Hello! It has been a long while since I have done a tag or a questionaire entry.

Because I feel the sort of entries I am churning out, or have a mind to put out are a bit of a ho-hum lately, I thought I would do take a little breather (for myself and hopefully you) and wander into a quick tag post that I chanced upon on Roseanne's blog.

I hope these Questions and Answers are interesting enough for you so... here goes!

(inserts mandatory self-shot else the entry is all words)

I think I am wearing NARS Majella here. Think.

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1. Do you wear the same style everyday or do you change it?

Somewhat a yes and no. In terms of makeup my looks are rather standard yet I do change and try various shadows / shades if I have the time for it. Though my favorite way to switch up my every day look is by playing around with my lip shades — a bold red one day, a nude, an orange-red or pink the other etc.

2. Do you do your own mani/pedi or go to a salon?

I prefer to file, buff and paint my nails on my own. Maybe it is because I don't have a whole lot of time to sit around now? It sounds like a nice indulgence to have once in awhile yet sometimes I feel what I do is enough for myself. ha!

3. How long does it take for you to put on your make-up?

My usual look with mascara and the works takes me about 30 minutes (a big improvement from the 1 hour that it used to take me!) while quick looks can take 5-10 minutes and elaborate / smokey ones taking longer of course.

4. What do you do first? Face or eyes?

My Face! Unless I am doing a smokey or glittery look where I know I will encounter a crap load of fall out, otherwise I always do my face first. It helps me gauge the eyelook better, somehow.

5. Do you “collect” make-up or just buy what you need when you need it?

To a certain extent I 'collect' yet I do use what I 'collect' as well so nothing remains sitting around just for display. Though of late I am starting to be more rational with my purchases and don't simply buy something for the sake of owning it. Unless it really is super duper pretty, heh. We all have weaknesses.

6. How often do you wear false lashes?

Hardly ever. I would wear them for Fashion Features just because they make the overall makeup look appear better on camera and occasionally during events but otherwise mascara is usually enough for me.

7. Do you do a full face of make-up everyday?

Everyday meaning work day then yes, pretty much. I wear close to nothing on weekends unless I have something on.

8. Do you wear make-up when you are home alone or with family?

No of course not. Who would though... just wondering.

9. Will you leave the house without make-up?

Yes. If you asked me this 4 years ago maybe my answer would be 'NEVAAAA' but over the years I have started to feel more comfortable in my own skin and aside from filling in my very sparse brows, I have ventured to Orchard without anything else on so I would say going without make-up is not a big deal to me now.

10. How many high end products do you have?

I sure don't have a lot compared to others yet I don't keep track either. Why would I?

11. How often do you change your handbag?

Whenever I need a new one. ha! I am quite fuss free in this aspect. I used to match my bags to my attire  but now I just couldn't be bothered. If everything fits, I'm good to go.

12. What time do you get up and go to sleep?

Since it is back to work, I wake up at 7 plus in the morning. As for my bedtime, it is highly dependant on what time baby wants to sleep; if I am lucky, it is usually around 12 or 1am

13. How often do you work out?

Now, sad to say, never.

14. Do you speak a foreign language?

I don't speak it well but I can understand basic conversational korean and I can read hangul, that's about it. Though I am intrigued with languages and if I had the chance / time to I would love to pick up more.

15. How did you come up with your blog name?

Oh no, not this question again. Basically icyabstract is a username that my younger teenage self created and it just stuck around till now. If I had a choice I would have renamed my youtube / blog something less poser-sounding.

16. What kind of camera do you use for photographs?

For the most part my trusty SONY A350 though occasionally I throw some mobile shots on here too.

17. What is your favourite color?

Purple! Though specifically I like the light pastel variants of it, such as lilac and lavender.

18. What are you doing with the rest of your day?

TGIF! After the mandatory bore at work, the rest of the day includes some catching up with beauty pals, playing with makeup and then date night with hubs before returning to mommy duties.

Hope everyone's Friday sounds awesome be it chilling or just resting!

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And that is the tag! Word is the original tag is a whole lot longer but Roseanne (who I got these questions from) filtered them down to 18 more relevant questions. While I was not tagged by her to do it and picked it up to do on my own, I hope no one minds. I just needed a little entry to just ramble and 'unwind' in.

With that said, I tag Eliza, Sophia and Mabel to do this tag and anyone else who is interested!

Thanks for reading and do bear with me again in these busy periods where my blog is at a bit of a lull.

Hello again!

I started off this LOTD with a mind to pull together something Dior-ish but after ransacking my stash, I gave up on that theme due to my lack of Dior in other departments such as eyeliner, loose powder etc.

Instead, I would just call this yet another simple ole neutral. Simple but with a bit of a twist.

Some of the products that I wish to give mention to in this LOTD would be Dior's 5 Couleur palette in Frost Bloom and also Mirenesse's Inside Out 27H Eye Kohl in Atum. Both of which I had given mention to fairly recently.

While the look appears to be the usual neutral, well, who am I kidding it is a neutral regardless! Though let me break it down for you a little and hopefully give the look more 'insight'.

p.s. that 'line' on my nose is a strand of hair, not some weird contouring going on.

The Eye Look –

I first applied MAC's Groundwork paintpot all over the lids and just over the crease (resulting in that warm brown over the crease), followed by Dior's 5 Couleur Palette in Frost Bloom over the inner corner.

Following that, I applied MAC's Henna eyeshadow (limited edition) over the centre and a blend of Stila In the Garden's Moss and Juniper for definition on the outer-corner.

To add just a bit more sparkle to compliment the gold bits in MAC's Henna, I lined my upper lids with Mirenesse's Atum – the beautiful black liner strewn with gold pearls incase you forgot.

The golden pearly glint from Mirenesse's Atum spices up the look in a subtle way. It isn't overly noticeable but can be seen when it catches the light. It's quite lovely!

I know, enough of my eye already but I am uploading this last one because you can actually spy a little of that pearly green-blue tones from the light Dior shade.

On the rest of the face, I kept it warm and coral-y with MAC's Warmth of Coral on the cheeks and Shy Girl (also from MAC) lipstick on the lips.

Products Used:

BROWS / FACE
K Palette Brow Liquid in 01
Maquillage Brow Wax in 77
Biore UV Aquarich Watery Essence SPF 50 PA+++ (silver tube)
Diorskin Nude Liquid Foundation
NARS Light Reflecting Loose Powder
MAC Bronzer

EYES
NARS Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base
MAC Groundwork Paintpot
Dior 5 Couleur in Frost Bloom 334 (top right shade)
MAC Eyeshadow in Henna
Stila In The Garden palette (Moss and Juniper)
Mirenesse Eye Kohl in Atum
MAC Powerpoint Pencil in Engraved
Helena Rubinstein Lash Queen Feline (Waterproof)

CHEEKS
MAC Mineralzed Blush in Warmth of Coral

LIPS
MAC Lipstick in Shy Girl

Highlighted products were provided by companies/distributors,
I was not obliged to use/feature them in LOTDs.

And here's another quick LOTD update from me!

While I think the whole ombre hair trend is a little over done, I am actually quite grateful for it because with that around I can pass off my horribly outgrown-and-in-need-of-expert-hands hair as some form of an ombre. ha!

That isn't just my opinion and I have actually gotten some questions from friends regarding that, if I had DIY-ed it or had it done at a salon. Heh.

Though truth is truth, it is overgrown and I will have to do something about it soon. I am making up my mind about whether I should chop it off and try going short (my definition of short is not pixie) or just layer and keep the precious length.

Any thoughts or recommendations?

Thanks for reading!

Aside from skincare and skin-perfecting items launched with Dior's Diorsnow Spring 2013, the accompanying Color Collection launch sees a touch of pastel infusion through the Dior 5 Couleur Palette in Frost Bloom 334.

Here's a look at the palette along with some quick swatches and thoughts.

Housed in the usual velvet pouch and midly domed lid, the shades included are a refreshing change from the clear and white color palette of Diorsnow collections. Albeit still refreshing and soft for spring.

Frost Bloom 334 is a pastel-hued palette containing a mix of pearly tones and softer satin shades.

The light pearly tones dominate the palette with their purpose of casting a soft irridescent veil of color and radiance to the lid, as opposed to laying down some heavy pigmentation. The 2 satin shades on the other hand do impart more pigment and still have a soft sheen to them.

Though an opinion I immediately formed while playing around with this is that the dominance of light and pearly tones makes this something nice to have in the stash, as opposed to being an item that you can create a multitude of looks with.

Of course you can use this palette in many ways to create many looks but with the pearlescent shades swatching as a light veil and appearing quite close once worn on the eye along with the 2 stronger shades (pink and blue) not adding the kind of depth that I prefer, I personally would not reach for this alone for a 'complete' eye look.

Though to give the palette credit, it is a beautiful piece both visually and in terms of quality.

The shadows are soft to the touch and glide on smoothly without much or noticeable fallout. I only experienced slight chalkiness with one shade (number 2, as labeled below) but otherwise the rest of the shades were beautiful to work with.

The pigmentation of the pearly shades in this palette is in the style of the typical Asian makeup brands. The shades are a sweep of light radiance on the lids, pearly and beautiful without a strong base color.

As far as pearly shades go, these are in a way quite pigmented in that field. If that makes sense.

I have encountered pearly shades that swatch more translucent so I feel these have a decent base pigmentation to them.

In all, I can't say that this palette is going to be everyone's cup of tea.

If you are a fan of light eye looks with a pearly glint and lovely radiant glow then yes, this would be a beautiful addition to your stash.

For those swayed by the look of the palette but aren't certain about the lightness of the shades, you can consider the fact that these irridescent shades do work well, and really glow, over a darker base.

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I personally enjoy playing around with this palette and finding various ways to wear it – be it on its own, mixed with other shades or over deeper base colors.

Though my favorite of all would be the unimaginative way of sweeping the pearly tones all over my lid for a quick, natural and perked up look. That adds a little sparkle but yet the color isn't too condensed that I feel I need the works to 'match it'.

I wouldn't rank this palette as a must-have but if pastel pearly shades like these, are right up your alley then go for it! Grab this Limited Edition Spring pop of color while it is available.

The Dior 5 Couleurs in Frost Bloom is available from March 2013 onwards.

Thanks for reading!

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

Kicking off 2013 to a magical, feminine and colorful start, Shu Uemura introduces Blossom Dream, their Spring Summer 2013 Makeup Collection.

Inspired by the softness of florals along with the vivid tones of life springing up across meadows, fields and clear blue skies, Shu Uemura's Chief Makeup Artist Yuji Asano draws up Blossom Dream to help translate this blossoming landscape into shades, shadows and tones.

This collection sees the release of:

• 3 'Unmask' Eyeshadow Palettes (limited edition)
• 2 Drawing Pencils (limited edition)
• 5 New Glow-on Shades (new release)
• 2 Rouge Unlimited (limited edition)
• 2 Rouge Unlimited Supreme Matte (limited edition)
• 3 Gloss Unlimited (limited edition)
• 2 False Lashes (limited edition)

Typically I would do a general press feature (with press visuals) followed by a closer look at products I have on hand but due to my time constains on the computer, I will have to direct you to Sophia's very informative entry for all press information! Thanks Sophia for the entry and hope you don't mind the reference!

In this entry, I will continue with a showcase and swatch of the items I had received from Shu Uemura's Blossom Dream collection.

Sadly, none of these have been put to use in a LOTD yet (somewhat expected?) but here's a mention nonetheless, along with a distant promise that hopefully I get to play with them soon!

Starting off this entry, here's a look at one of the star products of the collection, the Unmask Eyeshadow Palette.

Unmask Eyeshadow Palette - S$98

Available in 3 shades, the Unmask Palette pink, blue or green, these palettes house shadows that have a smooth and matte-like texture to them. To tie in with the softness of Spring, these matte-like textures are refined and smooth to the touch, lending a certain softness to the look.

The case design had me guessing if it was glow-in-the-dark but sadly it is not. Though it's still an interesting piece of art nonetheless.

Of the 3 shades, I received the one in Pink.

While I am not one who relishes wearing Pink, I have to say upon dissecting the colors within the palette, it is actually very wearable by my terms!

The pinks included here are not daunting and if that mid-tone shade really isn't your thing, you can easily pull a beautiful warm (and soft) neutral look with the rest of the shades involved.

Just a random thought I had to myself but, the mid-tone pink could even double as a blush if you were trying to compact your makeup selections, easily making this an eye and cheek palette to tout about. The only down-side is the small pan-size since it is an eyeshadow so you may have to tip-toe around it with your blush brush!

Here's a swatch of the Unmask Palette in Pink.

While of a matte-like texture, I don't find the shadows particularly chalky and they all pick up with good pigmentation and no kick-up.

The only shade I could have some beef with would be the very pale pink since it may look chalky if you don't blend it right but otherwise, it's quite hard to go wrong!

Moving on from pinks, I have a Rouge Unlimited Lipstick in Dark Beige.

Rouge Unlimited Lipstick - S$33

The 2 Limited Edition Rouge Unlimited tones lean towards the neutral / orange side while the Rouge Unlimited Mattes released with this collection are pinks.

The Rouge Unlimited Lipsticks are housed in the usual packaging without any addition art to them.

Dark Beige, as the name goes is... well, a dark beige-ish shade that makes it work well as a neutral and easy-to-wear lip color. It has hints of a neutral pink in it, to add some life to the overall color.

The Rouge Unlimited Lipsticks typically have a mild gloss quality to them while having a decent pigmentation pay-off. While this color wasn't as beige as I would have liked, I am not complaining and it is still a lovely one to wear.

I don't have lip swatches now but I will use it in a look sometime down the road!

Last but not least, we have a blush to complete the look!

Shu Uemura Glow On (Blush) - S$33

Here, I have the Glow On in P Soft Coral 332 which in person, actually appears more pink than coral to me.

The 5 new shades launched with this collection came in a range of Pearl and Matte finishes with Soft Coral 332 here being a Pearl.

The pearlescent glint in Soft Coral is very mild but I suppose it would add a little something when worn on the cheeks.

This shade is also a rather pale yet warm pink on my skintone but it can be layered for a stronger show of color.

While right off the bat I may have assumed that Soft Coral 332 isn't my sort of color, I have grown to like how easy it is to wear.

You can hardly go wrong with it since it has a soft pigmentation and when used lightly, gives a beautifully natural flush – almost like you are not wearing any blush at all!

A little randomness but since this is a little 'home-less' blush pan, I have since gave it refuge in a quad I had hauled sometime back.

It used to house 2 eyeshadows and a Glow On but it is now purely a Glow On palette!

A very handy one to tote around too since it contains a soft natural day blush on one side and a more intense one (P Medium Red 175) on the other side if I need to 'switch up my look'.

For the fun of, here are quick swatches:

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So that wraps up my entry and you have absolutely no idea how glad I am to finally complete this! I swear, it has been sitting in my drafts since the start of 2013!

Anyway... I'll throw a LOTD of this up as soon as I can!

The Blossom Dream Collection is already out at Shu Uemura counters! Grab it while stocks last!

Thanks for reading!

Disclosure:
Products (except for the quad and P Medium Red 175) were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

Hello again everyone!

It's already 2013 (Happy New Year!!) and here I am still harping on Autumn Winter releases from 2012. Apologies about that and do bear with my very belated mentions on these!

I had received some pieces from KATE Cosmetic's Autumn Winter 2012 Collection a good while ago (and did a brief mention here) but I don't know what took me this long to give it an official mention on here.

While the mention is late, I did get a chance to play around with some of them before my whole makeup abstinence period. More pointedly, I was thrilled to give the foundation a shot but... I shan't ramble too much in the intro, let's take a look at the items!

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With this collection, KATE looks to get us all set and glammed up to be in the spotlight, perfect for the festive seasons that just passed. Though you don't always need a festive occasion to be glammed up!

Be enchanted with the multitude of jewel-like shiny shades and deep shimmering hues that add an edgy touch to the look. To complete a glammed up look, the collection also contains key products to accentuate your features for that final touch!

Though to kick off the feature, let's start with the basics of having a flawless natural base.

KATE Powderless Liquid Foundation (30ml) — S$34

Formulated with a Thin Film Fit Powder, the magic of this is that it turns from liquid to powder within 15 seconds of application (spreading and blending) and eliminates the typical need of setting your liquid foundation after!

Housed in a handy-sized (and rather adorably squat) bottle, this was something I looked forward to trying after the buzz about it online before it was stated to arrive on our shores.

I have given it a couple of tries, amidst my detour from the liquid foundation world, and must say that I am seemingly impressed. I will save my thoughts, swatches and information about this for a more indepth review entry to come (fingers crossed I find time!).

KATE Slim Create Powder — $27

What's a glammed up look without a little contouring?

I am a pretty huge fan of contouring such that it is a habitual thing for me and I do it everytime I put a full face of makeup on. Even if I am in a rush and could only do 1 cheek application, I would choose this over using a blush. Don't ask me why, it just became habit.

Thus, this compact little contouring and highlighting kit from KATE is actually a very useful thing to have. Mainly for the ease of having 2 items in 1 and also the compact size to tote around.

The powder comes encased with a diagram on coutouring and highlighting tips, along with a flat brush that was surprisingly very soft to the touch. It may not be the most plush (which I prefer for contouring) but if you were on-the-go, this would do the job just fine.

The contour powder is mostly matte with a very very faint sheen to it. I am pretty sure that is a slight glint and my eyes are not deceiving me but the glint and sheen is definitely more prominent in the highlight shade.

Though sadly for me, I don't entirely like the contour shade for my cheek area, just because it doesn't differ too much from my skintone. Thus, I really have to work at it for any true contour effect to show up.

However it is also this 'lightness' and 'foolproof-ness' of it that makes it perfect for mildly sculpting and defining my nose area, just because I know I can't really go wrong with it.

Don't get me wrong, this would contour my cheeks just fine if I work at it but given my rush hour mornings, I'd rather do a light dab and blend of my current contour shade than go back and forth this mini pan.

KATE Limited Colour Super Sharp Liner — S$17

Yes, the previously showcased red eyeliner!

KATE's Super Sharp liner is one of the more popular items from the brand and with this collection they have released 2 Limited Edition colors — Night Red and Night Blue.

What I have on hand is Night Red and as the name goes, it is a red (with a slight brown inkling) liquid liner.

The press information mentions that with a 0.03mm tip, this is one of the thinnest liner finds in the Japanese market. While I can't be totally sure of that with K-Palette's Micro Liner around, I wouldn't deny that KATE's Super Sharp Liner does draw a thin line regardless of the brush tip size.

K-Palette (Left) / KATE (Right)

I am quite intrigued with the shade of this while feeling stumped on how to best use it. Thankfully it leans a wee bit brown and is not an intense out-right red but a part of me feels I still can't entirely use this on its own.

Either ways, I'll find a way and perhaps showcase it when I do, if it looks decent!

KATE Deep Shiny Eyes (in GY-1) — S$23.50

Taking care of the shine and shimmer portion of the Autumn Winter 2012 Collection is KATE's Deep Shiny Eyes.

Available in 6 different shades, these jewel-inspired trios have a 'Brilliant Color' (Center color) that is formulated with 'Gloss Jewelry Pearl' for a lustrous and transparent shine.

The other 2 shades within the trio are formulated with a special 'Black Star Pearl' for a deep color tone that still enhances and glow with a jewel-like radiance.

In all, I find the Deep Shiny Eyes trio falls in the same family as KATE's usual offering of shimmery and translucent-ly radiant shades, except maybe a tad darker, smokier and more suitable for glammed up looks.

At least this shade is in comparison with the other KATE palettes that I own.

Despite the fact that it is packed with shimmer and sparkle, the shadows feel smooth to the touch. I would not call the texture creamy but they feel smooth enough and defintiely not gritty.

If smokier shades like GY-1 isn't your cup of tea, here are the other color variations available covering the spectrum of neutrals, pinks and more!

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I have played around with these products prior but never got to snapping shots of them on, which is increasingly harder to do now. While I can't promise an immediate look or feature of these products, I will try when I get the chance to!

KATE's Autumn Winter 2012 Collection is available from November 2012 at selected BHG, Guardian Pharmacy, OG, John Little, Metro, Nishino Pharmacy, Sasa Cosmetics and Watsons.

Spying anything from KATE's latest collection? Did the Powderless Liquid Foundation catch your eye?

Thanks for reading!

Disclosure:
Products were provided to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

Oops, excuse the long title but here's another installment from the series of Poh Heng x Minnie Mouse Limited Edition. Though don't steer away if you have seen enough of that mention in the past 2 entries because here comes the fun part...

After being thorough with the official press information and quick feature of the Poh Heng x Minnie Mouse Limited Edition Collection, I thought I would take a break from all that and do what this blog was created to go on and on about – makeup!

Just to clarify, it isn't that the pendants are not fun but rather the 'fun' in this is just for my sake. Where I get to harness a wee bit of makeup creativity, which I haven't done in forever, and pull some looks together based on what I have gathered from these pendants. It's somewhat like college projects all over again with a little thinking and some 'hands-on' involved.

Taking a rather predictable route, since I had a 22K Yellow Gold pendant and a 18K White Gold pendant (partially referred to as silver in this entry because of color but the pendant isn't made of silver), I figured why not do makeup looks with these 2 shades!

I could do the runway-rage version which is sweep a gold / silver eyeshadow all over my lid with either zero brows or super dark brows (think Chanel S/S 2013 Runway Makeup?) but I don't think my features suit editorial / high fashion looks without looking queer. Plus, I wanted to play around and brush up on bolder looks, hence this!

While they are on the drama or 'heavier' side of looks, I wouldn't say they are completely unwearable either! Especially with festive parties coming right up, these could be fun to wear for a dressed up and glammed up occasion!

Because I want to keep this faintly artistic, I am doing all the rambling right now and the following will (as much as possible) be pictorials!

I shall let the pictures, and some words, do the talking!

(for all images - click to enlarge!)

I had a plan to mimic the different finishes on the pendant – the matte finish along with the sparkly diamonds. While the silvers swatched with obviously different finishes above, sadly, on the eyes the difference in texture and sparkle wasn't that discernible.

Thus, for the look while I wanted to keep it silver-focussed, I injected a bit of blue (on the very outer edge) just to give it a little something.

Without further ado, here's the silver / white gold look.

Since there is so much silver-bling going on on the eyes, I kept the rest of the face matte and shine-free with Diorskin's Nude Liquid Foundation though I did dab on a slight sheen with MAC's Mineralized Blush in Ring of Saturn for a lightly flushed look.

Since silver eyes are quite a 'light look', I went with a red tone on the lips using Dior Addict's Ultra Gloss in 774 Ceremony Red. It's a lovely hint of red without being too bold and intense.

Here's the full look along with the Minnie Stellar Petite pendant!

Incase you are interested, on my eyes:
Urban Decay Primer Potion, Make Up For Ever Aqua Shadow in 32E, MAC Mineralized Eyeshadow in Bright Moon (for the 'matte silver'), Shu Uemura Eyeshadow in G Silver (for the 'bling-silver'), Majolica Majorca Palette in BR742, Shu Uemura Eyeshadow in ME Medium Blue 686, Sleek Palette in Storm, Clio Professional Brush Liner in Black, Giorgio Armani Waterproof Smooth Silk Eye Pencil in Black, Helena Rubenstein Lash Feline Waterproof, Random Falsies.

And that is the Silver / White Gold look down! Moving on, I have a Yellow Gold pendant to showcase and yes, you guessed it right, this calls for a Gold look!

This look is a whole lot more straight forward and I figured for such a classic thing like Minnie Mouse and a Rose, why not go for the classic Black and Gold combination!

If you follow my looks, you would know I don't exactly fancy working with a huge amount of black or dark eyeshadows because they tend to be messy and leave me prone to making a smokey mess. Though with this, I really tried to keep the lines clean and the look well blended.

Overall, I am glad with how it turned out and though it looks simpler than the Silver / White Gold look, it actually look me longer to do!

The eyelook made me feel so festive I decided to go with a glowy complexion using Make Up For Ever's HD Liquid Foundation along with a light dusting of ELF's Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder in Luminance. To stick with the golden luminance, I used Sleek's Powder Blush in Rose Gold.

For the lips, since the eyes are so bold, I kept it neutral (yet not dead nude) with Diorific Lipstick in Diorling. A complete coincidence but I realized that in both looks I used items from Dior's Grand Bal Holiday 2012 collection.

And here's the finished look with the Rose pendant!

And for this look, on my eyes:
Urban Decay Primer Potion, Burberry Eye Definer in Midnight Back (outer-edge outline), Majolica Majorca Frozen Splash Eyes in GD821, Maybelline Eye Studio Quad in Venice Carnival, Everyday Minerals Loose Eyeshadow in Gold medal, Rhomlon Eyeshadow in Black, Sleek Palette in Storm, Clio Professional Pen Liner in Black, Giorgio Armani Waterproof Smooth Silk Eye Pencil in Black, Helena Rubenstein Lash Feline Waterproof, Random False Lashes, Dollywink No. 4 Feminine Style False Lashes

Since there was so much black going on, I had to layer my falsies to better frame my eyes and chose to stick on Dollywink's No. 4 Feminie Style for added length and wispiness.

On the left you see the 'Random Lash' and Dollywink No 4 separately and on the right, how it looks when layered.

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Alrightey, so those are the 2 looks – a silver for 18K White Gold and a gold for 22K Yellow Gold!

Since I mentioned that these pendants are versatile and can be worn as a necklace or double up as a bracelet charm, here's a random shot featuring both the pendants (Minnie Stellar Petitie and Rose) worn as bracelet charms!

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And if you aren't already sick of my face through this long post, you can hop over to Poh Heng's Minnie Mouse Limited Edition page and catch me there too!

Clickity Click!

While you're there, why not do a personality quiz and find out which Minnie Mouse Limited Edition pendant you are most suited for?

You may just be the daily winner of the Limited Edition Minnie Tote Bag or be super lucky and even walk away with the pendant you are matched to!

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So.... phew! What a long entry this has been!

It was certainly one I was quite excited about because of the fun I had while doing up these looks. From thinking what sort of dramatic looks to pull, to putting it together and chosing pictures after! I am certainly no professional in makeup and my slew of neutral looks have left me slightly rusty so I hope these don't look too bad!

And most of all I hope you had as much fun scrolling through this entry as I had putting it together!

Thanks so much for reading and looking!

Previous Poh Heng x Minnie Mouse Limited Edition entries:
• Introducing Poh Heng x Minnie Mouse Limited Edition
• A touch of Glitz in my outfit!

Disclosure:
Products were loaned to me for review consideration.
I am not affiliated to them and all opinions expressed are my own.

In Dior's terms, Christmas this year spells the season for golds, reds and all things classically grand and festive.

Here is a quick look and introduction at what is to come with Dior's Christmas / Holiday 2012 collection, the Grand Bal (Grand Bal Noël).

Revisiting and modernising an 18th Century Look, the Grand Bal is all about glamour, a contemporary elegance and also the cheeky twist at a grand ball.

"Now that Cinderella's fairy godmother no longer exists,
the couturier must be the magician"

– Christian Dior

The collection draws its inspiration from Monsieur Dior’s experience with the extravagant and lavish Parisian balls. The glamour of couture served with a dash of elegance and hint at modern sultriness is exactly what wraps up this Dior Christmas Fantasy.

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Here's a closer look at the products followed by the stunning visuals that help set the mood for the collection.

The star of this Grand Ball would the Carnet de maquillage (Palette Grand Bal) – S$112

Playing on the 18th Century Concept of Dance Cards (a little notebook ladies clutched to help them recall their dance partners), this all-inclusive eye and lip palette comes in a handy size with a clutch-clasp. Much like a note-book, an eyeliner slips between the clasps of the palette and sits as a placement lock.

In terms of packaging design, this all-gold palette case is exquisite and the idea of having touch ups all in one place is handy yet I haven't felt, in person, how this would weigh and how simple (or not) it would be to remove and slide the liner back in place.

Aside from the grand center-piece palette, Grand Bal also sees the release of other items such as 5 Couleurs, Nail Lacquers, Lip Rouges and more.

Let's have a look.

Diorskin Poudre Libre in 431 Gold Dust – S$76

For glistening glowy skin to reflect the perfect elegance and charm, Dior had not forgotten to include an irridescent skin powder within this collection. With a soft golden luminescence, the Diorskin Poudre Libre can be dusted on the shoulders, cheekbones and neckline for a subtle golden glow.

• Diorskin Poudre Libre in 431 Gold Dust

Dior 5 Couleurs Eyeshadow (avail. 2 shades) – $94

Available in 2 color variants, Fairy Golds and Night Golds (pictured individually above). These shimmer-packed 5 Couleur Eyeshadows help to create an elegantly neutral yet still glimmering eyelook. The press photos don't entirely show the beauty of these and they seem much better depicted when swatched.

I certainly have my eyes set on Fairy Golds because of how soft yet dazzling the shadows look while Night Golds may lean a little too warm-gold for my liking.

See Temptalia's review & swatches: Night Golds / Fairy Golds

• 5 Couleurs in 524 Fairy Golds / 764 Night Golds

Dior Christmas False Eyelashes (avail. 2 designs) – $45

Nothing like a pair of fluttery lashes embedded with jewels, glitter and all things festive to help wrap up a Grand Bal look. Adorned with delicate silver drops or sophisticatedly cut Swarovski crystals, these lashes give a mysteriously dramatic gaze with its wispiness yet sparkles with glamour with the bat of your eyes, ensuing a fatal attraction.

• Dior Christmas False Eyelashes in 001 Pearl Drops / 002 Gold Crystals

Diorshow Liner Waterproof – $35

As a complimenting dose of gold glamour, Dior puts out the Diorshow Liner (Waterproof). To be used as an accentuating liner across the lids or a hint of color at the corner of the eye.

• Diorshow Liner Waterproof in 548 Gold

Diorific Collection Grand Bal Lipstick (avail. 4 shades) – $49

It seems that the Diorific Lipstick collection we get here differs slightly from the US color choices? We have a range from nuder tones to bolder reds while the US collections I have seen are 4 variants of reds in different undertones.

The beautifully encased Diorific lipsticks contain a luminous sheen to go with the completed Dior Grand Bal look.

• Diorific in 340 Diorling / 520 Diva / 653 Marilyn / 677 Lady

Dior Rouge Serum (avail. 4 shades) – $50

Not forgetting Dior's Rouge Serum, this collection sees the release of 4 shades. Rouge Serums sheaths the lips in tender color, giving them a soft flush of life and color with the injection of moisture.

• Rouge Serum in 440 Exquisite Beige / 360 Silk Pink / 570 Taffeta Red / 770 Shantung Red

Dior Addict Ultra Gloss (avail. 2 shades) – $41

Gloss lovers are not forgotten as 2 festive DiorAddict Ultra Gloss shades are introduced to Grand Bal. Working as a touch of lustrous shine on the lips, these seek to lacquer your smile, lending a little shot of glamour

• Dior Addict Ultra Gloss in 424 Lamé Gold / 774 Ceremony Red

Diorific Vernis (Xmas Look, 4 shades) – $40

Last but surely not least, Dior did not forget about sprucing up the nails to match the look. Aside from the classic statement colors, the Diorific Vernis (Xmas Look) is an it-accessory with the classy golden knob sitting on a perfectly spherical glass bottle, these would look like a piece of Christmas in a collector's stash.

So that would be the quick run-down of the up-coming items with Dior's Grand Bal, Holiday 2012 Collection. Everything is exquisitely festive with a touch of Dior's classic elegance to it.

Dior Grand Bal will be available island-wide from 1st November
(except for Diorshow Liner, which would be at select counters).

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I have some items from the collection to showcase and I will do that real soon. In the meanwhile, are you eyeing anything from these golden-ly gorgeous products?

Thanks for reading!

Disclosure:
Some information and pictures featured were extracted from a press file (with or without paraphrasing).
Opinions and thoughts otherwise mentioned are my own.

Hey everyone!

Still in the midst of my disappearing act and the absence has thrown me a little out of the blogging state-of-mind as well but I aim to get that back as quick as I can! Along with some time to talk about loads of back-logged and belated items.

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Anyway, following my recent discovery and love for the Bioderma makeup remover, I had the chance to try out the variant for Oily Skin which is called Sèbum H2O as opposed to the Sensitive skin one that is called Créaline H2O.

In all honesty the names and terms have me confused but just note that the Oily variant has a green cap and the Sensitve one is a red cap.

After having the chance to give both of them a shot, I figured I would quickly share my thoughts for those who may be undecided about the two versions and wondering what the difference is. 

It is not much of an essay to write so I aim to keep this short but in general, there is one version that I do prefer!

The Bioderma Sèbum H2O (Oily) comes in a green capped bottle and the liquid itself has a faint blue hue, very pretty yet reminds me of chlorine in a pool though that has nothing to do with the review at all.

As for how it fares, if you ask me, I would say that Sèbum H2O (Oily) is more effective and seems to work quicker in removing makeup as compared to Créaline H2O (Sensitive).

That being said, Créaline H2O (Sensitive) does a great job too but to properly illustrate it, lets say Créaline H2O (Sensitive) needs a couple more swipes to achieve the same removal that Sèbum H2O (Oily) does in less swipes.

Though after sharing that, I still stand my ground and prefer Bioderma Créaline H2O (Sensitive) because like Mandom, Bioderma Sèbum H2O (Oily) does have a stinging sensation when it gets into my eye during eye makeup removal.

I can't say that everyone would experience that same eye-stinging sensation and perhaps some out there don't but this is just me! Though my eyes aren't exactly the super sensitive sort either, if you need a gauge.

Here's the ingredients listing for Bioderma Sèbum H2O (Oily)

Simply said, I still love Bioderma Créaline H2O (Sensitive) for its all-in-one purpose and if I were putting a use to the Sèbum H2O (Oily) version, it would be handy for quick and thorough removal of face makeup such as foundation.

If anyone is interested to know, I get my Bioderma from Eliza (from here!). Though right now she's currently away and will be back on the 29th Sept but you can still drop her a note.

Thanks for reading!

Have you tried both variants? Which do you prefer?

Nude is the new way to dress up, by Dior's standards that is and fashion-wise, it's hard to decline the invasion of Nude. Nude shades, I mean.

MAKEUP TAKES INSPIRATION FROM FASHION
TO SET A BOLD NEW TREND

Who would have thought that the term Bold and Nude would be synonymous within the makeup realm.

Perfecting the Art of Nude, Dior drew inspiration from the minimalistic styles on the runway and brought their take to the beauty counters through the form of products to replicate that soft, sheer and natural appeal.

Like silk or cashmere gliding across the runway and figure-hugging pieces that show a peak of skin at all the right places, Dior has embodied that bare caress of material across the skin through the form of makeup.

In an effort to amp up the radiance, glow and beauty of our skin without abolishing the natural trait, the Dior Laboratories took to studying the skin's components.

With a new technology and formulation enriched with ingredients from natural origins and the exclusive 'Nude Glow' pigments, Diorskin Nude continues its research into perfecting perfect skin in a form that is more natural than ever.

The key elements found within this technology from Dior would be – Nude Glow pigments, a binding agent and water.

Nude Glow Pigments –

For greater glow and truer color, these pigments have a transparency and photo-sensitivity to them. This allows them to enhance the skin's natural luminosity and allow it to glow through both a natural and artificial (think glowy pigments) form.

Binding Agent –

A binding agent holds the formula together and plays a key role in the texture of the foundation. The binding agent here is of a natural origin, containing fatty acids that are similar to the epidermis (our skin layer), allowing the formula to blend effortlessly with our skin. This fatty acid also provides hydration so the skin remains moist and hydrated, allowing it to better reflect a plump and luminuous complexion.

Water –

While seemingly bizarre to list water as a key ingredient, the water used in Nude combines the virtues of mineralized water with a new floral water. This beauty water works upon the skin, like a skincare benefit, with joint-powers of mallow and hibiscus to enhance the skin's hydration, glow, elasticity, and provide a smooth and even complexion.

The entire focus of the Diorskin Nude range is to replicate the natural form of skin with an enhanced luminiousity and glow.

On top of that, it also works with a virtue to perfect the skin, keeping it hydrated and smoothing out the complexion so while you look as if you have enhanced skin, there are ingredients working behind-the-scenes to enhance your skin.

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After a run-down of the idea, inspiration and also key elements within this new Diorskin Nude range, let's see the products that will be launched with.

Diorskin: Nude Fluid (S$70)

The star product in the Diorskin Nude range, this liquid foundation is the backstage secret to creating that flawless enhanced nude look that is envied by all. This product creates a shine-free look, natural glow, with a bare-skin effect.

Diorskin: Nude Compact (S$90)

Differing from the classic compacts that deliver a matte finish, Diorskin's Nude Compact gives the skin a natural radiant finish, dishing out coverage without masking the look of skin. Due to the ultra-fine powder particles, one can alter how natural or made-up they wish to look. The powder also has the aid of micro-pearlisers and opalescent powders for a natural glow.

Art of Color – Nude Shimmer (S$70)

For more spotlight on the skin, Dior introduces Nude Shimmer. Featuring a fine blend of micro-pearlisers within a transparent base, this highlighter captures maximum light and gives the skin a 'wet' and 'glowy' nude look.

Art of Application – Brushes (Liquid S$82 / Powder S$104)

Achieve the professional nude finish with the newly introduced Fluid and Powder brushes. Designed for your varying preference in coverage, some brushes offer a fuller application while others a lighter dusting of product (be it powder or liquid).

Fronting this Nude movement by Dior is the gorgeous Natalie Portman. I don't want to ruin this entry with a fangirl moment but since Star Wars, I have always loved how Natalie Portman carries this air of elegance regardless of the role she takes on.

(seems like Dior is picking up on all the hot babes! Mila Kunis and Natalie Portman)

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And this wraps up my introduction to the base portion of the Diorskin Nude collection. Along with the Nude theme, Dior is also putting out some Dior Vernis Nude and Rouge Nudes which you can read more about on The Makeup Blogette.

I am currently giving the liquid foundation (Nude Fluid) a whirl and will share my thoughts once I have gathered them.

Thanks for reading!

Disclosure:
Some information and pictures featured were extracted from a press file (with or without paraphrasing).
Opinions and thoughts otherwise mentioned are my own.

Finally!

In context #1, I finally have time to draft up a mention of these items and in context #2, I FINALLY got my hands on these products!

I have only dropped by the newly revamped DFS space twice of late. Once for the tour and Beauty Concierge service and another time when I was in the area with Eliza (and totally enabled each other). Both trips have been fruitful in a modest way and I haven't been able to leave DFS empty-handed.

Sadly now I can hardly even find time to head to Orchard, much less that part of town.

But lets not dwell on the sad reality of life and lets take a look at these items!

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Needless to say, the Giorgio Armani counter was wiped out and while I had a mini list of items I wanted, most (if not all) were out of stock in my shade / preference. Talk about in-demand!

Initially I was interested in the Designer Lift Liquid Foundation, and I still am, but I hardly wear liquid foundation these days so I held off on that. Instead, I picked up their popular Eyes to Kill in the shade 10.

This looks gorgeous in the pot with flecks of silver, pale-gold and of course the eye-catching shots of teal.

I had seen photos of this online and fell in love with it, bookmarking it as one of the shades I must check out in person. In truth, this doesn't swatch too unique but yet is a simple shade and captivating in it's own soft way.

Glistening mostly silver, it does lean icy blue in certain angles and light.

There were other bolder shades, like this lovely blue shot through with gold (#1) but I figured I should start with something I would be likely to reach for more.

The next item I picked up was something I was first introduced to by Sarah Chaudhry. I remember her professing her love for Helena Rubinstein mascaras in a blog entry awhile ago and that just stuck with me ever since.

Funny thing is, everytime I go by the airport I always forget to check out and browse the HR shelves and so it's only now that I manage to get my hands on it!

I haven't tried it out (for myself) but the Makeup Artist did use it during my make-over session and it looked promising on. She applied a thinner coat than I usually do for myself, with a different technique so it took on a more lenghtening effect but I have seen some 'eyelash-swatches' and it looks rather volumizing too.

My Dollywink Volume Mascara is currently on it's last leg so I shall wait for that to completely die out before I open this one!

Soon. I shall try this out real soon!

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A simple entry and I apologize for the lack if this space has been a little dull of late! Well, as always I say soon but it really has been one busy hell of a week, as you may have seen from my twitter complaints. Oops.

Thanks for sticking around and I'll be back to share more as soon as I am over this hump of busy. Have a good weekend everyone!

Have you dropped by DFS and hauled anything?