AMW Reports: Freeway x Manansala Event

Early this week, I was one of the lucky bloggers who got an invite to attend the Freeway x Manansala Event.  The brand Freeway isn't new to me and I've attended a couple of their Freeway Loves Art: National Artists Collectors' Series and to those series that I've attended left me a good impact! My pride for our local artists expanded to this "nth" level!

I got tied up with super busy schedule so I wasn't able to attend the previous Two: Ramon Valera (Fashion Design) and the first living National Artist in the series, F. Sionil Jose (Literature)!  The latter, F. Sionil Jose is one of my favorite local novelist and I've read his book "Mass" from cover to cover (it was a highschool book report but I ended up liking it I reread it again a couple of years ago).

The Freeway x Manansala Event is no exception in putting me at awe so I'm glad I was able to bring myself to the event right in time!  Thanks Mira of Freeway for updating me!

To those who do not know who Vicente Manansala is ---

Vicente Silva Manansala was a Philippine cubist painter and illustrator.  Born in Macabebe, Pampanga on January 22, 1910, he studied at U.P. School of Fine Arts and received a six-month grant by UNESCO to study at the Ecole de Beaux Arts in Banff and Montreal, Canada.  He received a nine-month scholarship to study at the Ecole de Beaux Arts in Paris by the French Government.

Impressive right?

 Manansala painted an innovative mother and child, Madonna of the Slums, 1950 which reflected the poverty in postwar Manila.  Besides the Mother-and Child, his subjects included jeepneys, barong-barong, cockfighters, familieis gathering for a modest meal, and Quiapo women vendors of various goods.

Vicente Manansala was hailed a National Artist of the Philippines in Visual Arts in 1982.

The event was hosted by my schoolmate Tim Yap and the ever fierce Divine Lee both wearing Manansala outfits.  

The 22 piece beautiful collection was showcased in a Fashion Show.  Everything was in a blur (so many people in the event) so I took shots of my 'favorites' amongst the huge collection.

 Three Quarter Sleeve Tent Top 

with Neckline Loop Piping

Extended Collar Tailored Dress with Print

Php1,995.00

Halter Bubble Dress with Print

Php1,995.00

Oversized Sublimation Print Top

Php1,295.00

Fans!

  After the fashion show, 3 important guests were asked to come up on stage for a chat.

From Left to Right ---

Ronna Manansala, the Granddaughter of Vicente Manansala

Cedie Lopez-Vargas of The Lopez Museum

and Maritess Mendoza-Pineda, Presdient of Freinds of Manansala Foundation

The 3 guests shared to the audience the brilliance of the man of the hour --- Vicente Manansala.  Oh, according to Ronna (the granddaughter), Mr. Manansala likes watching his tv shows with light on top of his head then he would wear sun visor!  It's a tiny tidbit not everyone would know about the said National Artist!

After the inspirational interview, Freeway's CEO, Sheree Roxas-Chua Gotuaco gave her thanks to all the wonderful people behind the event!  The inspiration, the love makes National Artists Collectors' Series a success!

Some more merchandise from the collection that sparked my interest....I don't know about you but they do make a great gift especially to our friends from abroad!

Clockwise Starts from Upper Left 

Mother of Pearl Necklace with Print Php845.00

Sleeveless Tent Dress with Center Panel Print Php1,995

Wooden 4 Square Bracelet Php795.00

Mousepad with Manasala Sungka Print Php145.00

Clockwise Starts from Upper Left 

Canvass Tote Bag with Manansala Market Scene Php695.00

Commemorative Manansala Watch Php1,195

Knitted Bolero with print and Hem Ribbing Php1,495.00

Crop Semi-Circle Shaped Knit Top and Print Php795.00

 

For more information about the collection, visit Freeway website at www.freeway.net.ph. Like Freeway on Facebook (facebook.com/FreewayOnline) and follow on Twitter (twitter.com/FreewayOnline)

Which among the pieces above caught your interest?
Do you own any of the previous Freeway Loves Art: National Artists Collectors' Series piece/pieces?

Filipino Pride!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: KATE Mineral UV Gel Base

When I was starting out on makeup, I heard about the greatness of a makeup base but I can't seem to find one that's inexpensive for me to try.  I strongly remember finding one from Maybelline and I actually finished up a tube (without the review as I do not blog then).  I wasn't ecstatic about the product but it did not fail me either.

Then came brands and brands of makeup bases that gets a bit confusing.  Well it gets a whole lot confusing at first but once I get the hang of the needs of my skin, everything turned out a bit easier.

I do not use an oil control primer on myself, I do use them on my clients!  When it comes to makeup bases, I prefer them to work just as base --- shield between my foundation and skin + the added benefits like SPF protection would be even better.

Then came KATE UV Gel Base and its Mineral! I've given this a try for the past weeks and I'm ready to tell you my thoughts!

KATE Mineral UV Gel Base says ---

An advanced UV protection mineral makeup base that protects skin from dryness and UV rays, and keeps it beautiful with just a single application. A clear gel that can work as a sunscreen and does not whiten the skin
SPF32 PA++

• Double-effect mineral powder (skin protection and visible pore coverage)
• Multiple moisturizing ingredients (olive oil, jojoba oil and almond oil)
• Paraben (preservative) free
• Fragrance free
• Pigment free

Size: 25g
Made in Japan

AMW says ---

Pros

• Comes in squeezable tube.
• Nice tip, non-messy application.

• Dries off invisible, does not change your skin's color.
• Very light on skin, doesn't feel heavy for the rest of the day.
• Gives protection with SPF32 PA++.
• Foundation stays and does not slide.
• Mineral lovers like the mineral makeup base.
• Does not create white cast even when taken with direct flash.

Cons

• Information in Japanese. I can't even read ingredients.

• Has a very tiny glue scent. (This goes off several minutes after).
• Gives a tiny sheen, your skin feels like there's a very thin layer of film/coat all over your face.

Overall

I can give this product a skip because of the light "gluey scent and feel" as I am very particular with the scent of any skin products.

The product does give a nice layer of smoothness which makes it easier to apply foundation.  I do not have huge pores (due to dry skin) to test the pore coverage but my powder foundation does not sink into the lines around my eyes.

The product is not moisturizing enough, so for dry skinned individuals, an application of moisturizer is still needed. On a positive note, it helps my foundation stays longer.

Tips

• Dry skin needs to moisturize skin properly prior to KATE Mineral UV Gel Base application.
• Do a patch test if skin is sensitive even to mineral based products.
• Apply a very thin layer especially on areas that have visible lines and pores.
• If you choose to apply a small amount of the UV Gel Base, use appropriate sunscreen prior to makeup application.
• Do a patch test if you have sensitive skin.
• Stop usage immediately once allergic reactions occur.

Will I repurchase?
Not for myself.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who likes to use a makeup base and sunblock in 1 product.  Mineral makeup lovers too.

Where to purchase and how much?
At Watsons Beauty for Php720.00 (approx $16.75).

Light, gel-like texture that's white 

once you squeezed out from tube

Gets opaque as you blend

Gets absorbed into the skin without any marks

Just a tiny sheen when you look closely

What's your first makeup base ever???
Mine was the Maybelline UV White Stay :)

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

AMW Reviews: Muji 7 Herb Fragrance Shampoo and Conditioner + Special Haircare Promo

The first time I set foot on a Muji Store, it was in Hong Kong and I was at awe as I wanted to purchase loads of stuff but I worry on excess baggage so I ended up with small, lightweight products like pencils, notebooks and of course nuts and chips!

When Muji finally opened its doors at Bonifacio High Street, I got the excitement of my life when I visited the store!  Though overwhelmed, I am most intrigued in 3 of their categories --- Food, Storage and of course, Health and Beauty!

I've always been a fan of Japan-made hair care products!  That's a huge reason why I went all the way to Shanghai to purchase Tsubaki and Aquair shampoo and conditioner sets both from Shiseido.  When I heard about the hair care line from Muji, I got really excited! Okay, they're all written in Japanese but let me translate it for you (as if!) *laughs*

 Seaweed Shampoo and Conditioner

 5 Fruits Shampoo and Conditioner

 7 Herbs Shampoo and Conditioner

And here's the set I got for review :)

(a bit worried on the herb part, let's see...)

Muji Shampoo and Conditioner says ---

There are five variants to choose from: Five Fruits, Seven Herbs, Seaweed, Mild Natural and Mild.

1. Five Fruits - Infused with Peach, Pomegranate, Raspberry, Grapefruit and Apple extracts, this pair of shampoo and conditioner helps revitalize dull and dry hair and stimulate hair growth. Good for oily hair.
2. Seven Herbs - Infused with Rosemary, Matricaria (Sunflower), Sage, Peppermint, Thyme, Jojoba and Lavender extracts, these herbs are known to stimulate growth of healthy hair, leaving it shiny and moisturized. Good for dry hair.
3. Seaweed - For frequent hair washers, the seaweed extracts maintains a healthy scalp and helps develop shiny, healthy hair. Good for colored hair that requires daily maintenance.
4. Mild Natural – Contains Coconut Extracts (Gugo), a popular natural ingredient that soothes the scalp and strengthens hair. Good for normal to dry hair.
5. Mild – With a mild soap solution, this variant is perfect for sensitive scalp and fine hair.

AMW says ---

Pros

• Very cute packaging that would look great in ANY bathroom.  The bottles are made from PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) bottles, which are eco-friendly and recyclable.
• Pump is sealed to assure buyers you get the product fresh.

• Nice pump which makes it easy to control how much shampoo and conditioner you need.

• Smells nice, reminds me of most shampoos and conditioners that you find in most hotels.  Okay, the set is called 7 Herb Fragrance and there's nothing herbal in it!  It smells really good.
• Does not oil up my scalp.
• Hair feels soft and light the whole day.
• Hair is easy to comb.
• I feel like my hair has this nice "moisture".

Cons

• All in Japanese wordings.  Can't seem to read the label.

• Not everyone would be "okay" with the scent.  Could be a PRO or CON but the scent does not last long.
• If you have very oily hair to start with, this may feel a bit heavy for you!  Go for the other variants made for oily hair.

Overall

I'm actually surprised to use a natural, organic shampoo (on its own) that does not dry my hair or make it feels like straw (base on past experiences).  I feel much at ease putting on natural ingredients on my hair as my hairdresser has been complaining on how sensitized my hair is! 

Tips

• If you plan to purchase this on sale, go ahead!   (Kindly read further below for more details).
• For conditioner, always steer clear from the scalp area.  Apply from mid-shaft to the ends of the hair.
• If scalp itches or dandruff occurs, stop usage immediately!
• If you dislike hotel shampoos and conditioners, purchase containers and transfer.  Saves luggage space and your hair stay happy!
• Use clarifying shampoo at least once a week to remove product buildup on your hair.

Will I repurchase?
Yes, in other variant!  I'm eyeing on the  Mild Natural variant as I have dry scalp or the Seaweed variant due to my color treated hair and I do wash my hair on a daily basis.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone looking for shampoo and conditioner made with natural ingredients and not much chemicals included.

Where to purchase and how much?

Shampoo costs Php925.00 (approx $21.50) and conditioner costs Php925.00 (approx $21.50).  Every purchase of 400ml bottles of MUJI Shampoo and Conditioner of the same variant saves you 20% from the original total amount of the two bottles. (that would mean, each would now cost Php740.00 (approx $17.20) this month of October!) You can purchase these at Bonifacio High Street, Rockwell Powerplant Mall, Greenbelt 3 and SM Mall of Asia. 

*infomercial voice* "Wait!  There's MORE!" 

MUJI officially begins the early Holidays this October. For every pair of socks or stockings or a piece of handkerchief, customer gets 50% off on his next purchase of the same item.

Food items will be on “Buy 1, Take 1 at 50% off” deal starting October 15 onwards. Customers will see doubles of snacks and goodies like Pea and Corn Snacks, Chocolate-Covered Peanuts, Dried Fruit Mix, Dried Squid and Lemon and Strawberry Marshmallows. These are ideal in preparation for the Halloween weekend. New favorites now include Special Pasta Sauces like Cod Roe, Squid Ink and Sea Urchin and pastries Easy to Bake Lemon Cheesecake and Pumpkin Scone.

Feel free to add them up on their FB Page (Muji Philippines) to learn more about Muji products and future deals!

Are there any other stuff worth checking out at Muji's Health & Beauty section?
I'd love to hear from you!

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

(This is a sponsored post.)

AMW Reviews: Obagi-C C-Sunguard SPF30

The week flew by pretty quickly because I've been busy going in and out of the house!  *giggles*  That made me feel like teenager all over again!  *wahahaha*

Let's get back to the reason for this report!  I will be reviewing *drumroll* my most expensive sunblock to date!  Going out of the country is the best time to test products and one product I brought along is the Obagi-C C-Sunguard SPF30.  It was the ultimate test as I know when I'm out of the country, I expose myself to the environment and under the sun!  Who would like to bring an umbrella during travel?  Not this girl!!!

When I attended the House of Obagi Event more than a month ago, all the attendees were given an Obagi-C C-Sungard SPF30 sunblock which works for any skin type!  I didn't use this right away as I am saving this for the harshest sun exposure!

Obagi-C C-Sunguard SPF30 says ---

C-Sunguard SPF 30 is formulated with ultra-sheer Z-Cote, an effective barrier that provides a superior measure of sun protection from UVB damage and against long-UVA rays linked to premature skin aging.  Regular application of C-Sunguard SPF30 can help protect your Photolumines Skin from future sun damage.

Ingredients: butylparaben, cetearyl alcohol, citric acid, C13-14 isoparaffin, diethanolamine cetyle phospate, disodium edetate, ethylparaben, isobutylparaben, isopropyl palmitate, laureth-7, methylparaben, octyl stearate, phenoxyethanol, polyacrylamide, polyether-1, polysorbate 60, propylparaben, purified water, sodium hydroxide, triethoxycaprylysilane.

AMW says ---

Pros

• Simple squeeze type packaging makes it easy to control the amount of product you want to come out.

• Sealed upon purchase for freshness.

• Gets absorbed into the skin easily.
• No waiting time, finishes matte immediately!
• Doesn't feel oily or sticky in the middle of the day.
• No allergic reactions occur.
• No weird scent.
• The protection on UVA and UVB isn't seen by naked eyes but I did not turn dark in the duration of the whole trip.
• Recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation.

Cons

• Obviously, the price!  There are so many inexpensive sunblock brands out there!

Overall

As most sunblock lotions or creams, you cannot really see the quick effect of it as we cannot see UVA and UVB with our naked eyes.  The only basis for us to know if a sunblock works is on its physical manifestation which is getting dark or not!  

For the Obagi-C C-Sunguard SPF30 sunblock, the very positive thing that I've seen in this is the fact it finishes matte and I don't feel like I have anything on my skin for the rest of the day.  I was under EXTREME humidity and directly under the sun's harsh rays for the whole day but I went back to Manila with the same skin color!  Mind you, if I may have to add, I only applied this sunblock in the morning before I leave the hotel.  I did bring the sunblock inside my bag but I just didn't have time for re-application and so far, it still works! (Keep in mind that I do not perpire A LOT!)

Tips

• Apply generously and evenly 15 minutes before sun exposure.
• Re-apply as needed especially if you perspire a lot or after swimming.
• Always store the product in cool, dry place.
• If you are sensitive to certain ingredients, read labels and do a patch test prior to using this all over your face and body.
• Keep out of eyes, rinse with water if accidents occur.
• Wear clothing that protects your skin even if you have sunblock on.
• Try not to stay under the sun too long.  Wear hats, sunglasses, clothing that covers major parts of your skin when needed.

Will I repurchase?
Yes.

To whom do I recommend this to?
Anyone who hates the sticky feel of sunblock.  If you're under Obagi skincare treatment too.

Where to purchase and how much?
At House of Obagi Trinoma, Alabang Town Center, Greenbelt 5, SM North, SM Pampanga and Ronbinsons Place for Php3,740 (approx $87.00).

A photo of me on the 5th day in Singapore.  I walked around the Lion city with Obagi-C C-Sunguard SPF30 applied once a day and so far,  my skin color did not change...at all!  So, I'm ready to say...

"WELCOME TO SINGAPORE!!!"

*arms wide open* LOL

When you're out under the sun for prolong period of time, I strongly suggest to reapply your sunblock and bring with you sunnies and hats.  (I know, I should practice what I preach but hey!  Who's the reviewer here?) *lol*

It feels good to be safe under the harsh sun!  I am actually giving this bottle to Mr. AMW as he hates sunblock application because he perspires a lot and he dislikes the moisturizing feel other sunblock brands offer. 

Love is sharing, and I'm giving up the product I like to the man I love. :D  

Would you be willing to shell out such amount of money for the super matte feel?

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

(Author received product during an event.  Reviews 100% mine.  Please purchase at your own discretion.)

AMW Reviews: Charm Pocket Brush Set

I can still remember my first ever brush set that I purchased when I wasn't even a make-up artist.  Mind you, it wasn't that long ago!  As you can see, I love applying makeup on other people rather than myself!  I guess I grew up in a more conservative family when it comes to beauty.  My mom has always been a plain powder and lipstick user (until now).  Seeing me in full-faced makeup will probably shock the hell of my family members so I'm always leaning on the natural look!

So I understand pretty well when readers email me for an advise on a pocket brush set that's simple, inexpensive and they can use all the brushes instead of paying for more but using just 3-5 out of the 12 pieces.  I understand, and I'm glad Charm does too!

Before I left for Singapore, Charm came up with a Charm Pocket Brush Set perfect for simple makeup users or makeup beginners (even make up professionals as I like using this set for touch ups when I attend events)!  I was lucky I was able to give this brush set a try before I've decided to purchase more of these as gifts! 

You'll know why they are perfect for gift-giving....

The Charm Pocket Brush Set is housed in a "Crackle Polish" design

(sorry, I'm into nail art, so that explains the comparison) :P

The set includes 5 pieces of mini version of the Charm Travel Pro brushes

Charm Pocket Brush Set says ---

The very cute Charm Pocket Brush Set gives you five very basic travel brushes, in a very very cute small bag, that promises to let you function and do your basic makeup when you only have a small, small bag. It is also very helpful for emergency makeup situations, and retouches when you have limited bag space. You will never ever be short of makeup brushes ever again, with our Charm Pocket Brush Set!

Featuring five basic brushes that has dual functions :

1. Powder Brush
2. Big Eyeshadow Brush
3. Angled Eyeliner Brush
4. Lip Brush
5. Brow Comb 

AMW says ---

Pros

• The set is protected with clear plastic upon purchase.

• The packaging is gorgeous and unique.
• Slim brush holder that can fit in any tiny purse.
• The small bag can be cleaned.  (kindly read tip on how to remove makeup stains on the inside)
• All the brushes are multi-functional.
• Does not shed or bleed upon first, second, third or future washes.
• Bristles are soft and non-scratchy.
• Inexpensive for a good quality brush set with the added super cute and unique pouch!

Cons

• If you are apply makeup the "hardcore" way, the brushes on Pocket Brush Set may not be enough for you.

Overall
All the 5 brushes included in this set is multi-functional and useful which leads to getting your money's worth!

Tips

• Always wash your brushes upon purchase.
• Make sure the brushes are completely dry before you use them.
• To help remove oil-based products, swirl your brush on Olive oil then cleanse with baby shampoo + gentle dish washing liquid.
• For makeup stains on the inner clothing, use a makeup remover wipes or use a cotton pad with makeup remover and gently wipe the stain.
• For hardcore stains, use a toothbrush and mild soap and gently brush the stained area and let dry.
• Since this is a multi-functional pocket brush set, you need to have a makeup remover sheets or makeup cleaner in between application before you use this for different functions. (ex. Big eyeshadow brush can be used as concealer and eyeshadow brush, you have to clean the brush again before you proceed to the next function.)
  

Will I repurchase?
I did! I repurchase more than 10 sets of these as gifts!

Where to purchase and how much?

Php500 (approx $12.00) free shipping nationwide at Beauty & Minerals website.  If you want to see the brushes up close and personal, you can check them out at PurBeauty, Serendra and The Ramp, Crossings at Shangri-La Plaza Branch Ground Floor.

I believe Charm brushes will be available in Singapore soon?  I will update here if I get more details! :)

Powder Brush
Can be used as powder brush, and blush brush

I also like using this to remove fall outs after eyeshadow application.  Because of the firmness of the brush, I also use this to apply my favorite powdered contouring powders and  highlighters.

To apply highlight on the brow bone area, I use my fingers in pressing the brush, with just the tip dab on highlighters on the brow bone area.  It works!

Big Eyeshadow Brush

Can be used as eyeshadow applicator or concealer brush for undereyes

This is a perfect concealer brush especially for the under eye area.  For spot correcting, I can use just the tip of the brush with a dabbing motion and it works.

To be used as an eyeshadow applicator, I like using the flat surface and gently press the eyeshadow powders on the lid.  It helps to prime your eyes so eyeshadow will stick easily.  If you prefer to apply eyeshadow on the outer-v, it helps to use just the tip and gently brush with wiper motion.

This brush has the most function I would say, adding to the 2 functions above, I like using the same brush to apply my cream highlighters especially on my cheekbones.  I also like using this brush to apply cream based eyeshadow or even eyeshadow primers.

And that's not all, would you believe I like using this brush to apply my lipstick?  Yes, for dry lips like mine, I use the flat surface of the brush to apply my lipstick in just ONE swipe.  Going back and forth with a brush can cause flaking, with just one swipe, lipstick appears smooth and even! 

Angled Eyeliner Brush

Can be used to shade and shape the eyebrows and apply eyeliner

This help creates medium to thick eyeliner for gel liner users.  You can also use this brush to apply liner with dark eyeshadow powders for a more natural look.

I prefer not to use this to apply my brow powders.  I am still depending on my Charm Dream Brow Duo Brush!

Lip brush

Can be used to apply lipstick or be used to spot conceal blemishes 

Aside from lipstick application and concealing blemishes.  This brush can also double up as eyeshadow brush.  For monolids out there who wants to draw a fake crease, this is the best brush to go as it has the right stiffness and shape.

 Brow Comb

Allows you to sweep your brows in one, 

uniform direction as you need to have neat brows all of the time!

It also lets you blend your eyebrow color.

The comb portion can also be used to separate mascara clumps after mascara application, you can also use the comb to brush your bangs, for women and beard for men *lol*  Just joking, I'm just making sure you're still reading this and not falling asleep! :P

Monday!  Monday!  I hope you're easy and quick today!  

Have a wonderful week everyone and cheers for positivity!
Before I end this post, I want to know...

"Do you take with you a brush set on a daily basis?"

Keep smilin'

Stay happy!