AMW Reviews: Stila Lip Pots Tinted Lip Balm in Amande

Stila, the brand who creates my favorite Gel Liner of all times in the name of Smudgepots!  Their eyeshadows are also quite nice and pigmented so the brand is close to my heart.

Last December, after almost a year of "Online Shopping Ban", I finally gave in to purchase some stuffs from Strawberrynet because they emailed me to give me special discounts for old customers to return!  It was a deal so hard to miss and the best part?  It comes with free gift!  Stila Lip Pots!

Stila Lip Pots Tinted Lip Balm says ---

• Moisturizes lips with a touch of color
• Weightless & smoothly glides on lips
• Offers comfortable sensation
• Leaves lips shine & protected

AMW says ---

Pros

• Cute glass packaging which keeps the product fresh.
• Can be used as a base prior to lipstick application without the "slide and glide" of regular lip balm.  Lipstick actually stays on lips!
• Amande Shade: can be used on both male and female.
• Gives a very natural, soft lips minus the shiny, lipstick look and feel.
• 
  

Cons

• Dipping your fingers to get product, not easy for girls with long nails.
• A bit pricey for tinted lip balm.  Other brands can come up with a more inexpensive version.
• Very dry lips individual may still need the extra help of a lip balm/ lip treatment.

Overall

With so many lip products available out there, this is not on top of the list, I guess due to its price and availability.  It's nice to have, on my part, this is vital for me as a make-up artist as it is quite difficult to look for a lip tint that doesn't look so shiny or obvious on guys!  

Conclusion:  Important for make-up artists, can skip and purchase inexpensive versions for non-make-up artists.

Tips

• If you plan to use it on yourself, apply with clean fingers AT ALL TIMES!
• If you are a make-up artist and plan to use this on clients, use a lip brush!  Wipe the brush before re-dipping the brush.
• Always close the cap tight.
• Apply this first before doing your make-up so lips are softer and moisturized prior to lipstick application.
• Apply more if you want the color to show up.

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?

Anyone not into lipsticks!  Wants a very light tint on lips without the heavy feel!  This shade Amande is even perfect for male clients on photoshoots!

Where to purchase and how much?

Again, I got mine free from spending a certain amount at Strawberrynet, it costs $16.50 (approx Php709.00).  From today until April 26, they are offering extra 10% discount upon checkout.  Local readers can purchase these at Stila Counter, Rustan's Makati.

Amande on Pot

Slight tint of orange-y brown shade

Swatch on hand, in one swipe, 

it creates a tiny hint of shimmery gold-orange tone

Applied on bare lips

Keep in mind that my lips are pigmented to start with 

so it actually lightened up my original lip color.

Make-up artists out there, what lip tint do you use for guys?
To the rest, what's your favorite tinted lip balm brand?
Click comment and share!  I'd love to hear from you!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Eureka Moment: Nail Art Polish and Shimmery Polish

Hi Everyone!  Most of the Philippine readers are probably sleeping in, enjoying their vacation or probably go out to visit Churches as we are celebrating Holy Week down here.  Wherever you are, stay safe!  Oh, please do not forget to slather those sunscreen as the weather is just crazy!

Eureka Moment!

I was at Robinson's Galleria because of the drivers' license renewal!  I haven't been around the mall much but if I do visit, I won't give Saizen (Daiso) a miss!  It's a must place to visit to get those well-deserved Eureka Moments!

To my nail art loving readers out there, especially those who were emailing me about the L.A. Art Deco Polish I have been using for the past 3 years of Nail Art Tutorials, finally!  You guys have an alternative!  I've found 2 wonderful products worth sharing that can be found at the nail polish aisle of Daiso!  It's so easy to just scan but it pays to check it out one rack at a time!

Winmax Nail Art Enamel No. 5 (L)

and Winmax Light Color Nail Enamel No. 4 (R)

Winmax Nail Art Enamel is special because of the thin brush I like that can make me easily create lines!  The colors are limited though!  Found these in basic colors: Black, White, Brown and Matte Yellow.  I would suggest Nail Art Beginners to purchase Black, White and Brown, you can give yellow a skip as it's not as pigmented as I want it to be!

The advantage of this?  The thin brush is shorter as compared to the one from L.A. Art Deco which makes it easier to control the strokes!

Since I have polish on all 10 toenails and 10 fingernails, thanks to Mr. AMW for sharing his Thumbnail!  A swatch on how I can easily create thin and thick lines!  I don't have any brown Nail Art Polish so this is perfect for creating flower stems!

I've added the Winmax Light Color Nail Enamel in light shimmer because I have been looking for a nice "shimmery top coat" for some nail art that I would like to spice it up with shimmers that won't "blur out" the nail art that I took all the time and effort to do! 

Here's my Hello Kitty Inspired Nail Art 

finished with a regular top coat

And here's the one topped with Winmax Light Color Nail Enamel (no. 4)

See the color and design remained the same but looking closely,

there's a tiny hint of shimmer which I like!

Oh, before I forget, I may have to add another Eureka Moment!  Fake Nails!  I know it's probably old news, but I remember a lot of our nail addicts out there who have been trying to look for fake nails either to attach on their original nails or use it as a "practice" for nail art designs!  Whatever your plans are, Daiso also offers fake nails!

(Ninja Shot taken from phone camera, sorry for blurry photo)

How much you ask?  Each item costs Php85.00 (approx $1.97)!
Well deserve to be part of my Eureka Moments!
I hope this post is not too late can still excite some of you out there :D

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Revies: Majolica Majorca Skin Remaker Pore Cover Case + Refill

What's my favorite Powder Foundation brand that you can think of on top of your head?  Clue?  French Japanese Brand.

You got it!  Paul & Joe!

The Paul & Joe Protective Dual Powder Foundation has been a favorite of mine ever since I started blogging!  I love it so much I am actually saving them up for clients!  Don't get me wrong, there are so many powder foundations out there that works just as fine but the Paul & Joe Dual Powder Foundation has a special place in my heart and I now know why!  Aside from it's wonderful quality and coverage, the packaging melts my heart each and every time I pull it out from my make-up train case!  

Would you believe after almost 3 years?  Another one came just as close to my heart?  You'll obviously guess it right away as the brand recently arrived our shores and you can see their gorgeous counters at SM Megamall and SM Makati! 

Majolica Majorca Skin Remaker Pore Cover Powder Foundation

Skin Remaker Pore Cover Refill 

Majolica Majorca Foundation Compact Case

Majolica Majorca Skin Remaker Pore Cover says ---

Conceals large pores with a translucent finish.

Available in:
BO10 - Beige Ochre 10
BO20 - Beige Ochre 20
OC10 - Ochre 10
OC20 - Ochre 20

AMW says ---
Pros

• Gorgeous refill case which saves up money because you can always purchase refills.

• Light to  medium and slight heavy coverage that gives a very natural glow!  
• Not matte nor shimmery but gives out a healthy overall effect of skin.
• No allergies, itch or skin irritations.
• Does not look cakey at all.
• Stays minus retouch for almost 8 hours.  Considering I do have dry skin.
• Has SPF18
• Does not dry out my dry skin.
• Works wonderfully as a "setting powder foundation" once you use a medium sized face brush to gently brush onto your face.
• Does not feel heavy at all!
• No weird smell.
• I tried covering the sides of my nose which has obvious pores, and it did its job!
• My overall look "brightened" up by just using this powder foundation!

Cons

• Limited shades available.

Overall

Great alternative for the more expensive Powder Foundations available in the market like Shiseido, Paul & Joe, etc..

Tips

• This shade BO10 works well for MAC NC25-35 skin color.
• Wash the sponge first before usage.  There is a strong smell coming from the sponge.
• For a more "natural look", use a kabuki brush and buff the powder foundation gently all over the face.
• Always prep your skin with the right primer prior to usage.  Moisturizing Primer for dry skin, Oil-control primer for oily skin.
• Do not forget to use sunblock even if this foundation comes with SPF18.  
• Thanks to a commenter for the tip: once you put the refill, gently push it in until you hear a "click" sound which place the refill safely into the compact!
• Try on shades by applying it all over your face on counter, then walk around and see if the powder shade matches your skin and neck!
• Take care of your compact as you can purchase refills in the future which helps you save money and save the environment!

Will I repurchase?
Yes!

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone into powder foundation that gives out a very natural finish!

Where to purchase and how much?

Skin Remaker Pore Cover SPF18 Php895.00 (approx $20.80) refill only. Php450.00 (approx $10.00) for the case. Exclusively available at SM Department Stores and Watson's. 

Skin Remaker Pore Cover Case and Refill 

in BO10

Gorgeous compact,

I feel "proud" everytime I bring out the case!

Face with Majolica Majorca Skin Remaker Pore Cover 

in BO10 only.  No base, no concealer.

A closer look

What's the most natural powder foundation you currently own?
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Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

(note from author: Product sent for PR consideration.  All reviews are honest and based on my personal experiences.  Please purchase at your own discretion).

AMW Reports: Ferretti Store Visit

Remember the dinner I had with fellow bloggers as we get to know the brand NaRaYa at the same time Ferretti?  It was a great dinner as I learned so much from the owner Ms. Cecille.  (Read post HERE).

I finally had the chance to visit their store at Glorietta 5, again!  I remembered checking out shoes in this store last year not knowing the shoe brand is proudly Philippine-made!  I never even bothered to check out their stuffs as just by looking at the exterior, I thought it'll be as overpriced as how it looks!  *embarrassed mode*  Yes, I've been judging the store base on its visual merchandise!

The store at Glorietta 5 isn't that big but once you get in, you'd be surprised as there are quite a number of shoes that caught my attention!

Flats and Sandals

Wedges and Espadrilles

 I am seriously wanting the ribbon wedge on 2nd row right most

But I controlled myself as I own so many ribbon shoes! 

Kitten Heels and Strappy Shoes

The gorgeous jewelry box caught my attention with lovely accessories for fashionistas (fashion-lovers) out there!

And more necklaces and bracelets

Ferretti also creates selection of stylish bags!  From shoulder bags to handbags and roomy totes, one design caught my attention!  I stopped myself from purchasing one because I really do not need it for now.  (Note to self: Yes, I don't need it FOR NOW....no, I won't be going back....yes, probably next month?) hahahha

But you have to agree with me, the blue shoulder bag is just fabulous right?

Found it in gray too and you can strategically tuck in the shoulder strap and you get yourself a handbag!  Ok, 2-in-1, I need this!!!  *lol*

You wonder what I got in the store for less than 30 minutes?  2 Pairs of Shoes!  One pair from the Ferretti gift certificate and another pair because I *coughs* need like it!  It was a nice purchase because I've walked around with these and nothing hurts!  Seldom can I find shoes like that! 

 Black Open Toe Shoes

Php949.00 (approx $22.00)

Taupe Sandals

Php899.00 (approx $20.00)

Isn't it obvious that I look happy with my purchase?  I'll definitely go back to check out their next collection!  Thanks Liz of Project Vanity for re-introducing the brand to me!  I am proud  to purchase and wear Philippine-made items!

 

Ferretti can be found at Glorietta 5, Sta. Lucia East Grandmall, Landmark Trinoma and Makati, Robinson's Place Bacolod, Robinsons' Place Cagayan de Oro, Gaisano Mall of Davao and Gaisana Mall General Santos.  Ferretti can also be found inside department stores of Landmark Makati, Landmark Trinoma, Shoe Center Greenhills, Shoe Center Alimall, Gaisano Illustre Davao, Victoria Plaza Davao, NCCC Ma-a Davao, Plaza Fair Limketkai CDO.

Have you visited the store?  
Which item caught your attention?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Nail Art Tutorial: Hello Kitty Nails...Meow!

After 2 long weeks of sporting my M&M Nails, I'm finally saying goodbye to it because my nails have grown longer and it's finally chipping a bit from all the dishwashing and domesticated what-nots! :)  

After all the crazy game-inspired nails, I've finally decided to lay low and do something dainty, something I've always wanted to create...truly, girly nails!

Hello Kitty Inspired Nails!

I am testing a new base coat and top coat in this tutorial.  Zoya Anchor Basecoat from OrganicRituals Spa.

Step 1:
After base coat application, I applied 2 coats of Orly Nail Lacquer in Cotton Candy (from Digital Traincase)

Step 2:

If you want to make sure the "French Tip" you apply won't mess up, draw a thin border line using L.A. Colors Art Deco Polish in White just like photo below.

Fill in white polish not going beyond the line you created.  In this tutorial, I am using Nature Republic Polish in WH002.

Step 3:
Do the same as Step 2, this time with Red Polish.  For the outline, I used L.A. Colors Art Deco in Red.

Fill in with bright red polish, I used Revlon's All Fired Up polish, which is turning out to be my favorite red polish nowadays!

Step 4:

I won't be drawing anything on the Red portion thick French Tip but apply white dots on it!  I used a medium sized nail art dotting tool.

Step 5:
Using Prettynails' 2 Way Nail Art Pen in Black, I drew Hello Kitty's Eyes and whiskers.

Step 6:
Using L.A. Art Deco Polish in matte yellow I drew Hello Kitty's Nose.

Step 7:
With Red Prettynails' 2 Way Nail Art Pen, I drew a simple ribbon because that completes Hello Kitty! 

Step 8:

Making sure the designs you drew are COMPLETELY dry, I applied Zoya Armor Top Coat and UV Block.

I also did my toenails!  Hello Kitty from fingers to toes!  It's time I get girly!

Have a wonderful Monday everyone!

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!