's interestingly light grey in color too. Price- Rs.65.

MAC Cleanse Off Oil: My DHC Cleansing Oil is almost over (say, another 1 month?), but I just couldn't wait to get this again (I've used up a bottle before) Now I know it's my favorite makeup remover & cleansing oil. It beats DHC in my books. Price- Rs.1200.

YSL Babydoll: I finished this! I can't wait to be at Duty Free and get another one. It's one of my scents, and I'd feel incomplete without it.

Lauren Conrad Sugar and Spice: Jane Roberts, why are you so sweet? Who will you end up with? I started reading this in December, but so much was happening I couldn't even read 10 pages of it. Still not done with it yet, no spoilers! Price- Rs.250

Now on to the good stuff!

Self-created matte plum lipstick : Make Up For Ever Rouge Artist Intense #36 Satin Fuchsia + Lakme Absolute Matte Lip Color #209 Grape Blossom = a fab plum shade I've always wanted to wear. Lakme Grape Blossom makes me look like a corpse when worn alone (especially in this cold weather) so used this way, it won't go to waste.

Mixed together - You can mix & adjust according to you liking

Bourjois Sweet Kiss Naturel Lipstick Fuchsia Ardent: This is so pretty. Between pink & coral. Price- Rs.660

Bourjois Sweet Kiss Naturel Lipstick Fuchsia Ardent Swatch

Sigma Round Top Kabuki F82 ~ My favorite foundation brush. It's amazing!

Sigma Precision Flat Brush P80 ~ I use this to blend & buff concealer, and sometimes to apply eyeshadow primer too.

Bourjois Smoky Eyes Trio in 09 lady vert de gris * ~ I have been using the 2 darker colors for day time a lot. These khaki-taupe shades really suit my eye color, if I say so myself :)

For detailed pics & prices of the Sigma brushes, please go here

Bourjois Smoky Eyes Trio in 09 lady vert de gris

Lastly, my favorite of all- my new Paprika leopard & lace handbag with little silver studs:

I found this in Lifestyle & HAD to get it! It looks fabulous & not pricey- Rs.1350 after 10% discount. Doesn't it make you think of a really expensive bra? Something Christina Aguilera would wear? It makes me think of her lacy perfume bottle too. It brought 2 of my favorite things together- leopard print & lace. I'm not sure if everyone would like it though. Do you?

Hope you are all having a good week. Mine was kind of dull until........

I received my Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette today! =D I found a way to get it from Sephora. More on that soon, I promise.

Any particular thing you are loving these days?

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Item marked with * was provided to me by company/brand. It wouldn't be here if I didn't really like it.

Heart Tweezers? For FREE?

2012-02-08T16:23:00.000+05:30

You know I like me some cute unconventional beauty tools & FREE stuff. So when I got these cute heart tweezers for free with my purchase at NEW U, I was overjoyed. Very Tweezerman but with a he♥rt, I thought.

NEW U Cashier: You are getting this.... free. [Very dull man he was.]

Me: Really???! =D It's so cute! ("Nice. Isn't it cute?!", quietly to Mr. CZ) Err...you have just that one color and design?

See? I'm a true Indian (or woman?). I feel I deserve choices with FREE stuff as well.

It's by a brand called Nice Choice Beauty Tool, which has a ton of beauty tools- scissors, nail stuff, those kind of things. Even Ear Cleaner!

Allow me to get corny now.....

It's too early to wish you Happy Valentine's Day too, right?

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick Pleasure Me Red ~ Another Deep Red

2012-02-06T17:01:00.001+05:30

Meet No.1 Selling Red Lipstick in the US- Maybelline Color Sensational in Pleasure Me Red.

Why? Because it's the one Christy Turlington wore in the ad below:

Had I paid attention, I would have joined the flock sooner. I mean, look at that! ♥_♥

Pleasure Me Red was one one of my picks while hunting for deep red lippies. It is a deep red with more brown undertones (it looks brighter in photos, like most red lipsticks), which is 4-5 times deeper than Revlon Colorburst Ruby. It is so gorgeous! It's richer & more pigmented than all the other pink & neutral Color Sensational Lipsticks I have.

It's a red I had in mind. Had I found it before I saw all the other ones, I would have stopped. I think.

Price ~ Rs.310 [Have they increased the price? They used to be 299]

Rating ~ ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5/5. Minus points only because the bullet doesn't stand up straight after use and one side is chafed.

This isn't deep enough for you? Wait till you see the next one in my vanity ;)

Mr. CZ: What are you doing with so many red lipsticks? I don't even see you wearing them much.

Me: I'll be doing a "Red Lipsticks" blog post, okay (.....leave me alone!)

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Loving MAC Constructivist Paint Pot

2012-02-04T16:32:00.000+05:30

I was confused between 2 MAC Paint Pots- Constructivist & Groundwork. I wanted something neutral but one that can still look intense if I want it to. Groundwork looked duller than I expected, and it reminded me of a dark-toned concealer.

So, Constructivist won me over.

About MAC Paint Pot:

A highly pigmented eye colour that goes on creamy but dries to an intense, vibrant finish. Long-wearing, colourfast. Creates seamless coverage without weight or caking. Blends smoothly over the lids. Cream-based, can be mixed with M·A·C shadows and liners.

Constuctivist is described as a metallic brown with red pearl. I love that it can look taupe & the shimmery finish makes it look like I'm wearing at least 2 colors when I'm only wearing it alone. Doesn't crease, doesn't wear off, suits my honey-colored eyes, it's awesome.

MAC Constructivist Paint Pot Swatches

Price ~ Rs.1100

Rating ~ ♥♥♥♥♥ 5/5

What do you think? Your type or not your type?

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Lotus Strawberry Shake On My Nails

2012-02-03T17:53:00.000+05:30

I don't like to drink milk & I don't like milkshakes. But this shake, I like.

Lotus ColourDEW Nail Enamels are:

Natural and safe
Acetone, DBP and toluene free
Fast drying
Flat and sturdy brush
Smooth application

Nail polishes really do make my nails weaker, so it's a good change to try some without the harmful ingredients.

Though these are natural, they look & feel the same as other unnatural nail polishes. The consistency is creamy, finish is glossy & they do dry quickly. My favorite thing about these nail paints is the brush with the elongated handle, I feel like I'm using a paint brush- less messy/sloppy application.

Durability: I think these need a top coat, coz a plum shade I wore before- Plum Mist - started fading at the tips in, like, a day and a half.

Lotus Colour Dew Nail Enamels are available in many shades. I have 11 to try out.....

One is missing from the pic. The plum shade I mentioned up there which I swatched, but somehow the true color didn't show in photos. These purplish shades, I tell you! I will be swatching some more later. If you'd like to see a particular shade first, do let me know.

Price ~ Rs.99 each.

Rating ~ ♥♥♥♥♥ 4/5

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Disclosure: Products sent by brand for consideration. For details please read my Disclosure Page.

The Body Shop Launches Chocomania ~ A Chocolate Range Fit For Valentine's Day!

2012-02-02T15:07:00.001+05:30

With Valentine’s Day drawing nearer, thoughts of true romance are front of mind – and what better way to celebrate than with the food that has inspired countless love affairs throughout history? This February, The Body Shop is proud to launch Chocó mania, a lavish celebration of the timeless ingredient that continues to capture our hearts and our imaginations today.

For over 3,000 years, chocolate - like gold - has had universal appeal. From kings and queens, to laborers and laymen, chocolate has inspired, tempted and tantalized. Once the culinary privilege of the wealthy and famous, chocolate has worked its way into our hearts and lives. And for the chocoholics amongst us, we’ve got some news to get your blood racing: our new Chocó mania bath & body range is here.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Chocó mania is a decadent, sensuous and indulgent range guaranteed to plunge you, your skin and your senses straight into chocolate heaven. Sin free, pleasure rich and oozing with luxurious texture and fragrance, Chocó mania is irresistible.

With its rich and sumptuous texture, Queen of the Chocó mania range is Chocó mania Body Butter. “Inside every pot is an exclusive formula of 12 Community Fair Trade Ingredients from around the world making this the most lavish Body Butter from The Body Shop to date. Smooth and seductive, Chocó mania Body Butter simply melts into the skin, combating dryness with 48 hours of intensive moisturisation and releasing a heavenly chocolate fragrance that will make you smell good enough to eat.

Can’t get enough? We understand. Thankfully, there’s a whole Chocó mania range to enjoy, so you can indulge in the delicious fragrance and sumptuous textures in as many ways as possible. Now, that’s pure luxury.

Chocó mania Body Butter – Rs.895 (200ml.) , Rs.345 (50ml.)
Chocó mania Body Lotion – Rs.595
Chocó mania Shower Cream Rs.395
Chocó mania Body Scrub - Rs. 895
Chocó mania Lip Butter – Rs. 295
Chocó mania Heart shaped Soap – Rs. 245
Chocó mania Bag of Hearts – Rs.595

SCRUB: Chocó mania Body Scrub – For a smooth honeyed finish, step into the bath or shower with this chocolatey body scrub which provides expert exfoliation

CLEANSE: Chocó mania Shower Cream – Cleanse all over with our creamy body wash that leaves skin supple, cleansed and moisturized Chocó mania Heart Soap Bars – These heart-shaped soaps are perfect for cleaning in the shower or just keeping hands soft, cleansed and sweet-smelling

MOISTURISE: Chocó mania Body Lotion – A sophisticated light cream body moisturizer for quick and gentle hydration for a silky, smooth finish .Chocó mania Body Butter - For when a light touch isn’t enough...a hit of rich, decadent chocolate and luxurious fragrance, this Body Butter provides 48 hours of intensive moisturisation.

Chocó mania Lip Butter – Keep temptation at arm’s length by keeping this Lip Butter in your handbag. Delivering soft and silky lips with an intensive, chocolately, creamy balm, it’s almost good enough to eat...just don’t leave it near your lips too long or you might just be tempted!

CHOCOLATE TIMELINE:

2000 BC: Amazon: Cocoa, from which chocolate is created, is said to have originated in the Amazon at least 4,000 years ago.

300 AD: Maya Cult re Cocoa, from which chocolate is created, is said to have Originated in the Amazon at least 4,000 years ago.

1200: Aztec cultu re : The Aztecs attributed the creation of the cocoa plant to their god Quetzalcoatl who descended from heaven on a beam of a morning star carrying a cocoa tree stolen from paradise.

1492: Columbus Returns in Triumph From America King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella were presented with many strange and wonderful things… including a few dark brown beans that looked like almonds.

1625: Cocoa Beans are Currency in Spain to 200 small cocoa beans were valued at 1 Spanish real, or 4 cents.

1704: The Germans Impose a Tax on Chocolate. Chocolate makes its appearance in Gemany, and Frederick I of Prussia reacts by imposing a tax.

1765: First Chocolate Factory In the USA The production of chocolate proceeded at a faster pace than anywhere else in the world.

1830: The Drink Became a Confection Solid eating chocolate was developed by J. S. Fry and Sons, a British chocolate maker.

1857: Ghana Develops into an Important Producer. A Portuguese Baron takes the cultivation of cocoa to the African Continent. Members of the Basle Mission in Ghana encourage the growth of this emerging crop, and farmers turn Ghana into one of the most important producers.

1925: Cocoa is Big Business The New York Cocoa Exchange, located at the World Trade Center, was born so buyers and sellers could get together for transactions.

2012: The Body Shop launches Chocó mania, a decadent range of chocolate-inspired bath and body range including Chocó mania Body Butter, made from 47% cocoa butter and providing 48 hours of moisturisation.

YUM. YUM. YUM! Me wants everything! :)

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Indian Beauty Addicts Are Waiting For....

2012-02-02T11:00:00.001+05:30

Below are products that aren't available in India yet. We've talked about a few we are waiting for, so let's call this the next batch. We Indian Beauty Addicts have to wait a lot. Most of the time, for such a really long time that if they were our husbands, they'd be sleeping on the couch or out on the street. Probably out on the street.

Revlon Colorburst Lip Butters

Bourjois Eye Pearls ~ LOVE these quintets. I hope the eyeshadow quality is like the Intense Eyeshadows

Maybelline Eye Studio Color Tattoo 24 hr Cream Gel Shadow ~ Cheaper MAC Paintpots?

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blushes ~ I read these feel like marshmallows!

Maybelline Fit Me Range ~ We need more drugstore foundations!

Maybelline Baby Lips ~ Lip balms for baby soft lips

L'Oreal Color Riche Balm

Last, but not the least,

SEPHORA! I've been hearing that it's opening in India since last year [Most recent article here]. What's taking it so long??!! Will we finally get Urban Decay and Benefit and Too Faced and MUFE and....?

So, which should get here first? For me, Sephora! :)

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Lakmé Absolute Mattreal Skin Natural Mousse Foundation: Awesome, BUT....

2012-01-31T18:32:00.000+05:30

It kinda looks like Magic 8 Ball, no? Okay, let's pretend it is. "Will the foundation inside make my skin flawless?"

*Shakes ball* [Answer at the end of the post]

What it is:

Lakmé Absolute Mattreal Skin Natural Mousse is a feather light foundation with a mousse to powder finish. It claims to last upto 16 hours & has SPF 8.

Available in 2 shades: Ivory Fair & Beige Honey.

I got Ivory Fair , which pretty much suits my MAC NC 25 skin tone.

Finish ~ Matte

Coverage- Light to Heavy

Scent ~ Citrusy. Same as Lakmé Absolute White Intense Skin Cover SPF 25

When I first used this, I was like, "Oh wow. Wow. I am lovvving it" I liked it better than the Lakmé Absolute White Intense Skin Cover SPF 25. Hell, I liked it better than Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse Foundation as well

The airy mousse texture is extremely smooth & blends like a dream. The coverage can be built up from light to heavy, without it looking cakey. To sum it all up, it is my ideal foundation.

Then the fairy tale ended the next morning when a few pimples appeared. I'll just show you the ones on my chin....

Top healed, bottom healing. And yes, they will scar :@

Ingredients are not listed (Everytime! Why?), but I'm assuming this product has Dimethicone or Silicone, which my skin hates. No wonder it's so smooth!

[Magic 8 Ball answer:

"Don't count on it."]

If your skin doesn't react badly to silicone, then you might feel differently.

Price ~ Rs.550

Rating ~ What's the point?

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Makeup For A Maroon & Silver Saree

2012-01-31T14:33:00.000+05:30

This is a reader query. She will be attending an Indian wedding & would be wearing a gorgeous maroon saree with silver embellishments.

She sent me a photo of the saree:

If I'm wearing a saree like that, I am guessing my makeup will be pretty much the same as Vanessa Hudgens' here....

Eyeshadows:

Since the saree is so bling & I'm assuming you'd be wearing some bling jewelry too, I'd want to keep my eyes matte, maybe just a little shimmery color on the center of my lids & inner corners. A simple smokey eye look will suit it well:

A matte brown like MAC Espresso + something with a hint of plum-like MAC Sketch- on lids
A matte black like MAC Carbon or Bourjois Intense Eyeshadow #10 on the outer V, and blend it with MAC Sketch.
A pearly vanilla highlight color on your brow bone & inner tear duct areas.
Black pencil liner, like Lakme Kohl Ultimate, smudged on top and bottom lash line
Black mascara. Maybe add some natural-looking false lashes too.

Cheeks:

A matte bronzer like Benefit Hoola or The Body Shop Honey Bronze Bronzing Powder
A tiny amount of rosy blush like Lakme Kiss Of A Rose Cheek Artist

Lips:

I wear a lippie that suits the saree exactly, or almost. Maybe MAC Rebel lipstick.
If you're not comfortable with a bold lipstick, then a nude lipstick would look great too, like Jlo below....

Although I think the lip liner is off & the blush is a little much. The eyes are perfect!

Hope those tips will come in handy! :)

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Ooh....A PINK Mascara!

2012-01-30T23:18:00.000+05:30

How often do we see a mascara in a cute pink curvy tube that reminds us of a burlesque dancer?

Bourjois has managed to tempt me again with it's new Volume Glamour Max Definition Mascara.

That brush has 500 bristles or pins that will give voluminous & defined lashes.

WE SO WANT x 500.

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Lakmé Absolute White Intense Skin Cover SPF 25 Review

2012-01-30T14:25:00.000+05:30

Have you seen the movie "The Skin I Live In"? It's weird, but well-written. Somehow Lakmé Absolute White Intense Skin Cover SPF 25 makes me think of the movie. Skin....Skin. Don't you think that word sounds weird? Rumpelstiltskin. Oh-kay it sounds even weirder now.

What it is:
This ultra light, oil-free, water based formula delivers naturally fair, breathable skin. Its weightless formulation hides pores, fine lines and uneven skin tone to leave skin peachy soft all through the day. It lasts up to 16 hours without fading and has Vitamin B3 and sun protection of SPF 25.

Available in 3 shades: 01 Ivory Fair, 03 Golden Medium, 05 Beige Honey.

I picked 03 Golden Medium. It suits me the best, but is still on the lighter side, although it adapts to my skin tone well & doesn't make me look ghastly. If your skin tone is darker than mine, the darker shade might be a better match.

Finish: Matte

Coverage: Light to Medium
Lasting Power: I don't count the hours, but it does not budge.
Scent: I has a strong citrusy scent- like grapefruit + lemon peel + orange + witch hazel? I don't know. I find it refreshing. It doesn't stay on the skin for long though.

I must say, I am IMPRESSED with this foundation. It is the most lightweight foundation I've ever used. Is it there, is it not there? I imagine a "second skin" foundation to be just like it.

It's as easy to blend as moisturizer (fingers are more than sufficient) & disappears into my skin. It never sits on top and scream "foundation!" Most times I feel like putting on more & more, but my radiant skin stops me from doing so.
It minimizes large pores & evens out my skin tone.
Because it's matte, I don't really need powder on top of it. But I might need some in summer- when my skin is more oily.
Looks good in flash photography. Face doesn't look white.
I'd say if Revlon Colorstay Foundation is your type, then you might like this.
Packaging looks so high-end. Love that it comes with a pump.

Below is 03 swatched and blended on my hand to give you a better idea on the finish & coverage:

See how even it made my skin? It covered the redness & blueness, and made it look less wrinkly.

My absolute favorite from from the Lakmé Absolute range. I think if it was widely available, it'll possibly be a Cult Favorite among makeup lovers. Asians especially (I mean the other Asians, not us Bharatians :)) would go crazy over this, I'm guessing.

For me, Super Hit!

The only thing that bothers me is, the amount. How much is really in that little cylinder inside??? [It's not written anywhere on the bottle.]

Also, I'd like to see the full ingredients list. What exactly is that scent???

Price ~ Rs.575

Rating ~ ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5/5

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Purple Lipstick Suggestions ~ From A Reader

2012-01-28T23:57:00.000+05:30

After my Lipsticks That Don't Exist post, I got a very helpful comment from a reader- Perween.

Hey Cynthia, I love going through your blog. You have a great knack for writing that is not only informative but has a wonderful sense of humour. After reading this post I took it upon myself to hunt for a violet lipstick for you. I went to Sephora today and came across these lipsticks that may match the second picture:

MUFE - Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick, Shade #15 - Pearly Violet

Smashbox – Be Legendary Lipstick, Shade – Bold Berry (vivid violet)

Dior – Rouge Dior Lipstick, Shade 786- Mysterious Mauve

Dior – High Fashion Lipstick, Shade 001, Violet Tatoo

Isn't that the sweetest thing?! :) ♥

I couldn't find good photos of all the lippies on Google, so I just put up these to give you all an idea....

I am definitely going to get Make Up For Ever Rouge Artist Intense #15.

Thanks Perween! I really appreciate your very kind & thoughtful effort.

♥ Cynthia Z ^.^

Revlon Colorstay Aqua Mineral Finishing Powder Review

2012-01-27T18:22:00.000+05:30

Have you ever used a cooling powder that is not Dermicool? I have been using one- Revlon Revlon Colorstay Aqua Mineral Finishing Powder. It's a cool/wet powder, which is somewhat similar to the MAC Magically Cool Liquid Powder.

About:

NEW ColorStay Aqua Mineral Finishing powder is a translucent mineral finishing powder that delivers a burst of hydrating coconut water and an instant cooling sensation upon application. This revolutionary mineral finisher sets foundation and minimizes the look of pores and fine lines, leaving skin even and smooth. Specially formulated longwearing ColorStay technology provides a shine-free soft matte finish that lasts all day. Best of all, this weightless loose powder keeps skin looking healthy and flawless.

Instant hydration with coconut water
Sets makeup for a shine-free finish
Wears all day
Soft matte formula made with water, not oil., so there’s no shine
SPF 13
Wear alone or with Colorstay Aqua Mineral Makeup
Available in 4 shades: Translucent, Translucent Light, Translucent Light Medium, Translucent Medium.

Here, I am showing you Translucent Light, which is just right for my skin tone.

How To use:

Swirl brush into powder and tap off excess.
Blend powder evenly all over face in short, sweeping strokes.
After use, close lid tightly.

The Good:

It'll make a great summer powder since it's cool & has SPF.
It's weird. It feels like it's wet, but it's not really wet. What? Ooh...okay.
It mattifies my face, minimizes pores, and skin feels smooth.
It has light-medium coverage, so it can be worn alone and still make your skin tone look even.
My skin doesn't get oily for a long time. Though I have not worn it when it's very hot.
Has a very very mild coconut water smell.
Packaging is so cute! I love that they fit a gadget-like brush on the lid.

The Bad:

Can look patchy on top of foundation (especially a creamy one) if not blended properly.
It may not suit dry and flaky skin types.
Accompanying brush, though useful, is too small for proper blending and buffing.
A little too expensive for a drugstore brand. The amount is quite a lot + you get a brush, but still.

Translucent Light

After blending

Overall, I wouldn't say this powder is that amazing, and it will never replace my other regular loose powders. However, if you're into fun gimmicky beauty products, like me, this might be up your alley. And that little brush is one of the cutest things ever! For me personally, the powder is best worn alone. That way, I don't have to worry about it disagreeing with my foundation.

Price ~ Rs.1150 for 9.9g

Rating ~ ♥♥♥♥♥ 3.5/5

♥ Cynthia Z ^.^

Disclosure: Product kindly sent by brand for consideration.

GLOSSYBOX To Launch In India

2012-01-27T15:40:00.000+05:30

This just in: GLOSSYBOX is launching in India!

About GLOSSYBOX:

We’re GLOSSYBOX Beauty, an idea born from a team of beauty lovers who got tired of wasting time and money buying the newest beauty products without the opportunity to try them to understand if they are right for us. GLOSSYBOX Beauty has grown to become the world’s leading premium beauty subscription company. We are present in 14 countries on 6 continents, and we are now COMING TO INDIA!

Each month, hundreds of thousands of women around the world eagerly await the delivery of their GLOSSYBOX Beauty to discover amazing new beauty products. We send out a gorgeous box filled with a surprise mix of 5 high-end travel- and full-sized beauty and cosmetic products from world’s top beauty brands. This gives women the chance to experiment with new products in the comfort of their own home.

GLOSSYBOX is set to launch in March, 2012.

Aren't we all excited? :))

♥ Cynthia Z *.*

Illamasqua Sophie-I Collection & Technique: Video Tutorial

2012-01-26T23:47:00.000+05:30

Illamasqua works very closely with the Sophie Lancaster Foundation and the latest collaboration with them has produced the Sophie-I Collection and Technique, now developed further with a look by Creative Director Alex Box.

About Sophie Lancaster: Sophie Lancaster was beaten to death, in 2007, for dressing different (Gothic). Sophie sustained brutal beatings while trying to protect & cradling her boyfriend, who was knocked unconscious. You can read more about the heartbreaking story here

The video below will show you how to create this Sophie-I look above:

Hope you picked up some tips & support the Sophie Lancaster Foundation too.

To purchase the Sophie-I Collection online, you can go here . Illamasqua ships worldwide.

♥ Cynthia Z ^.^