Promod's "Je Ne Sais Quoi’" style

I was invited recently by Charisse from Stratworks to join a contest related to fashion for Promod.

Promod is today one of France's biggest fashion store chains and the brand enjoys international success with 796 outlets in 46 countries.  Promod collections are aimed at an exclusively female clientele, namely: Modern, active women between 20 and 30 years old, who desire fashionable, reasonably priced, quality articles that are neither too classy nor too "trendy", and that offer the possibility of mixing and matching according to individual tastes , thanks to their variety and frequent renewal.

What I like about Promod is their collection offers a wide range of items and I find it easy to mix and match their clothing and accessories.  Anyone wearing Promod can easily look like they just came out from a French magazine minus the outrageous runway look.

Me, a beauty blogger can invite a stylist friend to mix and match Promod's clothes and accessories and create "je ne sais quoi" that will spell out our own fashion style, our own interpretation of French High-Street Fashion.  Styling will revolve around picking key items from Promod store and create 5 different looks to be worn by a mannequin.

I've invited a dear friend Shanna of Shannaholic to be my partner stylist.  She's always been fashionable and comfortable at the same time which I think works well for Promod's Contest theme.  I have taken a look online for the definition of "je ne sais quoi" and it was defined as "a certain something".  Perfect description!

For both Shanna and myself, French High-Street fashion definitely has a certain something, a certain X-factor that you can't seem to pinpoint.  It's a type of fashion wherein each pieces are unique and yet, when put together, it complements each other, in a very unique and elegant way.

Do you need a new skirt? If so, do you want one you can wear whenever you want? Of course you do. That means your money is well-spent. For the best results when skirt shopping, focus on denim skirt fashion options. A denim skirt can be matched with almost any type of top and even layered with sweaters or jackets. When it comes to footwear and accessories, you also can't go wrong with denim. Wear a denim skirt with keels and makeup for a night out clubbing or slip on some sandals or sneakers for a casual, comfortable outfit. Certain styles of denim skirts, including pencil skirts, can also work when you want something comfortable to wear to the office.


Introducing, the Five "Je Ne Sais Quoi" Look.

Casual Day Straight From the Runway Look

This look was created with a fashionable and modern girl in mind.  A girl who's carefree and does not spend too much time in front of the mirror.  She's born to be a natural head turner, a natural gorgeous gal!

How we created this look:

A faded khaki color block ruffled dress tucked in a cropped trousers matching the look with a snake effect gladiator sandals.  To create a nice "layering" effect without the bulkiness, a printed gray sleeveless cardigan was added to create a more casual and "relaxed" look.

To accessorize, a soft scarf with metal-like fringes was tied around the neck together with a star necklace.

AMW Reviews: MAC Fix+

Happy 'Minus-the-Blues' Monday everyone!  It was a very fruitful weekend for me!  And I'm ready to face this week as  I look forward to a well deserved vacation with my mom this coming May!  So excited to spend quality time with her!  

As a makeup artist and beauty blogger, you have to be "in the know" on the most coveted products out there.  I've talked a couple of them here and I have to include this one --- MAC's Fix+.  Bear in mind, I just gave MAC Makati a call and this is OOS (Out of Stock)!  I asked them when they will restock and I was told they don't have a timeline yet!  See how in-demand this product is?

But is it really worth the purchase?  You tell me!  I'll tell you my thoughts!

MAC Fix+ says ---

An aqua-spritz of vitamin and minerals, infused with a calm-the-skin blend of green tea, chamomile, cucumber, topped off with the fresh, natural, energizing scent of Sugi. Adds radiance, finishes makeup. Spray it on. Skin drinks it up!

 

AMW says ---

Pros

• non-sticky
• sets makeup in a flash, no powdery look
• wonderful packaging with twist open and close cap

• great as mixing medium for loose eyeshadow
• reduce fallout on loose pigments or mineral eyeshadows
• smells nice
• refreshing
• hydrates the skin anytime
• easy to tote around

Cons

• pricey
• oily skinned individuals may find adding this extra step sticky and oily
• can cause breakout to others

Overall

I purchased MAC Fix+ and MAC Charged water the  same time.  I've used up MAC's Charged Water and I'm quite excited about it because I can move on to MAC's Fix+ which I heard nothing but raves!  For someone who finished up Charged Water and is halfway Fix+, seriously? I can't tell the difference between these two.  And I can't make up my mind which one I like better  Both products work well to "set" the makeup and to lessen the powdery look. With this function in mind, there are a lot more cheaper alternatives out there that does the same!

This is not a bad product but it's not a "must have" product.  I will repurchase this for the sake of my clients.  You know how brand conscious most clients are right?  But personally...I don't use this because my skin does not need this extra step.

Tips

• spritz a little amount on a big face brush/skunk brush and gently stipple the Fix+ on your face to "set" the makeup and prevent wastage
• on spritzing straight on the face, spray at least 6 inches away from your face to prevent makeup melt down

• if you have very sensitive skin, use with caution
• this does not replace your regular moisturizer

Will I repurchase?

Not for myself, for clients

Where to purchase and how much?

At local MAC store for Php850.00 (approx $18.50)

Have you tried both MAC Fix+ and Charged Water?
Which among the two do you prefer?  
Click click and let me know!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

Weekend Food Tripping at: Asian Twist Fusion restaurant (the Return)

Happy weekend food tripping!  I had a lovely weekend spending time prettifying a mannequin with friends and fellow bloggers.  I will tell you more about it soon!  For now, let's keep our tummy rumbling and let's feast on food!  It's weekend!  There's no such thing as DIET.

I went to Asian Twist Fusion Restaurant last year, I enjoyed my  experience there and told myself I'll go back to try on their other dishes!  My second time experience is as great as the first one!  It's funny though how both times, the photos came out green on both posts!  You have to bear with me though, this was shot using a cellphone camera!  When I'm hungry, there's no such thing as good camera! :P

Are we all  ready to explore?  I know I am!

Sesame Rice Tuna Tataki

Php175.00 (approx $3.80)

4pcs sushi coated with toasted sesame seeds

topped with fresh, spicy tuna and mango sliced

I am no way a fan of sesame seeds!  I am a bit wary on trying this, but spicy tuna and mangoes?  What can go wrong?  I'm glad I tried this dish because the crunchiness of sesame seed blended well with the softness of mangoes.  I like!

Classic Bibimbap

Php195.00 (approx $4.25)

Ground meat, beansprouts, spinach, 

eggplant kimchi and egg

I love bibimbap!  I can eat as much rice as I can ONLY if it's bibimbap!  Served in "fushion", I'm sure original bibimbap in Korea does not taste this way, but it suits my taste and don't forget to ask for extra tomato paste!

Korean Barbecue

Php225.00 (approx $4.90)

Sliced beef grilled and served with bbq sauce,

sliced garlic, beansprouts, spinach and kimchi

sliced beef grilled to perfection, its soft to bite and tastes perfectly wrapped in fresh lettuce.  I like wrapping it together with kimchi, call me weird, but it'll all combine inside your tummy, right? *laughs*

This time, I settled for  Jasmine tea instead of cold drink.  I like drinking warm tea after a nice, fulfilling meal! 

Asian Twist

101 N S Amoranto St. (Retiro)

Corner Speaker Perez Street Q.C.

tel no: 632-711-2248/632-749-3878

They are currently giving out cards wherein customers get a stamp on every Php500 (approx $10.00) food purchase.  Each stamp contains freebies like free iced tea, free slice of cake, etc..  

The restaurant accepts both cash and credit card transaction!  No service charge.

Enjoy your weekend food tripping.   What dish are you craving for?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Cellnique Paramedical Solutions

Selina, from Cellnique contacted me 2 months ago to do a product review.  When it comes to skincare , I am very particular with it. That's when my profession as a researcher comes in.  I do my research on the products and ingredients before I go "yes" to testing a product.  I browsed through the site and read about the products they offer.  I learned that all Cellnique products are formulated with CX Formulation.   What's CX formulation?

CX formulation is an advanced in-clinic formulation that combines the power of biological active ingredients, natural plant extracts, antioxidants and a bio-active delivery system. Thus, offering the best performance for immediate and visible results for various skin problems. 

Key words: biological active ingredients, natural plant extracts, antioxidants...These words are enough to make me feel at ease and comfortable to give this brand a road test.  

I was asked to give them an idea on my skin condition, again, keywords--- Sensitive, Dry

These are definitely road tested really well for more than 2 months!

Cellnique Seaweed Cleansing Gel says ---

This unique and all natural-based daily cleanser consist the highest grade of Algae, Pennywort and Cucumber Extracts, serve to remove pore clogging debris and impurities without over drying. Leaves skin feeling super clean, smooth and refreshed!

• Replenish hydration
• Anti-irritation and soothing
• Antioxidant and skin protection

Suitable skin types:

Dry and delicate skin

AMW says ---

Twice a day, morning and evening

Pros

• very gentle on skin
• soothes and refreshes my skin after every wash
• smells great, minty scent without the minty feel
• scent is quite relaxing
• a little goes a long way and it lathers pretty well
• skin felt moisturized and clean after every wash
• skin does not feel tight
• very simple and straightforward packaging

Cons

• not available locally, that's it!

Tips

• use half a teaspoon on wet hands, rub hands to activate the cleanser to form a lather

•  gently massage on the skin with upward strokes, be careful not to get into eyes
•  if you wear heavy makeup, use a makeup cleanser first to remove all traces of makeup before you wash your face.
• use day and night, if skin texture improves, you can use this once a day alternating with your other cleansers.

Where to purchase and how much?
$32.00 (approx Php1,472) for 200ml, click this link  for more information.

Cellnique Skin Action gel Plus says ---

A proven AHAs plus BHA formulation in reducing inflamed acne lessons and lightening acne marks. The infusion of Tea Tree Oil, Camphor, Eucalyptus Oils and vitamin C accelerates the healing process, thus preventing the information of scaring.

• Controls and prevents further breakout
• Reduces inflamed acne lesions
• Lightens acne scars or marks
• Anti-bacterial, antiseptic, antioxidant

Suitable skin types:

Oily skinned

AMW says ---

Applied on  t-zone area once, spot treatment approximately thrice

Pros

• does dry up pimples, especially when spot treatment is done
• a little goes super long way
• nice packaging with twist open/close lid

Cons

• has tingling sensation which can make other people (a.k.a. ME) panic!
• not meant for dry skinned people like myself
• can cause irritation to sensitive skin

Tips

• instructions states to use 2-3 pumps and apply on the whole t-zone area, for normal or dry skin. You can skip this step or you can use this only on areas that needed the product (ex. pimples, acne..)
• is this your first time trying this product?  do a patch test first
• once irritations like itchiness and redness occur, stop using the product IMMEDIATELY!

Where to purchase and how much?
30ml for $54.00 (approx Php2,484), click this link for more information.

Cellnique Intensive Hydrating Complex says ---

A lightweight formulation with high concentration of Hyaluronic Acid and Essential Amino Acids. Helps bind moisture to restore elasticity of the skin. It thereby minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and helps deliver an instant supple and smooth skin.

• keeps skin moist and smooth
• locks in skin moisture
• improves on scarring, lines and skin tone

Suitable skin types:

All Skin Types

AMW says ---

Twice a day,  morning and evening

Pros

• seriously hydrating 
• does not feel oily at all
• absorbs to the skin quickly
• dual purpose as this can be used on eye area
• wake up with moisturized and supple skin even inside an air conditioned room
• very nice packaging and and dropper applicator

Cons

• not available locally!  
• no added properties like anti-aging

Tips

• asked to use 4-6 pumps, I use 4 pumps only or less for my whole face and neck
• pat on remaining product on the eye area with your ring finger
• once or twice a week, I apply on my favorite moisturizer even after using this, does not oil up my skin ever!

Where to purchase and how much?
$61.00 (approx Php2,806) for 30ml at this link.

Cellnique Total DayTime Protection 30 says ---

This ultra-light, skin-friendly UV ray protection blocks UVA and UVB from harming your skin at SPF30 and PA+++.  It's not greasy, non-comedogenic formulation is enhanced with Grape Seed and Geen Tea Leaf extracts to act as powerful free radicals scavengers.

• Anti free radical and antioxidant
• Protects skin from the sun and ultraviolet radiation
• Reduces skin swelling and soothe sensitive skin

Suitable skin types:

All Skin Types

AMW says ---

Once every morning for 2 weeks

Pros

• never feels oily on the whole day even under makeup
• smells great
• matte finish, texture felt like primer

Cons

• only SPF30, better if it's SPF 50 and above
• not available locally

Tips

• Apply face and neck using upward motion after skincare
• Apply at least 10 minutes prior to going out
• If you will be out on the sun for a long time, apply half teaspoon all over the face and neck for protection

Where to purchase and how much?
$51.00 (approx Php2,346) for 50g , click this link for more information.

Cellnique Vital Cellular Repair Masque says ---

This gentle, nourishing and repairing mask is specially enriched with potent nutrients of to promote healthy skin and to further protect your skin from pollutant and environmental allergen assault. Suitable for all skin types including post-operation skin.

• Increases and retains skin moisture
• Restores skin collagen and elastin content to fight against aging and enlarged pores.
• Stimulates cells renewal and promotes scars healing
• Repairs damaged cells and prevents further damage

Suitable skin types:

All Skin Types

 

AMW says ---

Once a week

Pros

• calms the skin especially my dry areas
• immediately soothes itchiness
• redness disappears a bit right after treatment
• smells great
• easy to spread all over face and neck
• housed in a very nice, glass packaging

Cons

• not available locally

Tips

• apply a thick layer on your skin adding up on areas that needed most, leave for 20 minutes

• rinse thoroughly with water, do not leave residue
• use a spatula to grab product 
• do not forget to apply the neck area
• best done once a week!

Where to purchase and how much?
$45.00 (approx Php2,070) for 50g, click this link for more information.

Overall, my experience with Cellnique was great!  I felt the improvement of my skin right after a month of usage.  On the second month, I even have to reduce the number of times I use the product to save up the remaining.  The downside on this is that it's not easily available on most countries and people have to order online and wait for the package to arrive.  The good news though is that the company does not overcharge you with expensive shipping rates and they use DHL services.  Bear in mind that you have to pay for taxes locally.  You can click HERE for more information. 

The company also offers 7 Days Assurance, if you are not satisfied with their products, have any allergies after using their products, you can either have a refund or exchange to another product with same or lower value!  If you received defective or damaged product,  Cellnique will send out replacement on the same product at no extra cost!  That's great customer service!

If I live in countries that has Cellnique Counters, I will definitely repurchase the Facial Wash, Hydrating Complex and Vital Cellular Repair Mask.

I can skip Skin Action Gel Plus because I'm lucky enough not to grow acne on the latter part of my young *coughs* years.  I do have occasional pimples every now and then and that can be treated by my favorite Body Shop's Tea Tree Oil.  Though their Total Daytime Protection Sunblock works really well, I find that it's SPF is not enough for the harsh rays of the sun we have down here.  I've found locally available alternatives that works!

I have to add that I am very impressed with the packaging of the products and I love how they take time to put on stickers to prevent the cap from twisting during transit.  Seriously, these tiny stickers are super sticky and hard to remove!

Here's a photo to show a Before and After shot.
Before shot taken: February 5, 2010
After shot taken: April 23, 2010
Angle, lighting and camera setting were set to be "similar" to the before shot. 

** you can click photo to enlarge 
and you can compare some patches of dryness on my skin reduced

I can't say there's a drastic change on photo, but I can definitely feel the "tightness" and flakiness on areas around my skin gone. 

*whew* Is this the longest post ever?  I thought I'm not going to finish this one!
I hope people who have Cellnique counters can find this post helpful!  Do talk to the sales person and discuss to them your skin concerns and condition.  Do not be scared to ask questions before you purchase!  This is, by the way, your skin!  You have the right to take care of it!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(Disclaimer: Products are sent by company for review purposes.  The writer did not and will never receive any kind or form of payment for positive reviews.  The review has been done based on personal experiences.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

AMW Reports: My Bobbi Brown Makeover

Happy Friday friends!  As promised, I will share to you my wonderful experience at the Bobbi Brown Philippines counter! 

Bobbi Brown has always been one of the most trusted brands for makeup artists and regular people.  It's also a brand quite intimidating, I am sure a lot of you feel the same.

I got an invite to try on the Bobbi Brown's 10-Step Guide to Perfect Makeup recently.  I said yes because this is definitely a chance for me to get to know the brand first hand and share to the rest of the world (a.k.a YOU)

The best part about this experience?  The makeup artist, FINALLY gets her own makeover!  Are you ready to read through my journey?  Hang in there! Here's how I look like on regular days. 

I was asked for the look I was aiming for.  I told them I wanted a look that's "soft" and "sweet", as I will be attending an event for JnJ that night! 

I got to meet up with Bobbi Brown's Brand Coordinator, Ms. Ina Casas (super lovely lady by the way) as she cleansed my face with Bobbi Brown's Cleansing oil and prepared my skin prior to makeup application with Bobbi Brown's Brightening Hydrating Lotion and Hydrating Serum.  I was told that a good foundation application starts with a good skin.  

Here's Ina gently massaging my face as we talk about the new skincare line from Bobbi Brown.

Here are the products used for my makeover

Products numbered and more details can be read further below

Prior to makeup application, 3 shades were swatch on my lower cheek area til the neck line for me to be able to pinpoint my foundation shade.  My make-up artist for the day, a very talented, Ms. Maureen Marquises did the following steps:

1. Undereye correcting - After eye cream application, a corrector was used to counteract the darkness of my undereye circles.  A Light Peach corrector was used. 

2. Foundation - Since my skin is very dry, Bobbi Brown's Skin Foundation (launched April of 2009), was used on my face.  The perfect shade for me is Beige.  Maureen concentrated the foundation application on the center of my face blending outward.

3. Setting Powder - A pale yellow setting powder was used to set the foundation.

4. Blush Application -  2 shades are used for a more dimensional look. Warm colored blush was used to contour the face and Peony blush was used to apply on the apples of my cheeks for a natural flush.

Did you know that?

Bobbi Brown believes that every women should do blush application right after foundation application.  Not  everyone has the luxury of time, if you need to dash out the door in minutes, having a nice flush on the cheeks is enough for you to get through the day!

5.  Eyebrows - After spritzing the eyebrow brush with water, Cocoa eyeshadow (which was closest to my hair color) was used to reshape and fill in my brows.  

Note: Always choose an eyebrow pencil or powder color that's closest to your hair color.

6. Eyeshadow application - a matte, cream-colored eyeshadow called Bone was used as a base, Champagne on my lid area and Cocoa on the outer crease was used to deepen the crease of my eyes.  A light sweep of Shimmer Wash on the brow bone and inner corner of the eyes for an awake look.

Ina says ---

You can purchase single eyeshadows and fill them in Bobbi Brown's refillable palette.  It's easy to create your own palette with the colors of your choice!

7. Gel lining - my favorite part!  The famous Bobbi Brown gel liner was used on me.  I love it that they used SEPIA instead of Black Ink as the effect looks more natural.

8. Mascara - Perfectly Defined mascara in black gave my lashes the volume and length I want after 2 applications.

9. Lipstick application (not on photo) - A lip brush was used to apply my lip color.   I forgot the lipstick shade used but I love how moisturizing it is!

10. SMILE! :D - the easiest step of all! Seriously, it's 10-steps including skincare, but isn't it great to incorporate this on ALL makeup steps?

 

Introducing, the ladies I met at the Bobbi Brown Counter, Rustan's Makati

L-R Ms. Maureen Marquises - Makeup artist

Charlotte Espiritu - Counter Manager

L-R Ms. Maureen Marquises - Makeup artist

Ms.Blossom Santiago - Brand Assistant - thanks for taking the shots for me

Ms. Ina Casas - Brand Coordinator

Here's my look at the JnJ event.  Make up works really well on harsh lighting!

I want to thank the ladies from Bobbi Brown Philippines for the time and the makeover!  

It was a great experience and I had fun learning more about Bobbi Brown products beyond the famous Bobbi Brown Gel Liners!

Have a wonderful weekend!
Keep smilin'

Stay happy!